Why Professional Restoration is Crucial After a Fire

8/1/2024 (Permalink)

When the fire trucks leave, the visible flames may be extinguished, but the real damage is often just beginning. Addressing the aftermath of a fire, whether in a home or a business, requires professional intervention to restore the property to its original state. Attempting to handle this on your own could lead to costly mistakes and prolonged damage.

Certified restoration experts understand that delays in neutralizing, controlling corrosion, and cleaning up can significantly increase the damage and overall restoration costs. Homeowners who hesitate to begin the restoration process can unintentionally worsen the damage caused by smoke and soot exposure. Here's a breakdown of how fire and smoke can affect a property over time:

Within Minutes: Acidic soot residues can cause plastics to yellow, discolor small appliances near the fire source, and permanently stain porous materials like marble and alabaster.

Within Hours: Acidic residues can stain bathroom grout, yellow fiberglass bath fixtures, tarnish uncoated metals, discolor countertops, and yellow appliance finishes, especially on refrigerators. Additionally, furniture finishes may start to discolor.

For reliable results, the IICRC recommends hiring a certified restoration firm. Restoring a property after a fire is a complex process that demands specialized knowledge, particularly in smoke and odor removal, which certified technicians are trained to handle.

When choosing a certified restoration firm, consider the following:

• Up-to-date specialized training
• Health and safety certifications
• Extensive experience with various restoration projects
• Valid insurance and licenses

These qualifications ensure that the restoration process is handled professionally and effectively, minimizing further damage and helping to restore your property as quickly as possible.