How to clean and restore your home after a fire

7/6/2022 (Permalink)

How to clean and restore your home after a fire

Dangerous is the word I would use to explain what it is like cleaning and restoring your home after a fire. IF proper safety precautions are not taken and/or the procedures are not followed. There is also a time frame where further damage can occur from smoke and soot if they are not taken care of immediately, so it’s crucial that you act fast. The safest and easiest way to handle the cleanup and restoration of your home after a fire is to hire a professional fire restoration company, however, if the fire is small enough, you may be able to handle it yourself.

Cleaning Procedures

There is no set way to restore your home back to normal in the event of a fire due to the fact that each home is different, not only the layout but the items in the home that need to be restored will vary from home to home. However, there are some basic steps to follow to assist along the way.

• Ensure you wear personal protective equipment
• Ensure the surrounding area is safe and properly protected
• Use TSP (Trisodium Phosphate) products when removing the lingering odor the fire caused

Proper PPE

Personal protective equipment should not be ignored or taken lightly. Failure to use the proper PPE could expose you to harmful elements the fire may have caused affecting you both short term and long term. So, at a minimum, before you begin to clean and restore your home ensure you are wearing the following:

• Safety goggles
• Protective gloves
• Long sleeves
• Nose mask

Safety boots are an addition that may be recommended depending on the specific details of the aftermath.

Protect the Surrounding Area

This next step can save you a lot of money if done correctly. Opening windows and doors in the home to allow smoke and other elements to exit the residence. Preventing the buildup of smoke and soot is what you are trying to avoid. Ideally, a large powerful fan can assist with the removal of smoke along with any vapors from cleaning products, out of your home.

Next is your floors and how to protect them, especially the areas that have little to no damage in the rest of the house. The main concern is tracking soot and other particles into other parts of the house via foot traffic. A good way to avoid this is simply by blocking off certain areas of the home or by laying cloth down.

TSP Products

Trisodium Phosphate (TSP) products are used to remove the odor that stays in your home after a fire. Most homeowners who have experienced a fire in their home will say the odor is one of the biggest issues, not only is it an unpleasant smell but breathing in the smoke and the other particles in the air can be harmful to one’s health.

When using TSP products, you should not deviate from the directions. It is also crucial that you have the proper PPE before handling TSP due to the fact that it can be harmful to the body/skin and eyes. So, ensure your body and eyes are fully protected and proceed with extra caution.

Scrub Walls

The walls can be easily overlooked after a house fire so it's important to check to see if the walls are affected or damaged throughout the home! The reason for this is that if your Central heat and air were on after or during the fire, it is highly likely that soot and other particles have been blown throughout the house. The sooner you have wiped away soot off the walls, the easier the restoration process will be. An easy tool for cleaning walls is called a chemical dry sponge also referred to as a soot eraser sponge. That is your best bet to remove residue. Please note that in some cases multiple cleaning may be necessary. Just allow time in between each time you scrub the walls for them to dry.

Drying Time

In most cases after a house fire, you will be using a liquid cleaning solution to help clean throughout your home. Please keep in mind that cleaning solutions need time to dry, so be sure not to paint or redecorate without an adequate amount of drying time.

Fire Damage Restoration Experts

For some, home fires can be handled with the help of yourself and perhaps a few friends or family members, but if you feel the task is too big, please reach out to our professional and experienced teams at SERVPRO of Highland Village. Our team would be happy to discuss how we can help after your home fire or simply answer any questions you might have. We are a 24/7 emergency service and we are only a call away.  

When Should I Acquire Fire Damage Restoration Services?

6/14/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage restoration involves restoring a home after a home fire. It is important to act quickly after a fire and contact a fire damage restoration company quickly if the repairs require professional assistance. While a minor fire that is put out quickly may not result in the need for professional restoration services, moderate to severe fire damage requires more extensive treatment to minimize replacement costs. 

Waiting too long after a fire occurs can cause the aftermath to be worse, whereas a fire damage restoration company that arrives quickly after the fire can keep the damage to a minimal level. This can help homeowners save thousands of dollars, as well as save precious and sentimental furniture and decorative and antique pieces inside of the home. 

By fully understanding when to contact a fire damage restoration company for prompt service (and when not to), you can make an informed decision that can help you restore the appearance and quality of your home for the lowest cost possible. 

Physical Damage Caused by Flames

Of course, the number one cause of damage in many fires is the flames. The initial fire can be devastating if it continues for an extended period of time. More notably, the repair process for walls, roofs, flooring, furniture, and more that are damaged by flames requires more extensive treatment to restore the damage and avoid replacement.

Additionally, along with flames comes smoke and soot. Smoke and soot pose a unique concern as they can last much longer and cause damage to the home through a slower, more drawn-out process. Due to this, it is essential to promptly remove smoke and soot inside of the home as quickly and as effectively as possible after a fire. Another major concern following a fire is water damage. This becomes a concern if the fire department is needed to put out the flames. 

For small flames that cause little damage to a small area of the home, the homeowner may be able to restore their home to a degree. However, more severe physical damage caused by flames, smoke, soot, and water requires professional fire damage restoration services.

What’s Involved in Fire Damage

Every fire damage restoration is unique, but there is a certain process a professional company may follow. The restoration process typically involves inspecting and restoring structural damage, removing smell and dirt promptly, and dealing with smoke and soot concerns. 

Structural Damage

Structural damage is perhaps the main concern following a fire to your home or commercial property. Structural damage refers to damage to the core foundation of the property. This includes the foundation, walls, roof, flooring, and doors. Structural damage may occur as a direct result of the flames of the fire, although it commonly is the result of water damage in an effort to put out the fire as well. 

The first thing the fire damage restoration professionals will do upon arrival on the scene is to assess the severity and extent of the damage, particularly to the structure of the home. They can begin the restoration process by protecting damaged areas, removing smoke and soot, and drying areas damaged by water. 

Smell and Dirt

While acquiring fire damage restoration services for structural damage may be a given, the damage does not have to be as severe for there to be a need for professional assistance. Fires cause a foul-smelling odor and can stir up dust, dirt, and other contaminants. Fire damage restoration seeks to remove any bad odors that linger in the home after the fire as well as clean up dirt. They can utilize services, such as professional carpet cleaning, scrubbing walls, and various other methods to help sanitize the home. 

Smoke and Soot

Smoke and soot almost always build up in the home in areas the flames spread. After the fire is put out, homeowners still have to address potential damage caused by smoke and soot. Fire damage restoration professionals can arrive at the property promptly to quickly remove smoke and soot and minimize the impact the fire has on the home. They can then work toward the restoration of the structure of the home, furniture, and other surfaces damaged by the smoke and soot. 

Without fire damage restoration, the soot can build up over time and become far more difficult to remove. If too much time passes without removing the smoke and soot, then damaged items may require the replacement of items rather than repair and restoration, which is much more costly. 

Hire a Professional Fire Damage Restoration Company

Reach out to our team at SERVPRO of Highland Village today for more information about our fire damage restoration services. We offer a 24/7 emergency service to help minimize the initial damage done to your home and start the fire damage restoration process as quickly as possible.

How Long Does It Take to Restore a House after a Fire?

6/11/2022 (Permalink)

Many families are in a difficult place after a fire occurs inside their home. A frequently asked question that fire damage restoration companies receive is how long the process will take after a fire. This question is often very challenging to answer until after they are able to conduct a thorough inspection of the damage.

However, homeowners can get a general idea of how long the restoration will take by examining the size and severity of the fire and water damage that occurred. By learning more about the process and a tentative idea of how long it takes, homeowners can properly prepare and make necessary arrangements until their home is fully restored. 

Dependent Factors of Timeline

There is a range of factors a professional fire damage restoration company will consider early in the process to provide the homeowner with a tentative idea of how long the process might take. These factors include the size of the home, how many rooms the fire spreads to, and the overall severity of the damage. 

With that said, it is often hard to predict how long the process will take. A broad estimate is between a week and four months to restore a house after a fire. In the most severe cases, it may take up to six months, and some restorations have been completed within a few days. The following is an overview of the more notable factors that affect how long the process takes. 

House Size 

One of the main factors in determining how long a fire damage restoration will take is the size of the house. Naturally, a larger home will require more extensive repairs, but it is not always that simple. One of the main determinations is the type of rooms that are damaged. 

If the fire causes damage to rooms that require extensive repairs, such as the living room and kitchen, then the restoration may take longer. If the fire occurs in a room or rooms in which there are not as many items, such as a spare bedroom, then the repair may not be as complex and subsequently, it will take less time. 

Keeping in mind that every situation is unique regardless of the size of the home, fire damage restoration to a small home may only take around three weeks or less. For medium-sized homes, the restoration may take up to two months. For large homes that need extensive repair, the fire damage restoration can take as many as six months. 

Size of the Fire

Another major factor that affects how long the restoration process will take is the size of the fire. A small fire has less potential to spread, and if it is put out early then it may not cause much damage. In this case, thoroughly cleaning the area that was subject to the fire, removing a minor amount of soot, and cleaning and sanitizing the area might be all that is required. This may only take several days to a couple of weeks.

For larger fires, the threat of the fire spreading is larger. If the fire spreads into multiple rooms, then the restoration can take several months to complete. Of course, there are additional factors to consider as well, including how long it takes for the homeowners (or neighbors if the homeowners are away) to call for assistance.

Overall Damage

Fire damage restoration professionals examine a lot of factors when determining how long the restoration will take, but the ultimate deciding factor in how long the process takes is the overall damage. This is determined by the size of the home, how many rooms the fire spreads to, the type of rooms that are affected, and how soon after the fire the restoration company is able to begin its process. 

If the fire does not cause any serious damage to hard to repair items, such as the roof or interior of the walls, and only requires minor restoration, then the restoration process may take anywhere from several days up to a month. 

On the other hand, if the overall damage is severe, then the restoration can take up to six months. This is because a lot will have to be done before the actual restoration begins, including removing all water, soot, and smoke and cleaning and sanitizing the affected areas. The process may also take longer for more severe overall damage if issues such as roof replacement are required. 

Consider Working with a Fire Damage Restoration Company

Our team at SERVPRO of Highland Village offers professional fire damage restoration. If your home was damaged by fire and water and you need a prompt response from a reliable damage restoration company, then give us a call today. We can provide more insights into the restoration process, and we offer 24/7 emergency service.

What is Fire Damage Restoration?

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage restoration is the process of restoring a home or commercial property after a fire occurs. There are several steps involved with the fire damage restoration process, including an initial assessment of the fire and water damage, an immediate board up to prevent further damage, removing all water and smoke, cleaning and sanitizing, and finally restoring all furniture, floors, walls, etc., that were damaged during the fire. 

With fire damage restoration, it is not only the fire damage that the owner has to worry about. If the fire department is called, which is often the case, then the home may have water damage as well caused by efforts to put the fire out as quickly as possible. A professional fire damage restoration company can deal with water damage concerns as well. 

Restore Your Home Back to Normal

Fire damage restoration aims to restore the property back to the way it was before a fire. Of course, every situation is unique and the efforts needed to restore the home are dependent on the area that is damaged and the severity of the damage. However, the primary goal in every situation is to restore as much of the home as possible, utilizing replacement as a last resort. 

It is helpful to understand how the fire damage restoration process works to determine whether or not it is right for you after a fire occurs inside your property. Fire damage restoration is generally a good idea for people who want to restore their home back to the condition and appearance it was before. It also aims to remove health hazards after a fire. 

How It Helps 

As mentioned, there are certain steps a fire damage restoration company will follow, although the specific steps may vary based on the specifics of the situation. However, it generally involves the following steps:

• Inspection and damage assessment
• Removal of water and smoke
• Cleaning and sanitizing areas
• Restoration of all damaged areas

The benefits of fire damage restoration may include the ability to save money from replacement costs, restoring items with sentimental value, and removing any safety hazards inside your home. The following are several ways in which fire damage restoration can help after a fire occurs inside of your home or business. 

Removes Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

During the inspection process, the fire damage restoration professionals will make note of any and all areas of the home that were damaged by fire or water. It is important to call a restoration company as soon as possible after a fire occurs to have the best chance at restoring the damage. When the professionals arrive, there is often a large amount of smoke that exists inside the home. Soot, which is a black powdery substance that results when the matter does not burn all the way, may exist as well. 

It is important to remove all smoke and soot as quickly as possible. A professional fire damage restoration company can use professional equipment and specialized techniques to remove soot and smoke from all surfaces, including the floors, walls, windows, and more. 

Water Removal and Drying

In many instances, the water damage is just as problematic as the fire and smoke damage. With this understanding, the fire damage restoration professionals will remove any standing water as soon as possible after a fire occurs. 

Afterward, they will then use dehumidifiers, air movers, and other professional equipment to remove as much water and moisture as possible. This ensures the damage is kept to a minimum and saves the owner money by restoring walls, floors, ceilings, and more, which may have otherwise required replacement. This process helps prevent more severe concerns such as black mold. 

Cleaning and Sanitizing

To this point, most of the effort the fire damage restoration company has put forward is to prevent any further damage. The next step is to clean and sanitize all damaged areas, including floors, walls, ceilings, furniture, and more. The professionals will do everything possible to restore the appearance and condition of all damaged areas to where they were before the fire. 

They will also use air scrubbers and fogging equipment to remove any foul odors that exist. After cleaning and sanitizing all areas, minor repairs are likely to be recommended. For damages that are beyond repair, replacements might be in order to restore the appearance and condition of the home or commercial property. 

Work with the Fire Damage Restoration Professionals

There is nothing worse than experiencing a fire inside of your property. The situation, however, can be made less stressful by calling a fire damage restoration company as soon as possible. Our team responds promptly to all who are interested, and we offer a 24/7 emergency service. If you want to learn more about fire damage restoration, then get in touch with our professionals at SERVPRO of Highland Village today.

Average Fire Damage Restoration Cost

5/12/2022 (Permalink)

It is helpful to understand the average fire damage restoration cost before calling a professional restoration company. Of course, there is a wide range of potential costs and many factors that dictate how much the restoration will be, including the size of the fire, location of the damage, how much of the home can be restored, and insurance coverage. 

Regardless of the final cost, fire damage restoration is often far more cost-effective than the alternative. Without it, the homeowner may have to pay for the replacement of expensive items that are not covered by insurance.

With that said, there are certain expectations homeowners can have from a financial standpoint. The following is an overview of fire damage restoration costs, including insights into how companies determine the final price. 

Determining the Average Cost of Fire Damage Restoration

The average fire damage restoration cost is between $4,000 and $10,000. While this is a broad range, homeowners can determine a more accurate idea of how much their restoration will be by knowing the most notable factors that affect the price. The following are four considerations a professional fire damage restoration company will consider when determining the price. 

Location of the fire

Perhaps the factor that affects the price the most is the location of the damage. Fire damage to a small bedroom is not going to be as difficult and expensive to repair as damage to a kitchen. Significant damage to the floors, walls, and roof will raise the price as well. 

Due to this, the first thing a fire damage restoration company will do is inspect the damage and determine the areas that are affected. Whereas a minor repair to one bedroom may only cost several thousand, a complete kitchen restoration can cost as much as $50,000. 

The reason the location is so important is that certain equipment is more valuable and more difficult to restore. Whereas damage to bedroom carpet does not require extensive service, restoring kitchen cabinets, roofs and other more expensive items is more time-consuming and requires more resources. 

Size and spread of the fire

The place the fire originates is likely to be the most damaged area in the home, but fire can spread quickly and damage surrounding areas as well. In some instances, rooms that were not damaged by the fire may still have smoke, soot, and water damage. 

The size of the fire is perhaps the second largest determining factor in price. Of course, the more areas that need to be restored, the more expensive the cost will be. This is because it will take the fire damage restoration technicians more hours to complete the service, and they will need to use more resources to complete the restoration. 

Items that need to be replaced or restored

In addition to the location of the home and the size of the fire and water damage, the items that need to be restored play a significant role. For example, many fires originate in the kitchen. When this occurs, all appliances, including the dishwasher, refrigerator, sink and stove, require extensive restoration or replacement, which raises the cost. Additionally, the floors and kitchen cabinets likely require restoration as well. 

On the other hand, damage to a room that has less in it, such as a den, small bedroom, or home office, may have fewer and less vital items to restore. 

Then, of course, replacement is more expensive than restoration. The main goal of a fire damage restoration company is to restore as much as possible to avoid replacement and ultimately lower the cost for the homeowner. However, there are times when restoration is not an option and replacement is required. 

Homeowners insurance coverage

Last but not least, the homeowner’s insurance coverage will play a huge role in the cost of the fire damage restoration for the homeowner. Although it may not have much of an impact on how much the fire damage restoration company charges, it does impact how much of the cost the homeowner is responsible for. 

Whereas some coverages may include all costs for the restoration, a less extensive insurance policy may only cover certain areas or items of the home. To find out how much the cost of fire and water damage restoration will likely be, it is best to first check with the insurance company to determine what costs they will take care of. 

Speak to an Experienced Fire Damage Restoration Company

If you have fire and water damage to your home and need fast and reliable damage restoration, then give our team at SERVPRO of Highland Village a call. We are available 24/7 for emergency fire damage situations. Our team is happy to answer your questions about restoration costs and guide you through the difficult time after a home fire.

The Fire Damage Restoration Process

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage to your home is a devastating experience. In addition to the fire damage, there is generally a fair amount of water damage also due to sprinkler systems or firefighters. Fortunately, not all is lost after fire and water damage occurs, and there are many times when the home can be restored without major renovations.

To make things a little easier, it is encouraged to consider a fire damage restoration company to restore as much damage as possible. They typically work fast to restore items that are expensive or carry sentimental value. 

Although each company may use its own process, there are certain steps that one can expect during the aftermath of fire damage. The following is an overview of the restoration process. 

What is Fire Damage Restoration?

Fire damage restoration aims to restore as much of the home as possible after a fire occurs. The repairs may include deep cleaning carpet and furniture, removing a buildup of smoke and soot on the walls, floors, and roof of the home, as well as getting rid of any foul odors that linger. 

The primary goal of fire damage restoration is to restore rather than replace. This means the company will do a thorough assessment of every inch of the home and restore all that does not require replacement.

Of course, restoration after fire and water damage is time-sensitive. The longer furniture, floors, walls, etc., remain damaged by fire and water, the harder the home is to repair. Because of this, fire damage restoration technicians work efficiently to remove all water and soot buildup to salvage as much as possible and avoid costly replacements.

The Fire Damage Restoration Process in 7 Steps

Every company will have a unique process, but there are expectations homeowners can have when they hire a fire damage restoration company. It is helpful to know what to expect to better understand the importance of professional fire damage restoration. The following is a general seven-step process for restoring damage caused by fire and water after a home fire occurs. 

Contacting a fire damage restoration company

The first step in the fire damage restoration process is to contact a company that specializes in the service. It is ideal to contact the fire damage restoration company the same day or night as the fire, but it can wait until the next day if you are dealing with trauma from the incident. However, the sooner the restoration can begin the better. 

Fire damage inspection and assessment

The first thing the fire damage restoration company will do is inspect and assess the damage. They will make note of all that was damaged, which may include flooring, furniture, and more. They will also make note of odor caused by smoke and fire, which generally requires professional removal. 

Board-up and roof tarping

After inspection, the technicians will board up any areas of the home that cause additional concern, such as releasing a strong odor. They will also tarp the roof if it is vulnerable to additional damage or collapse. This step is generally only necessary for moderate to severe damage. 

Water removal and drying

Water damage is often a concern after a home fire as well due to sprinkler systems and efforts by firemen to put the fire out quickly. A professional fire damage restoration company will not only know how to restore damage, but they will also remove standing water in the home and professionally dry areas and items that are vulnerable to water damage. 

Smoke and soot removal

Smoke can linger inside a home for hours after a fire occurs. If the company arrives the same day or night as the fire, then they can effectively remove lingering smoke quickly to reduce damage and prevent a buildup of excess soot. They can also begin efforts to remove soot from the home. 

Cleaning and repair

After the initial efforts to minimize damage and determine the best way to restore the home, the cleanup and repair process begins. This may include deep cleaning upholstery and carpet, restoring materials with water damage, and removing lingering odors caused by the fire. 

Complete restoration

The goal of fire damage restoration is to restore as much as possible. While there might be certain areas of the home that require replacement, a professional fire damage restoration company should have the mentality to repair everything possible. This saves the homeowner money. This may take several weeks, depending on the severity of the fire and water damage.

Learn More About Fire Damage Restoration Today

Reach out to our team at SERVPRO of Highland Village to learn more about fire damage restoration. Our professional team has the experience and knowledge necessary to restore homes after fire and water damage. We are more than happy to answer your questions, and we offer a 24/7 emergency restoration service.

Fire Safety 101: Smoke Alarms

4/14/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms are a very important part of our everyday lives. A smoke alarm is a device that senses smoke, which is usually an indication of fire. Residential smoke alarms are used in almost every room and hallway in your home. Commercial smoke alarms are also used in most rooms and send a signal to an alarm control panel.

Commercial Smoke Alarms

Commercial smoke alarms are usually located on every floor of a commercial building. These alarms will alert the fire department of the potential fire as well as alert all those inside the building. 

Heat Detectors

Many commercial hospitality facilities such as hotels and resorts have heat detectors that will sound an alarm when there is a rapid increase in the air temperature.

Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors detect smoke particles in the air and will alert you to not only smoke, but many newer models can also alert you to carbon monoxide.

Which Type Of Smoke Alarm Do I Need?

In the United States, it is required to have a working smoke alarm installed in your home. Which kind of smoke alarm should you choose to have in your home?

There are two types of smoke alarms that are commonly used in residences: ionization and photoelectric. Photoelectric smoke alarms are the lowest prices and need a power source in order to work properly. Ionization smoke alarms are commonly installed in newer buildings and can also be disabled if they are not connected to a power source.

If you feel you need help deciding which type of smoke alarm is right for you, please look at the resources below: 

• USFA position on home smoke alarms - US Fire Administration
• Texas Department of Insurance - Municipalities with Smoke Alarm Programs
• Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector Buying Guide

4 Safety Tips on How to Prevent a House Fire

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

Do you know how to prevent a house fire? Fire can create destruction and chaos. If a family is lucky enough to escape a fire in their home, often times they do not want to return after the stress they went through during the fire. Consider following the tips below in order to prevent this tragedy from happening to you.

Fire Prevention Safety Tip #1

The best safety tips are the ones that ensure your and your family’s safety. In order to keep your family safe, it is important to check the smoke detectors in your home regularly. If your home does not have a smoke detector–or not enough smoke detectors–they can be purchased online or at a local home improvement store.

The National Fire Protection Association provides the following safety guidelines for smoke alarms:

• Smoke alarms should be replaced every ten years.
• Smoke alarms should be installed on each level of the home.
• Smoke alarms should be installed outside each sleeping area, the kitchen, and the hallways connecting the sleeping areas.
• Smoke alarms should be equipped with an alarm system that will sound when the power is out.
• Smoke alarms should be tested monthly.
• Smoke alarms should be regularly cleaned to avoid the build-up of dust.
• Smoke alarms should be replaced every ten years.

In order to protect your home and your family, it is important to make sure your smoke detectors are in working order. Make sure that your smoke detectors are always plugged in or have batteries installed and test them monthly to ensure they are working properly.

Fire Prevention Safety Tip #2

Make sure your home is equipped with fire extinguishers. Having a working fire extinguisher in your home could be the difference between a small kitchen fire and having to rebuild an entire home. Don’t forget to make sure your fire extinguishers are also not expired. The average fire extinguisher is used every ten years.

Fire extinguishers are designed to put out fires. Typically, they are filled with gas that is stored under pressure and is released as a fine mist. When the gas is sprayed, it creates a barrier between the fire and the items it is burning. The fire may go out on its own, or it will need to be sprayed again. Making sure your home has fire extinguishers or the proper sprinkler system in place is very important in keeping your family safe.

Fire Prevention Safety Tip #3

Children should be taught proper fire prevention techniques. The most effective way to teach your children about fire hazards is to have a discussion with them about the different fire hazards that their home could be vulnerable to and the different ways to avoid fire hazards.

Most children are taught in school that fire is not good and that it can be harmful to them and their surroundings. It is important to reinforce these lessons at home and to make sure they know how to call for help and where safety equipment is in your home.

Fire Prevention Safety Tip #4

Making sure that your fire alarm system is ready at all times is important in order to keep your family safe. If your house is outfitted with an alarm system before a fire starts, it could protect you and your loved ones from harmful smoke and fire.

Many newly-built housing developments have the houses in each neighborhood close together, heightening the chance for flames to jump from one house to the next. This chance of fire spreading is also high in apartment buildings and condos.

These are just a few fire safety tips that you should remember. At SERVPRO of Highland Village, we want to make sure you implement proper fire safety precautions to keep your family and home safe. In the event that you should ever need emergency fire damage restoration, we are available 24/7.

Dealing with Fire Damage in Highland Village

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

Time is of the essence when dealing with fire damage. The longer smoke and soot are left on a surface, the more destructive it can be–not to mention the adverse health effects that it could lead to.

To determine which belongings can be salvaged and which cannot be salvaged, fire restoration professionals must conduct a thorough inspection of the home. This inspection can determine: how much property has been affected, how to begin the cleanup process, and what will need to be done to restore the property.

Once the inspection has been completed and it is determined which items and materials will be salvaged and which will be removed, the cleanup and restoration process can begin. This process can include removing items and materials from the home that will not be saved, cleaning soot and smoke from any surfaces that will be salvaged, and running specialized air scrubbers in the home to capture soot particles.

Contact us at (940) 241-3434 in order to have a fire damage inspection performed today!

Fire Damage Cleanup Near Lantana, TX

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

Have you or someone you know recently had a brush fire? Do you have smoke residue on your clothes? If you need your clothes cleaned due to smoke odor after a fire, we can help through our highly effective Esporta wash system.

Assessing damage from a fire is important in order to determine what needs to be repaired or cleaned. Walls and ceilings should be evaluated for soot and damage as well as your HVAC system. A typical insurance policy will most likely pay for the damages/replacement from a house fire., but it is best to double-check with your insurance.

Once your insurance company is notified of a house fire, they will send out someone to inspect the damage to determine what is covered. If insured, you might be surprised at how much they will pay. SERVPRO of Highland Village will work hand and hand with the insurance company along with the adjuster to ensure the homeowner is properly taken care of.

It may seem overwhelming when there is a lot of smoke or soot inside your home from a fire, but rest assured by hiring a professional fire restoration company like SERVPRO of Highland Village, we will make it "Like it never even happened." With our equipment and expertise, we can handle anything you throw at us, so please do not assume any part of your house does not need to be inspected solely from the appearance. Smoke and soot can an unhealthy environment and cause the structure to become unstable.

DOES YOUR LANTANA HOMEOWNER INSURANCE POLICY COVER FIRE DAMAGE?

When experiencing fire damage in your home, the thought that everyone comes across is “Is my insurance going to cover this?” In this day and age, most homes are covered however it is important to check with your insurance company to verify. When it comes to the damaged belongings in your home from a house fire, insurance may pay to replace the items or to repair them.

FIRE DAMAGE RESTORATION IN LANTANA, TX

We highly recommend that you do not try to take care of the fire damage on your own. Hire a professional. If not properly and professionally serviced you could inadvertently cause your home to lose value. A company like SERVPRO of Highland Village has the experience and is insured. Smoke and soot can quickly and dramatically affect your health. Without the proper precautions, you could be putting yourself at risk.  Some neighborhoods have a fire safety committee that could assist with fire damage cleanup. 

Making it look “Like it never even happened,” is not just our tag line but it's what we do best. Getting the professionals of SERVPRO of Highland Village on the job as quickly as possible would be best. Regardless of the size of the fire damage do not wait if possible. Prevention is the best tactic for house fires but a quick and professional response is the best thing.

Fire Restoration Services

4/12/2022 (Permalink)

Fire Cleanup & Fire Restoration Services

After a fire has happened and there is so much damage it seems hopeless, there is help available. The Basics of Fire Restoration are typically what people think of when they hear “fire restoration.” Fire restoration is much more extensive than these basics, however. Fire restoration can involve cleanup, drying, mold remediation and even structural reconstruction. After restoration, your home can look brand new.

Apart from cleaning up the mess, we will check any damage to your home during fire restoration. If the damage is extensive, we may need to remove unsalvageable materials and rebuild parts of the home and do re-wiring as well.

Fire Restoration After Disaster

After smoke and damage has occurred, most people are unsure how to properly clean up. If the wrong methods are used, cleanup can be extremely difficult and dangerous if the wrong chemicals are combined. You can be sure our restoration services will properly clean your home and cause no further damage.

To start the restoration process, professionals will conduct a standard air quality inspection in order to prevent further health effects related to smoke and soot. Once the air quality is deemed safe, all moisture sources need to be eliminated so that the next step of fire restoration can begin. Dehumidifiers and air scrubbers will be used in order to lower the humidity and eliminate any odors that are present.

Removing soot and residue from carpets, walls, floors and ceilings by using a carbon-based absorbent is important during the restoration process. Specialized extraction equipment may also be used in order to remove any residual moisture left behind after extinguishing the fire. A qualified restoration team will be able to determine which type of absorbent is best for your particular needs. There are also absorbents that can be used in order to eliminate odors from a home.

While a disaster can be difficult to work through, professional fire damage restoration can help the process be more efficient. At SERVPRO of Highland Village, we provide 24/7 fire restoration services. Call our office at (940) 241-3434 if you have any questions.

Fire Damage Repair and Cleanup

4/12/2022 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Repair and Fire Cleanup Services

What is fire damage restoration? Fire damage restoration is the process of restoring fire and smoke-damaged property to its pre-incident condition. Due to the nature of fire damage, fire restoration and repair can take anywhere from months to years to complete. Smoke and water can both destroy furniture, insulation, drywall, carpeting, electrical systems, and other essential building materials. 

The first step of the fire damage restoration process is to remove any items that are highly porous such as carpets, pillows, or mattresses. These items will keep a majority of the smoke and soot trapped in them. Once these items are removed, dehumidification must begin in order to remove any excess moisture from the home.

If your home has sustained water damage from firefighting efforts, it is important to remove any items that can be repaired and to begin to dry out the home. A professional restoration company will have the necessary equipment in order to dry your home properly.

Often after a fire, power will be turned off to a home. In order to operate any drying equipment, temporary power must be routed to a home. Contact your local city electric provider in order to set up a temporary power pole (restoration professionals can also provide a generator, if necessary). 

Full-Service Fire Damage Restoration

Any items in a home that can be salvaged after a fire may need further cleaning in order to be used again. This process may be heavy hand-cleaning or–in the case of textiles such as clothes, linens, drapes, etc.--professional cleaning from our specialized Esporta wash system. These methods help to clean and preserve items that many families do not want to replace, or feel can be saved through cleaning. Deodorizing of some items such as fabric furniture pieces may also be required during this process.

In order to find out more about our full-service fire damage restoration process, please contact our office.

Protect Your Home from Soot, Smoke & Fire Damage

4/12/2022 (Permalink)

10 Ways To Protect Homes From Soot, Smoke & Fire Damage

Preparing a home to be protected from fire damage is often tedious and requires many hours of work. Since smoke and soot can be challenging to remove from a home’s interior, homeowners can use the following steps to help make the process of fire remediation go more smoothly.

First, smoke and soot cleanup professionals can remove smoke and soot from the home before restoration begins. As soon as smoke and soot odor is noticeable, it is imperative that the smoke and soot are removed so the restoration team can perform their services much more efficiently.

Second, smoke and soot can sometimes be cleaned with household products. For example, peroxide can be used to neutralize odors. Bleach is relatively inexpensive and can be used to rid surfaces of smoke and soot.

Third, the use of oxygenated bleach solutions is recommended by many smoke and soot cleanup companies–as these solutions are highly effective in removing smoke and soot. Many major home supply stores carry these solutions in powder form. In order to use the oxygenated solution, the powder needs to be mixed with water and applied to the affected area, and left on the surface for about an hour.

Fourth, paper towels can be used in order to absorb excess moisture. The smoke and soot can be vacuumed up with a wet vac while the surface is wet. This typically needs to be completed before the sun comes up, as the sun can accelerate the evaporation process.

Fifth, when smoke and soot are present, do not leave any windows open. Opening windows in the home will accelerate the evaporation process and spread carcinogens from smoke and soot further throughout the home.

Sixth, do not attempt to address residual smoke odor on your own. Contact a professional smoke restoration company in order to prevent any adverse health effects.

Seventh, make sure that your home has working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors before storms. Also, make sure to have a working fire extinguisher in your home.

Eighth, never place wet towels, mops, or clothes on top of your dryer. This can create damage to your home’s electrical wiring as well as a higher risk for a fire to start.

Ninth, make sure all window treatments and curtains are in front of the windows. This can help to prevent further damage to your home’s interior. Keeping windows closed during a fire can help to suffocate the fire, should one break out.

Finally, consider installing an air purifier in your home. Air purification systems can help to remove smoke and soot from the air, as well as improve your home’s air quality.

In order to prevent a total loss of your home, follow these steps. Maintaining your home and keeping a proper insurance policy up-to-date will help to properly restore your home in the case of fire damage.

The Basics of Fire Restoration

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

If a fire has occurred in your home, certain precautions must be taken during fire restoration. First, the structure has to be deemed stable for re-entry by fire investigators. Once the structure has been declared stable, a local fire restoration company can be arranged to thoroughly clean and restore your house to its original state. It can be devastating to see your home after a fire, but many times a fire restoration service can change a disaster into something beautiful. Keeping this process economical is also a strength of fire restoration companies; restoration can save you thousands of dollars in replacement costs.

Thousands of dollars can be saved in re-construction costs simply by after-fire restoration.

Typically, when a fire restoration company arrives at your home to assess the damage, they will collect your personal belongings and inspect your home to determine what kind of damage has occurred. Oftentimes, most companies do not specialize in home fires, so assumptions are made about the damage they see, which in some cases leads to unnecessary losses of valuables. SERVPRO of Highland Village analyzes damage and also determines which items are salvageable.

SMOKE AND SOOT not only come with an annoying smell after a fire but it must be removed carefully to avoid damaging the carpet and floors. Absorbent rugs should be used to capture the odor, preventing the smell from spreading to other areas near the affected location.

Professional Restoration companies have the ability to remove excess moisture from almost anywhere in your home with the proper skills and equipment.

The damage that smoke and soot bring with a fire does not stop with the home. Inhaling smoke or soot can be damaging to your health especially if you suffer from allergies or asthma. A proactive approach to avoid inhalation of smoke is smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. In the unfortunate event of a fire, your local fire department should be called immediately. In the event of smoke or soot damage, our office should be notified as soon as possible.

Fire restoration companies are capable of removing soot and odor from buildings after a fire using absorbent pads. Our trusted professionals also check electrical and heating systems to ensure those locations were not affected. The cost to restore your property could be costly, so it is vital to take into consideration any and all professional suggestions the restoration company makes that could make a difference in the long run.

One of the main things that needs to happen first after a fire, once the fire department deems it safe to enter, is to extract any water. A dehumidifier removes excess moisture from the air while a pump is used to suck out water from the affected area.

The efforts of the insurance company along with your assigned adjuster will work closely with the restoration company to ensure the cost of the damage is accurate and priced properly.

Odor control is one of the biggest hurdles a fire restoration company has to deal with. It needs to be assessed and handled before the smoke and fire damage. If ignored the odor can easily spread through HVAC systems and foot traffic.  In order to keep the area fresh after the restoration process happens it is vital it is handled properly and immediately. 

The Dangers of Smoke

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know that smoke and soot are not the same things? While a fire is burning, smoke is created through incomplete combustion. Incomplete combustion means there is not enough oxygen to burn the fuel completely. Leftover particles of carbon, tar, oils, and ash are released into the air, creating smoke that we can see. 

The primary cause of death for victims of indoor fires is smoke inhalation. Rather than being consumed by the fire itself, nearly 75% of victims die because of smoke inhalation. In order to prevent large amounts of smoke inhalation, it is important to stay low to the ground. Hot air rises in a structure while it is burning, which brings smoke up with it. In a typical structure fire, most evidence of smoke damage is found higher up on the walls and ceilings. Smoke will usually rise toward the ceiling, then be forced towards the doorways and air ducts and into other rooms. As smoke travels throughout a structure, it deposits residue (known as soot) on other materials. These materials can include the belongings in your home.

If you have questions about smoke damage, call SERVPRO of Highland Village at (940) 241-3434.

When Should I Acquire Fire Damage Restoration Services?

6/14/2021 (Permalink)

Building becoming fire damaged by recent fire.

After a fire in a home, it is important to act quickly in contacting a fire damage restoration company. Any sort of moderate to severe fire damage can require extensive treatment in order to minimize replacement costs.

If too much time passes after a fire loss, more damage could occur. By acting quickly, damage can be kept to a minimum, which can help homeowners save thousands of dollars and save sentimental belongings inside the home. By knowing that a fire damage restoration company needs to be called as soon as possible after a fire loss, you can make an informed decision on restoring your home for the lowest cost possible.

Physical Damage Caused by Flames

The initial cause of damage during a fire is the actual flames. The longer these flames burn could lead to more devastating consequences. Repairing walls, roofs, flooring and furniture that are more damaged by flames can require more extensive treatment in order to restore the materials in order to avoid replacement.

Flames create smoke and soot. Smoke and soot can be more damaging because they last longer than flames, which means if they are not taken care of quickly, they can create more damage over a longer period of time. Water damage can happen while a fire department is trying to extinguish the flames.

Damage from a small fire can usually be remediated by the homeowner or a handyman, but for fires big enough to create large amounts of smoke and soot, professional fire damage restoration services may be needed.

What’s Involved in Fire Damage

Fire damage can have many components to it. While every fire damage situation is different, there are certain steps to the restoration process that fire damage professionals follow. These include inspecting and restoring structural damage, removing smells and dirt promptly, and dealing with smoke and soot concerns.

Structural Damage

Structural damage is always the first addressed concern after a fire damage. If the home’s structural integrity has been compromised during the fire, there may be no restoration that can be done. Areas that structural restoration addresses are the foundation, walls, roof, flooring and doors. Structural damage usually occurs during the fire, but also during the extinguishing process (creating water damage).

Assessment of the severity and extent of damage is the first step fire damage restoration professionals will take upon arrival to the home in order to start the restoration process. Once it is determined what needs to be repaired and restored, professionals will protect damaged areas, remove smoke and soot, and dry areas that have been damaged by water.

Smell and Dirt

Professional fire damage restoration help is always needed, no matter if there is structural damage to a home or not. Fire can stir up contaminants in the air including dust and dirt and create foul odors. During fire damage restoration, one of the goals is to remove any foul odors in the home, and to clean up any dirt that may have been stirred up. Professional carpet cleaning, scrubbing of walls, and other methods are used to get rid of dirt and sanitize the home.

Smoke and Soot

Smoke and soot are almost always present once flames start to spread within a home. Homeowners must address this once a fire is extinguished in order to prevent further damage to the home. Fire damage professionals can arrive quickly to a fire damage in order to start removing smoke and soot and prevent further damage. 

Without fire damage restoration and removal of smoke and soot, there can be further buildup of smoke and soot within a home. If damage continues to occur, items that may have been salvageable previously may start to be beyond repair, requiring replacement.

Hire a Professional Fire Damage Restoration Company

For more information about our fire damage restoration services, call SERVPRO of Highland Village. We offer 24/7 emergency service in order to restore your home as quickly and efficiently as possible.

How Long Does It Take To Restore A House After A Fire?

6/11/2021 (Permalink)

The fire restoration process and timeline for this home is dependent on many factors.

After a fire occurs inside their home, many families are often stuck in a difficult situation. Frequently, the question is asked: “how long until I can move back into my home?” This question can be difficult to answer until a thorough inspection of the damage is completed.

Homeowners can, however, get a more general idea of how long the restoration process will take by looking at the extent of fire and water damage that has occurred. By understanding the fire damage restoration process better, homeowners can prepare themselves for the road that lies ahead.

Dependent Factors of Timeline

There are a few factors that fire damage restoration professionals take into consideration when estimating how long homeowners will need to prepare to be out of their home. These factors include the size of the home, how many rooms the fire affected, and the overall severity of damage.

Even with these determining factors, it is often difficult to predict how long the restoration process will take. A very broad estimate is between one week to four months to get a house fully restored after a fire. In more severe cases, restoration and reconstruction could take up to six months, while the most minimal fire restoration could take as little as a few days. The following factors are an overview of how long the fire damage restoration process can take.

House Size 

The size of a house is one of the most important factors taken into account when determining how long fire damage restoration will take. Larger homes of course typically require more extensive repairs, but that is not always the case. The type of rooms that were damaged is one of the main determining factors of how extensive restoration will be.

The kitchen and living room are two rooms that typically require the most extensive repairs. A spare bedroom might not be as complex of a room to restore due to the room typically not having as many cabinets or built-in shelves.

Fire damage restoration in a small home could take three weeks or less depending on the severity of damage. For a medium-sized home, the fire damage restoration could take up to two months. Larger homes with extensive repairs needed can take around six months.

Size of the Fire

The size of the fire is another major factor that plays a role in determining how long the fire damage restoration process will take. Smaller fires have less potential for spreading and they can be easier to extinguish. Typically smaller fires are minimal in repairs and mostly just require deep cleaning services. The removal of soot and sanitizing can take as little as a couple of days or as long as a few weeks.

When a larger fire has started, the threat of the fire spreading is much higher. The more rooms that the fire spreads to, the longer the restoration process can take. How long the fire is burning until it is extinguished is another factor that can contribute to the size of the fire.

Overall Damage

Overall damage is the ultimate deciding factor in how long the fire damage restoration process will take when restoration professionals are examining the damage after a fire. The size of the home, how many rooms were affected, the types of rooms that were affected, and how soon after the fire damage the restoration company is able to begin the restoration process are the contributing factors to overall damage.

If hard-to-repair items--such as the roof or interior walls--are not damaged, the restoration process can take anywhere from several days to a month. However, if overall damage is severe, the restoration process can take up to six months. Removing all water, soot, and smoke and sanitizing affected areas will have to be completed before the rest of the restoration begins. If roof replacement is required, this also can add on extra time to the restoration process.

Consider Working with a Fire Damage Restoration Company

If your home has been damaged by fire and/or water and you need a prompt response from fire damage restoration professionals, give us a call at (940) 241-3434. We at SERVPRO of Highland Village can provide you with knowledge into the restoration process and help you along the way.

What Is Fire Damage Restoration?

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage restoration is the process of restoring a home or commercial property after a fire has occurred. The steps involved in the fire damage restoration process include: an initial inspection of the fire and water damage, boarding up the structure to prevent further damage, removing all water and smoke or soot, cleaning and sanitizing all contents that can be salvaged, and restoring any floors or walls, etc. that were damaged during the fire.

If the fire department was called to extinguish the fire, there may be water damage that the property owner also needs to be aware of. A professional fire damage restoration company can address any concerns about water damage at the same time as the fire damage.

Restore Your Home Back to Normal

The goal of fire damage restoration is to restore the property so it’s “Like it never even happened.” While some homeowners take this opportunity to make upgrades to their property, the end goal in every fire damage restoration situation is to restore as much of the structure as possible while eliminating health hazards that may have accumulated during the fire.

How Fire Damage Restoration Helps 

The specific steps a fire damage restoration company will follow may vary by company and specifics of the extent of fire and water damage, however the fire damage restoration process typically involves these general steps:

• Inspection and damage assessment
• Removal of water and smoke
• Cleaning and sanitizing areas
• Restoration of all damaged areas

Saving money from replacement costs, restoring sentimental items, and removing safety hazards are all benefits of fire damage restoration. The process of fire damage restoration is detailed further below.

Removes Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

Fire damage restoration professionals will make note of any and all damage to the home during the inspection process. The longer water and fire damage sit untouched in a home, the harder the home will be to restore, so it is important to call a restoration company as soon as possible after a fire occurs. Smoke may still exist inside a home when restoration professionals arrive, soot (a substance that results when matter does not burn all the way) may exist in the home as well.

Smoke and soot are removed from a home as quickly as possible in order to prevent further damage. Fire damage restoration professionals use specialized equipment and techniques in order to remove smoke and soot from all surfaces, including floors, walls, windows, and more.

Water Removal and Drying

Water damage can be just as problematic as fire and smoke damage. With this knowledge, fire damage restoration professionals will begin to remove as much standing water as soon as possible after a fire damage occurs. Using dehumidifiers, air movers, and other drying equipment is essential in order to remove as much moisture as possible. Drying the structure is essential in order to salvage walls, floors, ceilings, and more that may have required replacement without this restoration technique. Drying the structure also can prevent mold growth.

Cleaning and Sanitizing

Before cleaning and sanitizing, most of the effort put forth from the fire damage restoration company has been to prevent further damage. The next part of the restoration process is to clean and sanitize all damaged areas including floors, walls, ceilings, furniture, and other contents. Anything that can be salvaged and restored will be brought back to the original condition and appearance before the fire.

Air scrubbers and fogging equipment help to remove any odors that may be lingering in the home. Repairs and replacements that may be needed are likely to be recommended and completed at this point.

Work with the Fire Damage Restoration Professionals

Experiencing a fire at your property is one of the worst experiences that can happen, however a fire damage restoration company can make the restoration process less stressful. At SERVPRO of Highland Village, we offer 24/7 emergency service in order to serve you better. If you have questions about fire damage restoration, call us at (940) 241-3434 today.

Dealing With Fire Damage In Highland Village, TX

4/13/2021 (Permalink)

Dealing With Fire Damage in Highland Village

If you have experienced fire damage in your home, you must take action as soon as possible. A fire damage restoration in Highland Village, TX, could save your home and the possessions inside it from destruction. Fire damage can lead to extensive damage to your belongings and carpets, in addition to causing health effects for you and your family.

Fire restoration in Highland Village, TX, is a specialist job for trained and licensed professionals. Many experienced companies specialize in fire damage restoration in Highland Village, so rest assured that you have several choices to choose from.

To ensure that your belongings are safe, the restoration team will need to conduct a thorough inspection. After all, you'll want to know what damage has been done and how extensive it is.

Fire restoration in Highland Village, TX, involves:

• Knowing exactly how much property has been affected.
• Beginning cleanup processes.
• Securing undamaged items as soon as possible.

A fire damage company can be more efficient to conduct a thorough inspection, but sometimes you can start an investigation on your own. This is especially important if several people will need to be interviewed as part of your fire damage restoration in Highland Village, TX. Interviewing a range of individuals will help to ensure that everyone is on the same page with the same objectives in mind.

Once the fire damage has been assessed, the restoration company can determine the extent of the damage. If necessary, they will need to rely on your documentation, photos, and videos to assess the damage's scope further. This will give you a better idea of what can be restored and which items need to be discarded. A fire department may advise that things such as carpets and clothing need to be discarded because of the danger of electrocution while also cautioning against putting clothing directly on top of carpet pads. This may cause the backing to peel off.

When the fire damage in Highland Village, TX is extensive, professionals will likely schedule an in-home visit for you. This will provide them with a better idea of the extent of the damage and provide an accurate cost estimate. In addition, your insurance company may reimburse you for expenses related to fire restoration services in Highland Village, TX, such as soot removal, carpet restoration, smoke damage restoration, and emergency ventilation.

It is wise to ensure that any soot and smoke damage are taken care of promptly. Remember that smoke and soot particles can make breathing difficult.

After the fire damage has been assessed, the restoration company can then begin their work.

Restoration companies typically use specialized air quality equipment to remove smoke, clean debris, and dry items, such as furniture. Because smoke contains thousands of different chemicals, special air cleaners must be used to prevent health effects from occurring.

A qualified restoration company will advise you on the best options for dehumidification and ventilation and provide you with a list of recommended cleaners and deodorizers to use. Remember, removing smoke from the air is only one step in proper fire damage restoration.

After the fire damage has been assessed, the restoration team will begin the fire damage restoration process. Fire restoration companies typically divide the fire damage into multiple rooms, depending on the severity of the blaze. If water-damaged rooms need to be isolated, a plumber will need to be called to ensure that everything is operational and safe. The plumber may even be able to recommend a company that specializes in fire damage restoration. Luckily with SERVPRO of Highland Village, our team can handle all plumbing, electrical, and restoration needs.

While most fires are contained once they have been put out, there is always a possibility that the fire damage caused was not contained. For example, walls that were affected by fire may continue to leak because of water damage, leaving holes or cracks in the walls. While it is possible to stop fires from spreading, there is no way to prevent damage caused by fires from spreading. For this reason, it is imperative to have an experienced fire damage restoration company on hand. After the fire damage's initial assessment, the company will need to test the fire equipment in place.

Once all the necessary fire damage cleanup has been completed, the structural professionals will need to do mold testing and moisture testing. Mold testing is often done in an outside environment, similar to a greenhouse. Water damage cleanup involves removing any excess water, which will help reduce the risk of mold setting in. In many cases, a structural repair firm will also recommend that asbestos testing be done as well. Once all asbestos testing is complete, the structure can be sealed, and a newly painted surface can be applied.

Fortunately, SERVPRO of Highland Village is a one-stop shop for all disaster recovery. There's no need to deal with many different companies when you can deal with just one.

Simple Ways to Prevent a House Fire

4/13/2021 (Permalink)

Simple Ways to Prevent House Fires

It is easy to see why most homeowners want to know how to prevent a house fire. When a fire breaks out, it is often the only thing standing between the occupants of a home and destruction. However, following these simple but effective safety tips can help ensure that a fire does not engulf your home in tragedy.

To effectively combat fire hazards, you must have the proper equipment. One of the most critical pieces of equipment you can invest in is a smoke detector. These detectors are available in various styles and models, and they can be purchased online or at local retailers.

Smoke detectors come in two different styles. Either you have a manual model or an electronic system. A manual detector will require that you open and close flues manually to ensure no pockets of dry air between the interior surfaces of flue pipes. Electronic systems can detect smoke much more quickly and allow for faster opening and closing of flues. These detectors may also detect certain chemicals and other common household hazards, which can help prevent fires.

Your smoke detector should be located in an area of your home that is not easily accessible to children. This will ensure that you and any occupants of your home will be safe from fire hazards. For example, smoke can be detected as far away as 100 feet from home in some cases. If your detector is located so that it is accessible to children, it will likely cause false alarms, which can draw unnecessary attention to you and your home.

When purchasing smoke detectors, you should be aware of their recommended range. The range will depend on the model of detector that you are buying. You should test the unit once you have located it in a central location in your home to not activate if it cannot see smoke up to a certain distance. Many models will have a range of around one hundred feet. Be sure to test it outdoors before you place it inside your home.

Your home's fire safety plan should include regular maintenance of all gas appliances. Make sure that you never leave gas appliances running unless they are completely off. Always read your gas appliance manufacturer's safety manual before you leave the house. It will provide you with valuable information about maintaining your appliances and fire safety precautions.

Your smoke detectors must be placed in locations in your home where they will be most effective. This is true whether you have a fireplace or not. Do not place them near curtains, bedding, clotheslines, or any other location where smoke could enter. This is how to prevent a house fire from happening.

When purchasing smoke detectors, it is a good idea to purchase one that is UL listed. This will ensure that it will withstand extreme temperatures as well as electrical fire hazards. In the unlikely event that a fire does start in your home, your smoke detectors will be able to warn everyone in the home and alert the fire department right away. This is how to prevent a fire from occurring in your home.

Fire extinguishers should always be kept in a fireproof container at home. These units should also be kept in areas that are easily accessible. If there is one room in your house that is unoccupied or rarely used, it would be wise to put an extinguisher in this room. You should also make sure that you know where these fire extinguishers should be placed when taking proper precautions to prevent a house fire.

Some people feel that they are better off purchasing an alarm system for their home. This is not a bad idea. You can buy alarms that will protect your family and your entire house, and all of its contents. When you purchase an alarm system, make sure that it will cover all of your home's major fire hazards.

If you have small children, you should invest in childproof locks. Lock your doors when you are not around. Homes that are constantly unlocked pose a serious fire hazard. Homes that smokers frequently occupy are also at a higher risk of fire hazards. Knowing how to prevent a house fire is something everyone should know. By following these simple steps, you can prevent fires a little easier for everyone in your home.

4 Safety Tips For Preventing a House Fire

4/13/2021 (Permalink)

4 Safety Tips On How to Prevent a House Fire

How to prevent a house fire? That is the question that would cross the minds of many, especially those who live with families. Fire is a horrible thing. It destroys things and makes people panic, and even if they are lucky enough to escape the fire, they do not want to return to their homes.

If you've been thinking about ways to prevent a house fire, this article will help you.

Fire Prevention Safety Tip #1

The best safety tips are those that ensure the safety of your family and home. One of these safety tips is to check smoke detectors in your home regularly. Smoke detectors help people stay safe from fire. If you have any doubts about the safety of your home, you should check smoke detectors regularly. You can buy them from the local store, or you can also get them online.

The National Fire Protection Association provides the following safety guidelines for smoke alarms:

• Smoke alarms should be replaced every ten years.
• Smoke alarms should be installed on each level of the home.
• Smoke alarms should be installed outside each sleeping area, the kitchen, and the hallways connecting the sleeping areas.
• Smoke alarms should be equipped with an alarm system that will sound when the power is out.
• Smoke alarms should be tested monthly.
• Smoke alarms should be regularly cleaned to avoid the build-up of dust.
• Smoke alarms should be replaced every ten years.

One of the best ways to protect your home and family's safety is to make sure your smoke detectors are in good working order. To ensure that your smoke detector is in excellent working order, you need to make sure it is always plugged in and working. You should also test it monthly to ensure that it is working properly. A battery-operated smoke detector is also a good idea for an extra level of safety.

Do you have any other safety tips that ensure the safety of your family and home?

Fire Prevention Safety Tip #2

Another fire safety tip is to make sure that your home is equipped with fire extinguishers. A fire extinguisher is a must for any home. You might not think much about fire extinguishers until you need one.

Why?

It's not because they're not important. It's because they're not often used. The average fire extinguisher only gets used once every ten years or so. It is essential because it can stop house fires from spreading to other parts of your home. Some of the fires that spread throughout your home can quickly spread to your appliances and furniture.

What does it do?

A fire extinguisher is designed to put out fires. They're usually filled with a type of gas that's either stored under pressure or released as a fine mist. When it is sprayed or released, the gas creates a barrier between the fire and the items it's burning. The fire will then either go out on its own, or the person using the fire extinguisher will be able to put it out with a stream of gas or a burst of air. If you have a fire extinguisher in your home, you'll be able to quickly stop a fire from getting worse.

Therefore it is better to make sure that all main areas of your house have fire extinguishers and that the proper sprinkler systems are in place.

Fire Prevention Safety Tip #3

Children should also be taught about fire prevention. You can do this by having a discussion with them about the different fire hazards that their home could be vulnerable to. Discuss the different types of fire that can affect your home and what precautions they need to avoid these types of fire hazards. This is one of the most effective and efficient ways to teach your children about fire hazards.

When you have kids around the house, you need to ensure that you provide them with safety tips. Most children are taught in school that fire is not good and can harm them and their surroundings. At home, you can also ensure that they know where certain safety equipment is placed inside the house and which areas of the house they should be kept away from.

By teaching your family members about emergency procedures and how to react during fire alarms, you can be sure that your entire family will follow these fire safety tips well.

Fire Prevention Safety Tip #4

Another thing that you can do to help you keep your family safe when there is a house fire is to make sure that you have your house fire alarm system ready at all times. You must have this in your home because it could come in handy if a fire breaks out. You should check if your house is fitted with an alarm system before a fire breaks out. You should make sure that your fire alarm battery is replaced at least once every year. By doing so, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from harmful smoke and fire.

Fire can happen anywhere, anytime.

Though not a new thing, in recent years, the vulnerability of houses to fire has been heightened. Houses now tend to be made of flammable materials and are tightly packed together. Those who live in apartments and condominiums are even more vulnerable to fire. No one knows the exact reasons why some homes catch on fire and others don't. But we do know some things that you can do to lower the odds of a fire. 

These are simply four of the critical fire safety tips that you should remember. It's not easy keeping up with all the many demands on a home, let alone when a disaster happens. At SERVPRO of Highland Village, we just want to make sure that you implement proper fire safety precautions to help keep your family and home safe. After all, these are your family's safety that you are trying to protect. In the unfortunate event that you should ever need our services, we are available 24/7 for emergency fire damage restoration and many other disaster recovery services.

Fire Restoration Basics

4/8/2021 (Permalink)

The Basics Of Fire Restoration

If a fire has destroyed your home, there are undoubtedly certain precautions to take regarding fire restoration. The structure needs to be deemed stable for re-entry after a fire, and you will also want to arrange for a local fire restoration company to thoroughly clean and restore your house to its former appearance. Your home may look destroyed after a fire, but many times it is possible to bring it back to life with the assistance of after-fire restoration service. Restoration companies have the experience and expertise to restore a home to its original look, and they can do so economically.

After-fire restoration can save you thousands of dollars in costly re-construction costs.

When a fire restoration company arrives at your home to assess the damage, they will collect your personal belongings. They will then inspect your home and determine what kind of damage has occurred. Most companies do not specialize in home fires, so they may make assumptions about the damage that they see. If a fire restoration company like SERVPRO of Highland Village gets hired, we will begin to analyze the damage and determine which items are salvageable. If you do not have valuable belongings in the home at this time, they should suggest ways in which you can save money to replace them.

Smoke and soot can cause an annoying odor in the home after a fire. Smoke and soot should be removed carefully to avoid causing structural damage to the carpet or floors. You should use absorbent rugs to capture the odor not to spread to other areas of the home.

Professional fire restoration companies have the skills and equipment necessary to remove excess moisture from carpets, flooring, furniture, walls, and ceilings.

Smoke and soot can also cause health effects if they are inhaled. People who have allergies or asthma are especially vulnerable after home fires. The best way to prevent health problems is to use smoke detectors or smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to alert you and your family of smoke or carbon monoxide when it begins to fill your home.

If you can spot the warning signs of a fire, it's crucial to alert the fire department. In the case of smoke and soot, you should contact our offices as soon as possible.

Fire restoration professionals can also remove residual smoke and soot that may be present after a fire. This residual damage is removed using absorbent pads. Our professional fire restoration workers can also check electrical and heating systems to determine if they are damaged or need repair. The cost of restoring your home after fire damage can be costly, so it is essential to let the experts deal with problems that they are familiar with; they may also suggest improvements that will save you money in the long run.

The fire restoration process starts to dry out the area.

Dehumidifiers are often used to dry out the home after severe fire damages quickly. Water extraction is also an option when there is heavy water damage. This process involves using pumps to suck out all of the water from the home while the dehumidifier removes excess moisture.

Your insurance provider may pay for the costs of damage control after fire restoration takes place. The insurance adjuster should take care of determining the actual cost of the damage to your home as well. It is important to give the insurance adjuster a price list of everything that is damaged so that they can price it properly.

If notified quickly enough, a good fire restoration company will work closely with the insurance adjuster to get the right value on your belongings.

Fire restoration involves many tedious processes, but they are important to controlling fire damage. Odor control begins before smoke, and fire damage is taken care of. Odor control is essential because not only does it prevent odors from developing, it also keeps the area smelling fresh after the restoration process is complete. After smoke and fire damage have been taken care of, a professional cleaner should remove smoke and odor. Smell cleaning is a critical task that must be completed after fire damage has been taken care of.

How To Clean & Restore Your Home After A Fire

6/25/2020 (Permalink)

Cleaning and restoring your home after a fire can be dangerous if the proper safety precautions are not taken and the right procedure is not followed. It is also essential to act fast after the fire occurs to prevent smoke and soot from causing additional damage. While the easiest way to restore your home after a fire is to hire a professional fire restoration company, you may be able to clean up small fires yourself, along with the assistance of friends and loved ones. 

Cleaning Procedures

There is a certain cleaning process homeowners should follow after a fire occurs inside of their home. While each home is unique and the cleaning process should be specifically designed to restore all damages found during the inspection process, there are certain steps that should be taken. These steps include but are not limited to wearing personal protective equipment, ensuring the surrounding area is properly protected, and using TSP products to remove the lingering odors the fire caused. The following is an overview of the most notable steps that should be taken during the restoration process after a home fire. 

Use Proper PPE 

Do not start the home restoration process if you do not have the proper personal protective equipment (PPE). This is the most important step in the process as inhaling smoke and leaving yourself exposed to other harmful elements after a fire can be detrimental to short and long-term health. The basic PPE essentials you will need before you begin to clean and restore your home include: 

• Safety goggles
• Protective gloves
• Long sleeves
• Nose mask
• Apron

You may need additional PPE, such as safety boots, depending on the specific details of the fire aftermath. The main thing is to ensure your body is fully covered and protected. Once you have the right equipment, you can start the process. 

Protect the Surrounding Area

The next step is to protect all surrounding areas. Be sure to open up all windows and doors in the home to allow smoke and other elements to leave the home. This prevents buildup of smoke and soot and can minimize damage as well as help you stay safe and protected. Ideally, you should also have a high-powered fan installed to move smoke and the vapor of cleaning products away. 

Now you will need to protect the floors, especially the areas that have little to no damage. You can do this by laying a cloth down or blocking off the less damaged area to avoid people tracking smoke and other particles through the floor. 

Use TSP Products 

You can use trisodium phosphate (TSP) products to remove the odor that lingers after a home fire. The odor is one of the primary concerns homeowners typically have after a home fire occurs. Not only can the smell be unpleasant, but breathing in the smoke and other particles that contribute to low air quality can be bad for one’s health.

When using TSP products, be sure to follow the directions closely. This is when your personal protection equipment becomes incredibly important. Since TSP products have the ability to burn and damage skin, make sure to have your body fully protected and use extra caution while using TSP chemicals. 

Scrub Walls

The walls in the damaged area will most likely be very dirty, if not damaged. The sooner you can wipe away the soot on the walls the more effective the restoration will be. You can use a chemical dry cleaning sponge (often referred to as a soot eraser sponge) to remove the soot that has built up on the walls. 

Since the walls may be damaged and vulnerable, scrub them gently yet thoroughly to remove as much residue as possible. If multiple cleanings are needed, be sure to let the walls dry between each time you scrub.  

Allow Proper Drying Time

As you clean your walls, floors and roof, be sure to allow all areas to dry properly if you use a liquid cleaning solution. All too many homeowners make the mistake of painting or decorating too soon, which leads to less effective results. Before painting, laying new floors and other home restoration tasks, make sure the walls are dry and ready for repair. 

Contact the Fire Damage Restoration Experts

For the best home restoration results after a fire, contact our professional and experienced team at SERVPRO of Highland Village. We specialize in home restoration after fire and water damage, and it is our goal to reduce the cost of replacements by restoring your home floors, walls, roof, furniture, and more. Our friendly team is happy to discuss how we can help you after your home fire, and we can answer questions you may have. We also offer 24/7 emergency services as we understand the importance of a prompt response following a home fire. 

Characteristics of Smoke

2/12/2020 (Permalink)

An example of how bad fires can get. This house had lots of smoke damage which took up the majority of SERVPRO's time at this house.

When a fire occurs, smoke inhalation is one of the biggest threats to our health. During a fire, smoke is a result of rapidly decomposing materials releasing solid materials, aerosols, and gases. Carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide are just two of the extremely dangerous gases that are released during smoke in a fire. Small particles of carbon are released and suspended in the air during a fire, which is what makes smoke visible to the naked eye. These particles also absorb the smell from the fire, which is how soot is created. Once smoke settles on surfaces, it is considered soot. Smoke particles are very small in size, around .1 to 4 microns (1 micron = 1 twenty-five thousandth of 1 inch). Even though smoke particles are very miniscule, they can create issues in your respiratory tract. Smoke rises, so stay low to the ground if you are ever near an active fire in order to breathe in less smoke.

Water Damage Turns Into Fire Damage

2/11/2020 (Permalink)

Sometimes a water damage can cause a fire damage.

This water leak turned into a fire loss quickly when a pipe running through the ceiling sprung a leak onto the main electrical panel for the house. This short made the panel burst into flames. Using electrical wiring to travel, the fire quickly spread to the HVAC central unit in the attic. Eventually, the fire caused the original leaky pipe to burst, extinguishing the flames. At SERVPRO of Highland Village, we were able to dry and restore where the water and fire had damaged the home and clean and deodorize the rest of the home. We also were able to clean and deodorize all of the homeowner's belongings and return their home to working order. If you have questions about water damage and fire damage, please contact us at (940) 241-3434.

5 Great Ways to Prevent House Fires

12/26/2019 (Permalink)

If you could prevent a fire in your business or home, then why wouldn't you?

1. Avoid Leaving the Kitchen

Fires can start very quickly! This is why you should never leave cooking food unattended. If you have to leave the kitchen for any reason, make sure everything is properly turned off!

2. Check Your Dryer

Don’t forget to clean out your lint trap every time you put in a new load of laundry. This is one of the most common reasons for fires in the house.

3. Watch out for Candles

Everyone loves scented candles, especially around the holidays – but if you don’t use them carefully, they could cause a fire. Make sure you put them out before you exit a room and keep them far away from blankets, pets, or other flammable objects.

4. Fireplace Safety

You don’t want any stray sparks to escape so you need to make sure you have a door between the flames and your flooring. It goes without saying, but never leave the room when the fireplace is going.

5. Fire Extinguishers First

Fire extinguishers are the first thing you should reach for when a fire breaks out. You want to make sure you have one in every room that is a potential threat, such as the kitchen.

Only You Can Help Prevent House Fires

There is nothing more devastating than losing everything you own to house fires. Your home is like a member of your family. It’s where you make your most precious memories, so you owe it to yourself to protect it.

How We Clean Your Home After A Fire Damage

12/26/2019 (Permalink)

These are only a couple of examples of chemicals we use to clean up after fire restoration.

Here at SERVPRO of Highland Village, we implement a 7-Step Fire Damage Restoration. With the help of our highly trained product technicians and crew chiefs, we strive to get your home or business back to what it is before. "Like it never even happened."

1. Emergency Contact

As soon as we are called our representative will begin asking questions regarding the fire
damage event. Those answers will help us respond quickly with the correct equipment and
tools. 

2. Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

Once on site we inspect and test rooms of the property to evaluate the fire, smoke, and soot
damage.

3. Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

Fires can damage windows, walls, and roofs. To protect against more damage, we board up
broken windows and walls then place tarps on roofs affected by the fire.

4. Water Removal and Drying

Removing water happens right away to clean up most present water. Dehumidifiers and air
movers are then used to remove the last of the water and fully dry the area. 

5. Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

We use special equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and
other surfaces. 

6. Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean and sanitize all of the items that are restorable and areas that were damaged by the
fire. We also utilize industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment to remove any odors.

7. Restoration

Our goal is to get your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoring the affected area
might include minor or major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms.