Archived Fire Damage Blog Posts
Reliable Ways to Stop a Kitchen Fire | SERVPRO of Seattle Northeast
12/22/2023 (Permalink)
Has a sudden house fire left major damage to your home recently? SERVPRO of Seattle Northeast is Here to Help®. Contact us now!
Whether you are a self-appointed chef or try to spend as little time in the kitchen as possible, we all have to eat. Baking, frying, boiling and sauteing are all common cooking methods, and they all rely on heat or flame in order to cook your food.
Because we are constantly using heat in our kitchens, it should be no surprise that the majority of house fires start in the kitchen. Experiencing a kitchen fire can happen to anyone at any time, so knowing what to do when one does break out can help you stay in control by extinguishing it quickly.
Preparing Your Space
The good news is that many kitchen fires are actually preventable. Preparing your space is one of the best ways to go about doing this. Make sure your stovetop and oven are cleaned regularly and that you are keeping flammable materials to a minimum. Keep pot holders, oven mitts and kitchen towels stored safely away until you need them.
You should also set out a pot or pan lid next to your stovetop. Even if you aren’t needing to use it in your cooking, having it nearby can help you take control of any wandering flames. If a fire does start in your pan, you can throw the lid over the pan and extinguish it immediately.
What to Do When a Fire Breaks Out
If the fire starts on your stovetop, use that lid to pop over the top of it to smother the flames. If the start starts in your closed oven, don’t open the door! Simply turn off the heat, keep the door shut and back away. Eventually the fire will run out of oxygen and will die down.
You can also use your fire extinguisher during an emergency situation if you know how to use it. Keep it in a central location so that it is easily accessible during a true emergency.
Just remember, water and grease can be a really dangerous combination. Never use water to put out a grease fire as it can make the situation worse or cause a dangerous flareup to happen. You always smother a grease fire.
Once the Fire Is Out
Either you put the fire out yourself or you called 911 and the fire department did it for you. Either way, you will now be faced with the frustrating realization that you have to restore your home. Let our team handle the entire process for you!
We know how stressful it can be to recover from a serious disaster like a house fire, so we work with you every step of the way to make sure you are informed and aware of the changes and repairs that are taking place. We will remove damaged debris, clean and sanitize the space, and tackle any necessary reconstruction needs. Our team can even tear down and rebuild certain areas of your home if needed.
Even small kitchen fires can have a large impact. Call SERVPRO of Seattle Northeast today.
5 Ways Cooking Poses a Fire Hazard at Home: Why You Should Contact SERVPRO of Seattle Northeast for Fire Damage Restoration Services
10/19/2023 (Permalink)
Cooking-related fires are the leading cause of home fires in the United States.
Cooking is a daily necessity in our lives, but it can also pose significant fire hazards in our homes. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), cooking-related fires are the leading cause of home fires in the United States. While we all love to whip up delicious meals in our kitchens, it's important to recognize the potential risks and take necessary precautions to prevent kitchen fires. Let's explore five ways cooking can become a fire hazard at home and emphasize the importance of contacting SERVPRO of Seattle Northeast for fire damage restoration services in case of an unfortunate incident.
Unattended Cooking
Leaving cooking food unattended is one of the most common causes of kitchen fires. Whether it's frying, broiling, or baking, it's crucial to stay in the kitchen while cooking. A momentary lapse in attention can lead to overheated oil or burning food, quickly escalating into a dangerous situation.
Grease Fires
Cooking with oils and fats can be risky, as they can reach their ignition point and catch fire. Grease fires are particularly dangerous, as they can spread rapidly and cause extensive damage. Attempting to put out a grease fire with water can exacerbate the situation, making it crucial to use a fire extinguisher specifically designed for oil fires.
Flammable Materials
Many kitchen items are flammable or can catch fire easily. Paper towels, dish towels, wooden utensils, and even curtains are examples of items that can ignite if they come into contact with a hot stovetop or open flame. Keeping flammable materials away from the cooking area is essential.
Electrical Appliances
Electrical appliances, such as toasters, microwaves, and coffee makers, can malfunction or overheat, leading to fires. Regularly inspecting and maintaining these appliances can help reduce the risk. Additionally, avoid overloading electrical outlets, as this can also lead to electrical fires.
Inadequate Ventilation
Inadequate ventilation in the kitchen can lead to the buildup of smoke, grease, and cooking fumes, which can ignite if they come into contact with an open flame or high heat source. Properly maintaining and cleaning your kitchen's ventilation system is crucial for fire prevention.
Why Choose SERVPRO of Seattle Northeast for Fire Damage Restoration Services?
In the unfortunate event of a kitchen fire, it's essential to contact professionals who specialize in fire damage restoration. SERVPRO of Seattle Northeast has a team of experts experienced in handling fire-related emergencies. Here are some reasons to choose us for your fire damage restoration needs:
Rapid Response: We understand the urgency of fire damage situations and are available 24/7 to respond quickly to your call.
Professional Expertise: Our technicians are trained and certified to handle fire damage restoration, ensuring the best possible outcome.
State-of-the-Art Equipment: We use advanced equipment and techniques to clean and restore your property after a fire.
Comprehensive Services: We offer a wide range of services, from smoke and soot removal to structural repairs, to help you get your home back to its pre-fire condition.
Insurance Assistance: Dealing with insurance claims can be overwhelming, but we can help navigate the process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Cooking is an essential part of our daily lives, but it comes with inherent fire hazards. By staying vigilant, practicing safe cooking habits, and being prepared for emergencies, we can reduce the risk of kitchen fires. However, if a fire does occur, contacting SERVPRO of Seattle Northeast for fire damage restoration services is the best way to ensure your home is restored to its former glory. Don't wait until disaster strikes; be proactive in fire prevention and preparedness.
3 Essential Steps to Prepare Your Home for Wildfires
7/21/2023 (Permalink)
It is important to be prepared for how wildfires can impact your family and home.
Wildfires can strike unexpectedly, posing significant threats to homes and communities. As a homeowner, taking proactive steps to prepare your property can greatly reduce the risk of damage and increase the chances of your home surviving a wildfire. Here are three essential measures you can implement to create a defensible space around your home and enhance its resilience in the event of a wildfire.
Clear Defensible Space
Creating a defensible space around your home is crucial in protecting it from encroaching flames. Defensible space refers to the area around your property where vegetation has been strategically managed to minimize wildfire risks. Follow these guidelines to establish a clear defensible space:
a) Clear Vegetation: Remove dry grass, dead leaves, and flammable plants from the immediate vicinity of your home. Trim branches that overhang your roof or are within 10 feet of your chimney, and keep vegetation at least 30 feet away from your house.
b) Maintain Landscape: Regularly maintain your lawn and landscape by mowing the grass and keeping it well-watered. Green, well-irrigated plants are less likely to catch fire.
c) Manage Trees: Space trees at least 10 feet apart to prevent a continuous canopy that allows fires to spread rapidly. Remove low-hanging branches and any dead or diseased trees.
d) Store Firewood Safely: If you keep firewood on your property, store it at least 30 feet away from your home and other structures. Elevated firewood racks can also help keep it off the ground.
Home hardening involves retrofitting your property to make it more resistant to wildfires. By taking these steps, you can reduce the likelihood of embers and flames penetrating your home:
a) Install Fire-Resistant Roofing: Consider using Class A fire-resistant roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles, metal, tile, or slate. These materials can withstand flying embers and provide an added layer of protection.
b) Seal Openings: Seal gaps and cracks in the exterior of your home, including vents, eaves, and soffits. Use metal mesh screens to prevent embers from entering and igniting your home's interior.
c) Upgrade Windows: If possible, replace single-pane windows with tempered or dual-paned glass, as they are less likely to shatter in intense heat.
d) Clean Gutters and Roofs: Regularly clean your gutters and roofs of debris, as dry leaves and twigs can ignite easily if exposed to embers.
Create an Emergency Evacuation Plan
In the event of a wildfire, having a well-thought-out evacuation plan can be life-saving. Prepare your family by following these guidelines:
a) Designate Meeting Points: Establish meeting points both within and outside your neighborhood, so everyone knows where to reunite in case you get separated.
b) Pack Emergency Kits: Assemble emergency kits with essential supplies, including first aid items, food, water, flashlights, and important documents. Keep these kits readily accessible for a quick departure.
c) Stay Informed: Keep a battery-powered radio handy to stay updated on wildfire developments and evacuation orders. Follow local authorities and stay informed through official channels.
d) Practice Evacuation Drills: Regularly practice your evacuation plan with your family to ensure everyone knows their roles and can respond quickly in case of an emergency.
By taking proactive measures to prepare your home for wildfires, you can significantly increase its chances of withstanding such natural disasters. Creating a defensible space, hardening your home, and having an emergency evacuation plan in place will not only protect your property but also safeguard your family. Remember, early preparation is key to mitigating the risks posed by wildfires and ensuring your home and loved ones remain safe during these potentially dangerous events. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and prioritize safety above all else.
Clean your dryer lint!
7/14/2023 (Permalink)
Laundry is an essential household task. It can also be a source of fire hazard if dryer lint isn't properly cleaned.
Did you know that a common cause of house fires is failure to clean dryer lint? Many homeowners overlook this seemingly insignificant task, unaware of the potential danger it poses. Let's look into the importance of removing dryer lint after every load of laundry to prevent fires.
Understanding the Fire Hazard
When we use our dryers, tiny fibers and lint particles from our clothes accumulate in the lint trap, vent, and ducts over time. Lint is highly flammable and can ignite easily if exposed to high heat. The combination of heat, flammable lint, and limited airflow due to a clogged vent creates a dangerous fire hazard within the dryer.
Regular Lint Removal Prevents Fires
Cleaning dryer lint after every load of laundry is a simple yet crucial preventive measure that significantly reduces the risk of a house fire. Here's why it matters:
a. Enhanced Airflow: Regular lint removal ensures that the dryer's vent and ducts remain clear, allowing for proper airflow. This prevents the dryer from overheating, reducing the chances of a fire.
b. Increased Efficiency: A clogged dryer vent not only poses a fire hazard but also hampers the efficiency of your machine. Removing lint allows the dryer to work more effectively, saving energy and extending its lifespan.
c. Peace of Mind: By consistently cleaning the lint trap and vent, you can have peace of mind knowing that you have taken an essential step in safeguarding your home and loved ones from a potentially devastating fire.
Steps to Safely Remove Dryer Lint
Now that we understand the significance of regular lint removal, let's outline the steps to ensure safe maintenance of your dryer:
a. Clean the Lint Trap: After each load, remove the lint from the lint trap using your fingers or a lint brush. Dispose of the lint in a safe manner, such as placing it in a metal container.
b. Inspect and Clean the Vent: Periodically, inspect the exterior vent to ensure it is free from obstruction. Disconnect the vent hose and use a vacuum or a vent cleaning brush to remove any lint buildup.
c. Clean the Ducts: For thorough maintenance, consider having a professional clean the ducts annually. A trained technician can remove accumulated lint from deep within the system, minimizing fire risks.
Professional Restoration Services for Fire Damage
Despite the very best efforts, accidents can still occur. If your home experiences fire damage, it is essential to contact SERVPRO of Seattle Northeast for prompt and effective restoration services.
Here's why professional restoration services matter:
a. Safety and Expertise: Trained technicians have the knowledge and experience to assess fire damage, address safety concerns, and develop an efficient restoration plan.
b. Efficient Damage Mitigation: Professionals will swiftly mitigate further damage by boarding up and securing your property, removing debris, and addressing water damage resulting from firefighting efforts.
c. Comprehensive Restoration: From smoke and soot removal to odor elimination and structural repairs, professional restoration services ensure your home is restored to its pre-fire condition.
d. Insurance Assistance: Restoration experts are adept at navigating the complexities of insurance claims. They can help document the damage, communicate with insurance adjusters, and streamline the claims process.
Taking the simple yet essential step of removing dryer lint after every load significantly reduces the risk of house fires. By maintaining a clean lint trap, vent, and ducts, you ensure proper airflow and minimize the potential for a dangerous fire hazard. However, if you find yourself facing fire damage, it is vital to seek professional restoration services like SERVPRO of Seattle Northeast. They possess the expertise, resources, and dedication to restore your home efficiently and effectively after a fire, providing you with the support you need during a challenging time.
SERVPRO's Fire Damage Services
4/19/2023 (Permalink)
Fires have many causes, and can be immensely stressful in their aftermath. We are here to help.
Fires can be devastating, leaving behind a trail of destruction and despair. In such a situation, it is essential to have a trusted partner by your side who can help you restore your home or business to its pre-fire condition or as closely as possible.
Our highly-trained professionals have the expertise, equipment, and experience to handle any fire damage restoration project, no matter how big or small. We understand that fires can be hazardous, and the resulting smoke and soot can cause long-term damage if not addressed promptly. That's why we offer a comprehensive range of fire damage restoration services that go beyond just cleaning up the physical damage.
Our team is equipped to handle smoke and soot removal, deodorization, and cleanup of hazardous materials to ensure a safe and healthy environment for you and your family. We use the latest tools and techniques to remove any traces of smoke or soot, leaving your property smelling fresh and clean.
As a business owner, we understand that a fire can have a significant impact on your bottom line. That's why we offer large loss teams that work alongside our local SERVPRO experts to help get your business up and running as soon as possible. Our fire damage restoration specialists understand the unique challenges faced by businesses, and we work tirelessly to minimize any disruption to your operations.
We know that a fire can break out at any time, day or night. That's why our Customer Care Center is available 24/7 to take your call. Our goal is to respond quickly to your emergency and provide the support you need to restore your property to its pre-fire condition.
While waiting for help to arrive, safety is key. We advise assessing whether it is safe to stay in the house, looking out for electrical and "slip and fall" hazards, and only attempting activities that are safe for you to perform. Wet materials can be very heavy, so it's essential to be careful.
If safe to enter, and weather permits, we recommend opening windows and doors to "air out" the structure and help remove the smoke smell. Our professionals will take care of the rest, providing comprehensive fire damage restoration services to restore your property to its pre-fire condition.
Fires happen, but you don't have to face the aftermath alone. SERVPRO's fire damage restoration services can help you get back on your feet as quickly as possible. We are committed to providing you with the highest level of service and support, ensuring that you have a partner you can trust during these challenging times. Contact us 24/7 for fire cleanup, smoke damage, and fire damage restoration services.
How to Prevent Fires
4/19/2023 (Permalink)
Fires can be prevented.
House fires can happen to anyone, but the good news is that many house fires are preventable. By taking some simple precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of a fire occurring in your home. Here are some tips to help you prevent house fires:
Install Smoke Alarms:
Smoke alarms are your first line of defense against a house fire. Install them in every bedroom, outside every sleeping area, and on every level of your home. Test your smoke alarms once a month to make sure they are working properly and replace the batteries at least once a year.
Keep Your Kitchen Safe:
Cooking is the leading cause of house fires, so be sure to never leave the kitchen unattended while cooking. Keep flammable items such as towels, paper towels, and potholders away from the stove. Clean up any grease spills immediately, and make sure that your stove and oven are in good working order.
Don't Overload Electrical Outlets:
Overloaded outlets can easily cause a fire. Be sure to use surge protectors when plugging in multiple devices, and never use an extension cord for a long-term solution.
Be Careful with Candles:
Candles can create a cozy atmosphere, but they are also a major fire hazard. Always place candles on a stable surface, away from anything flammable, and never leave them unattended. Consider using battery-operated candles instead.
Keep Space Heaters Away from Flammable Objects:
Space heaters can be a great way to keep warm during the colder months, but they can also be a fire hazard. Keep them away from flammable objects such as curtains, furniture, and bedding.
Clean Your Dryer Vent Regularly:
Lint buildup in your dryer vent can easily cause a fire. Clean your dryer vent regularly to prevent lint buildup.
Have a Fire Escape Plan:
Even with all of these precautions, fires can still happen. Have a fire escape plan in place so that everyone in your home knows how to get out safely in case of a fire. Practice your plan regularly so that everyone knows what to do in an emergency.
Don't Smoke Indoors:
Smoking is a major cause of house fires. If you must smoke, do it outside, and never smoke in bed. Be sure to properly dispose of cigarette butts in a fire-safe container.
Store Flammable Materials Safely:
Keep flammable materials such as gasoline, paint, and propane tanks in a cool, dry place, away from any heat sources. Be sure to store them in their original containers and never mix chemicals.
Install a Sprinkler System:
Installing a sprinkler system can help prevent fires from spreading and save lives. While it can be expensive, it can also be a worthwhile investment for your safety and peace of mind.
Preventing house fires requires taking precautions and being mindful of potential hazards. By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of a house fire and keep yourself and your loved ones safe. Remember to regularly test your smoke alarms and have a fire escape plan in place in case of an emergency. Stay safe!
Seattle Fire Damage Cleanup and Restoration
9/29/2022 (Permalink)
Smoke and soot damage left by a fire can be challenging to remediate. Contact our certified SERVPRO team in Seattle. We are Here to Help.
SERVPRO Restores Rugs and Carpets after Fire Damage in Seattle
Fires produce a wide range of wastes from incomplete combustion. Some solids like plastics melt when exposed to high temperatures leaving smeary residues. Some materials release wet smoke, which combines soot, aerosols, and significant amounts of vapor. As the wastes settle on contents and surfaces, they can cause soiling or staining. When thinking of restoring your Seattle home, you need a solution for all aspects of fire damage, including stains.
Fabrics are the primary concern when thinking of discoloration and stains in your Seattle home after fire damage. Therefore, carpets, upholstery, area rugs, and draperies are the primary target. SERVPRO has the technical skills, equipment, and chemical reagents necessary to take care of stains or other unique cleaning tasks.
Cleaning procedures:
- Removing excess soils
- Establishing fiber sensitivity
- Spot cleaning
- Rinsing and neutralizing fabrics
Removing stains when fabrics are heavily soiled is not viable since water and cleaning agents tend to set most residues and can create new stains before you even address the existing ones. Our SERVPRO technicians first blot, scrape or vacuum upholstery items and carpets, thus removing dry soot and other soils accumulating on their surfaces.
Another crucial issue to address early is establishing whether the fabrics have any sensitivities. Materials can be sensitive to water or the chemical agents used to clean up fire residues. Sensitivity influences the choice of cleaning products. Special solvent spotters are necessary for stain removal for moisture-sensitive materials, but for non-sensitive fabrics, regular spotting reagents used for carpets and upholstery are adequate.
Working on Stains
Combining the power of the stain remover with gentle physical force is the ideal approach when you start dealing with stubborn fire residues. Our SERVPRO technicians first apply a spotting product to the affected fabric and then tamp gently using a tamping brush. Blotting the area with a towel helps transfer the soil from the carpet or upholstery item. A white towel is preferable to observe the rate of soil transfer.
Defeating stubborn stains requires:
- Alkaline solutions
- Acidic solutions
- Stabilized hydrogen peroxide
The products that help remove soot stains from your carpet or rug can be detrimental to the fabric if left in place over prolonged periods. Rinsing and neutralizing the material after dealing with spots and stains is critical. Our SERVPRO UFT-Certified technicians handle this step conveniently since we can use an extractor or upholstery machine to extract and rinse the intended areas.
Since rinsing, unlike cleaning, may not involve visible soils, it might be challenging to tell whether the actions taken are sufficient to remove all traces of the dirt or caustic cleaning agents used. Our technicians test the pH of the area to determine whether further rinsing or neutralization is necessary. If the results are deemed satisfactory, the next step is proper drying since excess moisture can trigger problems too.
Drying requires sufficient airflow and heat to facilitate moisture evaporation from the wet materials. Humidity control may also be necessary to help extract the moisture released from the wet materials into the air, ensuring it does not create other problems. Our SERVPRO technicians can set up dehumidifiers or air movers at the property to facilitate the drying of the cleaned carpets, rugs, or upholstery.
SERVPRO of Seattle Northeast can help you combat any aspect of fire damage. Call us at (206) 362-9295. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.
Why Does My Kitchen Still Smell Bad After the Fire Damage Gets Cleaned Up?
8/28/2022 (Permalink)
After a fire occurs in your home, be sure to contact SERVPRO. Our professionals are here to help with remediation efforts. We are standing by 24/7.
SERVPRO® Can Help Remove Odors in Your Seattle Kitchen
Fire damage from cooking (also known as a protein fire) is one of the most commonly seen forms of fire loss in residential properties.
Particular actions need to happen to make sure fire damage in a Seattle kitchen from this type of loss. First and foremost is the wiping down of all surfaces in the vicinity with a cleaning agent with a solvent base to release the greasy residue's grip.
Odor control methods are also a part of this type of mitigation. Cleaning lessens the pungent odor, SERVPRO techs often have to do a multilayered approach for complete scent eradication using methods such as:
- Thermal fogging
- Hydroxyl generators
- Sealants over painted walls and ceilings
SERVPRO at (206) 362-9295 handles all kinds of fire damage in local properties and uses their advanced methods to make the loss, "Like it never even happened."
Fire Damage Solutions for Seattle
7/31/2022 (Permalink)
Lit candles are small and innocuous, yet they are often a source of housefires.
Duct Cleaning and Fire Restoration from SERVPRO®
Smoke can travel quickly from the source of fire to other parts of the home. Hot smokes seek out cooler surfaces and air pockets. This phenomenon means that finding large amounts of soot, smoke residues, and ash inside heating ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems or ducts is common. SERVPRO is a responsible restoration service that can help clean HVACs and ductwork after a fire.
Professional fire damage restoration services in Seattle include HVAC inspections as part of the restoration procedure. Some of the most important questions to answer when assessing whether smoke has entered ductwork is whether the system was used during the fire. If the fire's source was close to the return or supply-side ducts and the length of time that materials in the home were burning. It is essential to clean the HVAC to ensure that smoke, odor, or soot is not circulating in the system and depositing back into rooms of your property. We offer HVAC inspections as part of our:
- Fire restoration service
- Odor removal
- Smoke Removal
It is not always possible to clean the entire duct system of an HVAC. In these situations, we use duct sealing methods to reduce the impact of smoke damage. Our technicians hold certifications from the National Duct Cleaning Association (NDCA), which ensures that they can safely and expertly inspect or clean your HVAC system. Duct sealing begins by removing and cleaning or replacing air intakes and vents. We can then vacuum inside the duct to remove any loose ash or soils from the system. We then wash the interior walls of the duct with an all-purpose detergent before moving on to the sealing phase.
- Before sealing the ducts, technicians should inspect the mechanical parts of the HVAC system for signs of damage or debris.
- Outlets are typically covered with cheesecloths before fogging the duct to prevent redistributing into the home.
- Ultra-low volume (ULV) foggers disperse duct sealant into the ducts. The HVAC system's central blower is then used to distribute the sealant in the duct.
If your home suffers from smoke damage, contact SERVPRO of Seattle Northeast for fire damage restoration services at (206) 362-9295.
SERVPRO® Restores a Seattle Kitchen After Fire and Smoke Damage
6/25/2022 (Permalink)
Need help with fire damage in your Seattle kitchen? Call SERVPRO.
Seattle Fire Damage Cleanup by SERVPRO®
Fire damage is a common disaster in the United States. In 2018 alone, $25.6 billion worth of property damage was caused by fire, including $12 billion from wildfires. $11.1 billion worth of damage occurred due to structure fires, and of that, $8 billion accounted for property loss due to home fires.
If your Seattle home has suffered fire and smoke damage, SERVPRO teams are available 24/7, including weekends and holidays, to restore your home to a preloss condition. Soot residues and odors pose long-term risks that can damage your home and possessions without careful cleaning with professional-grade products. Because of this, SERVPRO technicians receive specialized fire damage mitigation training so you can enjoy a residue and odor-free home.
Dealing With a Home Fire
- Ensure a safe evacuation. The most crucial thing during a fire is preserving the health and safety of occupants.
- Always have a fire extinguisher on hand. This preparedness allows you to extinguish small fires before they can spread. Baking soda and salt can also help put out small grease fires. Never use water to extinguish a fire, especially if oil, gas, or petroleum products are burning, as this can spread the flames to new areas.
- Maximize ventilation. After the fire is extinguished, turn off your air conditioning and position large fans near doorways and windows to suck out smoke and prevent it from spreading throughout your home.
- File a claim as soon as possible. Many insurers have time limits for filing a claim. The sooner you submit yours, the sooner you can be compensated for lost items and structural damage.
SERVPRO Removes Odor-Causing Residues
If the fire damage in your home is not responding to consumer-grade cleanup solutions, SERVPRO technicians have the tools needed to mitigate fire damage. Industrial-grade dry cleaning sponges can remove light to moderate stains. Others can respond well to Crumbly Cleaner or wet cleaning with OSHA-approved antimicrobial solutions. Restoration technicians can also use whips, augers, brushes, and other agitating tools to remove deposits from your vents, which prevents the spread of odors throughout your home.
SERVPRO of Seattle Northeast serves homeowners because We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster. Call (206) 362-9295 for disaster cleanup that can start today.
Who Can Assist Me With Fire Damage Restoration in Lake City?
3/4/2022 (Permalink)
When the fire fighters leave, your best recourse is to contact SERVPRO. Our technicians will arrive on the scene with a custom plan for restoration.
To Perform Fire Damage Restoration in Lake City, Contact SERVPRO®
A fire has ruined my residence, causing the charring of building materials and holes in several places. Where can I get assistance in bringing things back to normal? What can I expect during the restoration process?
After firefighters extinguish a fire, damage continues for days. SERVPRO can provide you with efficient fire damage restoration in your Lake City home that makes the difference between permanent damage and recovery. Our Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration Technicians (FSRT) have expertise in performing fire repairs. We can use appropriate products and equipment to restore your home to normal. Our services include:
- A detailed and precise assessment
- Handling contents
- Smoke damage cleanup
- Reconstruction of damaged building materials
A detailed and precise assessment
Our SERVPRO technicians inspect a home to determine the full impact of a fire. This includes the extent of heat, smoke, ash, and soot damage. Often, fire damage goes beyond the surface. Our team can determine what is salvageable, what to repair, and what to discard.
Handling contents
We can restore or discard affected contents based on the severity of damage sustained. We can restore salvageable items on-site or at our facilities.
Smoke damage cleanup
Once your property is dry, our SERVPRO technicians can remove soot from surfaces like walls, floors, and affected contents. We can remove odors using deodorizing granules or pellets. Their main active ingredient is fuller’s earth which functions as a sponge to absorb and hold odors. Our restorers can also use a syringe and needle to inject small amounts of deodorant into confined spots on upholstery or carpets. This odor removal method is effective when we cannot easily lift the carpets to the backing material or padding.
Reconstruction of damaged building materials
Our SERVPRO team can work to restore your home to a preloss state by performing necessary repairs and reconstruction. This may include replacing carpet or drywall and repainting affected areas.
SERVPRO of Seattle Northeast performs fire damage repairs with expertise. Contact us at (206) 362-9295 for help. We can make the fire incident seem, “Like it never even happened.”
What Are the Main Obstacles of Fire Restoration of Seattle Homes?
2/7/2022 (Permalink)
Long after the fire is extinguished, foul odors remain.
Certain Fire Loss Effects Impact Seattle Homes More Significantly to Slow Restoration
Our SERVPRO team must act as fast as possible after emergencies like fire losses. The effects of a fire damage incident can spread through a home rapidly, impacting more than the ignition point. We must overcome several specific obstacles to restore comfortable and optimal living conditions.
Soot and Smoke Damage
Fire damage to Seattle homes is often most challenging when SERVPRO professionals need to overcome soot and smoke residues. Partial combustion creates soot particles that are acidic and carcinogenic, driving an urgency to clear and clean these soils as soon as possible. There are multiple approaches to resolve present soot concerns depending on the severity of the situation, which includes:
- Dry cleaning with solvents
- Wet cleaning with detergents
- Media blasting
- Abrasive cleaning
Overwhelming and Offensive Malodors
Harsh odors are a common concern after extinguishment. Combustion can aerosolize malodors and smoke particles, creating an environment with offensive smells. While we have deodorization practices to manage these open-air odors, we also must address trapped smells in porous materials like drywall and carpeting. Thermal fogging and odor-sealing primers can both help manage these concerns.
Structural Repair Needs
Another one of the obstacles keeping properties from returning to preloss condition is the need for repairs and build-back. An advantage of choosing our competent SERVPRO team is our contractor license. This accreditation allows us to complete early mitigation needs like a controlled demolition and more complex build-back and reconstruction.
Returning a home to preloss condition results from multiple mitigation and restoration steps to help the home. Fires are destructive for homes, creating several formidable obstacles in returning to normal living conditions. Our SERVPRO of Seattle Northeast team is standing by at (206) 362-9295.
Where Are Odors Most Problematic After Lake City Structure Fires?
1/7/2022 (Permalink)
We want our homes to smell fresh, but when fire damage strikes, our homes often smell bad.
Deodorization specialists can help with the post-fire recovery of Lake City homes
When our SERVPRO team first arrives at fire-damaged homes and businesses in the area, it is critical to overcoming pressing concerns. While odors are one of the final obstacles to restoring comfortable living conditions, several approaches must be considered.
Circulating Airborne Threats
Fire restoration in Lake City homes begins with managing airborne threats and contaminants. Filtration and airflow can be critical elements to eliminating harsh odors following a fire. Environmental smells can be controlled with:
- Smoke and fire debris removal
- Air filtration equipment
- Airflow and ventilation
Absorbed Odors
Contents and furniture can easily absorb and hold harsh smoke odors after a fire. It can be challenging to overcome these smells once they infiltrate soft materials like fabrics, so careful consideration is made to provide the most efficient solutions. At times, ozone machines can be an effective option to neutralize odor compounds. We even have a full ozone chamber at our nearby SERVPRO facilities for groupings of relocated contents.
Trapped Malodors in Porous Construction Elements
As fires burn in area homes, the heat of the blaze can cause porous materials to become even more vulnerable. Larger pores absorb more malodors during the fire and even in the hours and days following extinguishment. Pores return to their normal size as surfaces cool, and smoke particles and odor compounds can become trapped. Fogging can create a deodorizing vapor to penetrate porous materials. When this approach is unsuccessful, we have odor-sealing primers before surfaces get repainted.
One of the challenging aspects of fire and smoke damage restoration for area homes and businesses is the removal of harsh odors from the property. As widespread as these post-fire effects can become, our SERVPRO of Seattle Northeast FSRT-certified technicians work fast to help. Call now to mitigate fire loss at (206) 362-9295.
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