Assessing and Addressing Structural Damage After Storms in Oklahoma City

9/5/2023 (Permalink)

Assessing and handling structural damage after a severe storm in Oklahoma City requires expert guidance.

The breathtaking skyline of Oklahoma City is often accompanied by the occasional fury of severe storms. As a homeowner or property owner, understanding how to evaluate and manage structural damage caused by these powerful forces is paramount. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the steps to assess and effectively handle structural damage after a severe storm, ensuring the safety and stability of your property.

Surveying the Scene

After the storm subsides, it's crucial to conduct a thorough survey of your property to identify potential structural damage:

Safety First: Prioritize safety by ensuring that it's safe to enter the property. Beware of downed power lines, unstable structures, and other hazards.

Exterior Inspection: Inspect the exterior for visible damage, including roof, siding, windows, and foundation.

Interior Assessment: Survey the interior for signs of damage such as cracks in walls, ceilings, and floors, as well as shifted door frames.

Utilities Check: Examine gas, water, and electrical systems for damage. If you suspect a gas leak, evacuate immediately and contact professionals.

Recognizing Different Types of Structural Damage

Foundation Issues: Look for cracks, uneven settling, or bulging walls, as these could indicate foundation problems.

Roof Damage: Missing shingles, displaced tiles, or visible leaks are signs of roof damage that need immediate attention.

Wall and Ceiling Cracks: Cracks that are wider than a quarter-inch may indicate structural shifts and should be evaluated by professionals.

Window and Door Misalignment: Doors or windows that are difficult to open or close may indicate a shifted or compromised frame.

Engaging Professionals

After identifying potential structural damage, it's advisable to involve qualified professionals:

Restoration Experts: Engage a licensed restoration expert, such as SERVPRO of Oklahoma City, Midtown, to conduct a comprehensive assessment as well as recommend and perform necessary repairs.

Roofing Experts: Consult roofing professionals to assess roof damage and determine if repairs or replacements are needed.

Foundation Specialists: If foundation issues are suspected, foundation experts can perform detailed assessments and propose solutions.

Temporary Repairs

While awaiting professional assessments, you can take temporary measures to prevent further damage:

Tarping: Cover damaged roofs with tarps to prevent water intrusion and protect interior spaces.

Support Structures: Use temporary supports, such as beams or posts, to stabilize areas with structural damage.

Sealing Openings: Seal openings or breaches in walls and windows to prevent further exposure to the elements.

Navigating Insurance Claims

Document all damage with clear photographs and detailed descriptions. Notify your insurance company promptly and provide the necessary documentation for a smoother claims process.

Permanent Repairs and Restoration

Work closely with professionals to implement permanent repairs and restoration measures. Focus on ensuring that the structural integrity of your property is fully restored.

Assessing and handling structural damage after a severe storm in Oklahoma City requires a methodical approach and expert guidance. By swiftly addressing potential issues and involving professionals, you're safeguarding the stability and value of your property. Restoring your home's structural integrity not only ensures safety but also provides peace of mind as you continue to enjoy the beauty and resilience of Oklahoma City living.

Is Your Fire Alarm Trying to Tell You Something? Reasons Why It May Be Beeping

8/8/2023 (Permalink)

Changing your batteries are crucial to ensure you have properly working devices in your home.

When it comes to your safety and the protection of your home and loved ones, a functioning fire alarm is paramount. However, a beeping fire alarm can be both annoying and concerning. It's essential to understand that your fire alarm is trying to communicate with you when it beeps. In this blog, we will explore common reasons why your fire alarm may be beeping and what actions you should take to address each situation. By understanding these signals, you can ensure the reliability of your fire alarm system and keep your household safe.

Low Battery Warning

The most common reason for a beeping fire alarm is a low battery. When the batteries powering your alarm reach a critically low level, the alarm will emit a consistent beeping sound to alert you. This is a crucial reminder to replace the batteries promptly. Regularly checking and replacing the batteries in your fire alarm is vital for its optimal functioning.

Faulty or Expired Battery

Sometimes, even with fresh batteries, your fire alarm may beep. This could indicate a faulty or expired battery. Batteries can deteriorate over time, affecting their ability to deliver sufficient power to the alarm. If you have replaced the batteries and the beeping persists, consider trying a different set of batteries or contacting a professional to inspect the issue.

Dust and Debris Accumulation

Dust, debris, or insect infestation can interfere with the sensitive components of your fire alarm system, triggering false alarms and causing beeping. Regularly cleaning and dusting your fire alarm, following manufacturer guidelines, can help eliminate false alarms and prevent unnecessary beeping.

Sensor Contamination

The sensors in your fire alarm can become contaminated over time, especially in dusty or humid environments. This contamination can lead to false alarms and beeping. To address this issue, clean the sensors following the manufacturer's instructions or seek professional assistance to ensure thorough cleaning and optimal sensor function.

Wiring or Electrical Issues

Occasionally, beeping fire alarms can be caused by wiring or electrical problems. Loose connections, outdated wiring, or electrical surges can disrupt the functioning of your fire alarm system, triggering false alarms or incessant beeping. If you suspect an electrical issue, it is crucial to contact a licensed electrician to inspect and repair the wiring or electrical components of your fire alarm system.

End of Life Warning

Like any electronic device, fire alarms have a lifespan. When a fire alarm reaches the end of its recommended working life, it may emit a periodic beep to alert you that it needs replacement. Check your fire alarm's manufacturer guidelines to determine its expected lifespan, and proactively replace the alarm as necessary.

A beeping fire alarm is not an annoyance to be ignored but a crucial signal that your safety system requires attention. Understanding the reasons behind these beeps, such as low batteries, faulty wiring, sensor contamination, or end-of-life warnings, empowers you to take appropriate action. Regular maintenance, including battery replacements, cleaning, and professional inspections, is essential to ensure that your fire alarm system functions optimally and provides reliable protection for your home and loved ones. Always heed the warnings of your fire alarm and address any issues promptly to maintain a safe and secure living environment.

Understanding Water Damage Categories: A Guide to Protecting Your Property

7/14/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage can wreak havoc on your property, causing extensive damage and posing various health and safety risks. To effectively address and mitigate water damage, it's essential to understand its severity and categorize it appropriately. In this blog post, we will explore the three categories of water damage and provide valuable insights to help you safeguard your property and make informed decisions during a water-related crisis.

Category 1: Clean Water Damage

Category 1 water damage, also known as "clean water damage," refers to water that originates from a clean source, such as a broken water supply line, faucet, or a leaking pipe. This type of water is considered relatively harmless and does not pose an immediate health risk. However, it is crucial to address Category 1 water damage promptly to prevent it from escalating into more severe categories.

Common sources of Category 1 water damage include:

• Burst or leaking pipes
• Plumbing failures
• Appliance malfunctions (e.g., washing machine or dishwasher leaks)
• Rainwater or snowmelt entering through a leaky roof

Although Category 1 water may initially be clean, it can become contaminated if left untreated or if it comes into contact with other materials or surfaces. Over time, it can transition into Category 2 or even Category 3 water if not properly managed.

Category 2: Gray Water Damage

Category 2 water damage, also known as "gray water damage," refers to water that contains significant levels of chemical, physical, or biological contaminants that may cause discomfort or illness if consumed or exposed to. Gray water does not typically contain sewage, but it can be contaminated with substances like soap, urine, or household chemicals.

Common sources of Category 2 water damage include:

• Overflow from washing machines or dishwashers
• Toilet overflows with urine (no feces)
• Sump pump failures
• Leaking aquariums

When dealing with Category 2 water damage, it is crucial to wear protective gear such as gloves and masks to minimize exposure to contaminants. Gray water requires prompt attention and professional assistance to ensure proper cleanup and prevent further contamination.

Category 3: Black Water Damage

Category 3 water damage, also known as "black water damage," is the most severe and hazardous category. It involves water that is highly contaminated and poses significant health risks due to the presence of pathogenic agents, toxic substances, and unsanitary conditions. Category 3 water can contain sewage, chemicals, debris, and other harmful contaminants.

Common sources of Category 3 water damage include:

• Sewage backups or overflows
• Flooding from rivers or streams
• Toilet overflows with feces
• Standing water with microbial growth

Category 3 water damage requires immediate professional intervention. Cleanup and restoration should be performed by certified experts who possess the necessary equipment, expertise, and protective gear to handle the contamination safely.

Understanding the three categories of water damage is crucial for effectively responding to water-related emergencies and protecting your property. Whether it's Category 1 clean water damage, Category 2 gray water damage, or the highly hazardous Category 3 black water damage, it's important to address each category promptly and with the appropriate level of precaution.

In the event of water damage, consider reaching out to a professional disaster restoration company, such as our SERVPRO of Downtown Oklahoma City, Midtown team, that specializes in water damage cleanup and restoration. They have the knowledge, experience, and equipment to assess the damage, categorize the water correctly, and implement the necessary measures to restore your property to its pre-damage condition safely.

Understanding Category Three Water Damage: What You Need to Know

6/11/2023 (Permalink)

Understanding the different categories of rain water and damage should never be taken lightly.

Water damage is a common issue that homeowners may face, and it is important to understand the different types of water damage and their potential hazards. Category three water damage, also known as black water, is the most severe type of water damage and requires immediate attention. In this blog, we will explore what category three water damage is, its causes, and what steps should be taken to address it.

What is Category Three Water Damage?

Category three water damage is water that is highly contaminated and poses a serious health risk to humans and animals. This type of water damage can be caused by sewage backups, floods, or other sources of contaminated water. Category three water damage can contain dangerous pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi, that can cause severe illness or even death if not handled properly.

What Causes Category Three Water Damage?

Category three water damage can be caused by a variety of sources, such as

Sewage backups: This is the most common cause of category three water damage. When sewer lines become clogged or damaged, sewage can back up into homes and businesses, resulting in dangerous black water.

Natural disasters: Floods and hurricanes can cause category three water damage if they cause contaminated water to enter homes and buildings.

Pipe leaks: If pipes are damaged or leaking, they can release contaminated water into homes and buildings.

Standing water: Any standing water, such as in basements or crawl spaces, can become contaminated and pose a serious health risk.

What Are the Risks of Category Three Water Damage?

Category three water damage can pose serious health risks to humans and animals. The water can contain dangerous pathogens, such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Hepatitis A, which can cause severe illness or even death. In addition, mold can grow rapidly in the moist conditions created by category three water damage, which can exacerbate respiratory issues such as asthma and allergies.

What Steps Should Be Taken to Address Category Three Water Damage?

Category three water damage should never be handled by homeowners. Instead, it is important to seek the services of a professional restoration company that specializes in water damage restoration. These experts have the knowledge, equipment, and experience needed to safely and effectively address category three water damage.

The first step in addressing category three water damage is to assess the extent of the damage. The restoration company will use specialized equipment to measure the moisture levels and identify the areas affected by the water damage. Next, they will develop a plan to remove the contaminated water, dry the affected areas, and sanitize and disinfect the space to prevent the growth of mold and other harmful pathogens.

In conclusion, category three water damage is a serious issue that should never be taken lightly. It is important to understand the potential hazards and health risks of this type of water damage and to seek the services of a professional restoration company if you suspect you have category three water damage in your home or business.

The Importance of Personal Protective Equipment in Mold Remediation

5/14/2023 (Permalink)

Personal protective equipment is a critical component of any mold remediation project.

As a professional restoration company with years of experience in the field, we understand the importance of personal protective equipment (PPE) during mold remediation. PPE is essential for any job that involves exposure to mold, as it helps to protect workers from potential hazards and prevent the spread of mold to other areas of the building.

Identifying the Extent of Contamination

The first step in any mold remediation project is to identify the extent of the contamination and determine the appropriate PPE required for the job. The type of PPE needed can vary depending on the severity of the mold growth, the size of the affected area, and the type of mold present.

Respirators

At our company, we ensure that our workers are equipped with the proper PPE before they start any mold remediation job. This includes items such as respirators, gloves, goggles, and coveralls. Respirators are especially important, as they help to filter out mold spores that can be harmful if inhaled.

When it comes to selecting the right type of respirator, there are a few different options to consider. For smaller mold remediation jobs, a disposable N95 respirator may be sufficient. However, for larger jobs or jobs that involve more dangerous types of mold, a full-face respirator with P100 filters may be necessary.

Gloves

Gloves are also a critical piece of PPE when dealing with mold remediation. They protect workers from direct contact with mold and help to prevent the spread of mold to other areas of the building. We use gloves made of nitrile or rubber, as these materials are resistant to mold and other contaminants.

Goggles

In addition to respirators and gloves, goggles are another important piece of PPE for mold remediation. Goggles protect workers' eyes from mold spores and other debris that can be kicked up during the remediation process. We use goggles that provide a tight seal around the eyes to ensure that no contaminants can get in.

Coveralls

Finally, coveralls are also an essential piece of PPE for mold remediation. Coveralls protect workers' clothing from becoming contaminated with mold and help to prevent the spread of mold to other areas of the building. We use coveralls that are made of a durable material that is resistant to tearing and punctures.

Proper Training

In addition to providing workers with the proper PPE, it is also important to properly train them on how to use it. At our company, we ensure that all workers receive comprehensive training on how to use and maintain their PPE. This includes proper techniques, as well as how to properly clean and store their PPE after each use.

Overall, personal protective equipment is a critical component of any mold remediation project. It helps to protect workers from potential hazards and prevent the spread of mold to other areas of the building. At SERVPRO of Downtown Oklahoma City, Midtown we take PPE seriously and ensure that our workers are equipped with the proper gear and trained on how to use it effectively. By taking these measures, we can ensure that our mold remediation projects are completed safely and effectively.

Fire Prevention Tips: How to Keep Your Home and Family Safe

4/4/2023 (Permalink)

Ensuring you have the proper precautions to prevent fire in your home is important to prevent fire and keep your family safe.

Fires can be devastating, causing damage to property, injury, and even death. However, many fires can be prevented if the right precautions are taken. In this blog, we'll cover some important fire prevention tips that you can use to keep your home and family safe.

Install Smoke Alarms

Smoke alarms are essential for detecting fires early and giving you and your family time to evacuate safely. Make sure you have working smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement and attic. Test your smoke alarms once a month to make sure they are working properly, and replace the batteries at least once a year.

Have a Fire Escape Plan

It's important to have a fire escape plan in place so that you and your family know what to do in the event of a fire. Make sure everyone knows how to get out of the house quickly and safely, and establish a meeting place outside where you can all gather. Practice your fire escape plan with your family at least twice a year.

Keep Flammable Materials Away from Heat Sources

Many fires are caused by flammable materials being placed too close to heat sources, such as stoves, heaters, and electrical outlets. Make sure to keep flammable materials like curtains, towels, and cleaning supplies away from heat sources, and never leave cooking food unattended on the stove.

Use Candles Safely

Candles are a common cause of home fires, but they can be used safely if you take the right precautions. Keep candles away from flammable materials, and always place them on a stable surface where they won't be knocked over. Never leave candles burning unattended, and extinguish them before leaving the room or going to bed.

Practice Electrical Safety

Electrical fires can be caused by damaged or overloaded wiring, faulty appliances, and other issues. To prevent electrical fires, make sure to have your wiring inspected by a professional electrician, and avoid overloading electrical outlets and extension cords. Always unplug appliances when they're not in use, and replace damaged or frayed cords immediately.

Keep a Fire Extinguisher on Hand

A fire extinguisher can be a valuable tool for putting out small fires before they become larger and more dangerous. Make sure to have a fire extinguisher in your home and know how to use it. Keep the fire extinguisher in an easily accessible location, and make sure everyone in your family knows where it is.

Keep Your Chimney Clean

If you have a fireplace or wood stove, it's important to keep your chimney clean to prevent the buildup of creosote and other flammable materials. Have your chimney inspected and cleaned by a professional chimney sweep at least once a year.

Store Chemicals Safely

Chemicals like gasoline, propane, and cleaning products can be highly flammable and should be stored safely. Keep these chemicals in their original containers and store them in a cool, dry place away from heat sources and open flames.

Be Cautious with Smoking Materials

Smoking materials like cigarettes and cigars can easily start fires if they're not disposed of properly. Always use ashtrays that are designed for cigarettes, and make sure to extinguish smoking materials completely before disposing of them.

By following these fire prevention tips, you can help keep your home and family safe from the devastating effects of fires. Remember to practice fire safety every day and make it a priority in your home.

5 Ways To Prepare Your Home For The Spring

3/29/2023 (Permalink)

Get ready for Spring. Spring clean is a good time to inspect your home.

Spring is practically here, and you might be thinking about cleaning up your house for the new season. Spring cleaning is more than just getting rid of clutter; it's also a good time to inspect your home for any damage or problems that might need to be addressed before the warmer months arrive. Below are some steps you can take to make sure everything in your home is ready to welcome spring:

1. Inspect Your Roof

When the weather starts to warm up and spring is in full swing, it's time to get your home ready for the season. As part of this preparation, it is important to inspect your roof for damage or wear that may have occurred during winter. The following are some common areas where you should check:

• Missing shingles - If there are any missing shingles on your roof, they should be replaced immediately as they can lead to water damage inside of your home.
• Loose shingles - If a few loose tiles aren't enough cause for concern but still want them fixed before they become worse or fall off completely.
• Leaks - Check around all doors and windows along with anywhere else water tends not only to get into but also pools up after heavy rains or snow melts, like near gutters.

2. Check Your Gutters

You should also check the gutters to make sure they are not damaged or leaking, and that they are draining properly. If you notice any damage, missing parts, or clogs in your gutter system, it's best to call a professional right away because these can be signs of more serious problems with the roof itself.

You may also want to consider hiring an experienced contractor who can inspect your home's entire exterior before spring arrives so that you're ready for any surprises when winter finally melts away!

3. Spray for Infestations in the Attic or Basement

If you have an attic or basement, it's important to inspect for pest infestations. Pests such as mice, rats, and squirrels can cause a lot of damage in your home if not treated properly. Check the insulation for their droppings and evidence of chewing on wires, insulation, and wood beams. If there are signs of pests, call a professional exterminator who will find the best way to remove them from your home safely without harming you or your family members.

4. Check the Air Conditioning Units and Heat Pumps

The air conditioning unit, heat pump, and ducts are important parts of your home's HVAC system. At this time of year, you will want to inspect these items for damage or leaks that could cause problems during the summer months. You should also check all connections between the unit itself and its power source, as well as any connections between units within homes that share a common electrical line. Look closely at all parts of each unit so that you are able to identify any problems before they become serious issues later down the road!

5. Weatherproofing Doors and Windows

Weatherproofing doors and windows are a key part of keeping your home safe from the elements. It’s important for two reasons: first, it helps keep out moisture that can cause mold or mildew; second, it allows you to keep the interior safe from any potential inclement weather.

If you do not have storm windows installed on your windows yet or if they are old and need replacing, installing new ones will ensure that water cannot get inside your home when there is heavy rain or snowfall.

Home Maintenance is Important

Home maintenance is important for keeping your home in great shape for years to come.  It's also a great way to save money and get more out of your investment!  It’s not just about making sure that your appliances are running smoothly, but also about making sure that you are aware of potential problems before they become serious issues.

The benefits of home maintenance include:

• improved quality of life by reducing the risk of expensive repairs
• peace of mind knowing that things will work properly when needed
• savings on energy bills by regularly inspecting all components, including insulation and plumbing systems

If you've been putting off these repairs, now is the time to make them happen before spring hits hard with all its weather changes.

What Is PPE and Why Is It Important?

2/16/2023 (Permalink)

PPE is essential in the workplace to protect employees from hazardous materials.

PPE stands for Personal Protective Equipment. It refers to any equipment that you wear or use to protect yourself from heat, chemicals, dust, gases, or other hazards in the workplace. PPE can include gloves, goggles, face masks, and more.

What is PPE?

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is any clothing or accessory worn for protection against a hazard. PPE can be used in many different environments and contexts, including the workplace, home, gardening, and garage.

PPE is a necessity for all workers. It's an absolute must to wear PPE if you're working in or around hazardous materials or environments. You don't want to risk exposure to various hazards, so it's important to have proper protection at all times.

How is it used?

PPE is used for a variety of purposes. It can help protect the wearer from hazards, injuries, illness, and infection.

For example, if you work in construction and need to do demolition on an old building, you might wear a hard hat to protect your head from falling debris or getting hit by heavy objects as they fall. If you're operating heavy machinery at a construction site that could cause injury to yourself or others around you if it weren't handled properly, PPE such as goggles and earplugs would be critical to keeping everyone safe.

Types of PPE

PPE stands for personal protective equipment, but it's actually a broad term that covers many types of equipment. The most common types of PPE include:

• Head protection (hard hats)
• Eye and face protection (safety glasses or goggles)
• Respiratory protection (respirators)
• Hand & Skin protection (gloves)

Should PPE be used in a normal household?

If you’re working in a lab or industrial setting, then the answer is obviously yes. But if you have a home or office with only one employee, then the answer isn't so clear.

PPE can be used in a normal household, but you don't have to have the same set of rules as someone working in a commercial setting. For instance, while it's important for safety and health to wear gloves when handling something hazardous or toxic, you don't need to worry about wearing gloves when making dinner at home.

If you're a homeowner and have any kind of yard work or landscaping projects that involve anything from grass clippings to weed killer, then you need your own personal protective gear in order to protect yourself.

The importance of PPE cannot be overstated.

Personal protective equipment is an essential part of any workplace. It not only protects you but also your coworkers and equipment. This is why it's important to understand the risks associated with not wearing PPE at work, and what you can do to keep yourself and others safe while on the job.

Here are some reasons why PPE is so important:

• Personal protective equipment helps protect workers from workplace hazards such as chemicals, heavy machinery, and other potential dangers in the workplace environment. If employers fail to provide adequate protection for their employees through proper PPE use during work activities, they may face legal liability if employees sustain injuries as a result of exposure to these hazards.
• Employers must provide personal protective equipment (PPE) free of charge when employees need it for most job-related reasons.

PPE is essential in any workplace. It protects workers from various hazards and can be beneficial to those around them as well. However, it’s important to make sure that your employees know how to use PPE properly before they start work on any project or task.

Water Damage Clean-Up After a Leak

1/18/2023 (Permalink)

In the end, no matter how long you wait to clean up after a water leak, it’s important to remember that the sooner you start, the better.

Water leaks can happen anywhere, and they're rarely planned. You might run into a plumbing problem in the middle of the night or while you're at work. If these leaks aren't taken care of quickly, they can cause serious damage to your property and belongings. The longer you wait to get help with water damage cleanup after a leak, however, the harder it will be to save your home from mold growth and its associated issues. 

Water Damage Clean-Up After a Leak

If you've ever had a leak, you know how quickly water damage can occur. It is important to call for help immediately if there is a leak. Do not try and fix the problem yourself unless you have training in doing so, because the situation may become more severe and dangerous if not handled correctly by professionals.

If you do need professional services for water damage clean-up after a leak or burst pipe in your home, give us a call! We'll get to work quickly with an experienced team member who will assess the extent of the damage and give you an estimate as soon as possible.

Our customers choose us because our services include: 

• Water removal (dry out wet areas)
• Structural repairs (fix holes in drywall)
• Dehumidification (remove humidity from damp materials)

For other leaks and water damage situations, try to contain the damage as much as possible before calling for help. It's usually best to let professionals handle cleanup jobs like this one — they'll know how to avoid causing further damage while they work on drying out your property and removing any mold growth that may have occurred due to prolonged exposure of your belongings being wet for so long.

Clean-Up Tips

Don't attempt to handle water damage on your own. Water damage can pose serious risks, and attempting to clean up a large area of water is dangerous for you and your family. It's best to call in professionals for help with this project. 

Clean the water up as much as possible. If there's standing water in carpets or on floors, use a wet/dry vacuum to remove it. Make sure you keep it away from electrical outlets and other sources of heat; don't turn on any appliances while you're cleaning!

You'll need the right equipment as well as trained workers if you're going to tackle a job like this by yourself. Don't use ordinary cleaning products or tools; they won't be able to remove all traces of mold from your home's structure, which could lead to serious issues later down the road. You'll also need protective gear like gloves and breathing masks so that no one gets sick from exposure.

When should you call a professional?

If the walls are wet, but not soaked and the flooring isn't damaged, you can probably handle cleanup on your own.

However, if the water has caused damage to the walls or flooring in any way, you will need to call a professional to take care of it. A professional company will use specialized equipment that can extract even tiny amounts of moisture from between wall studs so that mold doesn't grow in those areas.

In the end, no matter how long you wait to clean up after a water leak, it’s important to remember that the sooner you start, the better. The longer you wait, the more difficult and expensive it will be. You can always count on SERVPRO of Downtown Oklahoma City, Midtown to help with all your water damage cleanup and restoration needs!

What is Salvageable After a Fire?

12/20/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Downtown Oklahoma can take care of soot damage

What is Salvageable After a Fire?

Fires are devastating, and the aftermath is one of the most difficult parts of the process. When a fire occurs, it's easy to want to rush into action and start cleaning up — but that can make matters worse. It's important to understand what can be salvaged after a fire before you begin your restoration project. The following sections outline some of the key things you need to know about salvaging items after a fire.

Fire cleanup

The first step in any cleanup process is to remove all the smoke damage and water damage. If you have soot residue or other remnants of a fire, it's important to remove these elements from your home as soon as possible.

The next step is to deodorize any odors from within your house. This will help eliminate any lingering scents that could make their way outside through vents or cracks in walls during renovations or repairs after a fire.

Water damage

Water damage is likely to occur immediately after a fire. Firefighting efforts may cause water damage, but so can other sources of moisture such as sprinklers, fire hoses, and engines.

Smoke damage

When you are faced with smoke damage, it can be difficult to know where to start. It is important to remember that although the fire may be out and gone, its effects remain in your home. For example, if there was smoke damage in your kitchen after a fire in the stovetop, it would be wise for you to clean up any soot and residue left behind by the flames before attempting anything else. If not cleaned properly, these deposits can become ingrained into surfaces such as wood floors or walls — and once this happens, they will not come off easily!

Soot residue

So, what is the difference between soot and smoke? Both are byproducts of combustion and can be easily removed with a vacuum cleaner. Soot is a black powdery substance; it's heavier than air and tends to settle on surfaces or in low-lying areas. Smoke consists of fine particles that rise into the air and disperse quickly.

As you sift through the debris after a fire or house fire, if you see an abundance of soot residue—and especially if it has settled into crevasses or corners—you may want to consider using one of these methods:

• A wet-dry vacuum cleaner can help remove this residue from large surfaces like floors, carpets, drapes, and blinds. It works best when used along with other cleaning methods such as steam cleaning or chemical treatments for removing stubborn stains from fabric surfaces such as couches and curtains. 

Deodorization

Deodorization is the process of removing odors from a structure. After a fire, odors are produced by smoke residue and organic materials (e.g., wood) that have been damaged or burned. The goal of deodorization is to make the affected area safe for occupancy by eliminating those odors so that people can live in it again.

If there was not much damage to the structure and it has been cleaned up, you may be able to get rid of any remaining odor with just air filters and ventilation systems. But this doesn’t always work, especially when there has been extensive smoke damage and strong odors were present before repairs were done or if there was significant structural damage done. 

Contents cleaning and storage

Once the fire damage has been assessed and removed by a professional, it’s time to start thinking about cleaning up your home. If your insurance company has assigned you a contents cleaner, they will help you with this as well.

Knowing what can be salvaged in the aftermath of a fire will help ease some of the troubles of fire restoration.

In the aftermath of a fire, it's important to know what can be salvaged and how to make sure that your belongings are saved.

If you have items that were damaged by smoke or water in your home, it's important to get them cleaned as soon as possible. The longer they sit around, the more likely they'll start smelling like smoke or mildew. If you're not sure how to clean these items yourself, hire professional cleaners who will know exactly how best to clean them out of their original condition before restoring them back into good use.

We hope we’ve given you a better understanding of what salvage is and how it can help you in your home after a fire. If you need more information or feel like we didn’t cover something that may be important to you, contact us today for more information about our services.