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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Fire Damage Blog Posts

Fire Restoration in Dallas- Specialized Care for Cabinets and Counters

9/29/2024 (Permalink)

a fire in a kitchen over the stove Kitchen fires can cause a lot of damage to your property. Luckily, SERVPRO knows just how to deal with the remediation process. Contact us 24/7.

SERVPRO®, Your Dallas Fire Damage Recovery Partner

Dallas was founded in 1841. The city quickly expanded as a center for trade and commerce following the arrival of the railroads in the late 19th century. The Arts District, located in the northern part of Downtown, is home to several arts venues. Key attractions in the district include the Dallas Museum of Art, the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, and the Nasher Sculpture Center. Dallas is known for its expansive parks, including Trammell Crow Park and Klyde Warren Park. Dallas celebrates its diverse culture with annual events, including one of its largest and oldest state fairs, the State Fair of Texas. 

When a fire ravages a property, it affects your belongings, including your cabinets and counters. Specialized fire restoration services in Dallas are crucial to returning these elements to their pre-damage condition. The heat, smoke, and soot can cause warping, discoloration, and lingering odors. Countertops can deteriorate from heat stains and chemical damage, whether made of granite, quartz, or laminate. For wooden cabinets, the intense heat can lead to cracks and splits in the wood. There is also the risk of water damage due to firefighters' efforts. SERVPRO has an understanding of materials and specialized techniques to address these issues. 

Specialized restoration is crucial for several reasons

  • Material specific care
  • Preserving value 
  • Preventing further damage

Since cabinets and countertops are made from various materials, each with distinct properties and vulnerabilities, specialized restoration ensures that each material receives tailored care. Wood, for instance, can absorb moisture, leading to significant water damage effects like warping and mold growth. SERVPRO IICRC-certified crews might use restoration techniques like sanding, refinishing, and applying specialized wood cleaners and sealers. 

Smoke Residue Removal on Kitchen Surfaces

We use a combination of dry cleaning sponges and vacuuming for wooden cabinets to capture loose soot particles. We may also use specially formulated wood cleaners to address more ingrained residues. For granite and quartz, we use non-abrasive cleaners to avoid damaging the surface. We clean laminate countertops with gentle solutions to remove residues without causing further damage.

Considerations made when cleaning cabinets

  • Removing knobs and other hardware to clean in crevices and recessed areas
  • Checking the wood finish around a cabinet's drawer handles for preexisting damage
  • Consider whether the surface is finished or unfinished

SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County provides reliable fire restoration services. Call us at (972) 227-0800. Faster to any size disaster™.

Fire and Smoke Mitigation in Dallas

11/13/2023 (Permalink)

smoke coming out of the windows of a house on fire Cleaning up smoke damage after a fire in your home is a difficult task. Call SERVPRO 24/7 for professional equipment and assistance.

Efficient Fire and Smoke Mitigation in Dallas by SERVPRO®

SERVPRO offers world-class fire and smoke mitigation in Dallas to restore your home as quickly and efficiently as possible. We employ advanced techniques to assess the extent of fire damage, remove debris, and mitigate the effects of smoke and soot. From cleaning and deodorizing to repairing structural damage, SERVPRO techs work diligently to restore properties “Like it never even happened.”

Combating Odor During House Fire Cleanup

Odor control is crucial to fire restoration, as smoke and soot particles can penetrate various surfaces, leaving unpleasant smells behind. SERVPRO techs target affected areas, including walls, furniture, carpets, and ventilation systems, neutralizing and removing odorous particles.

SERVPRO techs use the following specialized techniques for odor removal from your fire-damaged home:

The professional-grade odor removal equipment, in combination with expertise and proper techniques, assists SERVPRO techs in efficiently and effectively eliminating stubborn odors left behind after a fire.

Contact SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County at (972) 227-0800.

Resolving Dallas Fire Damage Includes Eliminating Smoke Odors

4/13/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO employees packing up fire damaged furniture Smoke Cleanup After Fires in Dallas Properties Takes Professional Help--Contact SERVPRO

SERVPRO's In-Depth Cleaning and Testing of Dallas Homes Offers Adequate Fire Restoration

Apart from flames and heat, smoke is the other highly destructive aspect of property fires. Coincidentally it is also the most widespread problem since it reaches rooms, cavities, and crevices where the other fire aspects may not be present. Ensuring all smoke issues are addressed requires widespread cleaning and testing. 

There are smoke issues beyond what you see in your Dallas home after fire damage. Soot layers on contents and structural areas like wall and ceiling surfaces are the most visible problem, so most restoration effort is to clean those areas. Clean surfaces can fool you into thinking all smoke issues are over. When SERVPRO handles restoration, we evaluate other aspects to judge whether the process is complete. 

What to focus on:

  • Changes like yellowing or staining
  • Lingering smoky odors
  • Accessing confined areas

Smoke deposits residues on surfaces soiling the fast. The residues have different characteristics, including acidity. So as they sit on the surfaces, they cause further deterioration. You may notice yellowing or browning, especially on brightly colored surfaces which worsens over time. Our SERVPRO technicians counter this by using different approaches when cleaning any surface soiled by fires. Vacuuming helps lift off any soot particles deeply embedded in a material through pores, cracks, or crevices. Dry cleaning with a medium like a chemical sponge lifts residues from surfaces without leaving streaks. Where necessary, we also wet clean by wiping surfaces with a material soaked in a solution containing a degreaser. 

Neutralizing Odors After a Fire

Unusual smells make a house uncomfortable. Smoky odors can linger in your home, whether the fire is big or small. In most cases, odor fails to dissipate because of hidden smoke residues. Our SERVPRO technicians rely on their IICRC certified training and experience to pinpoint any areas in the house where smoke residues might remain hidden after cleaning. The insides of closets and wall cavities tend to be colder as the fire burns, thus collecting more soot deposits. It's a unique phenomenon caused by convection currents whereby hot air moves towards colder areas, thus forcing most residues to settle there. We also understand that physical barriers rarely stop smoke movement, which is how residues end up in enclosed spaces. Therefore opening up enclosed areas and removing materials like insulation is essential in odor management.

Specialized Deodorization

  • Fogging
  • Sealing surfaces
  • Air purification

Although cleaning takes care of a significant percentage of smoke odor issues, it is rarely sufficient on its own. Deodorization helps remove trace odors by modifying or neutralizing molecules. Our SERVPRO technicians use a method like dry fogging entire rooms with solvents. The technique is highly effective in modifying odors since the thick fog replicates conditions during a fire, thus penetrating all areas where smoke molecules reach. We use a thermal fogger that vaporizes the deodorizers producing molecules as little as half a micron to as big as 25 microns that penetrate deep into materials.

Some residues and aerosols remain in the air and must be removed to eliminate odors or restore standard indoor air quality. Our SERVPRO crews use air filtration devices fitted with special filters to collect particles, gases, and aerosols. HEPA filters or activated carbon and potassium permanganate filters are typical options that help when dealing with smoke odors. 

SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County provides comprehensive services to resolve all aspects of fire damage "Like it never even happened." You can reach us at (972) 227-0800.

Efficient Inspection Services Aid Dallas Fire Restoration

1/2/2023 (Permalink)

picture of burning house with check boxes SERVPRO checks all the boxes regarding fire damage restoration in Dallas. We work with your insurance carrier, "Like it never even happened."

Fire Restoration Estimating Relies on Inspections

Estimations are one of the earliest expectations between the communication maintained from SERVPRO restorers to an insurance adjuster or homeowner privately paying for the cleanup and recovery of their property following a fire. Inspections help to provide a fast turnaround of these estimations and project objectives.

The Importance of Inspections

When fire restoration for Dallas homes begins, SERVPRO professionals must have a firm grasp of the property’s conditions and any safety concerns. The homeowner and insurance company expect precise, and itemized estimations and job scopes made possible with experienced assessments. The use of industry-wide Xactimate software expedites the accumulation and transfer of these data points. Inspectors are looking for:

  • Damaged structure
  • Soot risks
  • Ruined contents
  • Water damage
  • Malodors

Early Mitigation Solutions

One of the advantages of starting inspection services as soon as our team arrives is the designation of priorities that might ultimately cause greater harm to the structure. Restoration can be slowed by a high concentration of soot particles in the environment or wet materials that must be removed and discarded before cleaning can continue. Inspections help determine where recovery efforts should begin.

Reaching Set Restoration Goals

Inspections and assessments are also critical in creating a restoration plan and setting recovery goals. Clear and concise milestones allow for easier tracking of progress in cleaning and remediating post-fire damage. The inspection conducted by our production manager ensures that the worst conditions get prioritized.

Working with Insurance Providers

The inspection process is critical for the relationship between SERVPRO technicians and office staff, and your insurance provider. The adjuster will need a detailed and itemized estimation and recovery plan to approve a damage claim. Getting this process started as soon as possible ensures an expedited approval turnaround, so restoration work is not delayed. Scoping the fire damage is crucial and of paramount importance.

Before work can begin after a fire loss incident overwhelms homes and businesses in the Dallas area, SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County can thoroughly inspect the structure. We work to provide a fast and safe return to preloss condition. Call us at (972) 227-0800.

SERVPRO Has the Experience and Know How to Deal with Cedar Hill Fire Damage

8/2/2022 (Permalink)

burnt out kitchen from a house fire Don't let a house fire in your beautiful Cedar Hill home ruin your day! Call SERVPRO and we can make it "Like it never even happened."

Cedar Hill House Fire Recovery

There are a lot of problems that could result from Fire Damage in Cedar Hill. Aside from the burnt pieces of property, there is also the water used to eradicate the fire before it destroys the home. This leaves the property owner with a mess on his hands. Not only does he have to deal with all of the damages caused by fire and smoke, he will also have to deal with a lot of water left over from the fire incident. Now, what to do? To top it off, these initial damages could give way to more deterioration.

 We are highly experienced in dealing with Cedar Hill fire damage. We also understand that fire, flood, and other forms of property damage are relatively rare for the property owner. Therefore, he does not have the experience in dealing with these damages. As a result, he may make the damages worse with his attempts. On the other hand, we have the knowledge, skills, and equipment needed to take care of every bit of damage on the property and restore the property to its previous condition before the damaging incident.

We aim always to restore whenever possible. We would instead fix your property's damaged elements than replace them. Sentimental value, intrinsic value, and the inconvenience of a lengthy demolition and reconstruction must all be considered during the planning stages. Of course, liaising with your insurance carrier can establish a realistic budget for proceeding, providing our customers with total satisfaction.

We at SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County recommend fast action in solving an issue and preventing secondary damages. We are available 24/7 and are strategically located so that we can provide our help. (972) 227-0800.

How Can Dallas Homeowners Prevent House Fires?

6/5/2022 (Permalink)

a fire damaged room with debris everywhere and soot covering everything Regardless of the room the fire happens in, team SERVPRO can help with cleanup, remediation and odor removing services. We are standing by 24/7.

Fire Damage Technicians in Dallas Discuss Prevention Methods

The chances of a fire taking place inside your Dallas home are higher than you may think. In the state of Texas, over 20,000 structures burn each year, and many of them cause extensive fire damage. Every week in Texas, three people die, and nearly $10 million in property damage is caused by fires. Structure fires cause over $200 million dollars of property damage in Texas each year. The good news is that many of these house fires can be prevented and taking the necessary steps can save you from suffering fire damage to your residence.

A big part of prevention is being prepared for the occurrence of disasters. Professional restoration companies like SERVPRO have programs designed to help you be prepared for any fire damage situation in Dallas. You can sign up and designate us as your official mitigation contractor which can speed up the process if a problem does ever occur. As a part of the process, our team comes out to your house and figures out where your water and electricity shut offs are located so that we know where to find them if needed. We also make sure that we have all of your contact information and that we can get a hold of the right person to receive work authorization as soon as possible.

As a part of making our SERVPRO team your official restoration contractor, we also advise and help you be prepared for any disaster. We will make sure you know the proper steps to take in an emergency. We can also help you devise an emergency action plan to help you stay safe and organized when and if a life-threatening situation like a structure fire occurs.

Cleaning The Ducts Can Prevent Dryer-Related Fire Damage

Appliances can also be a source for household fires. Old appliances wear out and become less efficient to operate, often causing not only safety issues but also higher utility bills. These older machines can also damage your belongings. Replacing them can save you quite a bit of hassle.

Homeowners rarely consider the possibility of fire damage in Dallas when purchasing a new washer and dryer set. An old dryer can easily cause a fire, leaving many people to fail to realize that it is the duct leading away from the back of the dryer where fires most often begin. Merely changing the old dryer for a newer one while leaving the ductwork in place does not help prevent a fire.

Changing the duct work and cleaning the vent can help prevent a fire from occurring. September is National Preparedness Month. Eliminating the risk of fire throughout your home can help keep your family safe for the entire year. Even if you do not install a new dryer, having the duct cleaned, as well as the vents, can help protect your family from such a disastrous event.

SERVPRO helps restore homes after a fire occurs, mitigating fire damage according to IICRC standards. Our technicians understand how a devastating fire can affect a family and the subsequent issues they must contend with on an ongoing basis. Our staff can help by quickly getting you back into your home “Like it never even happened.”

A fire related to a dryer and its vent can damage clothing, the laundry area, and other portions of your home indirectly with its smoke. We carefully work to resolve all of these issues and leave your home clean and odor-free. During our time working on your home, SERVPRO technicians keep you informed of your home's progress, assist you with insurance claims, and provide you with inventory sheets that give you information on your belongings.

One major thing that can help prevent a blaze from igniting inside your home is to make sure you have smoke detectors and that they are working properly. It is a good idea to get your detectors tested regularly to make sure that they are in good condition. If you ever have something that has burned inside your house, call SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County at (972) 227-0800 24/7.

What Fire Damage Mitigation Methods Does SERVPRO Use on HVAC Systems in Dallas?

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

Blazing kitchen fire When a kitchen fire strikes home, let SERVPROs IICRC certified fire damage restoration techs get your home back to preloss condition ASAP.

SERVPRO Takes Various Measures to Remediate HVAC Systems in Dallas.

When your Dallas home experiences fire damage, its HVAC system is often impacted. This serious problem could further spread fire-related pollution throughout your residence and cause additional harm over time. Fortunately, cleanup and restoration firms like SERVPRO know what it takes to do away with this potential threat.

Once onsite, SERVPRO’s Dallas fire damage mitigation technicians evaluate your home’s HVAC system and, if necessary, quickly get to work on cleaning or sealing it. These efforts are part of our house fire clean up experts’ smoke remediation and fire restoration duties. Their ultimate aim is to eliminate or neutralize smoke particles, and fire residues from the ductwork of fire damaged homes. The particular steps they take to do this are:

  • Taking off and cleaning air intakes and vent registers, as well as replacing the filter of the air handling system, if it isn’t permanent
  • Vacuuming up all smoke particles and other dusty, fire-related materials resting on surfaces throughout the HVAC network
  • Cleaning all interior surfaces of reachable ductwork with agents like “Wall and All Surface Cleaner (#351)” and removing residues from mechanical components 
  • Deodorizing and sealing ducts with a ULV fogger, using mindful professional techniques and safeguards to sanitize the HVAC system while protecting household contents successfully
  • Returning the system to its original state and placing additional deodorants within it to further complete the job

With all of that said, few other local companies can meet or exceed your fire damage mitigation needs like SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County can. So, whenever you need your HVAC system remediated or any other fire restoration assistance, don’t hesitate to call us at (972) 227-0800.

How are Odors Dealt with During Fire and Smoke Cleanup Efforts in Cedar Hill?

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO vehicle outside a job site. Smoke and odors from a fire are not an easy task to handle. SERVPRO fire damage mitigation specialists have all the tools needed for the restoration.

Cedar Hill Remediators Like SERVPRO Follow a Specific Process for Eliminating Odors.

One of the most troubling issues following a fire at your Cedar Hill residence are the persistent, foul odors that remain long after it has been extinguished. In order to successfully address this serious quality of life problem, systematic steps must be taken. This necessity makes it crucial to acquire the assistance of an experienced remediation company like SERVPRO.

When neutralizing fire-related odors, SERVPRO’s Cedar Hill fire and smoke cleanup experts adhere to a time-tested remediation process. This requirement ensures that not only are smoke remediation and fire restoration effectively completed at fire damaged homes but also their fire and smoke damage-related odors are successfully eliminated. The procedure our highly-trained technicians follow is:

  • Odor sources, like charred structural elements, dead animals, and contents, are located and removed from the residence
  • If some of these severely-impacted elements and materials are too impractical or costly to remove, their odors are sealed in with paint or by blocking off the affected areas and ductwork
  • Smelly residues are cleaned off surfaces throughout the home using dry, wet, abrasive, and innovative methods
  • Deodorants are applied to impacted areas and materials in the same ways we suspect fire and smoke deposited odors into them; for example, we treat smells resulting from smoke with deodorant fogging, those arising from liquids with injections of liquid smell neutralizers, while we use a combination of the two methods to deal with odors resulting from both
  • Powerful air movers, air scrubbers, and ozone machines are used to push out or neutralize fouled interior air

So, if you ever need fire and smoke cleanup work done, don’t hesitate to call the dedicated professionals at SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County. We are always ready for your call at (972) 227-0800.

How Essential Is Odor Control and other Fire Damage Finalization Procedures in Dallas?

1/13/2022 (Permalink)

woman holding nose because of foul smell Smoke odors linger long after the fire is extinguished. SERVPRO has the training and tools to remove the odors.

SERVPRO Helps Manage All Aspects of Fire Damage in Dallas Properties Conveniently

After repairing and cleaning your fire-damaged house, you might still feel that something is not right. Issues such as poor air quality can keep developing inexplicably. One reason for such a negative outcome is failing to perform finishing processes such as deodorization. Alternatively, the deodorization carried out might have been insufficient. One thing that SERVPRO assures Dallas homeowners is that all steps taken by our crews to fix damage from a fire are done to a satisfactory level eliminating chances of problems cropping up later.

Why Would Odors Linger After Addressing Fire Damage in Your Dallas Home?

Knowing what happens during a fire in Dallas is crucial when trying to understand odor characteristics. The combustion process:

  • Opens up pores in materials as it heats them
  • Deposits residues such as soot, tar, and ash on surfaces
  • Releases chemical agents such as Sulphur dioxide, Nitrogen oxides, and Lead

When combined, the influences of all these factors might lead to a persistent odor problem at your home. For instance, when pores open up due to excess heat, residues can penetrate deeper into materials. Cleaning rarely reaches such residues meaning that even when your home looks clean, you might still experience a trace of bad odor from the deeply embedded residues.

The residues deposited on surfaces also differ in many ways, including the physical form. Some, like wet smoke residues and tar, are difficult to clean, while others, such as residues from protein fires, are virtually invisible. Therefore, the people doing restoration might miss areas with such deposits leading to persistent odors.

Does SERVPRO Address These Issues When Cleaning Up a House?

Because the crew we send to your premises to address the fire damage includes IICRC certified Fire and Smoke Restoration Technicians, we know what to look for to determine how to ensure the restoration process addresses all issues. For instance, in case of a protein fire, we clean the entire house rather than just the areas with visible soiling. For severe soilings, such as the deposit of wet smoke residues on surfaces, we use superior cleaning methods or even strip off the affected surfaces. A thorough cleaning helps remove a significant percentage of the odors. However, specific deodorization procedures are still necessary.

How does Deodorization Work?

An odor signifies the presence of volatile molecules that dissipate into the air continuously. Given time, odors disappear on their own. However, waiting for the natural dispersal is not a great plan of action since you must endure the bad smell over extended periods. Odors can also transfer from the primary source to affect other materials, thus complicating the situation. Taking specific deodorization steps can help:

  • Neutralize the volatile molecules
  • Remove the source
  • Seal in the molecules

Deodorization requires the right resources, including equipment and products. Our SERVPRO technicians combine various methods to ensure a satisfactory outcome. For instance, apart from performing separate deodorization procedures, we also include odor control in other aspects of the restoration. On arrival at the property, we set up hydroxyl generators for continuous odor control. We also mix cleaning solutions with water-based deodorizing compounds to neutralize odorous compounds from areas where we remove soiling. Taking such a proactive approach helps simplify the processes needed during the main deodorization phase of the restoration.

What Determines the Choice of a Deodorization Method?

Unlike cleaning, which involves straightforward procedures, deodorization is more challenging since odor molecules are not something you can see or probe with some equipment. The choice of a deodorization method depends on:

  • The strength of the odor
  • The types of materials affected
  • The conditions during application

A strong deodorizing product is necessary to neutralize strong odors, but it should not create other odors. When mixing a deodorant with cleaning solutions, its effectiveness can change based on the dynamic pH levels of the cleaning water as it mixes with soils. Our SERVPRO technicians combat these challenges by using specially formulated agents that work at extreme pH levels and different temperatures.

In case the odor affects porous materials, you can expect deeper penetration, which can hinder the effectiveness of deodorizers if they do not penetrate the said material fully. Our odor control technicians can combat this by changing the delivery method. We have specialized equipment such as ULV misters and thermal foggers that help deliver the agent to all areas, including deep within materials. Thermal foggers deliver a blend of odor counteractants, aromatic phenolics, and fragrances in a solvent base, while the ULV misters help when using water-based deodorizers.

Neutralizing odors is crucial for your home to regain its pre-damaged state. Call SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County at (972) 227-0800 to help with deodorization. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster!

Content Management Solutions in Fire Damaged Dallas Properties

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

a fire damaged bedroom with soot and debris everywhere When fire damage happens, it’s good to know that the knowledgeable technicians at SERVPRO are just a call away. We are standing by 24/7 for you.

Let us Help Not Only With Your Dallas Home But With Your Contents as Well From Fire.

Protecting your belongings after any disaster is often the primary focus of Dallas homeowners. With the destructive force of fires and how quickly post-extinguishment effects can spread throughout the property, your possessions remain at risk until the right preventative steps get taken in the early mitigation stages. Our SERVPRO team works quickly to identify potentially at-risk items and the best solution for protecting them as we restore your home.

With so many levels of fire damage in Dallas residences, it can be difficult for a homeowner to pinpoint one specific threat and handle it exclusively. Our fire recovery team has the personnel and the equipment to address multiple conditions simultaneously to provide the most efficient and cost-effective solutions for our customers. We have a dedicated group trained to both identify which possessions require our attention and to implement pack-out procedures to move them safely to our nearby facility.

Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration and Cleanup

Our SERVPRO team has accreditations through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) in both Fire & Smoke Restoration (FSRT) and Odor Control (OCT.) Once your belongings have arrived at our SERVPRO facility, these same experienced professionals can inspect the items for damage and determine which focused cleaning techniques are necessary to restore them. Our state-of-the-art equipment plays a vital role in recovering damaged belongings in our warehouse.

Soot can be a challenging situation, especially from harder surfaces like silverware, porcelain, glass, marble, and other hard surfaces. Our ultrasonic submersion tank can help to clean all soot and residues from these materials by using millions of microscopic bubbles generated in the machine and their force of exploding against the surface of the damaged possessions in the tank. This reaction breaks the sediment and residue loose and pulls them away from the surface.

You cannot prepare for the damage that fire can do, but you can find a team that has both your home and its contents covered after a disaster. Give our SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County specialists a call to make any fire damage situation “Like it never even happened.” We are available 24/7 by calling (972) 227-0800.

Why Should Property Owners Rely on SERVPRO Restorers for Fire Debris Cleanup in Dallas Homes?

10/15/2021 (Permalink)

a fire damaged kitchen with soot covering the walls Fire damage in your kitchen can certainly impede having family meals. Call SERVPRO right away for fire debris cleanup and remediation services.

SERVPRO Has the Right Equipment and Decades of Experience in Handling Fire Damage in Dallas Properties

The cause of the fire in a property is often a malfunctioning heating system or an unattended gas cooktop. Once the fire department has dealt with the situation, it is essential to avoid restoring the property on your own. Get your property into preloss condition by hiring professionals like SERVPRO.

We offer professional fire debris cleanup services in Dallas, so you can be sure you are in good hands. To provide our customers with efficient services, we use innovative techniques, high-tech equipment, and tools. During the fire debris removal process, Our SERVPRO technicians can take the following steps: 

  • Secure the property - During the restoration process, we ensure that the property is protected from vandalism and harsh weather. Our team can board up any opening with plywood. 
  • Examining the damage - Our team assesses the affected area and informs the customer about the extent of the destruction and the necessary remediation procedures. 
  • Preserving your valuables - Our SERVPRO team can identify salvageable items and separate them from those beyond repair. Depending on the condition of the valuables, our IICRC-certified technicians can clean, dry, and repair them. 
  • Cleaning the affected area - Cleaning the fire debris and smoke strains is critical to your family’s health. We can use shampoo super concentrate mixed with brownout to correct browning on carpets and fabrics due to overwetting.

During this process, we minimize damage to protect you from facing high expenditures. SERVPRO can also remediate the water damage that could have been caused by the water that was used to put out the flames. Before we leave a property, we ensure that it is in its preloss condition or better. 

Fire debris removal requires unique skills as well as advanced tools and equipment. Contact SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County at (972) 227-0800 for effective fire debris removal to make it “Like it never even happened.”

How Do Professionals Implement Safety Strategies During Fire Damage Restoration in Dallas?

8/6/2021 (Permalink)

Closeup of fireman holding firehose; water rushing out of hose Water damage and fire damage go hand in hand. Let SERVPRO's IICRC trained techs restore your home.

Keeping Your Family and Our Workers Safe During a Dallas House Fire Clean Up is SERVPRO’s Priority

Surviving the fear and chaos fire and smoke damage causes Dallas homeowners and their families are just the start of the journey toward restoration. Because of copious quantities of firefighting water and the broad range of chemical changes undergone by your dwelling’s structural components, a Dallas house can become a dangerous place pending fire and smoke remediation.

Why Are Water and Fire Damage Restorations Linked After Dallas Blazes?

The extent of water incursion and damage potential when a Dallas home suffers a house fire can be substantial. SERVPRO is a precise fit to handle both water and fire damage mitigation and remediation. Our managers and technicians complete basic and advanced water and fire recovery training from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), the international standard-setting organization, leading to:

Water Mitigation and Remediation

  • Water removal tops the agenda, eliminating safety concerns such as slip and fall, electrical shock, and structural collapse due to trapped water.
  • Water is incredibly corrosive, urging rapid water removal, containment, and lawful disposal.
  • Failure to extract standing water and remove lingering moisture permits mold growth, which can cause health effects.

Smoke Damage and Soot Residue Remediation

  • This phase requires a comprehensive grasp of the characteristics of soot, the durability of household surfaces, and the matching of SERVPRO proprietary water or oil-based cleaners to soiling.
  • Fire restoration involves removing residues that potentially irritate through skin contact and inhalation, exposing homeowners and workers to combustion-caused carcinogens.
  • SERVPRO technicians contain work areas with heavy-duty barriers and air scrubbing equipment to protect your Dallas family from airborne and settled toxins during soot and smoke mitigation, remediation, and restoration

Count on SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County to provide the fire damage restoration industry’s best practices for your family’s safety and your property’s recovery. Call (972) 227-0800 to learn how we safely make it “Like it never even happened.”

Where There are Fire and Smoke, Dallas Residents Need Skilled Remediation

4/19/2021 (Permalink)

smoke entering room through bottom of door No matter how small the fire, smoke and soot travel throughout your home. SERVPRO knows how to clean and restore your fire damaged belongings.

Call SERVPRO to your Dallas Property to Handle Detailed, Efficient Fire and Smoke Remediation

Fire and smoke damage restoration and cleanup is something we do best here at SERVPRO. Whether you have a small kitchen fire or the need for smoke remediation after a garage fire, we have IICRC-certified technicians to get results quickly. We know what it takes to ensure no stubborn smoke odors linger after a fire, which is how we make it “Like it never even happened.”

There are many lasting effects of smoke damage if you are not careful. When you contact us for fire and smoke remediation in Dallas, we come to your home so that we can restore your interior back to pre-fire condition.

Some of the lasting impact that smoke and soot residue can have include:

  • Smoke particles can root themselves deeply into porous materials
  • Walls and ceilings can stain and deteriorate over a short period
  • Furnishings can become riddled with stubborn residue that causes lingering smells
  • Soot particles and smoke residue are corrosive, which can leave pitting on glass and significantly damage chrome, stainless steel, and other materials

Smoke damage is no match for our team at SERVPRO Southeast Dallas County. We have the smoke remediation and fire restoration techniques necessary to bring your home back to life. Call us 24/7 for emergency service at (972) 227-0800, and you will have a crew at your door within hours to get to work.

Dallas Homeowners Cut Costs When Using Skilled Fire Restoration

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

heavy smoke surrounding smoke detector Our team is always standing by and ready to remediate your fire and smoke damage.

Calling SERVPRO to Your Dallas Home is Best for Reliable Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration and Cleanup

The third-largest city in terms of population within Texas, Dallas is a great place to visit or put down roots. The city itself is well-known for both the cotton and oil industries and remains home to many railroad lines dating back many years. 

Diving into Dallas, TX, History, and Beginnings

The Caddo people originally inhabited the land that Dallas sits on, dating back before the Spanish colonists came and settled during the 18th century. The Red River became the northern boundary for New Spain in 1819 when the Adams-Onis Treaty got penned. This area stayed under Spanish rule up until 1821. During that time, Mexico had declared independence from Spain. 

Notable History: Dallas is known as the location of John F. Kennedy’s assassination. The 35th President of the United States met his fate when getting hit by two bullets as his motorcade passed through Downtown Dallas at Dealey Plaza. 

Don’t Miss the Best Neighborhoods in Dallas, Texas!

There are many excellent entertainment districts and neighborhoods throughout Dallas that bring locals and visitors everything they need for an exciting adventure. Whether you are looking for quaint settings, family-friendly outings, or vibrant nightlife, there is something in Downtown Dallas for everyone. Some of the more popular neighborhoods include:

  • Oak Lawn –This vibrant neighborhood in Central Dallas is one of the more gay-friendly areas in the United States. Whether you come for Purple Party Weekend, Dallas Pride, or one of the block party events, there is never a dull moment.
  • Deep Ellum –If you are looking for a night out on the town, there is nothing quite like Deep Ellum, a former warehouse district that is now loaded with hip bars, award-winning eateries, and great live music. 
  • The Cedars/Southside –Nestled in beautiful Southern Dallas, a growing community filled with popular restaurants and art galleries. You will find plenty of pleasant dining spots and entertainment, all available within comfortable walking distance.
  • Trinity Groves –When you visit Trinity Groves at La Bajada, you will find 15 acres of incredible retail locations, dining experiences, and artist-focused installations. Some of the top culinary delights in Trinity Groves include barbecue, Tex-Mex, and seafood.

Peace of Mind with House Fire Clean Up – Call SERVPRO for Dependable Fire Restoration Services

There are many working parts to fire damage restoration, making it even more critical to have skilled technicians on the job. When you have a fire in your Dallas home, SERVPRO can be there to get the cleanup started quickly. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster!

Our team understands that any fire restoration in Dallas can be chaotic, but we make each step easy. Here is what it looks like:

  • Contact our 24-hour number to deploy our water & fire damage restorations crew
  • We arrive within hours of your call for inspection and assessment
  • Our team can provide emergency boarding and tarping, as needed
  • We handle the cleanup of any standing water left behind from first responders
  • Smoke remediation begins, addressing soot and smoke residue with the appropriate cleaning methods
  • All affected areas get sanitized and deodorized
  • We can perform controlled demolition, as needed

Call (972) 227-0800 when you need help with fire restoration. Our team at SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County will make your home “Like it never even happened.”

Can Content Cleaning Prevent Irreparable Fire Damage in Cedar Hill?

3/15/2021 (Permalink)

Home with fire damage You can contact our professionals 24/7. Our fire damage experts are trained in fire & smoke restoration, odor control, upholstery and fabric cleaning.

SERVPRO Professionals Can Clean Soot and Smoke Residues Before Unnecessary Damage Occurs. 

Fires are one of the consistent threats that Dallas area communities like Cedar Hill face regularly. Despite how rapidly these emergencies can develop, homes do not have to become overwhelmed by carcinogenic hazards like soot and smoke residues. We have efficient cleaning strategies to target these particles and soils before staining and damage to the finish occurs. 

How Can Soot Get Removed from Contents? 

Your personal belongings are among the most challenging items to protect and clean after a fire in Cedar Hill, often because they are located in the areas with the most significant concentrations of soot, odors, and other contaminants. Relocating your possessions can be an initial step to protect them, but they often require off-site cleaning and restoration at our SERVPRO facility. These cleaning options include: 

With how damaged your possessions and personal belongings can become, our SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County team can help with thorough cleaning and recovery strategies for your Cedar Hill property. Call us today at (972) 227-0800. 

Dallas Residents Can Participate in Wellness Wednesday

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damaged kitchen; debris on floor Fires leave a mess behind. SERVPRO has the manpower to remove the debris.

Workshop Concentrates Focus on Various Wellness Aspects in Dallas

The past year has led many people to focus on wellness, but it is more than a healthy body. This virtual workshop teaches Dallas participants different types of self-care regimens that benefit the body, mind, and spirit. Building physical health plans, spirituality, social health among isolation, and emotional well-being are topics covered by the class. Also covered is physical fitness, which can affect other aspects of a person's overall being, including longevity, beauty, antiaging, and stability of emotions. The workshop is presented by Jana Burbato, a Certified Holistic Health Practitioner specializing in nutritional counseling through whole foods. Moreover, she is a certified yoga instructor with more than 11 years of experience in the wellness industry. 

  • Date: January 27, 2021
  • Time: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM EST
  • Cost: Free

Dallas residents count on SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County at (972) 227-0800 for fire debris cleanup. Our restoration process enables property owners to benefit from the trained, certified technicians' advanced cleaning methods.

Taco Tuesday Done Right in Dallas

12/7/2020 (Permalink)

photo of a filled taco, yummy Don't let your Dallas house burn down from the flaming hot deal for Taco Tuesday--SERVPRO Warning!!

Join in the Feast During the Dallas Observer’s Tacolandia Taco Stop at the Dallas Farmers Market, Benefiting the North Texas Food Bank

No worries about dinner on Tuesday, December 8, 2020 -- Tacolandia Taco Stop has it covered. Be one of the first to enjoy what is sure to become a recurring event, indulging in tacos made every way -- soft, spicy, crunchy, sweet, and savory. Drive through for a safe and easy delivery from six outstanding purveyors of taco deliciousness right through your vehicle’s open window. Quench your thirst as well with a specially prepared Tacolandia Taco Stop Beverage Kit, all included in the price.

When the need for a taco hits after the drive-through, head out to devour free tacos. With your exclusive Tacolandia Taco Stop Card, one free taco from more than 15 participating restaurants is all part of the deal on December 8th.

  • Where: The Shed at The Dallas Farmers Market
  • When: December 8, 2020, from 4:00 - 8:00
  • Tickets and more information available on the Tacolandia Taco Stop website.

Fire mitigation is one of SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County’s core services. If you need help after a household fire call us at (972) 227-0800 for a fast assessment and rapid recovery.

What Solvents Do I Need to Remove Smoke from Walls?

6/15/2020 (Permalink)

heavy  smoke and soot on fire damaged walls Let SERVPRO remove smoke damage from your Dallas walls.

SERVPRO Fire Restoration Technicians in Dallas Stock a Full-Range of Solvents and Chemical Cleaners for Smoke Removal

Do all solvents remove smoke?

Solvents are powerful cleaning methods that need to apply with caution when removing smoke from the walls of your Dallas home. Most solutions, like most smoke residues, have a neutral, alkaline, or acidic base. These industrial cleaners can be ineffective, or even cause further harm to your home, if they are not applied correctly. To assess different types of smoke, SERVPRO technicians use Litmus paper to record the acidity or alkaline level. We can then match the pH level to the equivalent acid or alkaline cleaner. When applying these to a smoke residue, the goal is to restore the area to a neutral level by using an alkaline on acid or vice versa. Doing so requires some expertise as well as careful measuring of the specific smoke residue.

Does it take time to remove smoke residues?

One of the essential parts of fire restoration in your Dallas home is time. Dwell time is how long a chemical agent needs to suspend smoke residues or soils. These usually take ten to fifteen minutes, but leaving a solvent too long can damage the surface. Once smoke residues successfully suspend in a solvent, our technicians can use a rinsing agent to remove both the soiling and the solution. Often, we can sand the affected surface after solvent cleaning to provide a smooth surface for repainting or an odor-sealing primer.

How do I choose the right solvent for smoke soiling?

  • Use litmus paper to understand the acidity or alkaline of the smoke soiling
  • Inspect the smoke residue and the sources of the fire to realize whether deposits are water or oil-based
  • Always vacuum the surface before applying solvent to remove any unbonded soots

Removing smoke residues from walls is complex and requires different types of equipment. Contact SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County at (972) 227-0800. 

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Why Would I Want the Stress of Packing-Out the Contents of My Dallas House After a Fire?

6/3/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technicians packing items in a box Our SERVPRO technicians will assist you through every step of your homes fire damage recovery.

A Planned Move-Out of Furnishings, Household Goods, and Personal Possessions Enhances Their Chance of Restoration While Hastening On-Site Mitigation and Remediation of Fire Damage in Dallas

Not many household disasters overwhelm a homeowner as profoundly as a fire. The magnitude of the damage and the aftermath can be enormous. Damages include aspects the average resident never considered, including significant firefighting water destruction that experienced professionals must manage immediately. A double hit of contaminated water saturation and gritty, sticky soot damage exposes the contents of your Dallas home to the potential of severe adverse consequences, including ruin unless restorers employ creative and proven solutions.

What Options Are Available to Restore and Safeguard the Contents of My Home?

When a devastating event like fire damage happens in Dallas, sometimes a constructive way to organize the chaos is to move your furnishings, household goods, and personal possessions off-site. This well-reasoned strategy of dividing and conquering can reduce your stress if you trust the pack-out process and understand how the now-separate locations of your home's damaged structure and compromised contents contribute to a successful outcome of the overarching crisis.

Why Do We Recommend Partial or Full Pack-Outs After Fire Damage?

What is the Benefit of a Pack-Out at Your Home?

Water removal and fire residue cleanup are challenging enough without SERVPRO technicians required to shift furnishings and personal property continuously. As our Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC)-trained Water Damage Restoration Technicians (WRT) and Fire and Smoke Restoration Technicians (FSRT) move from damaged space to space inside your house, the water removal and fire cleanup are much more streamlined if floors are clear of large items. Moisture and fire residue levels inside your home immediately decrease with a pack out.

What Are the Benefits for Packed Out Items?

Homeowners sometimes toss out items our team could save due to the lack of space to spread out damaged articles for review, and the pressure on the on-site mitigation and remediation tasks. The frantic pace slows a bit after the pack-out, encouraging our production facility technicians to sort through the fire-damaged items carefully. We work alongside you with your insurance company, our detailed Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS), providing precise documentation of your property's condition at every step of the restoration process. If an item cannot be restored, we back this up to help you obtain the appropriate claim amount from your carrier.

Who Takes Responsibility for the Pack-Up and Pack-Back?

Our crew follows meticulously designed protocols to pack-up and create an inventory for your possessions. We use a mix of traditional lists, digital photographs, and barcoding to account for the location and condition of all articles we remove from your home. Each item is processed appropriately and then tracked and stored in climate-controlled spaces at our warehouse until we arrange to return it to your cleaned, dried, disinfected, and deodorized home.

What Specialized Cleaning and Drying Solutions Are On the Menu for My Possessions?

When we evaluate items at our production facility, we select from a  wide range of cleaning and drying strategies to return your personal property to previous functionality and appearance. 

For example, we consider the following targeted cleaning methods for packed-out objects:

  • Textiles and other soft possessions benefit from laundering in our industrial washing machines or sub-contracting to dry cleaners familiar with the challenges of removing soot and other fire and water damage residues from clothes, linens, and window treatments.
  • Loose, non-permeable articles clean more efficiently when soaked in immersion tanks filled with a solution of water and proprietary cleaning solutions or solvents, in the case of oil-based soiling.
  • Ultrasonic machines use sound waves to dislodge ground-in and deeply entrenched soiling of intricately detailed solid items. 
  • Upholstery cleaning by trained technicians shows better results in our contained space where airborne debris is not present to resoil the fabric.

Unique drying strategies help with both firefighting water saturation and post-cleaning dampness:

  • Freeze-drying of papers and photos stabilizes wet documents, books, and images. First, the object has its temperature lowered below freezing. Then, skilled technicians use the process of sublimation to transform the frozen water into a vapor without the intervening liquid step.
  • Small drying chambers permit our technicians to manipulate the balance of air movement and temperature needed to evaporate moisture before dehumidifiers capture the vapor for disposal.
  • Commercial tumble dryers return rugs, clothes, rugs, and other textiles to preloss condition.

Let SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County demonstrate how we can help your house and home recover from the many aspects of fire damage. Day or night, we receive your call to (972) 227-0800.

Extracting Fire Damage In Dallas

5/21/2020 (Permalink)

Living Room On Fire SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County saves your home with service that is Faster to Any Size Disaster.

Extracting Fire Damage from a Dallas Living Room

Living room fire damage can spread quickly, especially if your home is packed with flammable materials near the source of the fire. Carpeting, drapes, wood furniture, and books can all go up in flames quickly without a fast response. Once your Type A fire extinguisher or firefighters' efforts put out the fire, the cleanup considerations can be overwhelming for most homeowners.

If you need fire damage mitigation for your Dallas living room, SERVPRO technicians can come to your home within hours of your call. These technicians can restore your home to its preloss condition with cutting-edge fire damage cleanup technologies as well as water damage cleanup equipment if fire hoses saturate your home. SERVPRO techs and crew chiefs coordinate with both you and your insurance adjuster to ensure that you receive cleanup that is cost-effective, thorough, and in accordance with your insurance policy.

Types of Soot Damage

    •    Dry. This type of soot deposit is the easiest to clean. It tends to be dusty and almost odorless, and can usually be taken care of with simple mechanical cleaning tools or HEPA-filter vacuums.
    •    Wet. Wet soot results from low-heat, long-burning fires that affect moist materials. These soils tend to be foggy, more odorous, and messier to clean than dry doot.
    •    Protein. Protein residues, usually from cooking fires, are oily deposits that give off a strong, distinct odor. The residue itself is greasy and tends to smear instead of disappearing after a cleaning attempt. Protein deposits require enzyme digesters for cleanup.
    •    Oily. Oil-based products like mass-produced rubbers and plastics tend to become sticky and greasy after enduring a fire. Much like protein residues, oily soils are lipophilic and need specially-made cleaners to combat them.

SERVPRO Restores Your Living Space

Soot covers all types of surfaces and penetrates them in various ways. Windows, for example, may require a low-alkaline glass cleaner that dries to a neutral pH when the ammonia in it evaporates. Cabinet interiors require careful manual cleaning with a dry cleaning sponge. If the damage is extensive, it may require denatured alcohol or sanding.

SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County saves your home with service that is Faster to Any Size Disaster. When disaster strikes on your property, call for an IICRC-certified mitigation crew at (972) 227-0800.

For more about Dallas click here.

How Are Fire Damaged Contents from Your Dallas Home Restored by Professionals?

4/30/2020 (Permalink)

Woman looking dismayed while standing in fire damaged kitchen Restoring fire damage to your Dallas home is a job for the professionals.

SERVPRO Professionals Give Tips for Restore Smoke and Soot Damage in Dallas Homes

Restoring contents is a far better option than replacing them when it comes to fire damage. Whether it is the walls or ceilings, upholstery or any other article that is damaged by a fire, professionals can restore it by using various cleaning techniques.

Restoring fire damage to your Dallas home is a job for the professionals. Successful restoration requires extensive knowledge about the damage caused by fire and years of experience. SERVPRO technicians can use multiple techniques to clean up the damage caused by smoke and soot following a fire damage incidence.

Dry Cleaning Fire Damaged Contents in Dallas

It is a technique that is best for light to medium, non-greasy damage. Feather dusters or cleaning cloths can be used during this step of cleaning. It is sometimes the first step before more thorough cleaning is attempted.

Wet Cleaning Smoke and Soot in Dallas

As the name implies, wet cleaning involves the use of a liquid to remove smoke and soot residue from the surfaces. This method can be employed by SERVPRO professionals if the damage is moderate to heavy. The process often involves cleaning with water with or without detergent in it.

Spray and Wipe Technique for Dallas Area Fire Damage Restoration

It is a technique used to clean surfaces that can be damaged by the excess of cleaning liquid. As the name implies, technicians can use a spray bottle filled with a cleaning solution to spray the damaged area and then wipe it with a clean cloth.

Foam Cleaning to Remove Smoke in Dallas Homes

The technique involves the use of a cleaning agent foam and is most useful for cleaning upholstery. This method ensures that there is minimum damage due to bleeding of dyes as the very small amount of liquid is involved.

Abrasive Cleaning for Fire Damage Remediation in Dallas

If the smoke and soot residues are too tough to get off by wet or dry cleaning, professionals can use an abrasive surface such as a scrub. The scrub can agitate the stain-causing particles and remove them without harming the surface underneath.

Immersion Cleaning to Fire Damage in Dallas

SERVPRO technicians can use this technique if the material is safe to be completely immersed in a cleaning liquid. The process is ideal for Venetian blinds among other things. If the stain is too tough to remove, ultrasonic sound waves can be used to loosen it before wiping it away with a cloth.

Call SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County today at (972) 227-0800 to speak to one of our fire restoration experts.

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We Put The Flames Of Worry Out In Dallas After A Fire

3/10/2020 (Permalink)

A kitchen covered in soot and smoke damage after a fire disaster We have the experience, state-of-the-art equipment, and advanced training to restore your home to pre-damage condition after a fire.

How Professional Fire Damage Cleanup Works in Dallas Homes

Fire damage is not an uncommon occurrence in a home. Particularly on a small scale. Pans overheat and flame up, candles sometimes get knocked over, and cigarettes rolling out of ashtrays are all frequently seen reasons fires happened. When only a minor area gets affected, homeowners clean up the smoke and soot. However, any size of fire loss has the potential to leave behind unhealthy, odorous residue.

Even a seemingly small around of fire damage in a Dallas kitchen should have professional cleanup and restoration and the reasons why are many. First and foremost, soot spreads quickly, and anywhere it covers, it has the potential to irritate the skin, contribute to breathing difficulties in some individuals and cause unpleasant odors.

Stopping Cross-Contamination

SERVPRO techs cover doorways and vents to limit the spread of soot outside the loss area. In some cases, the techs set up negative air chambers to capture and port away soot and eliminate the chance of spreading throughout the property. If the HVAC system ran post-fire, the techs commonly inspect and clean if necessary as a part of the mitigation process.

Cleaning Smoke Residues

As fire damage spreads, anywhere the smoke goes, it leaves its mark. Testing the smoke for the type of residue and the kind of surface being clean narrows down the choice for the kind of application used. Just because an item has extensive smoke damage does not mean it is a loss. When SERVPRO techs carefully clean away the soot and smoke residues using their professional-grade solutions, things thought to be a loss can be a restoration success story. Wet smoke, in particular, requires deep cleaning with solvent-based cleaning agents to release its grip on surfaces.

Attention to Air Quality

This is one of the most significant differences between DIY cleanup and professional restoration services is in the ability to improve air quality. Consumer-grade devices do not have the power to eliminate airborne particulate at the same level as the air scrubbers.

SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County at (972) 227-0800 has the certified techs with the equipment and experience to handle any type of fire damage and restore homes to their preloss condition, "Like it never even happened."

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Strategies for Cleaning Fire Damage In Dallas

9/24/2019 (Permalink)

Burning House SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County is highly-qualified to manage all aspects of a fire loss.

Strategies for Cleaning Unfinished Wood Supporting Structures after Fire Damage in Dallas

Wood and wood products are common conventional building materials in Dallas. When a fire starts and spreads throughout your home, the chances are good that structural components such as wood framing, stairs, and subfloors might show effects. Tearout and replacement of load-bearing components is a huge undertaking and expense. The disruption suffered during the demolition and rebuilding of any wood features means a long-term displacement of your family.

Safety Concerns Set the Tone
After fire damage in your Dallas home, our team arrives quickly to evaluate and plan out the project. Although we take a restoration approach to even severe damage, our project managers use their Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) training and experience to assess the risks your fire damage circumstances pose. In scenarios where the structural integrity of your home is impossible to assure because of components weakened by the fire, we work with local officials and your insurance company, keeping you apprised, determining what demolition and rebuilding must be done for continued safety.

Strategies to Recover Unfinished Wood
Once safety concerns are addressed, SERVPRO looks carefully at the “bones” of your home after a fire. This means we inspect the framing in all areas for smoke absorption, sooty residues, and charring. Our project plan focuses on thorough cleaning of these hidden structures because of the potential for progressive deterioration due to the corrosive nature of fire residues. Also, the malodors retained by unfinished wood compromise your quiet enjoyment of your dwelling. Debris and residues allowed to remain cause the smells to linger indefinitely.

Mechanical Means Used to Remove Residues and Charring
The goal when cleaning up unfinished wood is to reach clear, uncompromised material on the eventual new surface. SERVPRO employs scraping and wire brushing to achieve that goal. On some jobs, we consider abrasive blasting to more efficiently power through heavy layers of residue and charring. The abrasives available for blasting include dry ice, sponge, soda ash, or ground corn cobs. Before we proceed with this method, consultation with a structural engineer is recommended to ensure the strategy does not unduly weaken the unfinished wood.

Sealing Is An Option
When our efforts to clean down to unblemished wood does not eliminate the smell, demolition and replacement is not the only answer. Malodor-carrying particles deep inside and invisible can be contained and rendered inoffensive through sealing of the unfinished surfaces with an appropriate professional-grade product.

SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County is highly-qualified to manage all aspects of a fire loss. Call us at (972) 227-0800 day or night to schedule a fire recovery assessment followed by rapid implementation of a full-spectrum remediation plan.

For more about Dallas click here.

Fire Damage in Your Dallas Residence May Call for Expert Odor Removal Services

8/29/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO truck in a customers driveway. SERVPRO has not fear, smoke odor will come clear in your Dallas residence.

Please don’t let smoke odor take over your home, let us take care of everything in your Dallas home.

Data from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) shows that over 358,000 home fires occur annually. For property owners who can return and live in their homes, there is both good news and bad news. Although their property is salvageable, they have to deal with the smoke and fire damage.

It is daunting to eliminate the smoke smell in your Dallas home after fire damage, but not impossible. Stubborn smoke odor can linger in your house for a long time, compromising the quality of indoor air. The tiny smoke particles usually stick to household surfaces and become embedded into porous materials like fabrics, drapes, carpeting, furniture, and paint. It takes a high amount of effort and specialized cleaning equipment to remove these particles. The following cleaning steps can help you eliminate most of the lingering smoke scent in your house.

Air your house

Allowing fresh air to circulate in your property is a great way to remove smoke particles from your living area. Open all doors and windows, and set up fans on high, while aiming them at the corners of the rooms to direct smoke particles outside. You may also use air purification fans to remove smoke particles from your property.

Clean items made of fabric

Fabrics absorb smoke readily, so wash or dry clean all drapes, clothing, pillows, furniture covers, area rugs, linens, blankets, and other possessions made of woven material. Keep all the

cleaned, woven items away from your house until it is free of smoke particles and odors.

Clean the upholstery

Cleaning all upholstery can help you eliminate the lingering smoke smell. You can enlist a specialist upholstery cleaning service for this task.

Clean your carpets

Smoke particles can make their way into carpets, including the carpet fibers. To eradicate the odor, sprinkle baking soda liberally over the carpet and let it sit overnight. After that, vacuum the carpeting thoroughly using a vacuum machine with a HEPA filter.

Clean hard surfaces

Hard surfaces like countertops, appliances, and windowsills could harbor smoke particles. Giving your entire home a deep clean can go a long way in eliminating the smoke scent.

After following the above steps, you may still discover that odor is hanging around or the smoke damage is overwhelming. In that case, you can seek help from SERVPRO franchise professionals. We have assisted homeowners in restoring their homes following a fire for decades.

Our crew understands how odor molecules permeate a building and how to use different odor removal methods. Our SERVPRO technicians use odor removal equipment like hydroxyl machines and ULV foggers to eliminate stubborn smells. We can also purify the air to remove bad odors from indoor air. We can achieve this by using air scrubbers, electronic filters, or ventilation fans.

When there is a stubborn odor in your property, you can trust SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County to help you remove it. Call us anytime at (972) 227-0800. We can eliminate the smoke scent to make it “Like it never even happened.”

If you would like to know more about Dallas, click here.

After A Fire In Your Dallas Home, We Will Restore Your Items!

7/9/2019 (Permalink)

We can deal with the effects of fire damage to make it appear “Like it never even happened.”

Restoring Contents After Fire Damage In Your Dallas Home Can Help You Save Money

In many Dallas homes, flammable liquids like solvents, fuels, thinners, cleaning agents, paints, and adhesives are present. These liquids can ignite or explode if homeowners store them close to stovetops, candles, and other sources of heat. Their vapors can ignite easily, even from weak ignition sources or high temperatures, leading to fire damage in a house. A fire disaster can cause financial, physical, and emotional challenges to you and your family.

If a flammable substance has ignited and caused fire damage in your Dallas home, it is critical to schedule restoration services as soon as you can to prevent further destruction of its contents because of smoke and soot. Smoke and smoke particles are products of incomplete combustion, and they can degrade the contents of your house within a few days.

It's more cost effective to restore the contents than it is to replace or refinish them. A content restoration firm like SERVPRO can salvage items like antiques, furniture, bedding, books, carpets, and clothing, among other items. We can remove smoke odor, ash, and soot from such items and dry the ones that water from firefighting efforts may have damaged.

When fire burns rubbers, plastics and other products containing oil, soot can turn into a greasy, sticky substance that smears instead of going away when you attempt to wipe it. Soot can also be resistant to water-based cleaning products since it contains oil. We have appropriate and environmentally products that can eliminate soot from your possessions. Our restorers analyze the contents in all the rooms to identify which ones to restore and which ones require replacement. We use several methods to clean different items in a house, including:
 
• Dry cleaning

• Wet cleaning

• Foam cleaning

• Spray and wipe

• Abrasive cleaning

• Immersion cleaning

Our Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration technicians (FRST) follow a unique cleaning process to eradicate harmful particles from contents. To restore rugs and carpets, we can use commercial grade vacuums to remove ash from the fibers and then utilize natural cleaning solutions to remove soot marks. We can also restore soft products like clothing, bedding, and draperies by taking them to our facilities for cleaning with an Esporta wash system.

Some contents like upholstery can present challenges during the restorative cleaning process, such as shrinking because of dampness. We can restore such items using foam cleaning instead of other types of wet cleaning. If the fire damage in some of your contents is severe, our SERVPRO crew can document the non-salvageable items and place them on a non-restorable list to streamline the insurance claims process so you can be free from stress.

When a fire has ruined the contents of your property, call SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County at (972) 227-0800 for restoration services. Our technicians can help you restore the salvageable items to their preloss condition. We can deal with the effects of fire damage to make it appear “Like it never even happened.”

For more about Dallas click here.

When Your Dallas Home Suffers Fire Damage The Crew You Can Count On Is SERVPRO!

5/29/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County can put your mind at ease when your home has been struck by fire damage.

SERVPRO Can Get Your Fire Damaged Dallas Home Back To Pre-Damage Condition!

Fires are always a major concern for homeowners in Dallas. Even a small scale kitchen fire can spell consequences for your house's structure and may leave smoke residue all over cooking surfaces and kitchen appliances. These problems can be difficult to address without professional assistance, which is why SERVPRO offers fire damage restoration services to quickly assist you with getting your house back in order.

Our IICRC (The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) certified fire and smoke damage technicians (FSTs) have experience with mitigating fire damage in Dallas homes. After assessing the damage to your kitchen, our FSTs can get to work removing fire debris and structural pieces damaged beyond repair. Smoke can coat your kitchen surfaces in a strong smelling residue which can be difficult to remove on your own. Luckily, kitchens are typically composed of washable surfaces which can be sprayed with cleaning agents, making the restoration process more efficient. Our techs can use vacuums to suck up loose smoke particles on surfaces and can use industrial-grade cleaning agents to remove smoke residue. We can carefully assess each damaged surface in your kitchen to determine whether dry or wet cleaning methods should be used.

Residues and fire debris in your home can cause strong odors that may be unpleasant for you. Once the odor sources have been removed, we can deodorize your home. FSTs can spray deodorizers in a manner resembling how the odors traveled through your home. This ensures that the deodorizers penetrate deep into your home where odor particles may be hiding.

We are also capable of restoring your favorite cookbooks because we know it can be heartbreaking to lose your favorite recipes to a fire. FST's can dry clean your books to remove smoke particles from the cover and edges. Book pages can be restored with the use of an eraser that can remove additional smoke particles.

SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County can put your mind at ease when your home has been struck by fire damage. Call us at (972) 227-0800 to begin the fire restoration process.

Click here for more about Dallas.

Should You Hire a Professional to Remove Debris From Your Dallas Home After Fire Damage?

5/6/2019 (Permalink)

From demolition to restoration, SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County has you covered.

Addressing Structural Concerns and Debris After a Dallas Housefire

With the severity of many fires that can affect Dallas homes, structural concerns are a common place to begin damage assessment and recovery. With the extensive training and experience of each facet of our recovery team, we can address all of the effects of a recent fire to return your property to preloss condition. With both Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certified Fire & Smoke Restoration Technicians as well as licensed contractors that can handle repairs and build back, we offer a comprehensive approach to restoration.

When it comes to fire removal for debris and ruined structural elements in your Dallas home, we have divisions of professionals within our ranks to oversee various aspects of this recovery process so that mitigation work can begin on schedule. We strive to offer each customer with a fast and efficient approach to getting work started in their home after a fire, and much of this hinges on our ability to accurately assess the damage to structures with the help of our management and estimator.

This crucial step also helps to secure insurance claims to afford the restoration work to get performed, and we can take the necessary time to compile the documentation and photographic evidence your provider needs to approve this claim. Additionally, our SERVPRO team can begin work to remove overly damaged construction materials and the lingering debris and remains of a home in some of the more heavily affected portions of the house.

Controlled demolition is a guided practice throughout debris removal in your fire-damaged home. This work gets overseen by our contracting specialists. This guidance through the demolition process ensures both that only the damaged portions of your property get removed and that the area gets fully prepared for the reconstruction work to follow by our SERVPRO licensed contractors.

Debris removal and cleanup services can define how quickly and efficiently restoration and recovery in other phases occur. We take the time to do each step of restoring your home correctly so that we can save our customers time and money. You can count on the experience and equipment of our SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County professionals. Give us a call anytime at (972) 227-0800.

Read more about Dallas here.

Dallas Fire Loss Property Owners Have a Helping Partner in SERVPRO

1/14/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Says to Dallas Homeowners--Watch the Pot and Avoid Kitchen Fires

Common Causes of Fire and Fire Damage to be Aware of in Your Dallas Home

The thought of everything you own going up in flames in your Dallas home is quite a frightening image and many homeowners’ worst fears. However, it can happen, and it is best to know ahead of time the most common causes of fires in the home so that you can try to avoid them. Your entire family should know common fire safety practices to help keep everyone safe.
 
Fire and fire damage in your Dallas home is something that you want to avoid at all costs. If you have already been through a fire, reach out to our professionals at SERVPRO. We can help you clean up the damages and restore your home to the way it was before the fire, helping to erase the bad memories of the event, "Like it never even happened."
 
The busiest room in the home is the kitchen, and it is also the area where fire danger is most likely. While the kitchen is the room which sees the most people, it is usually when they are not there that accidents happen. It is recommended that someone is always in the vicinity when there is food cooking, whether it is on the range or in the oven. SERVPRO techs have much experience with cleaning up kitchen fires and have the knowledge and tools to help you out if this happens to you.
 
Chimneys are another dangerous area of your home if you own a fireplace. Failure to clean up the buildup of creosote in chimneys is the leading cause of fires from heating equipment. You should service your chimney on an annual basis, letting professionals clean the highly flammable creosote from your chimney. Also, keep anything that can catch fire away from any fixed or portable heater.
 
Electricity has safety hazards because of equipment that can malfunction. Almost ten percent of fires involve electrical lighting equipment. When you use appliances, do not plug cords in which are damaged, whether they are bare, frayed, or loose. Also, avoid overloading any circuits by having too much plugged in.
 
Scented candles are pleasant to have burning in the home, but it is easy to forget that they have open flames. Never leave a room unattended with a burning candle, especially if you have pets or young children. Candles need to be placed in a sturdy holder to lower the risk of them being tipped over.
 
When a fire does occur in your home in Hutchins, Lancaster or Seagoville, reach out to us at SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County right away. We can help you to restore your home when you call us at (972)227-0800, so don’t wait, as more damage is done the longer the soot and smoke are allowed to sit.

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After A Fire Our Team Can Help Restore Your Dallas Home!

12/17/2018 (Permalink)

You shouldn't put yourself at risk in assessing the extent of the damage to your property after a fire has gotten extinguished.

The Risks Of Self-Assessment After A Fire In Your Dallas Home

Many Dallas homeowners strive to provide their own level of care and repair to their property whenever an issue or unforeseen event occurs. While undoubtedly there are areas where this can save you money, certain circumstances require skilled technicians and specialized equipment to overcome. Even with a seemingly smaller-scale fire in your house, the effects lingering after extinguishment could prove hazardous to your health or even more challenging to remedy on your own.

While you often get the first look at fire damage at your Dallas home from the outside, it is important to not rush into the house after the first responders have extinguished the blaze. Combustion can cause multiple health hazards for those entering the scene of a recent fire, and that is a situation that our SERVPRO technicians get prepared to face with extensive training in the use of personal protective equipment.

Our rapid response team includes our experienced technicians able to get to work on mitigation from the moment that we arrive, but also a knowledgeable member of our estimation division. This professional becomes responsible for determining the full measure of the damage to the property, the estimated cost to restore it, the equipment necessary to do so, and any hazards and health risks that persist in the house. Determining these possible problems early can help our SERVPRO technicians to focus our mitigation and reconstruction efforts in these areas before proceeding with a full restoration.

As a licensed residential and commercial contractor for our service area, we have the expertise to determine which construction materials require replacement and which can get preserved with our restoration efforts. Our experience in this area helps to save our customers time and money by offering the most efficient approach to entirely restoring their homes.

You shouldn't put yourself at risk in assessing the extent of the damage to your property after a fire has gotten extinguished. Our SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County rapid response team can experience the full measure of the damage and the appropriate steps to restore it. Give us a call anytime at (972) 227-0800.

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Different Types Of Smoke Particles To Expect During Fire Damage Restoration In Dallas

7/25/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage incidents can lead to the production of free-floating or driven smoke.

Different Types Of Smoke Particles

Fire damage incidents can lead to the production of free-floating or driven smoke. Driven smoke refers to the smoke which is propelled and pressurized by the energy that the fire generates. This form of smoke usually affects vertical surfaces. After the driven smoke cools, it transforms to free-floating smoke - which is usually heavier when compared to air and settles on horizontal surfaces. Irrespective of the type of smoke in your Dallas property, you need professional restoration services to prevent further damage and salvage your contents.

When our SERVPRO technicians are choosing the methods of fire damage remediation in Dallas, we look at the type of smoke residues, the structure, and the surface with the particles. For instance, if the structure experienced a protein fire - fires from burning fish, poultry, and meat - then we expect to deal with an oily and dense texture. Protein fires slightly discolor cabinet surfaces and painted walls. The primary challenge when dealing with them is the extreme pungent that they produce, which means we have to employ thorough odor removal techniques.

If you rely on fuel oil as a source of heat, then you should expect fuel oil soot when the oil burner malfunctions. Also, a puff-back may occur when the heat exchanger has a crack and an improper vent. This kind of soot has some dust particles which originate from the duct-work as well as fuel oil which has gone incomplete combustion. It is easy to remove while fresh, though, it can stick and create a strong bond with the painted walls and make it hard to remove if left for an extended period.
Our SERVPRO technicians also determine whether we are dealing with wet or dry smoke residues. It is quicker to clean dry residues when compared to wet residues, and this helps us to establish whether to use less aggressive or harsher cleaning techniques.

SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County provides 24-hour emergency services that meet residential and commercial restoration and cleaning needs. Call us at (972) 227-0800 and schedule an appointment to learn more about our services.

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Fire Damage Experts in Dallas Describe Chemicals Used for Cleaning Soot

6/21/2018 (Permalink)

Seeing your home after fire damage can be overwhelming. Contact SERVPRO for an assessment and effective remediation services.

SERVPRO Technicians Evaluate Fire Damage to Determine the Appropriate Method to Clean the Soot in Your Home

Whenever a fire starts inside your house in Dallas, whether it is big or small, smoke can cause many problems. When a fire burns, not everything burnt in the blaze completely combusts. Partially combusted fuels get released into the air in the form of smoke. Smoke can travel throughout any structure and leave behind foul odors and soot residues.
 
If building materials and contents get covered in soot, the soils can ruin their surfaces. When mitigating fire damage in Dallas, the removal of soot residues is essential. Depending on several factors residues can be easy or difficult to remove.
 
Since the composition of soot can vary, our SERVPRO technicians utilize a variety of cleaning methods and chemicals during the cleaning process. Surfaces that are porous are best cleaned with dry soot removal methods. If wet chemicals are used on porous substances, then the soot can soak into the item causing more damage. Non-porous surfaces can be cleaned using wet chemicals and techniques because water will not soak the soils into material.
 
For most surfaces, our SERVPRO technicians can use a low-alkaline general surface cleaner. For areas affected with thick or greasy residues a heavy duty, high alkaline cleaner can be used. Some surfaces should be cleaned with chemicals that are specifically made for them.
 
For any glass surface, a specialized glass cleaner often gets utilized. Glass cleaners are slightly alkaline and contain ammonia. For wood surfaces, a wood creme cleaner can be effective. Wood cremes slightly polish wooden surfaces and can aid in deodorization.
 
Liquid creme cleaners work in the same way as wood cremes, and they can be used to clean grease and polish surfaces. Liquid cremes cannot be used on surfaces that are harmed by mild abrasives such as porcelain or enamel. Strong acid cleaners can be used to remove smoke and soot damage from stone and brick. Oxidizing cleaners are sometimes used when cleaning water-based organic stains and can help with deodorization.
 
Using the right product on the correct surfaces is essential to effectively clean problems with soot. In many cases, multiple types of methods are used until the most efficient technique is discovered. Any time you need help with smoke-related issues, call SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County at (972) 227-0800 24 hours a day.

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Commonly Asked Questions About Fire Damage Restoration In Your Dallas Area Home

2/26/2018 (Permalink)

Every fire damage situation is entirely different.

Fire Damage Restoration

Many questions come to mind after experiencing fire damage on your Dallas property. To help address some of our customer's more common concerns, we have put together a short list. Remember, if you have any additional questions or concerns, we are available 24/7, year-round.

Addressing a variety of questions from homeowners throughout Dallas, currently experiencing fire damage in their home comes naturally to our IICRC technicians. We frequently look to inform and educate our customers, which makes for a smoother, less stressful restoration experience for everyone involved.

How long does the cleaning and restoration process take?
Unfortunately, every situation is entirely different. There may be extensive water, smoke, and fire damage, along with cleaning, deodorization, and reconstruction issues to account for in your restoration. However, SERVPRO’s fire damage restoration team accurately assesses any damage found on your property and presents you with an estimated timeframe before beginning work.

Can I check my home and belongings after the fire?
After SERVPRO technicians have the opportunity to check for possible hazards, the team leader present on your property can walk you through everything, explaining damages that exist and the services we intend to implement as a solution. We want to ensure that you avoid any electric, water, or fire hazards, keeping you out of harm’s way.

What happens to our household contents during the restoration?
SERVPRO technicians help you decide which items remain salvageable and make arrangements to store furniture, electronics, and personal belongings in a clean, dry area on-site, in a container on-site, or if necessary, store items in our facility until each receives the proper restoration services.

Is it possible to remain in our home while the restoration is underway?
In most situations, you, your insurance company, and the restoration expert on-site help make this determination. It highly depends on the amount of fire, smoke, and water damage present that helps insurance adjusters determine whether it is safe for you to remain or not.

SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County provides emergency cleanup and restoration services for fire, water, storm, and mold situations throughout the Lancaster, Seagoville, and Wilmer areas. We provide members of our local communities with environmental services they can trust, call today (972) 227-0800.

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Fire Damage Restoration Specialists In Dallas

1/8/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Tip--Type B Fire Extinguishers Prevent Damage in Dallas Kitchens

SERVPRO Provides Dallas Homeowners with Professional Fire Clean Up and Restoration Services

House fires occur more often than you may think. One minute you could be cooking dinner in your Dallas home, then suddenly you look at the stove, and it is on fire. Grease fires are a common occurrence that can cause extensive damage to your house. Most people know that you should immediately put the fire out using baking soda or a fire extinguisher and not water. Hopefully, you have followed good practices and have that Class B extinguisher under your kitchen sink base cabinet.
 
We at SERVPRO in Dallas provide fire damage restoration services around the clock. Once the fire is no longer a threat, call us in to assess what damage the fire may have caused.
 
Our team of IICRC certified professionals at SERVPRO can complete a thorough inspection of your home. We can show up at your house shortly after you call us to help you out immediately. We can assess the visible damage from the fire, and look for damage that may not be visibly noticeable.
     
When dealing with a fire damage claim, there are a few different ways to mitigate the damage to your home. When items are extensively damaged, replacement may be necessary. Sometimes the damage is present, but it may only affect the surface of a wall or object and resurfacing solves the problem. Other times our crew can restore the problems caused by a fire with cleaning. Cleaning and restoration of the fire damage area can reduce the costs of the mitigation project.
 
We work hard to find the most efficient way to restore your home back to its preloss condition, "Like it never even happened." Our team has a vast arsenal of specialized chemicals (keep that fire extinguisher handy) and techniques that can salvage resurfacing or replacement of an item. We can even save heirlooms or cash with our restoration methods.
 
When you have a fire inside your home, large or small, it is vital that you call in the professionals. For prompt and thorough fire damage restoration services contact SERVPRO of  Southeast Dallas County at (972) 227-0800 at 24/7.

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Tiny Candles Can Create Substantial Fire Damage in Dallas Homes

11/24/2017 (Permalink)

Electrical lights and burning candles can quickly catch surrounding items ablaze in your home. Call SERVPRO if you experience fire damage this season.

If Fire Damage Strikes Your Home, Rely on SERVPRO to Properly and Thoroughly Remediate the Damage

Throughout Dallas at this time, every year, many different warnings flood radio and TV regarding the dangers of fire in homes. Safeguarding your family and home while still enjoying the lights and festive decorations do not always mix well. Fires do happen, and they happen when we least expect them.

Dallas homes lit up with electric lights and candles, can end up with fire damage. When electric lights burn too hot or have a short, a crimped or exposed wire, or candles catch surrounding items ablaze, the entire home can become engulfed in flames. Fire spreads quickly, which is why fire departments across the country advise people to get out before calling the fire department. Once outside and safe, calling the fire department and waiting for them to arrive can seem like a very long time.

Once firefighters extinguish a fire, most homes become inhabitable. The time involved in repairing fire damage depends on the extensiveness of the damage. Smaller fires might not render a home unlivable, but the damage still requires professional mitigation. Because fire damage, just like other kinds of damage, can affect a home in a wide range, SERVPRO professionals train to mitigate all types and sizes of damage.

Some fire damage might seem minor because it involves only decorations or other non-structural items. The smell from these items' combustion can produce long-term odors. As they burn, the fire causes soot and other particles to permeate the air. Once these substances settle onto and into materials within your home, they begin integrating. As they do this, people pick up these particles when they breathe.

Detected as bad odors, these particles continue to do this for months, or even years, until we eliminate them. Our Odor Control Technician (OCT) is skilled in this area of fire damage mitigation. Regardless of the size of a fire, odor becomes a constant reminder of the event. Making sure that the particles making the odor can no longer do so is part of our job. Without odor control management, fire damage remains.

The technicians at SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County want to help those in our area have the best holiday season, and beyond, possible. When fire damage might keep you from enjoying your life, home, and family time, call us at (972) 227-0800, and we can help you solve the disaster that continues to rob your family of their regular routines.

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Dallas Fire Damage - Understanding Smoke Residues

9/27/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke Cleanup After Fires in Dallas Properties Takes Professional Help--Contact SERVPRO

SERVPRO Explains the Nature of Fire & Smoke Damage in a Dallas Property


The primary source of damage to a home in a Dallas fire comes from smoke and soot, not the actual flames. The heat plays a contributing factor, but only as it provides a means of travel for smoke and soot and how it may expand the surface of an item.
 
Cleaning smoke, soot, and other fire damage from a Dallas home require understanding about what burned, how hot it burned, and the surface material of the item covered in residue, among other factors. When it comes to smoke, in particular, SERVPRO focuses on two in particular; temperature of the smoke and the temperature of surrounding surfaces.
 
Smoke travels through homes on the hot air generated by the fire. This transfer is called Convection. The hot air rises because cooler air forces its way downward to the floor. If the fire continues, it eventually draws the cooler air back up, heating it and the cycle repeats as long as the fire has oxygen and something to consume. These Convection Currents push smoke along ceilings.
 
Residues are harder to clean from ceilings and higher points in a home because of the higher temperature. The heat ‘opens up’ surface material, which allows the residues to penetrate deeper than they would at a lower point in the home.
 
Strangely enough, hot smoke attracts to surfaces with low temperature. That is why closets and windows collect such a thick residue coating. The side away from the fire usually has some insulation (closets) or has a much cooler, outside temperature (windows). These surfaces suffer little to no damage compared to ceilings, so the residues remain on top. They do not dig into a kitchen countertop as they do with ceiling tiles.
 
Understanding these two factors helps SERVPRO determine which methods of cleaning we need to use. For surfaces directly affected by heat, it may be necessary we use wire brushes or agitation devices to break up the residue trapped deep inside. If the surface has not been directly affected but has a thicker residue, our technicians try to use cloths and sponges with water or a chemical cleaner to remove the contamination.
 
Cleaning and restoring a home is never an easy process, but it can be a successful one if a professional service uses the right techniques and tools. For more information about what SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County can do for your home or to schedule an inspection, call us at (972) 227-0800 today.

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The Challenges Of Restoring Severe Fire Damage In Dallas

3/3/2017 (Permalink)

Whether it is unattended candles, malfunctioning electronics, or cooking mishaps; the damage is always serious.

Restoring Fire Damage


There are more ways than you might think to start a residential fire. Whether it is unattended candles, malfunctioning electronics, or cooking mishaps; the damage is always serious. Even if the amount of physical destruction is moderate, the stress involved with the cleanup and insurance tasks can be substantial.

The good news is that all cases of fire damage in Dallas homes (even the severe ones) can benefit from professional restoration. The extent of restoration depends on how much of the property is beyond repair on arrival. Nevertheless, our technicians do everything that they can to rescue possessions, furniture, valuables, and more. In some cases, the conditions of the fire make repairs harder. Continue reading to find out what these are and how we solve them.

Fragile Materials
Most items, even fabrics, don’t respond immediately to smoke damage. So, if they do not burn, a fast clean up can save them. On the other hand, oil paintings and other delicate valuables can get damaged by even the slightest contact with soot. To minimize damage, do not touch or move the items. We can send your artwork (particularly valuable oil paintings) to an expert restorer for cleaning. Movement must be limited during the removal because soot is acidic. Too much motion grinds it into the paint.

A Change In Temperature
We often find very oily, stubborn soot after house fires. It clings to walls and ceilings and can be tough to remove. The consistency of soot changes if there is a rapid shift in temperature. So, for example, if a fire crew uses cold water to extinguish flames. The temperature and humidity in the affected space shifts quickly and the consistency of the soot changes. It becomes more oily and adhesive. The SERVPRO technicians use a high alkali detergent to wash it off surfaces without creating smears and new stains.

Damaged HVAC System
If your ventilation system was in use during the fire, this could complicate the clean-up process. It can take a while to completely restore HVAC ducts because they are not easy to access. Plus, the airflow carries smoke, soot, and unpleasant odors around the home. You might end up with lingering smells in areas that weren’t directly affected by the fire. We can deal with this by setting up deodorizers and pulling the odor causing particles out of the air. As for the HVAC ducts, SERVPRO uses a combination of fans, air movers, air scrubbers, and deodorizing chemicals to repair the damage.

SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County is an experienced, reliable fire damage restorer. You can find us in your local area and contact our technicians for help at any time. Whatever the size or cause of your fire, we can provide a solution. Call us 24/7 at (972) 227-0800.

Avoiding Fires from Burning Candles in Your Dallas Home

2/12/2017 (Permalink)

Candles Are the Culprits Behind Dallas Fire Damaged Homes

Dallas Properties Are At Risk from Fires Causing Damage

Everyone loves the romantic glow of candles. The fragrance and ambiance that they create are like nothing else. However, you might want to think twice about lighting candles and then leave the room. Many house fires start from unattended candles, around one-third of these started in bedrooms. More than half of these fires begin because candles are set too close to flammable items. Candles should always be kept at least twelve inches from anything that can burn.
 
Additional causes of fires from candles and fire damage include someone playing with the candles. Something as simple as knocking the candle over if someone bumps a table or a pet brushing up against one is enough to spark a fire in your Dallas home. After a fire like this, you need the professional help of SERVPRO to repair and restore your home.
 
Keeping some safety tips in mind when it comes to candles is, therefore, critical.
 
Keep candles away from pets and children. Even though they might look nice on your coffee table, a wagging tail or passing child could easily tip the candle over. Keeping lighters and matches in a safe place is necessary. Lighting materials need to be stored high up and out of sight in a closet, pantry or kitchen cupboard. Children are often fascinated with fire, and you do not want to give them any temptations.
 
Using candles in the bedroom is not wise. Many candle fires begin in this room, and about half of the deaths from fires occur in the overnight hours between midnight and six. Also, make sure you are using the appropriate candle holders. Candles come in various sizes and shapes, so you need the right type of holder for each one. It is important to that you place them on surfaces that are durable and heat-resistant.
 
Once a candle burns down to two inches or less, get rid of it. Replacing a candle is a lot less costly than having to replace or repair your home. When you do need repairs from fire damage, however, the technicians at SERVPRO are the ones to call.
 
Don’t use candles during a power outage. Instead, use a battery-operated light or flashlight, as they are a lot safer. Night lights are also a lot safer than using a candle and are quite inexpensive. Remember not ever to leave candles unattended, and always follow the safety recommendations from the manufacturer.
 
If you do experience a fire, get out right away and call for help once everyone is safe. Do not ever go back into a burning home for any reason. After the fire is out, contact SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County as soon as possible so we can assess the damages and get to work quickly. Doing so eliminates the possibility of further damage from acidic soot and water soaked home. We can be reached anytime by dialing (972) 227-0800.

Understanding Factors Leading to a Chimney Fire in Dallas

1/16/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Says Keep the Chimney Clean in Your Dallas Home to Prevent Fire Damage

Trust SERVPRO to Inspect and Prevent Fire Damage

They add architectural interest to your home, but the real function of your chimney and the flue that lines it is to channel dangerous exhaust gasses from your wood stove, fireplace or furnace out of your home. A chimney enables the air in your home to stay breathable, just like windows and vents in your attic, bathroom, and the kitchen. Unlike other exhaust points in your home, wood stove and fireplace chimneys need special care to keep them working properly and prevent a fire.

As you sit in front of your wood stove or chimney in Dallas, enjoying the warmth, it is unlikely you are thinking about its condition. If you do not give some thought to it before lighting fires against the cold weather, however, your dirty chimney could cause a fire damaging your home. If a fire does occur, you will need professional help from SERVPRO, a trained fire damage restoration company.

A chimney fire can be quite massive. Indications of a fire can include a hot, intense smell, loud popping and cracking noises, and a lot of dense smoke. These fires can burn explosively with a lot of noise. They can often be dramatic enough for people passing by or neighbors to notice them. Dense smoke or flames can shoot out from the top of the chimney. Homeowners have reported being startled by a low rumbling sound much like a low flying plane or freight train. Many of these fires, however, go undetected.

Chimney fires which are slow-burning don’t have the air or fuel to be visible or dramatic, and many times go unnoticed until an inspection. However, the temperatures can get very high and cause as much damage to the structure and possessions of your home, as the more striking fires. A chimney not exhausting the heat, smoke, and gasses properly can endanger a home, so you need to have your chimney regularly inspected by a certified chimney sweep.

SERVPRO technicians are certified in HVAC cleaning and maintenance. Our technicians can check and clean duct work, flues, dampeners, and chimney caps to reduce the risk of a chimney flareup. Incomplete combustion can lead to carbon monoxide which is a lethal gas because it stealthly prohibits the body from absorbing oxygen. Signs that we look for include collapsed or cracked flue tiles, or chunks missing. Indicators of a problem can be honeycombed or puffy creosote, discolored or distorted rain cap, a warped metal of the damper, factory-built metal chimney or metal smoke chamber connector. Other elements suggesting a fire hazard can be cracks in exterior masonry, creosote pieces and flakes on ground or roof, TV antenna damaged by heat and evidence of smoke which escaped through mortar joints of tile liners or masonry.

If your home does suffer from a chimney fire, you will need our professional staff at SERVPRO to clean up and repair any damages. SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County is available anytime you need us. Just give us a call at (972) 227-0800 so we can come out right away and get your home back to normal, "Like it never even happened."

Precautions To Prevent Fire Damage From Candles

10/14/2016 (Permalink)

Candle fires are more frequent than many people realize.

Fire Damage From Candles

When you think aromatherapy and a relaxing ambience, you think of candles. Aromatherapy, tea-lights, and fashionable candles are also the cause of damage from house fires. Cooking and cigarettes remain the main cause of accidental fires. However, we are entering holiday seasons where candles account for more fires than any other time of year.

Candle fires are more frequent than many people realize. The right use of candles helps reduce fire risks significantly. The whole family should practice proper candle use to prevent fire damage in Seagoville. SERVPRO experts believe that taking candle precaution is an important part of candle safety. Some precautions begin with making sure that the plastic film covering your new candle is entirely removed before lighting it.

Trim the wick because long wicks cause dripping and flaring when a candle is lit. Do not leave a candle burning, extinguish it before leaving the house. Next, never place a candle near a window or a drafty area. Curtains, bedding and clothing materials are the number one reason that fire spreads after being ignited by a candle.

Make sure the surface for candles is even and not unstable. Lastly, do not leave candles burning in the bedroom because you fell asleep. Bedroom fires from burning candles are at the top of the list of annual candle fires. Home security fire alarm systems are always needed, but remember that they are not a substitute for general candle and fire safety.

When the fire is out, fire damage remediation must begin immediately. SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County will answer your call quickly because we are locally owned and operated. We are available 24 hours a day. Fire and smoke damage restoration require skill, knowledge, and experience which our remediation technicians have in order to get you back to a pre-fire condition.

You never know when disaster will strike or in what form it will appear. We understand the trauma and emotional stress that homeowners suffer when a fire occurs. We work quickly and consistently to mitigate damage on your household items. Call us today at (972) 227-0800 and let us help you.

How To Handle a Home or Business Fire

7/26/2016 (Permalink)

Fire and Smoke Damage in Dallas Can Use the Services of SERVPRO

Fire Damage Can Be Restored by SERVPRO

Fires can be terrifying and life changing. Not only do they erase the value of your home, but severe fires can also completely derail your life and destroy your possessions in just a few minutes. Plus, you have to consider the effects caused by firefighters and other specialists assessing the scene. Now, your beautiful home is dealing with soot, ash, structural damage, and even water damage. It's easy to feel helpless when you're dealing with these situations, but they don't always have to be bleak. Our service professionals understand how to renovate or restore your home to its pre-loss condition "Like it never even happened." Our friendly and professional staff has to provide a fire damage assessment that determines what we can do to help.

Why You Should Call SERVPRO for a Fire Damage Assessment
We've seen a lot of fire damage in Dallas, and a few things about handling the situation stand out. First, don't start cleaning your home; leave it just like it is. Secondly, call your homeowner's insurance company and determine what your coverage limits are for fire damage, and to have an adjuster come out to estimate the repair costs. This can help you afford to repair and restore your home back to normal. Third, give us a call. We can begin the cleanup process, determine what kinds of damages there are, and whether or not you can safely enter your home. After that, upon agreement, we'll start working, determining the best materials, equipment, and clean-up gear that we'll need to fix your home.
 
What Does SERVPRO Actually Assess in a Fire Emergency Situation?
We perform a large number of checks to ensure that your home is safe. First, we scan for superficial, surface damages that could be problematic in the future. Often, shingles melt, siding is destroyed, and many surfaces are covered with smoke, soot, and ash. We often advise our customers to take pictures to capture damages to show their insurance agent. We can also provide photos during our assessment.
 
The second, more important part of the assessment determines if there is any internal damage to your home. This could include your walls, roof, floors, joists, flooring, ducts, ventilation systems, windows, sinks, wiring, plumbing and more. Fire damage can make your home unlivable unless the situation is addressed.
 
Picking Up the Pieces After a Catastrophe
You're probably stressed to your limit. We can empathetically help. That's why you should give SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County a call at (972) 227-0800 to handle all of the issues that may arise from the fire. Our training, experience, and equipment are your answer.

Balch Springs Fire Damage-Insurance and Settlement

3/21/2016 (Permalink)

Restore Fire Damage with the Help of SERVPRO

SERVPRO Can Restore Your Balch Springs Fire Damaged Property

If the occasion happens that your insurance provider and the restoration company are in possession of a discrepancy regarding their estimates for the Balch Springs fire damage, then they either need to agree to a medium ground, or they need to start an arbitration. Going through with the option of choosing the medium ground is a type of compromise which might present the inclusion of varied outcomes, all of which are dependent on the specifics of the situation that you are facing. But it can get the fire damage restoration moving quicker. The arbitration option takes into account the involvement of a third party that will go about the inspection process and then will formulate an appraisal concerning the fire damage. Then this will be presented as a value that is deemed to be acceptable. It is to be noted that all of this is based primarily on the insurance company agreeing to the arbitration. The fire damage restoration company has no say in setting up an arbitration. This "meeting of the minds" is between you and your insurance company, adjuster, insurance company, and the mediator.
 
SERVPRO can assist to a limited degree with helping you to arrive at an equitable settlement amount for the fire damage restoration. We can provide a CCIS document that stands for Contents Claim Inventory Service. This is a corporate computer program that will generate a comprehensive inventory of all damaged items and building materials. This is done on a room-by-room basis. Categories of salvageable, non-salvageable, and questionable materials are listed. This document can aid in your content claims settlement.

The planning of the restoration of your home can be under way when you have fire damage estimates. When you have a budget in place, the company is then able to do their best to ensure that they can restore your home to its former condition. Also, it is critical to note that fire damage estimates permit the inclusion of services that a restoration company like SERVPRO can perform. Most of these services you cannot do yourself like smoke, soot, and odor removal. Water removal is usually needed after a fire, extinguishing a fire takes water. SERVPRO can, upon reaching a signed agreement, remove the water, clean damaged items-both possessions and building materials, sanitize, and deodorize your property. We can also repair and restore your home fire damaged Balch Springs home to its pre-loss condition "Like it never even happened."

Our Restore vs. Replace Mentality

SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County focuses on restoring versus replacing because restoring the affected areas save you money. Call us 24/7 for help. (972) 227-0800

The Negative Effects of Fire and Smoke Damage in Cedar Hill

12/2/2015 (Permalink)

Smoking materials started an average of 17,900 smoking-material home structure fires per year during 2007-2011.

Cedar Hill Fire and Smoke Damage And Its Negative Effects

Four Negative Effects of Fire and Smoke Damage

A residential fire in Cedar Hill is one of the most serious issues that a property owner may go through. Even when the fire is relatively small, it can still have profoundly negative consequences on you and your property. Nevertheless, knowing the types of effects fire and smoke damage can have on your home or office can prepare you to handle the situation with efficacy and expediency. Here are four negative effects that often result from fire and smoke damage:

 Structural Damage

 When fires strike, they can cause serious damage to the structure of your property. In fact, sometimes the damage can be significant enough to cause the home or office to collapse. It is also impossible to determine whether all of the property's floor supports have remained intact. For this reason, it is important that you not try to reenter the property following a fire in Cedar Hill. Instead, consult with the fire department or another authority to determine when reentry is safe and permissible.

 Smoke Odor and Residue

 Unfortunately, smoke can enter every little crevice of your residential or commercial property. This includes your insulation, wallboard, and carpet. The more smoke present, the more difficult it will be to remove the smoke odors. The type of smoke on the premises will also determine how long the removal process takes. For example, smoke that results from natural substances like paper and wood will leave a gray or black residue that is simple to remove with a dry sponge or vacuum cleaner. On the other hand, smoke that results from inorganic matter such as synthetic fabrics and plastics can leave behind a smeary residue which is dangerous and difficult to remove.

 Food Spoilage

 When a Cedar Hill fire strikes, the heat it produces can result in your canned food items expanding and contracting. In most cases, these processes will engender food spoilage. The smoke particles can also seep into boxed and bagged foods. Since the smoke contains carcinogenic compounds, it's important that you not consume foods that have come into contact with it. For this reason, you should be sure to throw out refrigerated and frozen foods. Also, take pictures of the things you're throwing out to ensure that you can attain reimbursement from your insurance company.

 Water Damage

 Most of the time, fires will cause water damage. This results from the fire department's use of extinguishing efforts to put the fire out. Typically, this involves the firefighters soaking almost everything near or in the fire with water. If you don't start drying out your furniture, walls, and carpet afterward, you can run the risk of developing a serious mold invasion.

Although there are several types of fire and smoke damage that property owners have to grapple with after a fire, knowing who to call for help can expedite the restoration process. The right company to call for professional, proficient fire damage remediation services is SERVPRO. With more than 1,650 franchises and 50 years of experience, we've become industry leaders and are deeply passionate about doing thorough, goal-oriented work. All of our IICRC-certified technicians put the customer first, and we work with lightning speed to ensure that you can return to your property as quickly as possible.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

 As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County is strategically located to respond quickly to your flood and water emergency event. When fire damage occurs, we have the resources and personnel to help. Call us today! (972) 227-0800

How an electrical fire can affect your Dallas home.

9/13/2015 (Permalink)

Inspect your property for faulty wiring, shorts, and loose wires that could increase susceptibility to electrical fire.

Electrical Fires 101 - how they can affect your Dallas Home

While there are many causes for fires in the home, electrical fires are a particularly difficult type to grapple with. In fact, the Electrical Safety Foundation International reports that around 51,000 of fires that take place on residential properties are electrical. These fires cause over 1,400 injuries, 500 deaths, and roughly $1.3 billion in damage to your property. To ensure that electrical fires do not become a big issue in your Dallas home, the SERVPRO experts advise implementing the following safety strategies:

• Inspect your property for faulty wiring, shorts, and loose wires that could increase susceptibility to electrical fire. When you note any issues, call a certified electrician to fix them. Also be sure to make use of safety covers on any outlet that a child has access to. 
• Make sure that a smoke detector is installed on each level of your home. Also be sure that the smoke detectors are functioning properly. 
• Turn off any electrical equipment that produces an unusual spark, smell, or sound.
• Replace or repair frayed, cracked, or loose cords. Do not place your cords in high traffic regions of the home. Also refrain from placing them under rugs or carpets.  
• Make use of surge protectors to keep your appliances safe. 
• Keep flammables stored far from your electrical appliances. 
• Have an ark fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) installed in the house. These devices monitor circuits to assess any dangerous arcing conditions. 
• Do not allow children to climb any trees located near a power line. 

Smoke Alarms

Ask the following questions to ensure that your smoke alarms are functioning effectively:

• Did you test them?
• Are they working properly?
• Are there enough alarms in the home?  

Switches and Outlets

Ask the following questions to ensure that your switches and outlets are functioning effectively:

• Do the plugs fit correctly?
• Are they warm to the touch?
• Do they work properly?
• Do they make any unusual sounds? (sizzling, buzzing, or crackling)

Lamps and Appliances

• Are you using the right bulbs?
• Do you use space heaters safely?
• Are appliance cords protected from damage?

Conclusion 

Practicing effective prevention measures is the key to ensuring that your home and family are safe in the face of electrical fires and shock. In the event that your property is subjected to damage generated by an electrical fire, Call your local SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas (972) 227-0800. They can make it, "Like it never even happened."

What Is Included in a Fire Damage Assessment at a Dallas Home

4/9/2015 (Permalink)

Have a Professional Prepare a Damage Assessment Report and Contact Your Homeowner's Insurance Company.

It is essential to have a fire damage assessment performed by a Professional Company such as SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas to determine the severity of the damage.

For any Dallas homeowner, fire damage is among the most disastrous and traumatic events that could take place. In only a few short minutes, a fire can destroy everything you've worked so hard for along with all of your valuables and keepsakes. Although things can seem hopeless in the wake of a house fire, it's important to remember that, depending on how much fire damage was done, it's often possible to salvage the house and return it to its original condition. However, to find out if this is a possibility, it's essential to have a fire damage assessment performed to determine the severity of the damage.

Where Can I Get A Fire Damage Estimate?

Although you might feel tempted to begin cleanup right away, it's strongly recommended that you contact a professiona service such as SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County to prepare a Damage Assessment Report and contact your homeowner's insurance company. Depending on your policy, the cost of replacing your possessions and restoring your home from fire damage may be covered. If it is, your provider will send an inspector to you home to prepare a cost estimate. After this, the next thing you should do is hire a professional restoration service so the cleanup process can begin as soon as possible. Both your insurance provider and the restoration service will perform their own estimates of the cleanup costs. This is determined by several factors like the extent of the damage, what tools, equipment and materials are needed to start repairs and if you home is still safe enough for you and your family to stay in. Here are some of the considerations that go into creating an accurate cleanup cost estimate:

Superficial Damage

Among the first things checked for in your home following a fire is the degree of superficial damage, which is often more easily repaired than other kinds of damage. The inspector typically starts with your home's exterior and looks for things like melted materials, missing or damaged shingles, chimney damage and other kinds of exterior wreckage. The inspector may also look at your yard, neighbors' yards, your roof and siding and any other outside surfaces that may have sustained damage.



Internal Damage 

The next step in preparing an accurate estimate is determining the level of damage that occurred inside of your home. The inspector walks all throughout the house and looks for visible damage to ceilings, walls, roofs, vents and ducts, flooring, sinks, tubs, plumbing and windows. This is done to see if these items are damaged beyond repair or intact enough to salvage. This is especially important if you have a basement as fire damage to ceilings, walls and foundations may require significantly more work. 



The Cleanup Process

After a damage assessment for your entire home has been performed, the restoration service can get started with cleanup right away. This fast action is essential for preventing mold and mildew development and saving as many of your possessions, fixtures and housing materials as possible. The number one priority is to avoid additional damage. 

It is strongly recommended that you leave your fire damage estimate to you local fire damage restoration service. Although taking photos of the damage and collecting records for your own purposes is wise and encouraged, only a professional has the equipment, knowledge and experience needed to determine the true extent of the damage. If you'd like to learn more about choosing a fire damage restoration service, please check your local phone book or speak with your homeowner's insurance company.

SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County proudly serves Cedar Hill , Lancaster , Dallas, Balch Springs , Wills Point , and surrounding areas. We are available 24 hours/7 days a week and are ready to restore damage to your Southeast Dallas home or commercial structure caused by:

SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County Professionals have the training, experience, and equipment to manage fire damage emergencies in the Dallas area. They will respond quickly and manage the fire restoration project through to its completion—getting you back in your home as quickly as possible. Call the fire restoration experts 24/7 at (972) 227-0800 for help.

What Is Involved in Balch Springs Smoke Removal

4/3/2015 (Permalink)

One of the most important parts of cleaning out your house after a fire has taken place is smoke removal.

What is involved in smoke removal?

One of the most important parts of cleaning out your house after a fire has taken place is smoke removal. Unfortunately, Balch Springs smoke removal is also one of the most tedious and challenging parts of the process as well. This is because the process often necessitates use of special industrial-grade equipment that is typically only available to professional restoration companies. Additionally, you need to start the process of smoke removal as soon as you possibly can after the fire has taken place in order to prevent smoke and soot in your Balch Springs property from setting into your walls, ceilings, and furniture. It is, however, important to keep in mind that it is not safe to go into your home when a house fire has just taken place, because house fires often damage structures of homes, and homes often suffer significant water damage from the fire fighting activity. It is always advisable to find a professional restoration company to expertly deal with the task of smoke removal within your home, but it is also beneficial to you to be knowledgeable about things that you can do on your own to take care of the smoke removal process in your house.

Make Sure It Is Safe to Go Into Your House

Once a house fire has taken place, you should make sure to have a trained professional examine your house, so that you can be given professional assurance that it is safe to go inside. Whether or not you do this can make the difference between whether you end up stopping your home from becoming damaged even more severely and keeping yourself safe from harm, or instead causing yourself injury and incurring even more damage to your home. It is important to remember that a home that has recently suffered from Balch Springs fire damage is probably not stable, and applying pressure to the boards of the house can lead to their collapse and your injury. Additionally, if you have not brought in an electrician to inspect your home for electrical damage, you will run the risk of electrocuting yourself. As such, you should make sure to bring in a professional to examine your home and assure you that it is safe before you take it upon yourself to enter the home after a fire has occurred.

Use Trisodium Phosphate (TSP) for the Soot Cleaning Process

Trisodium Phosphate (TSP) is a compound that is extremely efficacious in the process of removing soot and smoke from your house, although it may not be possible to clean up places that are severely charred and have large amounts of soot. It is important to remember while using TSP to clean your home that you should be wearing protective clothing, heavy-duty rubber gloves, and goggles to protect yourself from both the smoke and soot residue and the TSP itself. TSP usually works well in the process of cleaning up minor smoke damage, but you may also need to incorporate other techniques, such as thermal fogging and ozone generators; you would need to hire a professional to take care of these for you. In any case, you should consult with a professional before starting the smoke removal process in your home.

When you are thinking about smoke removal, it is always smartest to get in touch with a professional restoration company, who will have the resources to be able to address the task with effectiveness. If you have questions about smoke removal or ways to restore your home after a fire, contact a professional restoration company.

Inspection and Pretesting

The SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County Professional pretests while inspecting the property to determine the extent of fire damage and the scope of needed cleaning, restoration, and repairs.

  • The full extent of the smoke and fire damage. How many materials are affected by smoke or fire? What is the proper method for cleaning? Will your personal belongings need to be relocated while your house is restored? These are just a few of the decisions that must be made.
  • Unaffected areas - It can be vital to protect areas that were not affected by soot and odor before the damage spreads to these areas. It will save you money!
  • What materials can be restored and what materials must be replaced. Are the smoke residues cleanable? Who is completing the inventory of items that are damaged beyond repair? Fire damage pretesting is vital. A complete inventory is invaluable! How long will the cleanup take? We'll let you know what to expect.
  • The most effective cleaning methods. What work procedures will restore the damaged materials?

Pretesting also allows the SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas County Professional to focus on saving precious items or keepsakes for you.

Once the fire damage mitigation begins, the SERVPRO of Southeast Dallas Professionals will keep you informed and answer your questions, all while working to help make the fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us at (972) 227-0800 for help.

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