SERVPRO of Johnson City & Washington County's Expertise in Fire Damage Restoration

5/17/2024 (Permalink)

Before & After Contents from fire cleaning

In the aftermath of a fire, amidst the chaos and devastation, one beacon of hope shines bright: SERVPRO of Johnson City & Washington County. Specializing in fire damage restoration, this trusted team doesn't just clean up the mess left behind by flames; they restore homes and lives, bringing comfort and relief to those affected by disaster.

Fires can strike unexpectedly, leaving behind a trail of destruction that can feel insurmountable. From charred belongings to structural damage, the aftermath of a fire is overwhelming. However, SERVPRO® understands that in the midst of tragedy, swift and thorough action is essential. That's why their team is always ready to spring into action at a moment's notice.

One of the key factors in effective fire damage restoration is prompt response. The longer soot, smoke, and water linger, the greater the damage becomes. SERVPRO's 24/7 emergency services ensure that help is never far away. Their highly trained technicians arrive on the scene quickly, equipped with state-of-the-art tools and technology to assess the damage and begin the restoration process immediately.

Upon arrival, SERVPRO's first priority is ensuring the safety of the property and its occupants. They conduct a thorough inspection to assess the extent of the damage and develop a comprehensive restoration plan tailored to the unique needs of each situation. From removing debris and salvaging belongings to addressing water damage from firefighting efforts, no detail is overlooked.

One of the most challenging aspects of fire damage restoration is dealing with smoke odor and soot residue. These pervasive elements can infiltrate every corner of a home, leaving behind unpleasant odors and staining surfaces. SERVPRO utilizes advanced techniques such as thermal fogging and ozone treatment to eliminate odors at their source, ensuring that the home is not only restored but also free from any lingering reminders of the fire.

In addition to their technical expertise, what sets SERVPRO of Johnson City & Washington County apart is their commitment to compassion and empathy. They understand that experiencing a fire can be a traumatic and emotional ordeal for homeowners and their families. That's why they approach every job with care and understanding, providing support and guidance every step of the way.

Beyond their immediate restoration efforts, SERVPRO also works closely with homeowners and insurance companies to streamline the claims process and expedite recovery. They understand the importance of clear communication and transparency, ensuring that homeowners are kept informed and empowered throughout the restoration process.

Ultimately, SERVPRO of Johnson City & Washington County is more than just a restoration company; they're a beacon of hope in the wake of disaster. With their expertise, dedication, and compassion, they help homeowners reclaim their lives and their homes, turning tragedy into triumph one restoration project at a time. When fire strikes, SERVPRO is there to restore not just buildings, but also hope.

Not All Storms Are Created Equal

7/12/2022 (Permalink)

During storm season in Washington County, TN we see a wide range of storm types. We see heavy rains, flooding, and tornadoes! Any one of these storm types could easily cause damage to your home or business. These damages can keep us from feeling like our home is complete or keeping us from running a business that contributes to our livelihood. No matter what your scenario, it is important to know the different damages that a storm can cause. 

Wind Damage Storm damage sometimes includes severe wind damage. Roof damage in this situation may range from a missing roof due to strong winds that may loosen flashing. This can cause your roof shingles to be removed from your home or business causing leaks. Even a subtle roof leak can produce damp, moldy conditions. A SERVPRO of Washington County restoration expert can help property owners address storm damage and roof damage more effectively. 

Flooding Damage Heavy rains in the Washington County, TN area can cause river flooding all surrounding counties. Flooding may disrupt municipal water systems which call for experts to assess groundwater and evaluate the condition of pipes following flood damage. Our SERVPRO of Washington County team can assist in your cleanup process after flood damage has occurred. 

 Lightning Damage When a storm occurs, many times it brings the loud sounds of thunder which mean lightning is striking. Your home or business may have objects attached to the building that can attract a lightning strike that can cause a fire. A bolt of lightning can reach temperatures of roughly 30,000 kelvins (53,540 degrees Fahrenheit). Lightning strikes, or discharges of massive charges of static electricity, cause about 2% of all fires. If this occurs in your home or business, SERVPRO of Washington County has the team to help handle the restoration of both the fire and smoke damage.

Prepare Your Home & Family For a Fire

5/30/2022 (Permalink)

In the United States, there is a house fire reported every 90 seconds in 2019!  That is a lot of fires!  85% of all fire related deaths occur in homes, so you should always be prepared!  You may have seconds to minutes to escape a burning building because these fires can start and spread very rapidly. 

First thing every homeowner should do, is install smoke alarms.  They should be on every level and should be inside, or just outside every sleeping quarters.  Make sure that they are interconnected and tested every month.  While smoke alarms are a great way to identify the danger, the best thing that can be done is to put a sprinkler system in your home.  This may be a costly prevention method, but it can save your life and your property. 

The next important piece of advice is to make an evacuation plan!  Sit down with your family about twice a year and make sure everyone knows the quickest way out of your home.  Make sure that there are two separate ways out of the building and that everyone is aware of what to do in case of a fire.    

If fire does strike your home, we are here for you at SERVPRO of Washington County 423-434-0046

Preventing Summer Fires

5/24/2022 (Permalink)

Thanks to the dry heat of summer and fun summer activities like campfires, people are at a slightly increased risk of fire-related injuries and deaths throughout the season. While fires are incredibly dangerous and should be always taken seriously, there are many simple ways that you can protect your home and family from suffering from the aftermath of a summer fire. Here are our best tips for preventing summer fires.

If your home is damaged by fire, We can help you make things right again.  If you need us after the fire has done its nasty work, call SERVPRO of Washington County at 423-434-0046.

Our Best Campfire Safety Tips

These fire tips should be explained to everyone gathering around the fire, whether they are six or sixty.

• Always follow the rules for the site you are camping at when it comes to lighting fires, extinguishing fires, and monitoring fires.
• If a piece of clothing catches on fire, practice stop, drop, and roll.
• Examine your surroundings when you are planning on starting a campfire. Choose an area where it will not spread. Stay away from dry leaves, grassy areas, or tree branches that are hanging overhead.
• Don’t store any lighter fluid or flammable liquids near your campfire, as stray flames can ignite them.
• Keep campfires away from any place you are sleeping including your home and your tent. Campfires should always be lit downwind from the tent. When choosing a tent, if you frequently make campfires, always choose one with flame-retardant materials.
• Never build large campfires or bonfires, even if they seem cooler when posted on social media.
• Always have one person stay with the campfire at all times while it was lit. Going to bed? Put it out!
• Always keep plenty of water and a shovel near your campfire to use in an emergency. Never light a campfire if you don’t already have a method of extinguishing it laid out and ready to go.

Our Best Fireworks Safety Tips

Fireworks are a ton of fun, but also a major safety hazard during the summer months.

• Only use legal fireworks.
• Always read the instructions on each firework before using.
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket.
• Don’t light fireworks on or near dry grass.
• Never wear loose-fitting clothes when handling fireworks.

Fire Damage Is More Than What Gets Burnt

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

If you ever have a fire, I bet you don’t think about everything that could possibly be affected. Soot from a fire or smoke damage unfortunately travels and settles on just about everything. From inside of cabinets in the kitchen to the back of the toilet, it even gets in between outlet covers and the wall. When SERVPRO goes out to inspect and clean after a fire or a smoke damage, we check every nook and cranny for soot and clean that area until it looks brand new again. If we are unable to clean it, we normally suggest replacing it as that smoke smell can linger for a very long time. It may never go away if it is not properly cleaned or disposed of. I remember cleaning a house for a customer and they had just had a fire in their back bedroom. It all started from an old wall heater. Just from first glance, we thought it only really affected that bedroom. After inspecting the whole house, we found out the soot had traveled all the way across the house into the kitchen, living room, and part of the basement. When I opened the kitchen cabinets and moved one of the drinking glasses, there was an obvious ring of soot left on the shelf. I continued moving the glass cups and yep, there was soot everywhere. I could not believe the soot had traveled that far and got into the customer’s cabinets with the cabinet doors closed. Talk about an eye opener. 

Winter Fire Safety

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

According to the American Red Cross, winter holiday fires claim more than 500 lives each year and cause approximately $554 million in property damage. We put together some essential winter holiday fire safety tips to help reduce those numbers. Follow these suggestions from our fire restoration experts, and keep your family, home, pets and belongings safe this holiday season and throughout the New Year.

WINTER FIRE CAUSES

During the winter and all through the holidays, there are several seasonal factors that can increase the risk of fire in your home. These factors range from increased fireplace and candle usage to Christmas tree fire hazards. As beautiful as these light touches may be, it is important to keep certain holiday fire safety tips in mind. General holiday fire safety includes:

• Never leave a room when a candle is burning. Candle fires are four times more likely to occur during the holidays.
• Never burn wrapping paper, garbage or other debris in your fireplace.
• Always supervise children around fireplaces, wood burning stoves and any open flames, even candles.
• Check your space heater before using it. If it is not operating correctly or the cord is damaged in any way, don't use it.
• Test every smoke detector in the house and make sure all of them have charged batteries. A September 2015 report by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) stated that the death rate per 100 reported home fires was more than twice as high in homes that did not have any working smoke alarms compared to the rate in homes with working smoke alarms (1.18 deaths vs. 0.53 deaths per 100 fires).

Tips for Making a Fire Damage Claim

9/22/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial Building Fire

When your Washington County, Tennessee, commercial property has experienced fire damage, the claim process can be frustrating, at the very least. There are a few factors that make this difficult:

• Determining the scope of the loss
• Creating a complete inventory of items that were damaged
• Figuring out what's covered by the insurance company
• Handling your emotions over the fire and resulting damage
  

There's some good news, however; you don't have to work through this process alone.  Call SERVPRO of Washington County and there many professionals who can help you successfully complete the claims and reconstruction process. 

Tips for Making a Successful Claim
Before you get into the claim filing process, there are a few points to keep in mind:

Photographic evidence that includes both before and after pictures is vital. Any records or receipts you have from purchasing business equipment and furnishings are also helpful. Your insurance adjuster can help you through the process of gather documentation.
Don't try to clean or repair electronics and other equipment. Make sure you record water and fire damage to these items. Then, talk to your insurance company about how to proceed. Some insurance companies prefer that you contact specific cleanup and restoration companies to handle all of the repairs.
Ask your agent whether the insurance company plans to hire a forensic accountant. This professional may ask for some financial statements. It's okay to ask why those statements are necessary, and it's also okay for you to hire a professional from an accounting firm you trust.

Fire Mitigation Advice
Talk to multiple professionals to learn more about fire mitigation. As you work through your inventory of damaged items and all the requirements necessary to complete a satisfactory claim, keep a notebook on hand to jot down suggestions and information about avoiding fire damage in the future. Representatives from the fire department may have great advice. Your insurance company, the professionals who handle repairs, and the adjuster may all have suggestions for avoiding future fires.

Steps To Fire Prevention

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

Keeping a fire contained is one of the most important things.  Keeping all doors closed when you are not home or going to sleep is one of the easiest ways to keep the fire from spreading.  If you can keep the fire from spreading fast it is likely to do less damage.  Less damage means less money you or your insurance is going to have to spend to clean and repair your house, and how much personal belongings that you will lose.  Another way to prevent fire is unplugging all electronics when you are not using them.  We highly suggest unplugging all electronic devices when you are leaving your house for more than a day.  It sounds silly but it takes the chance of fire from starting, that way, completely out of the equation.  Another important item to have easily accessible from anywhere in the house, is a fire extinguisher.  I would recommend having at least one on each level,or if your house is spread out having one on each end of the house and one located in the kitchen.  If you live in a two-story home it is very pertinent to have a fire escape ladder easily accessible.  It is a way to make sure everyone can easily escape the house.  The last thing anyone wants is to lose a family member or pet due to a house fire, that could have been prevented.  Following these few steps can save you and your family from enduring one of the worst nightmares of your life.  If you find yourself in a fire situation, please make your first call to SERVPRO of Washington County at 423-434-0046.  Here to help!

It's That Time of Year

5/31/2021 (Permalink)

Barbecuing

It is coming, that time of year, when outside is where everyone wants to be. Summertime! Filled with barbecues, camping, swimming, bonfires, and so much more fun things to do outdoors. One thing to keep in mind when you are having the time of your life during summer break is fire safety. Did you know that in 2014, a local fire department documented 16,600 patients going to the emergency room because of burn injuries involving outdoor grills. That is a lot of people getting hurt while cooking up a nice meal. July is the peak month for grill fires, followed by May, June, and August. Gas leaks or a break in the gas line factored in 11% of grill fires one fire department stated. That may not seem like a lot but imagine 1000 people grilling out in July and at least 110 of those people had their grill catch on fire or caught something close by on fire, like their home. That is mind blowing. Gas grills contribute to a higher number of home fires overall than charcoal grills. So, make sure to thoroughly check your gas lines and propane tanks before using it every single time. A good rule of thumb would be to always clean your grill of any debris or food particles after each use. Anything left behind can catch fire and cause a big issue later. Following these safety tips could prevent you from being a part of the percentages listed above.

Have You Planned?

5/19/2021 (Permalink)

Have you ever thought about what you would do if your home caught fire? I’m sure not many people do, as you would think it is not that common or it doesn’t cross your mind regularly. Unfortunately, it is way more common than most would think. Of course, we have all learned the basic “Stop, Drop, and Roll” method back in school if you yourself are on fire. However, what do you do when it is your house that’s on fire? It is best when moving into your home to read up on fire safety and what you should do in the event your house might catch on fire. Discuss it thoroughly with your family or roommates to make sure everyone living in the home is aware of the precautions and ways to prevent a fire from starting. Also discuss ways to exit your home if there is a fire in any part of the house. Check windows and doors and make sure each person knows how to operate them to find a way to get out quickly. Keep a fire extinguisher handy and read the directions properly in order to be prepared to use it if the time comes. Stay close to the ground as smoke rises and is not good for you to inhale. Contact 911 immediately if you are unable to extinguish the fire yourself. The police can get the local fire department out as quick as possible to extinguish the fire and prevent any further damage to the house. These things are very important and can help prevent a tragedy you never thought would happen.

Why Does It Still Smell After Cleaning Up From A Grease Fire?

3/18/2021 (Permalink)

Agrease fire/smoke cleanup in your Washington Countyproperty comes with many challenges for SERVPRO technicians. When a protein is cooking in an oil-based substance such as lard, cooking, or olive oil, and it heats to flashpoint, the now airborne protein molecules spray out onto surfaces. The result is a barely visible, very intense film that needs more than soap and water to remove. SERVPRO techs use their specialized cleaning methods to:

• Lift away dried smoke residues off walls and ceilings
• Mix solvent-based cleaning agents to remove greasy protein films
• Test surfaces before cleaning to ensure the method chosen will not mar it

Odor control is a big part of this type of restoration service. Once the visible areas get restored, the technicians apply the needed level of scent removal. SERVPRO has the equipment to handle both embedded odors and airborne, which is an effective way to neutralize the aftermath of agrease firecompletely.

Call SERVPRO of Washington Countyat (423) 423-0046. They help local property owners with the aftermath of grease fire/smoke cleanup. The technicians are available 24 hours a day 7 days a week 365 days a year to make the damage to the home, "Like it never even happened."

4 Reasons You Need a Security Fence After Fire Damage

11/8/2020 (Permalink)

A security fence is a vital part of a quick and smooth recovery from this disaster

As soon as the fire on your Gladstone, TN, property has been put out, you'll have a lot of tasks to complete. One of the first things you do should be contacting your insurance agent. Although there are several things to complete, it's imperative that a security fence is put up as soon as possible.

Why Is Security Fencing Necessary?

Fire damage puts your property at risk in many ways:

Trespassing

A newly damaged building draws the attention of people who may be just curious and want to wander around looking at the damage. These trespassers may not intend to cause further destruction, they could cause a lot more damage. Appropriate fencing prevents this from happening.

Vandalism and Theft

In addition to the idly curious, a damaged building also attracts the attention of those who plan to vandalize your property or steal your belongings. Damage from the fire often makes buildings easier to get into, so any valuable equipment and merchandise is especially vulnerable. A security fence keeps thieves and vandals away from your building and your goods.

Injuries and Lawsuits

No matter the intention of the people walking onto your property, if injuries occur, you could be held liable. Expensive lawsuits can make a frustrating situation much worse. Don't wait until someone trips, falls, and gets hurt before making sure a fence is surrounding your property.

Prevent Further Damages

When people or animals make their way into your building, further damage is sure to occur. When this happens, your insurance company may no longer offer reimbursement for a complete renovation. On the other hand, if your insurance company recommends fire damage cleanup and repair professionals, those pros may quickly put up fencing to prevent new damage.
You'll get a lot of information from your insurance company after a fire; make sure you pay special attention to the steps you must take for keeping your property safe. A security fence is a vital part of a quick and smooth recovery from this disaster.

3 Lesser-Known Damages From Home Fires

9/25/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage in a Sulphur Springs, TN home

The Dangers of Untreated Fire Damage

Has your home in Sulphur Springs, TN, been damaged by fire? Although the fire itself may have been contained to a few rooms, your entire home is at risk. It's important to contact a professional fire damage restoration service to survey and restore the fire damage. There are several issues that an untrained person can overlook.

1. Extreme Heat
Damage from heat is usually quite noticeable, but it's important to have your home checked out by a professional to be sure that all areas are safe and secure. Extreme heat can warp metal beams, weaken wood, and put the entire structure at risk of collapse. In order to move back into your house safely, it's important to have an expert evaluate all structural components.

2. Smoke Deposits
Smoke damage may be subtler than fire damage, but it remains a serious issue. As the fire burns, smoke collects on the surface of your walls, ceilings, furniture, and other fixtures. Without proper cleanup, this can cause your entire home to smell of smoke for a long time. A professional service will use specialized vacuums to safely clean and purify all of your items. They will also extensively clean your home's ventilation system so you will be breathing clean, fresh air.

3. Fire Suppression Damage
Although damage from fire is devastating, the destruction left by your home's fire suppression system is also an issue requiring extensive cleanup and repair. Sprinklers soak carpets and furniture, and the water seeps into drywall ceilings and walls. An expert will thoroughly dry any waterlogged carpets and identify any and all dangerous structural weaknesses in your home.
All homeowners should take the cleanup and restoration of their home very seriously, and it's important to understand the dangers of untreated fire damage. This way, you'll know what to look out for as you work with experts to evaluate your home, mitigate the damage, and return your residence to normal as promptly as possible.

What To Expect From Your Commercial Property Coverage

7/13/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage in a Gray, TN building

When you own an office building or warehouse in Gray, TN, you need a comprehensive commercial insurance package. One of the standard policies in this package is going to be commercial property coverage. There are several things you should look for when choosing a policy.

What Is Covered?

Commercial property insurance is designed to cover fire damage cleanup or the fallout from other disasters. In addition to the building itself, most policies pay for damage recovery to other aspects of the property:

• Office and manufacturing equipment
  
• Important documents and records
  
• Inventory and supplies
  
• Fences and signs
  
  

If any of these items are damaged in a fire, your policy should pay to repair or replace them.

How Much Should You Pay?
The more your policy has to protect, the more your premiums are going to cost. The overall value of your property is only one thing that the provider takes into consideration. If you want your commercial insurance policy to cover the replacement cost rather than just the value of the items lost, you should prepare to pay more in premiums. The more items that are at risk, the more comprehensive your policy has to be. You may be able to get a lower premium if you are willing to pay a higher deductible in the event of a disaster.

What Other Factors Affect Cost?
The more preventative measures in place, the lower your premiums are likely to be. If your building is built in a location with superior fire protection or is comprised of materials that resist burning, there will likely be less for fire restoration experts to repair even if it does catch fire. Fewer potential repairs mean lower costs for your provider and a bigger chance it will pass that savings on to you.
Every business owner needs a commercial insurance package that safeguards the building and everything in and around it. Your insurance agent can guide you to the policy that best suits your needs.

Three Situations in Which Your Home Insurance May Deny Fire Coverage

6/7/2020 (Permalink)

Vacant home fire in Austin Springs, TN

Three Situations in Which Your Home Insurance May Deny Fire Coverage

When flames break out, these bursts can create massive amounts of damage, charring walls, and flooring. Images such as these are overwhelming, leaving property owners in Austin Springs, TN, to deal with the emotional and physical aftereffects of the home fire. It's a tall order and residents often turn to insurance to ease the cost of the recovery process. Are there times, though, when insurers won't pay? It's possible. While many policies do cover fire, they also have some exclusions. Here are three times you could see a denial.

1. When You Set the Conflagration Yourself
Arson is not allowed. Dwellers that set their own blaze cannot receive compensation. Expect for the agency to thoroughly review the initial cause, determining whether you or anyone you know set it on purpose for monetary or personal gain.

2. When the Destruction Goes Above Your Limit
Many home fire repairs are taken care of by fire restoration companies. This team writes up a preliminary report and assists property owners in seeking compensation for the rebuilding procedures. However, should that estimated amount exceed the agreement, then you might be required to cover the overage. For instance, let's say the crew determines your reconstruction bill will be $200,000. If your insurance documentation only allows for $150,000, then the agency can't cut a check for more. After confirmation, the insurer may agree to your limit and then you foot the bill for the excess.

3. When You Leave Property Vacant
When people own more than one property they may leave one location empty for long periods of time. Because no one was watching the place, the agent may argue the situation could have been prevented with someone tending to the building. This is considered a vacant home fire. Therefore, anything over 30 days could lapse your coverage and additional policies are available.
Insurance doesn't make payment for every house fire. Arson, high bills, and vacancies are grounds for refusal.

3 Ways to Keep Your Pets Safe in the Event of a Fire

5/26/2020 (Permalink)

During a fire emergency in Johnson City, Tennessee, it can be essential that everybody in your home evacuate and meet in a safe location. While you should always be most focused on keeping yourself and your family safe, you can also spend some time on pet preparation so that you can have a better chance of getting your pets out of danger, too.

3 Ways to Keep Your Pets Safe

1. Practice Evacuating

In the confusion caused by a fire, it can be hard to think of everything you need to do right away. If you have a plan in place and practice it a few times, you can be better prepared to handle a fire emergency. This can not only be helpful for pet safety, but also for the safety of everyone in your household.

1. Notice Where Your Pets Are

An important part of the planning process can be noticing where your pets usually spend their time. It can be especially helpful to note where they hide when frightened. You don’t want to put yourself at risk by spending too much time searching for your dog or cat during a fire emergency, but you can be better prepared to get yourself and your pets out as soon as possible by having a checklist of areas you can look.

1. Keep Collars and Leashes Handy

Fires can be especially frightening to pets. By keeping their collars and leashes handy, you can more easily guide them out of the house. If you are unable to find them, it can be easier for the fire department to get them out if they are wearing collars. It can be a good idea to hang leashes by the door you are planning to evacuate through.

You can be better prepared to keep your pets safe during a fire emergency by following these safety tips. Be sure you put them to good use.

How to Make a Fire Escape Plan For Your Home

3/23/2020 (Permalink)

The first step to making a fire escape plan is drawing a map of the house

Common Causes of Fires

In the event of a fire, you’ll need a solid emergency escape plan to get everyone out in one piece. Without it, you risk leaving a child or pet in the unforgiving flames, and there’s also the possibility of getting caught up in the blaze yourself.
Common causes of fires in Gray, TN include:

• Frayed wiring
  
• Overloaded sockets
  
• Old appliances
  
• Unattended cooking equipment
  
  

1. Draw a Map of Your House: The first step to making a fire escape plan is drawing a map of the house. It should indicate all possible exit points, such as doors and windows. Also, visit each location and make sure everything still works as expected. That will eliminate the possibility of dealing with a jammed window when trying to escape a fire.

2. Install Fire Alarms: Having a fire escape plan is useless if you don’t get a head start when a fire breaks out in your home. So, it is a good idea to have functional fire alarms in every bedroom as well as all common areas. Test this system regularly and fix any problems immediately.

3. Pick a Meeting Place: A good emergency escape plan has several routes leading to one meeting point. That makes it easy to do a headcount and decide on the next cause of action. The designated spot should be on the street side of the house, where you will be safe. Also, make a list of things you want to bring with you to the meeting point.

A fire escape plan is one of those things that everyone should have, whether you own or rent a house. The last thing you want is to experience a burning house and hope your kids will know what to do. So, make a plan and let everyone in the household know about it. It would help if you also had occasional fire drills to make sure everybody stays sharp.

What to Keep and What To Toss After a Home Fire

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

Protect your home with fire alarms.

If you recently suffered a home fire in Johnson City, TN, you may be wondering if all is lost or if you can save some of your property. To find out the answer, you'll need to consider whether the integrity of the valuables is compromised. Throw away anything that may hurt you or others. This means asking yourself if you could suffer from chemical exposure or whether it could have spoiled from environmental changes. Here is a rundown of what to keep and what to ditch.
Toss It
Even if the entire house didn't become engulfed in flames, it may have received impact from the high heat. In fact, the fire's temperature may have hit between 100 and 600 degrees; this is hot enough to ruin structure and effectiveness of numerous common household goods. With this in mind, look closely in household cabinets and refrigerators. It's best to get rid of anything questionable. This could include the following materials:

Food
Medicine
Cosmetics
Beverages
Pet Food
Cleaning Supplies

Play it safe. Throw away consumables.
Wash It
Some belongings might be salvaged using fairly easy methods. Look over your cooking ware such as silverware, pots and pans. These may just need a good soak and scrub. Grab some liquid dish detergent and warm water. Let them in the soapy water for a bit. After a while, grab a wash cloth and wipe them, hoping to see them return to normal. What about other areas with fire damage? Leather assets such as furniture, purses, or shoes may also be sanitized with a damp cloth and some saddle soap. As for the rest of your clothes, try a cold wash using detergent and pure vanilla extract. This may help remove the smoky odor. Any other areas should have consultation from a fire and water restoration company. The crew can evaluate your place's furniture as well as personal things, determining the best course of action.
Inspect each good, and use the following as a rule of thumb. Throw away items that you apply to your body or which you would consume. Consider cleaning anything else. If in doubt, ask the experts for advice.

What To Expect During a Fire Restoration

10/10/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage in a Gray, TN home

Fire Restoration Process

If your home in Gray, TN, has experienced a fire then you may need to contact local fire restoration service to help with repairs. These knowledgeable professionals have the tools and knowledge necessary to restore your home back to pre-fire condition. During this process there are a few things you can expect to see.

1. Assessment of the Damage

One of the first steps you can see your restoration team perform is the assessment of the affected area. These professionals will look for fire, soot and smoke damage, as well as any water damage that may have occurred with the fire suppression efforts. Knowing the damage types will allow them to formulate a plan for restoration.

2. The Repair Process

During the fire restoration process you can expect them to start with damage cleaning, followed by any structural repairs that need to be made. They may also take the opportunity during this part of the process to make any code updates that may be necessary to your home. It's also a good idea to talk with your restoration crew about any mitigation steps you can take at this time as well.

3. Restoration of the Space

Your local restoration service is trained to have the ability to return your home back to pre-fire condition. You can expect this to take a little time, but you can also expect to find that any smoke, fire, or soot damage has been completely removed. These professionals will also be able to replace the damaged interior, and repaint as needed. At the end of this process you should be able to find that your home looks as though the fire never occurred.
During the fire restoration process there are several steps you may see performed. These include assessing the damage to correctly formulate a restoration plan, beginning the repairs, and the full restoration of the damaged space back to pre-fire condition. If you have any questions a professional may be able to help.

Proper Smoke Alarm Placement and Maintenance

7/17/2019 (Permalink)

Your smoke alarm could be a lifesaver in the event of a fire

As a homeowner, there are precautions you can take to minimize the risk of fires. It's important to regularly inspect and monitor your heating and electrical systems. You also need to be careful in the kitchen as you are cooking. However, perhaps the best thing you can do to protect yourself and your family is to have a properly functioning smoke alarm. In fact, your home should have multiple alarms to alert you when danger is present. There are essential aspects of these alarms that you must pay attention to.

Importance of Smoke Alarms

If you have unhooked the smoke alarms in your Gray, TN, home, put it back together immediately. If you have an older home, and it doesn't have a smoke detector, have a professional install one today. These devices are critical to your well-being.

• They act as the first line of defense by sensing smoke in the house.
  
• They send out a high-pitched, loud noise to warn you of a potential fire.
  
• They can give you peace of mind.
  
  

Where To Put Them

It isn't sufficient to have only one smoke alarm in your house. Experts recommend placing one in every sleeping area as well as in outside the sleeping area. Make sure there is at least one on every level.

Change the Batteries

It's possible to find long-lasting batteries, but don't assume they're going to work in your older detectors for the long term. To be safe, you should replace the batteries once a year. This will help ensure the devices operate correctly and avoid fires and fire damage and the need to hire a fire cleanup crew. However, new detectors have a much longer battery life and only need to be replaced once every 10 years.
Your smoke alarm could be a lifesaver in the event of a fire. Do your part to protect your home and loved ones by having highly functional detectors.

How Fire Damage Can Lead to Water Damage

6/28/2019 (Permalink)

If a fire affects your Johnson City, TN, office, there can potentially be expensive cleanup efforts. The flames and smoke can cause significant damage to the walls, floor, electronics and furniture of your building. There are other reasons you might require the attention of a restoration company and other professionals, but one of these might surprise you. Fires and water cleanup actually go together frequently. Be prepared to contend with the possibility of flooding after a blaze runs through your workplace.

Your Response

When a fire starts in your building, your top priority should be the safety of the entire staff. Once everyone evacuates and you've contacted the fire department, there are a few more people you need to get in touch with to ensure thorough cleanup and rebuilding. Make sure you immediately call the following people:

• Your insurance agent
• A fire cleanup company
• A flood remediation team

Firefighters' Actions

The fire department has one major objective: Get the fire under control to keep it from spreading and causing additional damage and harm. The firefighters may use a large amount of water to put out the flames. Though they may be successful, the volume of moisture they spray from the hoses could ruin carpet, drywall, and various supplies and equipment. This could require water cleanup from experienced flood remediation specialists.

Damage From Sprinklers

Your building is likely equipped with sprinklers in the ceiling. These will go off when smoke is detected in the area. Though the sprinklers can do an effective job of battling the fire and even prevent the need for smoke cleanup, they could also flood your office space. It's important to consult with restoration experts so you can minimize the damage and get your office back to its pre-disaster state.
Water cleanup doesn't just occur with pipe leaks or sewer problems. Be prepared to face both the effects of smoke and fire damage as well as the excess water you may find in the building.

How To Reduce Your Risk of a Home Fire

5/17/2019 (Permalink)

Situate space heaters a safe distance away from flammable materials

How To Reduce the Risk of a Home Fire

Homeowners in the United States report more than 300,000 fires every year. Many fires are preventable or can be extinguished before major damage occurs. Learn about the most common fire causes and how you can reduce the risk of a home fire at a residence in Gladstone, TN.

In the Kitchen

Kitchens have hot appliances, and many recipes involve the use of flammable cooking oil or grease. Here are several ways to avoid cooking fires:

• Don't leave food unattended.
  
• Set a timer if you must leave the kitchen.
  
• Keep food packaging and towels away from hot burners.
  
• Only bake or microwave with approved materials.
  
  

If a grease fire starts, try to smother the flames with baking soda, salt, and either a metal pan lid or another pan. The pressurized release of retardant from a fire extinguisher may spread the fire.

Regarding Home Heating

Furnaces and space heaters are two of the most common fire causes. Have the furnace regularly inspected. Situate space heaters a safe distance away from flammable materials and only use while attended.

Throughout The House

Several home fire safety considerations apply throughout a residence. In general, you should exercise caution with open flames and avoid common electrical problems:

• Only burn candles when you are present.
  
• Do not light candles or smoke while in bed.
  
• If you smoke, use a stable ashtray or smoke outside.
  
• Avoid overloading extension cords.
  
  

Candle fires and smoking-related fires are common and easily preventable causes of fire. While faulty wiring may pose a persistent risk, homeowners can also reduce electrical fire risks.

When a fire starts in any part of a house, the owner or any residents at home should try to extinguish the flames or keep the fire from spreading and evacuate. If a home fire results in damage, homeowners should rely on the expertise of a fire cleaning and restoration service in Gladstone, TN.

6 Common Causes of Home Fires

2/4/2019 (Permalink)

To prevent an accidental inferno, you should never leave the stove unattended while cooking.

Common Causes Of House Fires

Sometimes an inferno can erupt without warning. Often, however, homeowners can take proactive steps to minimize the risk of a home fire. To correct potential vulnerabilities and safeguard their property from fire damage, every resident of Austin Springs, TN, should recognize six common fire causes.

1. Faulty Wiring

Faulty components in your home’s electrical system can be dangerous. If you frequently blow fuses or notice lights dimming while an appliance is in use, you should promptly contact a licensed electrician.

2. Electrical Hazards

Frayed electrical cords and overloaded outlets can also be hazardous. You should refrain from using any device with a damaged cord. In addition, you should limit the use of extension cords, avoid plugging multiple items into a single outlet and refrain from running electrical cables under carpets and rugs.

3. Heating Equipment

Heating equipment can also spark a home fire. To alleviate this concern, you should routinely clean existing chimneys and hire a licensed professional to inspect your furnace annually. It’s also important to keep portable heaters away from upholstered furniture, paper, blankets, curtains and other flammable objects.

4. Kitchen Accidents

Many blazes originate in kitchens where flammable grease can splatter and unattended pots can overheat. To prevent an accidental inferno, you should never leave the stove unattended while cooking. As a precaution, you should also be ready to smother any flames that may erupt with a metal lid or a fire extinguisher.

5. Smoking

Improperly extinguished cigarettes can also pose a threat. If you smoke, you should use a deep ashtray to extinguish butts and refrain from smoking in bed where embers can easily ignite flammable cloth.

6. Curious Children

Children are naturally curious about the world around them. To help prevent accidents, it’s important for kids to recognize the dangers fire can present and understand why they should avoid playing with matches, lighters and candles.

Most homeowners probably have no desire to add fire cleaning duties to their to-do lists. Although preventing every home fire may be impossible, everyone can take preemptive measures to reduce the risk of a destructive blaze.

Pet Fire Safety 101: Tips for Your Furry Friends

12/29/2018 (Permalink)

Remember to include your pets in your fire escape plan

Our pets are like family. Yet while we’d never forget to plan for how to evacuate our human family members in the event of a fire, many Austin Springs, TN, pet owners forget to make a similar plan for their four-legged family during a fire emergency. Fortunately, keeping pets safe during a fire can be as simple as planning ahead.

Getting Started

It can be hard to know where to start when forming a plan for how to protect your pet in a fire emergency. Ask yourself:

• How you will locate your pet in a fire
  
• Who will transport your pet during a fire
  
• Where your pet will stay until your home is safe
  

Answering these pet safety questions in advance can save time and even lives.

Figure out hiding places

Does your cat like to hang out in the laundry room? Knowing where these are can save precious time if a fire breaks out. Note your pet’s hideaways and include them in your family’s fire plan or.

Be prepared for transport

Carrying a frightened animal can result in injury, in addition to being excessively stressful for the animal. Think ahead - place a leash and carrier near your home’s main exits to ensure pets can be quickly picked up and moved out.

Designate a safe space

The chaos of an emergency can pose new threats to your pet. Designate an area to place your pet during the fire - a car, for example, or an area of the yard. Next, think about where you can house your pet should you have to leave your home for days or weeks.

Your pets are cherished pals. Make sure that they are a part of your fire emergency preparation to ensure they’re here for years to come. Use these pet preparation tips to formulate a pet emergency plan and ensure they’ll be safe when disaster strikes.

Banning Cigarette Odors From Your Home

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke odors from cigarettes can linger for decades in Gladstone,TN, homes

Whether you smoke cigarettes or think it is a bad habit, you probably don’t enjoy the smell of stale cigarette smoke. Unfortunately, though, smoke odors from cigarettes and cigars can linger for decades in Gladstone, TN, homes. You don’t have to put up with the smell of old cigarettes. By contracting with a restoration specialist for home deodorization, you can leave your home smelling fresh and clean.

A Holistic Cleanup Process

As you probably know, smoke from cigarettes has a funny way of getting virtually everywhere inside your home. When smoke contaminates walls, ceilings, furniture and other belongings, you need a holistic approach to removing it. Restoration professionals typically do the following to remove smoke odors:

• Open windows and doors to allow fresh air into your home
• Remove and replace all heating, air conditioning and other filters
• Scrub walls with ammonia and glycol
• Use a sealant to lock-in smoke odors on the walls and ceilings of your home
• Paint walls and ceilings with a fresh coat of latex paint
• Professionally clean all furniture, fixtures and personal belongings
  

Ozone
Cigarette and cigar smoke smell so badly because of the gases and toxic substances they release. When odors are extreme, restoration technicians often use ozone-generating machines for home deodorization. Ozone neutralize the foul odors caused by cigarette smoke. Professionals simply plug in the machine, set a timer and create ozone. Note, though, since ozone can be harmful to people, you must vacate your home when the ozone machine is creating the gas. Technicians repeat the process until all lingering odors are gone.

You don’t have to live with the unpleasant smell of old cigarettes. While removing ingrained odors is not necessarily simple for amateurs, professional restoration technicians deal with home deodorization all the time. With the right cleaning process and some assistance from ozone, your Gladstone, TN, home can likely smell as if no one has ever puffed on a cigarette there.

Who to Hire After a Business Fire

8/15/2018 (Permalink)

After your building has been affected by fire, there will be a lot of fire and smoke damage, as well as water damage from the firefighters' work. At this point, you'll have many decisions to make. Naturally, you'll want to turn to some experts whose advice is relevant to your situation.

• Your insurance company should be one of the first calls you make. The company will probably send a professional, such as an insurance adjuster, to assess damages and provide you with coverage information.
• Contact a fire damage restoration company. The sooner these professionals can begin correcting the damage to your business, the better off you'll be.
• You'll naturally want to check in with employees, vendors, and customers to let them know what your plans are during the reconstruction period.

Sometimes, business owners consider hiring multiple agencies to handle their cleaning and restoration work. For example, they may plan to hire a water or fire mitigation company to contain the fire damage and then hire a restoration company to complete repairs. Should you hire two sets of professionals?

Mitigation vs. Restoration

As you decide how to proceed, you should understand that mitigation companies focus on preventing further losses. They may board up windows, take steps to control mold, and work on removing any remaining water. However, they don't repair damaged property and they don't treat lasting effects, such as mold.

Restoration companies may or may not be able to handle mitigation. Their focus would then turn to necessary repairs and rebuilding. They'll replace structures that have been damaged beyond saving and put an end to mold growth and smoke damages.

Which Is Best for You?

Ask your insurance adjuster whether you have coverage for both services; some do. However, many in Johnson City, TN don't. Also, you may find that choosing a company that can handle both types of work resulting from fire damage is a more efficient way to restore your building and get back to business. Visit http://www.SERVPROwashingtoncountytn.com for more information on fire damage. 

3 Tips for Reducing the Risk of Space Heater Fires

7/18/2018 (Permalink)

Knowing how to use a space heater safely is important to protect your family from the threat of a burned space heater or a devastating fire.

Using space heaters can be a convenient way to keep certain areas of your Johnson City, TN, home cozy, especially those that do not receive enough heat from the furnace or are located on an outer ground floor. While these units can be handy, they might also increase the risk of a fire and a burned space heater. Keeping a few safety tips in mind can help you reduce the possibility of space heater fires and ensure your family’s well-being.

1. Give the Unit Space

One of the most common causes of space heater fires is putting heaters in an area where they do not have enough room for proper heat flow. This can cause the unit to overheat and start a fire. Putting a heater in an enclosed space can also cause objects around it to catch fire, such as bedding, clothing and other fabrics. The risk is usually highest in the bedroom, where blankets and stuffed toys can fall off the bed and onto the heater and spark a blaze. A fire and smoke cleanup service can advise you about the best placement for your space heater.

2. Ground the Plug at a Wall Outlet

Most space heaters are designed to operate from one electrical socket. As such, plugging them into an extension cord or a multi-socket power strip may cause them to overheat. This may start at the plug itself, which can melt it or the cord. Overheating at the power source may also cause a power surge, which can result in a burned space heater or a fire.

3. Set Your Heater on a Stable Surface

When you first buy a space heater, it is important that you read all instructions and set your unit on a stable surface instead of a table or other object. If the surface is unstable, the unit can be knocked over and come into contact with flammable objects.

Space heaters can make your Johnson City, TN, home comfortable. However, knowing how to use them safely is important to protect your family from the threat of a burned space heater or a devastating fire. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROwashingtoncountytn.com/.

Fire and Water: Reclaiming Your Home From the Elements

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

The fire damage left after the flames are overcome may be your primary concern, but it is not the only issue that must be resolved.

If your home catches fire, there will likely be quite a few problems that need to be addressed. Fire damage is only one of the issues with which you have to contend when your home catches fire. A common side effect of a house fire is excess water and its damaging aftermath.

Extraction and Disinfection

When a fire breaks out in your home in Johnson City, TN, it damages everything it comes into contact with. In addition to the destruction it leaves in its wake, it puts out a substantial amount of heat, which can lead to a myriad of problems:

• Busted pipes
• Melted supply lines
• Cracked toilets
• Broken water tank

Even if by some miracle none of these problems occur, a lot of water comes out of the fire hose used to put out those flames. It’s almost a guarantee, therefore, that any home with fire damage also has significant water damage. Before fire restoration specialists can deal with the soot and smoke, they have to clean up the excess water.

Cleaning and Purifying

After the water has been removed, the technicians can tackle the soot. Every surface in every room where there was fire is probably going to be covered in soot, so every surface has to be cleaned. The techniques the professionals use remove the soot while protecting the surface from any further damage. When all the soot is gone, the smoke cleaning begins. Industrial air scrubbers are used to purify the air, removing not only the smell of the smoke but the particles that cause it. Foggers may also be used to sanitize smoke-infused rooms.

The fire damage left after the flames are overcome may be your primary concern, but it is not the only issue that must be resolved. Expert technicians in Johnson City, TN, who specialize in fire and water damage can offer a comprehensive restoration service. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROwashingtoncountytn.com/. 

Fire Loss and Restoration in Johnson City, TN

3/31/2018 (Permalink)

If you are a home or business owner and you are not quite sure about what you can do to potentially recover some types of damages that have just occurred within your home or business, please contact one of the representatives of SERVPRO in Washington County as they will be more than happy to provide you with the assistance that you need for full restoration.

Fire cleanup can be quite a challenge for anybody, even the professionals.

Fire damage is a form of disaster that occurs unexpectedly, thus, requiring individuals to ensure that the act as fast as possible so that they will be able to recuperate from the damages that have occurred. Water damage from fire is not something that will necessarily ever need to cause too much, or uncontrollable amounts of damage as long as they are tended to as fast as possible by a professional that as attained positive reviews, feedback, and ratings as SERVPRO has.

Smoke damage soot damage are forms of unwanted damage that can make the premises of any property look and feel as unpleasant as could be. When fire loss affects your life in as negative as a way as possible, it is recommended for you to take action to proceed with restoration efforts. Washington County has some well trained professionals who are able to provide their services at very low costs and can tend to you property very quickly. Fire cleanup is not something that anyone ever expects to have to resort to in order to rehabilitate their properties, but due to fire damage being an unexpected form of accident, smoke damage soot damage will need to be treated accordingly. Contacting the right group of people to treat your property when it has undergone damage will be recommended so that they do a good job as is necessary. If you happen to make the mistake of contacting a group of professionals who are not going to be serving your needs of proper home restoration in accordance to its needs of full recovery of not only its conditions (which you should strive to achieve optimal performance within it), but also its value.

Water damage from fire can occur from pipes bursting, leaking, or cracking. These are instances of fire loss that can cover a property's flooring, whether it be composed of carpeting or tiles. Either type of flooring material can be damaged and even destroyed beyond capabilities of being repaired if the water damage from fire is extremely heavy. A SERVPRO specialist may be able to prevent absolute loss of value of certain assets from occurring as long as they are contacted immediately. At the time of you making the contact, you can set up an appointment, one of which is recommended to be made as soon as possible so that the professionals can potentially save any items that may be at risk of being permanently damaged. If you need assistance in rehabilitating your business or home, please contact fire cleanup technicians today and they will be happy to assist you with your needs. Visit http://www.SERVPROwashingtoncountytn.com for more information on fire damage and cleanup services.

Certified Fire Restoration Company

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

Hire a Certified Fire Restoration Company

Depending on the magnitude of a commercial fire damage, the degree of work required may be extensive. You want a fire damage restoration firm that serves a broad category of needs. If the fire causes structural destruction, the technicians should have the means to fix it. Hiring a company that only handles fire cleanup but doesn’t do renovation is wasteful because you will need to pay for other experts to finish up. Note that a cleaning service is not the same as a restoration business. Double check the kind of work that a restoration company does. Can you get smoke smell removal? Do they board up when fixing up the property?

Fire in home or fire in business comes with its share of risks. The acidic nature of soot damage presents a significant threat, especially to delicate items. There is also the smoke smell to worry about when cleaning up. Fire damage restoration professionals must have the required safety certification to restore a home or business after a fire without putting anyone at more risk. Be sure that the fire cleanup company you hire will adhere to standards and make your property habitable again after smoke damage. Ask for documentation of insurance and licensing from a residential or commercial fire damage company.

Visit http://www.SERVPROwashingtoncountytn.com for more information on fire damage.

Fire Restoration Tips

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

Avoid Phone Estimates

Regardless of your desperation to get a restoration company fast, never settle for one that gives you an estimate of the fire damage cleanup over the phone. Although there is a basic protocol for the fire damage restoration process, every scene has its specific requirements. Without looking at the level of soot damage and smoke damage first, restoration experts can’t tell you how much work the place needs. They can’t see how extensive the board up will be or how much renovation will be necessary. For a fire in home or fire in business, ensure that the restoration company visits the scene before giving a quote.

Proper Experience

The experience that a fire cleanup company has in residential and commercial fire damage matters a great deal. Fire in home or business usually means dealing with your insurer half the time, which only adds to your stress. An insurer can start giving you the run around after fire damage about how much they can pay. Fire cleanup professionals should have the skills to coordinate with insurers during the fire damage restoration process. They can justify the necessity of certain procedures like when doing smoke smell removal or board up. A commercial fire damage firm that has been offering professional services for several years will know how to avoid frequent obstacles when cleaning up after a fire in business.

Proper Training

Whether you are hiring a restoration company for a fire in home or a fire in business, ensure that the technicians have the necessary training. The reason you are paying for experts to fix the soot damage and smoke damage in your residential or business property is to get the best results. To achieve this, fire damage professionals must be up to date on the latest and safest methods to remove smoke smell, best materials for board up, and suitable products for soot damage.

Visit http://www.SERVPROwashingtoncountytn.com for more information on fire damage.

Recovery and Restoration After a Fire

8/31/2017 (Permalink)

Recovery and Restoration After a Fire

There are few things homeowners and business owners fear more than a fire in their home or a fire in their business. Commercial fire damage not only impacts the individual business directly, but also the local economy as that business’ operations flounder during the fire damage restoration. Conversely, fire damage from a fire in a home causes families to be left out on the street without shelter. It is extremely important therefore to undertake fire damage restoration quickly and effectively, which is why most leave the arduous chore to professional restoration companies. A restoration company will utilize efficient methodologies to accomplish the task in an expedient manner.

The first step a restoration company will take is to identify and assess the extent of the fire damage. Whether commercial fire damage or residential, fire cleanup cannot begin until the professionals know precisely what must be done. Ergo, inspectors will survey the soot damage, smoke damage, and even the smoke smell to determine if any special procedures must be used or if the building is even structurally recoverable.

When the restoration company knows what must be done, their next action is often to board up the facility. Fire damage is not resigned to the walls and ceilings, it has a particularly harsh effect on glass too. Therefore, between the heat, warping structure and fire crews doing all they can to access the flames many windows, doors and sometimes wall segments are destroyed. This exposes the interior of the structure to the outdoors, causing additional issues in fire cleanup. Therefore, professionals will often board up the exterior openings in order to prevent the elements from further complicating the matter.

Another reason to board up the exterior openings is to prevent additional water damage. When there is a fire in a home or fire in a business, fire crews utilize large amounts of water to put out blaze. This leaves a substantial amount of water damage to the structure as well. Crews cannot fully engage in fire damage restoration until the water is out of the way, so once a restoration company is done boarding up the exterior openings, they begin removing the standing water and moisture to facilitate the fire cleanup.

With the water out of the way, fire damage restoration effort moves on to removing soot damage, smoke damage, and smoke smell from the premises. Fire damage from soot and smoke is not only hazardous but also debilitating to home resale value if not properly handled. Commercial fire damage from soot and smoke can be just as damaging to business’ ability to attract clientele. For these reasons, fire cleanup procedures for soot damage, smoke damage, and smoke smell are often very thorough and can sometimes be one of the more meticulous steps in the process.

Once the smoke damage, soot damage, and smoke smell have been removed, the next step for restoration of residential and commercial fire damage is cleaning and repair. When a fire occurs in a home the homeowners cannot return until all of the debris is cleared out and all of the structural damage done to the building itself is repaired. There are cases where building repair is not possible, but most often such cases are identified in the early stages of restoration. A fire in a business is much the same, as most local governments will not allow businesses to reopen and draw in patrons until after the facility has been deemed structurally sound.

As soon as the building has been cleared of water damage, soot and smoke damage, cleaned then structurally repaired, it is then time to move on the restoration of the property to its pre-fire state. This step incorporates multiple tasks into one, is essentially an attempt to make the building appear as though the fire had never happened. If it is a fire in a home, everything from furnishings to carpet are likely to be replaced. If it is a fire in a business, equipment and safety features will also likely be replaced in addition to cosmetic factors. Once the restoration step is done, the building becomes habitable again and the project is finally complete, allowing families to return home and businesses to return to their operations.
Visit http://www.SERVPROwashingtoncountytn.com for more information on fire damage.

Finding the Right Fire Damage Restoration Company

7/27/2017 (Permalink)

Fire damage can leave you reeling from considerable losses that may be hard to recoup depending on how long you wait to remedy the problem. After contacting first responders to handle a fire accident, the next call should be to a professional fire damage restoration service. The time you wait to have a restoration company to come and clear up the resulting destruction will dictate how bad the situation gets.

Smoke damage and soot damage will continue to devastate your property the longer it goes uncleared. The advanced equipment and techniques that restoration services utilize are a few reasons to call a fire cleanup crew. However, you must be certain that the people responsible for the restoration process are suitable. Even though you may not have enough time to do proper research, keep a few tips in mind.

• Range of Service
• Certifications
• Experience
• Training

Visit http://www.SERVPROwashingtoncountytn.com for more information on fire damage.