Fire Damage To A Structure

10/7/2020 (Permalink)

Fire in the Azusa Mountains

When a fire has caused damage to a structure, there may be several sources of damage that could affect what restoration process is the best.  For instance, the fire itself will burn, char, and heat up building materials that can ultimately create the need to remove and replace these damaged areas.  Then there is consideration given to the materials or fuel the fire was burning that could determine how and what processes are used in the cleaning process.  For instance if the fire is fueled primarily by plastic or petroleum based materials the soot and byproducts from the fire are different than if the source of fuel is predominantly wood or cellulose.  Also, much of the fire damage comes from the particulates suspended in the smoke which can fill the property and saturate into the porous furnishings and surfaces inside the building.  Furniture, carpeting, drapes, and clothing are examples.  These soft products are saturated with the smoke and debris from the fire resulting in surface contamination and the smell of burnt building materials.  A decision will need to be made which of these items will be cleaned and deodorized.  Because the byproducts of burning wood and manmade products are both commonly part of a structure fire, the smoke can contain a mix of high levels of acidic and oxidizing compounds.  These will settle on the surfaces of fixtures and furnishings and if not cleaned properly will begin to corrode their finishes.  Metal plated and paint surfaces should be cleaned as soon as practical to help reduce the chances of permanent damage.  In many fire damaged structures, electronics will be contaminated and the long term effects of these corrosive byproducts can affect their performance.  Replacement and or restoration may be recommended. 

So, the considerations and cleanup options vary with the scope and type of fires. SERVPRO of Glendora/San Dimas has equipment, cleaning processes, materials, the training and experience to determine the best approach to help property owners completely recover from a structure fire, or being caught down-wind from a wildfire in the foothills.  If the property is in the San Gabriel Valley or anywhere in Southern California, Give SERVPRO of Glendora/San Dimas a call today for an assessment if you need a professional service with answers to your restoration questions.