Because fire damage restoration is different for every person, each individual case can vary in scope, extent and expense. Read this article for informative tips.
If you’ve ever been a victim of a fire in your home or in another structure that you own,
you know that picking up the pieces is a nightmare. If you’re experiencing such an ordeal for the first time, you likely have the same feeling and don’t know where to start. While you may feel helpless, you should also know that there are professionals to turn to for all the help you need.
Fire damage restoration can be one of the most difficult ordeals anyone goes through in their life. Beyond the emotional toll of losing your home and your possessions and any physical toll you may have suffered, repairing all that was damaged is never easy.
Many individuals facing such an uphill battle feel as if they have to do so alone and don’t have any help available. This couldn’t be further from the truth, as there are companies around the world who specialize in helping people rebuilding following fires.
Because fire damage restoration is different for every person, each individual case can vary in scope, extent and expense. Nonetheless, whether damages are widespread or minimal there are certain steps that should be taken in every instance.
A professional with experience in doing so will ensure that restoring your structure is restored utilizing these steps correctly and efficiently, but it still helps to know and understand them yourself to make sure the task gets done correctly.
First and foremost, materials that are compromised and must be removed from the structure should be documented. Whether it is trim materials such as door or window casing or baseboards, or framing materials such as studs and sub-flooring, each piece of material removed should be catalogued by room and location to document each step of the removal process.
Once all damaged material is removed, the structure should be safely sealed off from both the outside elements and from intruders. Board up broken windows and doors using sturdy plywood that is neatly and efficiently installed. Cover or seal holes in the roof to prevent sunlight and precipitation from entering the dwelling using a water-resistant tarp or stronger material such as wood. Secure gaps in the floor to eliminate hazardous conditions for those entering and exiting the premises.
If part of the structure’s support has been compromised, erect temporary supports that adhere to local building codes and standards. Professional organizations who specialize in fire damage restoration follow these guidelines and can discuss options with you for doing so.
Finally, ensure all utilities are shut off or maintained appropriately. This includes water and gas coming to and from the house as well as electricity. Be sure that appliances and devices inside that use these utilities, such as toilets, bathtubs, stoves, refrigerators and others are addressed in this process.
The process of fire damage restoration doesn’t always making following these guidelines simple and straightforward, which is why it is often best to solicit the help of professionals to do so. Ensuring that you are efficient in getting back on your feet can make doing so as quick and easy as possible.
