Fire Damage Cleanup in West Palm Beach

7/25/2020 (Permalink)

No one ever imagines that their home or business may one day suffer from a fire. For some reason, the idea of a fire seems distant for many people, almost unrealistic. The chances of a home or business suffering from fire damage is high as accidents can happen anytime, anywhere. Lack of acknowledging reality often leaves people feeling paralyzed once they find themselves in such situations. There are a few important things to know when faced with fire damage in West Palm Beach.

Fire damage cleanup is a lengthy, multi-step process that is determined by varying factors. The size, nature, and location of the fire are accounted for in the beginning of the cleanup process. 

To fight a large fire, Fire Rescue teams may need to use gallons of water to extinguish the fire. It is also not uncommon with a larger fire for windows to be broken or structural holes placed for ventilation. Incidents like these in a large fire may result in structural or water damage. If this is the case, cleanup will need to include emergency water mitigation and board-up services. The longer the house is exposed to outside elements or if water is not extracted damage will only be exacerbated.

During an assessment the severity of damage to content will be determined. Other than obvious burnt items, damage also takes the form of smoke and soot. Both effects can cause discoloration to items and are highly corrosive. If contents are not inspected quickly and sent off for restoration, it is unlikely they will be salvageable in the future. While special care and restoration can be given to contents like electronics, clothing, or furniture, there are items that may be dangerous to keep after a fire and should be thrown away. These include both non-perishable and perishable food, medicines, hygiene or cosmetic products, and anything that is obviously burnt.

The entire cleanup process includes:

1. Inspection of the structure and total damage assessment
2. Board-up and roof-tarp services if needed
3. Water extraction and drying if needed
4. Smoke and soot removal from all surfaces
5. Cleaning and sanitizing for the structure
6. Restoration and rebuild based on the level of damage endured

Fire damage cleanup is usually best left to a professional restoration company that can safely and effectively mitigate the aftermath of a fire in West Palm Beach.