Dealing with Fire Damage in Dallas: What to Expect from Firefighting Efforts, Restoration, and Insurance

4/21/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Dallas Love is a leading fire damage restoration company. Call us today for a complimentary fire restoration consultation.

A fire can happen in the blink of an eye and can be devastating, leaving extensive damage and destruction behind. It can be overwhelming to figure out where to start after such a tragic event.

What do Firefighters Do?

The first thing to understand is what is likely to happen if your fire damage is significant enough to warrant emergency responder dispatch.

A firefighter's priority is to rescue any individuals on the property. After completing life-saving work, they will focus on stopping a fire from causing more damage. Typically, firefighting methods include:

- Utilizing fire hoses to extinguish flames

- Spraying foam and water on different areas of the building

- Cutting holes in walls or roofs to allow smoke and heat to escape

- Searching for pockets of fire using thermal imaging cameras

- Ventilating toxic smoke from the building

During a firefighting effort, firefighters will use a large amount of water to extinguish flames and prevent the fire from spreading. Generally, a fire hose delivers around 100 gallons of water per minute. This amount can vary depending on the size and intensity of the blaze and the type of building and firefighting technique used. For example, the water pressure must be increased in high-rise buildings to ensure the water reaches the upper floors.

In addition to water, firefighters also use foam to smother fires. Foam can be more effective than water in certain situations, such as when a fire involves flammable liquids or gases. A foam proportioning system can be attached to the fire hose to mix water and foam concentrate in the correct ratio.

The amount of water and foam used during a firefighting effort can cause significant damage to the property, even when the fire is extinguished. Water can seep into floors, walls, and ceilings, causing structural damage and promoting the growth of mold and mildew. Foam can leave a residue that must be cleaned to avoid damaging surfaces.

Therefore, properties will likely experience extensive damage restoration needs, including water and fire restoration after a significant fire. The property will probably need mold remediation if the damage is left alone long enough.

The risks and needs of fire damage restoration require professional assistance from an experienced fire restoration company. The goal of the damage restoration company is first to secure the property to stop any further damage and then clean, restore, and reconstruct the property to its pre-fire condition. During intensive restoration work, you will also need to fire a property insurance claim, which a professional restoration company should have experience with and can process on your behalf.

By calling a professional fire restoration company in Dallas, homeowners can ensure their property is restored safely and efficiently.

The Fire Restoration Process

After emergency responders have cleared your property, it's time to seek proper fire damage restoration services and rebuild your property and your life.

A professional fire damage restoration company in Dallas will follow these steps:

- Help you file an insurance claim. Insurance claims can be complex, time-consuming, and confusing, especially for homeowners who have just experienced a devastating fire. A reliable fire damage restoration company can help homeowners navigate the claim process by offering guidance and support.

The first step in filing a claim is to document the damages. A professional fire damage restoration company will meticulously document every aspect of the damage, including any structural damage, personal belongings, and other items affected by the fire. This documentation is essential for the insurance adjuster to assess the damages and determine the compensation amount.

In addition, the restoration company will also provide an estimate for the repairs needed to restore the property to its pre-fire condition. This estimate is submitted to the insurance company to determine the compensation amount for the policyholder.

The fire damage restoration company will also communicate with the insurance company throughout the claim process. Communications will include:

• Submitting documentation and estimates.
• Negotiating on your behalf
• Providing your insurance adjuster with additional information that may be required.

The restoration company will also update the homeowner on the claim's progress.

A reputable fire damage restoration company will have experience working with various insurance companies and adjusters. This experience allows them to navigate the claims process more efficiently and effectively, ensuring the homeowner receives fair and timely compensation.

- Assess the extent of fire damage. The restoration company will send certified technicians to inspect the property and evaluate the damage caused by fire, smoke, and water. The assessment will begin with a visual inspection of the property to determine the harm caused by direct flames, including damage to structural elements such as walls, floors, and ceilings. The technicians will also pay close attention to any signs of smoke damage, which can be even more extensive than the actual flames. Smoke and soot particles can penetrate deep into surfaces, causing long-term damage and odors.

Next, the technicians will use specialized equipment, such as thermal imaging cameras, to locate hidden damage caused by the fire. This equipment can detect evidence of water damage, moisture, and mold growth, which are common after a fire due to the high moisture levels and lack of ventilation.

After the assessment, the restoration company will create a comprehensive plan for fire damage restoration in Dallas. The program will outline the steps needed to restore the property to its pre-fire condition and mitigate further damage.

- Secure the property to prevent further damage. After a fire, it's crucial to secure the property to avoid further damage. A fire damage restoration company will take the appropriate measures to ensure your property is safe and secure before restoration work begins.

Your damage restoration company will assess the structural integrity of the property. Assessment includes checking for walls, roofs, windows, and doors damage. If any of these elements have been compromised, the restoration company will board up and seal the affected areas to prevent rain or debris from entering the building.

The next step is to check the electrical and gas systems. If the fire has damaged these systems, the restoration company will shut off the power and gas supply to prevent further accidents. In addition, the company will also install temporary lighting and heating systems to provide a safe environment for the technicians to work in.

Water damage is also a common problem after a fire due to the water used by the firefighters to put out the flames. The restoration company will use high-powered pumps to extract standing water from the property. They will also set up dehumidifiers and air movers to dry your property and prevent mold growth.

Another essential measure is removing hazardous materials, such as asbestos or lead, from the property. The restoration company will have the necessary equipment and expertise to remove these materials before any restoration work begins safely.

Finally, the company will install security measures to prevent unauthorized property access. Security measures include installing temporary fencing or security cameras to deter trespassers and vandals.

- Move items inside the property to their content restoration facility, where your items will be cleaned and restored. Technicians will carefully pack and transport the items to a secure offsite location where your belongings can be restored to their pre-fire condition.

Your restoration company will sort through the damaged items and determine which are salvageable and which are beyond repair. Salvageable items will be packed and labeled for transportation to the content restoration facility, while irreparable items will be disposed of properly.

The restoration company will use specialized packing materials to protect the salvageable items during transportation. Packaging materials may include bubble wrap, packing peanuts, and protective covers for furniture and other oversized items. Your items will be carefully loaded onto moving trucks and transported to the content restoration facility.

The items will be unpacked and inspected at the content restoration facility for any remaining damage. The restoration company will use advanced techniques and equipment to remove all the items' traces of smoke, soot, and water damage. This may include deep-cleaning, deodorizing, and specialized drying techniques. They will likely use specialized equipment like ultrasonic machines and an Esporta Wash System.

Once the items have been restored to their pre-fire condition, they will be carefully repacked and labeled for transport back to the property. The restoration company will ensure that each item is returned to its proper location in the property and will work with the homeowner to ensure their complete satisfaction with the restoration process.

- Remove debris, smoke, and soot. When removing debris, smoke, and soot after a fire, a professional restoration company will use specialized equipment and techniques to ensure the property is immaculate and safe for occupancy.

The first step in the debris removal process is to assess the damage and determine which materials can be salvaged and which need to be disposed of. The restoration company will use heavy-duty equipment such as bulldozers and excavators to remove large debris and rubble from the property. They will also use hand tools and vacuums to clean up smaller debris.

Smoke and soot can be tough to remove, as they can penetrate deep into porous materials such as carpeting, upholstery, and drywall. The restoration company will use a combination of techniques to remove smoke and soot from the property, including:

- Dry cleaning involves using dry sponges or chemical cleaning agents to remove loose soot and smoke residue from surfaces.

- Wet cleaning involves using water or a cleaning solution to remove more stubborn soot and smoke residue from surfaces.

- Soda blasting involves baking soda to blast away smoke and soot from surfaces. This technique removes smoke and soot from brick, stone, and other hard surfaces.

- Thermal fogging: This involves using a specialized machine to create a fog of deodorizing solution that penetrates deep into porous materials to neutralize smoke odor.

Once the debris, smoke, and soot have been removed, the restoration company will conduct a final inspection to ensure the property is spotless and safe for occupancy. They will also work with the homeowner to develop a plan for any necessary repairs or renovations to the property.

- Sanitize affected areas to remove foul odors. The restoration company will first identify the source of the smell, which can come from various sources such as burnt plastic, chemicals, or furnishings. Once the source of the odor has been identified, the restoration company will develop a plan for removing the smell.

One common technique used by restoration companies to remove odors is thermal fogging. This involves using a specialized machine to create a fog of deodorizing solution that penetrates deep into porous materials to neutralize smoke odor. The deodorizing solution comprises a combination of chemicals that bind to the odor molecules and neutralize them. The fog can circulate throughout the affected area, penetrating every crevice and surface.

Another technique used by restoration companies to remove odors is ozone treatment. This involves using an ozone generator to create ozone, a gas that can neutralize odors. The ozone generator is placed in the affected area, and the ozone can circulate for some time. The ozone reacts with the odor molecules, neutralizing them and breaking them into non-harmful compounds.

In addition to thermal fogging and ozone treatment, restoration companies may use specialized cleaning agents and equipment to remove odors. This may include using air scrubbers and HEPA filters to remove any lingering odor particles from the air. The restoration company may also use specially formulated cleaning agents to clean and sanitize affected surfaces.

- Repair structural components (e.g., walls, floors, ceilings). Several steps are involved when a fire damage restoration company repairs structural elements such as walls, floors, and roofs. If the structural components are partially damaged, the restoration company will repair and reinforce them using various techniques. For example, they may use structural steel beams to support and strengthen damaged walls and floors. The restoration company may also use epoxy or other specialized adhesives to anchor new structural components to the existing ones.

If the structural components are fully damaged, the restoration company will remove them and replace them with new materials. This generally involves cutting out damaged sections of walls or floors and installing new drywall or flooring materials. The restoration company will replace any damaged electrical or plumbing fixtures and install insulation and soundproofing materials as necessary.

One crucial consideration when repairing structural components after a fire is ensuring the repairs are consistent with local building codes and regulations. The restoration company will obtain any necessary permits and inspections to ensure that the repairs meet all applicable requirements.

In addition to repairing structural components, the restoration company may install fire-resistant materials to help prevent future fires. For example, they may install fire-resistant drywall, insulation, and electrical wiring to reduce the risk of fire spread.

- Store and then return your restored contents to you. After a fire disaster, a professional fire damage restoration company will remove your belongings from your home and transport them to a secure, offsite facility for cleaning and restoration. This process is necessary to prevent further damage and will ensure that your belongings are restored to their pre-fire condition as much as possible.

The restoration company will inventory all the items removed from your home, documenting each item's condition and tracking each throughout the cleaning and restoration process. They will then pack and transport the items to their secure storage facility, which will be cataloged and stored until the restoration process is complete.

Once your home is cleaned and restored, the restoration company will return your restored belongings to your home. They will carefully unpack and place each item back in its original location, ensuring that it is in the same condition as when it was removed. The restoration company will also provide any necessary repairs or restoration to furniture, electronics, and other damaged items in the fire.

During the storage and return process, the restoration company will take steps to ensure that your belongings are safe and secure. The storage facility will have advanced security features such as surveillance cameras, alarms, and access controls to prevent theft or damage.

The restoration company will also take precautions to prevent further damage to your belongings during transport and storage. They will use specialized equipment and techniques to carefully pack and secure your items, protecting them from moisture, dust, and other contaminants.

- Report damaged items to your insurance adjuster (e.g., appliances, furniture). A fire damage restoration company can report damaged items to an insurance adjuster in a few different ways. First, they will thoroughly inventory all damaged items, noting the type and extent of damage incurred. This inventory will typically include appliances, furniture, electronics, and other personal belongings affected by the fire.

Once the inventory is complete, the restoration company will provide the insurance adjuster with a detailed list of all damaged items, estimated value, and replacement cost. This information will determine the extent of coverage under the policy and facilitate the claims process.

To ensure the claims process goes smoothly, the restoration company will work closely with the insurance adjuster to provide any additional documentation or information needed. This may include photographs of the damaged items, receipts or invoices for repair or replacement costs, and other related paperwork.

Sometimes, the insurance company may send an adjuster to inspect the damaged items in person. In these cases, the restoration company will work closely with the adjuster to provide access to the damaged items and answer any questions about the restoration process.

Overall, the goal of the fire damage restoration company is to ensure that the claims process is as efficient and hassle-free as possible. By providing detailed information about damaged items, working closely with the insurance adjuster, and providing any necessary documentation or information, they can help to expedite the claims process and get the homeowner back on track as quickly as possible.

How Long does Fire Restoration Take?

The restoration process can take anywhere from a few weeks to months, depending on the size and severity of your fire. If your community was widely affected by fires, typical during a wildfire outbreak, expect delays as fire restoration companies and insurance adjusters help many families and businesses.

How to Hire the Best Fire Damage Company

The right fire damage restoration company will make a big difference in the outcome of your restoration process. It's essential to choose a company with the experience and necessary skill set to handle the unique challenges of fire damage restoration.

Look for the following traits when deciding which Dallas fire restoration company to hire.

- Response Time. When it comes to fire damage restoration, time is of the essence. The longer you wait to initiate the restoration process, the greater the risk of secondary damage. Professional restoration companies understand the urgency of restoring your property quickly and efficiently. They will arrive on the scene promptly, secure the area, and start the restoration process immediately.

- Insurance Claim Processing: Look for a restoration company that can assist with filing insurance claims and provides an experienced Project Coordinator who will help you navigate the complex process of filing an insurance claim, ensuring that all necessary steps are taken to maximize coverage. The best restoration companies will have pre-existing contracts with top insurance companies to help your claim process smoothly. They will also communicate with your insurance adjuster to give you the best chance of a positive outcome. In addition, they will work with you and your insurance company to determine the most cost-effective way to restore your property.

- Extent of Damage Assessment: Ensure the fire damage company has extensive knowledge in assessing the extent of damage from smoke, soot, water, and other elements. A professional fire restoration company will have the right equipment and expertise to accurately evaluate the damage's extent. With their advanced technology and skill set, they can provide an accurate estimate of the cost and duration of the restoration project.

- Cleaning & Restoration Experience: Ensure they have experience cleaning and restoring your property and affected content. They should know how to identify hidden damage that could cause problems, such as water damage that could lead to mold growth. Verify the technicians and managers assigned to help have previous experience and certifications, preferably from the IICRC.

- Safety with Professional Tools and Equipment. Another crucial aspect to consider is safety. Fire damage often leaves behind hazardous materials, such as asbestos and lead-based paint. Professional fire restoration companies have the necessary training and equipment to handle hazardous materials safely, ensuring that your property is safe after restoration.

- Structural Component Repairs: Verify if they offer structural repairs like walls, floors, ceilings, etc. Construction will almost always be a significant part of fire damage restoration, and the restoration company you hire should have a construction department or division. These professionals should also have a Project Coordinator to help process your insurance claim.

- Content Storing & Return Services: Confirm whether or not they will store contents offsite (in their facilities) while doing repair work. Ask to understand how their cleaning process works. The top-of-the-line fire damage restoration companies will have advanced technology to clean your contents, such as an ultrasonic machine and an Esporta Wash System. Also, ensure they return all restored items to you when work is complete.

- Report Damaged Items to Insurer: Check if the fire restoration company can report damaged items such as appliances and furniture to your insurer. The answer should be an easy "yes." Your insurance adjuster will need the damage restoration company to provide them with proof of items that need to be replaced.

- Property Securing & Debris Removal Services: Ask about services related to securing your property against further damages and removal of debris caused by the firefighting effort. A professional company will be able to offer roof tarping and board-up.

Hiring the best fire damage restoration company is vital to restore your property safely and efficiently. A professional and experienced company will help you navigate the complex restoration process, provide a quick response, ensure safety, and restore your property to its preloss condition as soon as possible.

SERVPRO of Dallas Love's Expert Fire Damage Restoration Process

SERVPRO of Dallas Love is a premier fire damage restoration company in Dallas. Our franchise is owned and operated by one of Texas' longest-existing SERVPRO franchisees, with nearly 40 years of experience in the damage restoration industry.  

We've developed a comprehensive approach to fire restoration, ensuring that all aspects of the restoration process are handled efficiently and effectively. Our extensive knowledge in assessing the extent of damage caused by fire, smoke, soot, and water ensures accurate estimates of the duration and cost of the restoration project. 

We use the industry's most advanced equipment, and our technicians are trained extensively and receive certifications from the IICRC and SERVPRO University. SERVPRO of Dallas Love technicians are well-equipped with the right tools and equipment to handle hazardous materials that could cause harm to your property.

In addition to fire damage cleaning and restoration, SERVPRO of Dallas Love will also handle structural repairs for walls, floors, and ceilings, among others. Our construction division will start your restoration process immediately after your property has been cleaned and deodorized. Your assigned Project Coordinator will work with the insurance adjuster and communicate your needs.

Our content storing and return services are top-of-the-line, guaranteeing that all items are thoroughly restored to their pre-damage condition. We have advanced technology to clean contents, like ultrasonic machines. We're also one of the few companies in North Texas certified in the Esporta Wash System to sanitize textiles.

SERVPRO of Dallas Love reports damaged items, such as appliances and furniture, to your insurer, enabling a quick and seamless reimbursement process. Additionally, we will help secure your property against further damage and remove debris caused by firefighting efforts.

Contact us today for a complimentary fire damage restoration consultation.

We're Here to Help. 

What Happens During Fire Restoration

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Please get in touch with SERVPRO of Dallas Love to learn about our Dallas fire damage restoration services.

Fire restoration is vital after a fire has ravaged your home or commercial property. Unfortunately, fires can happen for many common reasons. These could be electric short circuits, unattended candles, kitchen fires, carelessly disposed cigarettes, or overloading of electric sockets. These issues can quickly turn your home or business into an inferno.

After a severe fire, it is vital to ensure complete and thorough fire restoration. An initial inspection can determine any necessary structural repairs. 

So, what happens during a fire restoration process? First, it’s good to know why fire restoration is necessary.

How Fire Damages a Building

Here are two reasons that restoration after a fire is necessary. 

Property damage — Depending on the magnitude, fire can damage and destroy a lot of property and personal belongings in a short time. This damage can range from a hundred dollars to thousands of dollars.

Smoke and soot damage — Smoke smell permanently attaches itself to your valuable possessions, which is challenging to remove. Also, soot stains walls, carpeting, upholstery, and clothes.

Steps to Home Fire Damage Restoration

Here are the necessary steps to restore your home or business premises to their previous condition. 

1. Structural Damage Assessment

First, it is crucial to have experts assess the extent of structural damage due to fire. This includes checking the damage to windows, doors, ceilings, and the physical structure of the building.

2. Structural Drying to Restore Fire Damage

It is vital to completely dry out a building after a fire to restore it. This process involves attaching tarps to damaged roofs to prevent water damage. Additionally, fire restoration involves dehumidifying rooms to remove excess moisture and speed up the drying process. This step is crucial to prevent mold growth. 

3. Debris Removal

In smaller fires, it is crucial to remove all damaged debris. Taking away smaller damaged items can help to reduce soot and smoke odor intensity. Additionally, it may be necessary to remove smoke-damaged items and furniture that are beyond repair. 

In many cases, SERVPRO has technology that can extract noxious smoke odors and soot stains from personal belongings. Our technicians carry out a thorough assessment of the items’ condition. 

4. Smoke Damage and Soot Removal

A vital part of fire restoration is mitigating smoke damage and removing the effects of soot. To do this, our technicians will evaluate smoke damage, clean structural items from smoke, and remove odors. In addition, it is necessary to scrub walls, ceilings, and home fixings before carrying out a thorough restoration. 

5. Repairs and Restoration 

After the effects of smoke and soot damage have been removed from a fire-damaged home, it is necessary to carry out essential repairs. This may involve repairing HVAC systems, roofs, electrical systems, plumbing, and painting. 

Has Your Home in Dallas Been Damaged by Fire?

Please get in touch with SERVPRO of Dallas Love to learn about our Dallas fire damage restoration services. We can offer a free, no-obligation quote on how to repair your property after a devastating fire. 

Call us at (214) 272-7600 for help ASAP. 

How to Rebuild Your Life After the Fire

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Has your Dallas home been damaged by fire? If so, contact SERVPRO of Dallas Love today.

Housefires can be horrible nightmares with devastating effects most homeowners never want to experience. A house fire not only destroys the property but also results in losing precious sentimental personal items and valuable possessions. And unfortunately, fires also leave lasting emotional, mental, and physical scars that can severely impact the lives of anyone caught up in it. 

After a devastating fire, rebuilding your life will take more than just nails and wood or bricks and mortar. You have to recover emotionally and psychologically through:

• Allowing yourself to experience both negative and positive emotions.
• Maintaining physical health through exercise and nutrition.  
• Encouraging your children to talk about their emotions. 
• Getting back to a regular routine.
• Look for a support group or counselor.

Steps to Rebuilding Your Life

After a house fire, you might be wondering where to start. But before you can start picking up the pieces, there are a few vital things to do. In many cases, the first step will be finding a safe place to stay for a few nights. Then starts the arduous process of rebuilding your life after a house fire. 

Here are some steps you should take after a fire in your home. 

Contact Your Insurance Agent

The first step in rebuilding your life after a fire is to contact your insurance company. Your insurance company has contacts for local companies that specialize in fire damage restoration. For example, Dallas fire damage restoration companies have expertise in cleaning and restoring personal items. 

However, suppose you don’t have insurance. In that case, you can reach out to local organizations like the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, or other charitable groups willing to assist. 

Steps to Assess Fire Damage

After getting emergency accommodation for the initial period after the fire, the next step is to assess damage to your home. For this, you will need to call professionals who have experience in fire damage restoration. So what does it take to restore a house after a fire has ravaged it? 

1. Structural Damage Assessment

Dallas Restoration technicians will assess the extent of structural damage due to fire. Usually, it’s crucial to seal the property to prevent additional damage from rain or the wind. Also, the building is secured by boarding up broken windows, missing doors, and holes in ceilings.

2. Structural Drying

The next step is to dry the building. Technicians use specialized equipment to remove excess moisture from porous surfaces using heaters and dehumidifiers. This is an essential step that prevents further water damage and mold growth. 

3. Demolition and Debris Removal

Unfortunately, it’s not possible after many fires to salvage everything. Therefore, it may be necessary to remove soot and smoke-damaged items and sometimes destroy them. In larger fires, all personal belongings are packed and removed to mitigate further damage and recontamination. 

4. Smoke Damage and Soot Removal

The elimination of smoke and soot damage is next on the list. Professional fire damage restorers will thoroughly clean and scrub surfaces to remove the effects of fire damage. 

5. Repairs and Restoration

After the extensive cleanup, it’s necessary to repair and restore your home to its former glory. This may take a few weeks or many months, depending on the damage. However, you can be sure that every effort is made to restore your home. 

Conclusion

Has your Dallas home been damaged by fire? If so, contact SERVPRO of Dallas Love to find out about fire damage restoration. We are the region’s fire restoration experts with years of experience in fire restoration and damage repair. 

Call us at (214) 272-7600 for 24-hour assistance. 

Heating Safety Tips Everyone Should Know

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Our team of experts is trained to clean up and restore fire-damaged properties.

Faulty heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fires. Unfortunately, during winter, residential homes record the most cases of deaths. In most cases, using heating equipment safely will help keep you warm, protect your home, and prevent accidents and fires. Therefore, everyone should know the best heating safety tips to keep everyone safe.

Fires are rarely the result of an accident. They typically result from defective equipment or negligence. Of course, some fires result from natural calamities like lightning strikes. 

What can you do to keep yourself warm without risking your health or increasing the risk of a fire? Here are tips for heating your home safely.

General Heating Safety Tips

While electric heating is safer, cleaner, and more efficient than gas heating, it still carries risks. Electric heaters are high-wattage equipment with the potential of igniting nearby combustible materials. 

For example, a hot radiator beside curtains, paper, clothing, or other flammable fabric could get so hot that the material goes up in flames. 

Heating safety tips for electric and portable heating appliances: 

1. Never leave an electrical heater switched on and unattended. Children should not be left alone with heaters or allowed to play with the plug and cord.
2. Do not use power strips or extension cords when heating the home with a portable electric heater. 
3. Place flammable objects at least three feet away from heating appliances.
4. Ensure heating safety by placing the heater on the floor to reduce the risk of falling or tipping over, which could start a fire. Place the heater on a flat, even, and uncovered floor. 
5. Only plug one heating appliance like a portable radiator or space heater into an electrical outlet at a time. This prevents overloading the circuits or creating extra resistance that builds up heat, causing fires. 
6. Place the heater away from water to avoid electric shock. Electricity and water are never a good combination. 

Heating safety tips for using heating appliances powered by combustible materials:

1. If you smell gas or suspect a gas leakage in your home, do not light any appliance or switch on a light. Instead, leave your home immediately and call your local fire department or gas company.
2. Make sure that your fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks flying into the room.
3. Fire ash should always be cool before putting it into any kind of covered metal container.
4. Never put hot ash into a plastic container.
5. Keep fireplace ash containers at a safe distance away from your home. 
6. Always store flammable liquids in appropriate storage containers and a safe, secure place outside your home.
7. Never fill a heater with kerosene or oil in your house. A fuel spill can be dangerous. 
8. Always keep rooms ventilated to avoid a buildup of carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide can cause severe respiratory health concerns. It’s also a good idea to install carbon monoxide detectors if you heat your home with a gas furnace.

Call SERVPRO of Dallas Love

Call SERVPRO at (214) 272-7600 to learn about our comprehensive Dallas fire damage restoration services. Our team of experts is trained to clean up and restore fire-damaged properties. 

How Can SERVPRO Help You After Fire Damage

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Dallas Love, we care about your family. Our trusted and efficient Dallas fire damage restoration services can help you.

We all know how destructive fire can be. Unfortunately, fire can ravage a property, destroying everything in its wake. But after the flames go out and the fire department leaves, the true extent of the fire damage becomes apparent. As a result, a major cleanup is necessary to mitigate fire and water damage to a property. 

At SERVPRO of Dallas Love, we care about your family. Our trusted and efficient Dallas fire damage restoration services can help you get back on your feet ASAP. We also have the expertise to get your home back to its former glory. 

What can you expect if you call SERVPRO to help you after fire damage? Please read on to find out.

Types of Fire Damage

Fire damage extends beyond burning items. After a fire, the roof, walls, and house structure are probably weakened. However, even if the fire hasn’t damaged the structure, the chances are that other types of fire damage can affect your home. 

SERVPRO can assess the building’s structure and recommend the necessary structural repairs. Here are two additional types of fire damage that SERVPRO can restore: 

• Smoke and ash — Ash and smoke increase the level of fire damage because they corrode all sorts of materials. Also, unremoved smoke odors tend to stay in rooms for a long time after fire damage, causing respiratory problems and a foul stench that reminds you of the fire.
• Soot — Soot reduces indoor air quality, posing a severe health concern. In addition, it tarnishes metals and kitchen appliances, quickly leaving them discolored.  

Steps SERVPRO Takes to Help You After a Fire 

Since no two fires are the same, our restoration process varies from one home to the next. Therefore, SERVPRO’s team of experts must assess all damage before creating an action plan. 

The fire damage restoration steps undertaken include:

Fire Odor Removal and Deodorization

SERVPRO restoration uses various techniques to remove and repair the fire, soot, smoke, and water damage. By using special equipment, we can eliminate smoke odors. Our deodorization equipment and technology can get into crevices and eliminate odors at the source. 

Structural Fire Cleaning Services

Our professional cleaning services get rid of dirt and unsalvageable properties. Then our restoration experts work at removing smoke and soot from soft furnishings, carpets, drapes, building interiors, and other fabrics.

Microbial Decontamination of Fire Damaged Houses

SERVPRO dries, cleans, and sanitizes your crawl spaces and heating, ventilation, air conditioning systems to decontaminate your home. Fire damage restoration requires more skill than a regular house cleaner can provide. In addition, our team cleans, deodorizes, refinishes, and restores hard furnishings. 

Post Fire Damage Structural Repair and Restoration

The final step in restoring the property is performing any necessary fire damage repairs or rebuilding fire-damaged areas. After inspection, unsalvageable structures must be removed and replaced. This may entail reconstructing the roof and ceiling, replacing electrical systems, renewing flooring materials, and repainting walls.

We’re Here to Help 24/7

Our Dallas fire damage restoration services have already helped hundreds of Dallas residents. Our fire damage restoration experts are available 24/7 to repair and restore your house after a fire accident. 

Call SERVPRO today for a free, no-obligation quote to restore your home after a devastating fire at (214) 272-7600.

How to Prevent Home Cooking Fires

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Our services include emergency pre-cleaning, content and property cleaning, restoration, repair, and deodorization.

Cooking is a valuable skill in households since it allows people to prepare meals for their families and friends. However, cooking can also be a hazardous activity if you are not careful. The use of hot oils, heat, flames, and temperature can lead to home cooking fires accidents. And, nobody wants a home cooking fire while preparing a meal. 

Therefore, it is essential to practice kitchen safety to prevent house fires and other incidents by following cooking safety tips.

Never Use Damaged Electrical Appliances and Equipment

Damaged or faulty equipment can often cause home cooking fires or electrical fires. Therefore, it’s vital to inspect all equipment and appliances and ensure that they are in good operating condition before using them. 

Look at the wires, plugs, and cords of your electronic equipment and kitchen appliances. In case you notice signs of damage, never use them because these faults could cause a fire. Instead, call a professional who will repair or replace the damaged equipment. 

Monitor Your Cooking

Keeping your eye on what’s cooking on the stove or oven is one way to limit the potential for a fire disaster. A major cause of kitchen fires is unattended food on the stove. Therefore, never leave the kitchen while food is cooking on the burner or using the deep fryer. 

For example, hot cooking oil can quickly ignite and cause a grease fire. Or parchment paper in the oven can catch fire if the cooking temperature is too hot. Monitoring your cooking also makes your meals tastier because you avoid burning food. 

Wear Appropriate Cooking Attire

While cooking, being comfortable is essential, but you still need to be thoughtful about your clothing. For example, it’s not a good idea to wear loose clothing, dangling accessories, and long hair while cooking. They can easily catch fire while cooking. Instead, ensure you wear fitted clothes, avoid wearing loose accessories, and tie your hair back if it is long. 

Keep Flammable Objects Away from Heat

Store and place flammable items in your kitchen away from heat. For example, store your potholders, food wrappers, dish towels, and oven mitts at a safe distance away from the stove or gas burner. Exposing these objects to flames or extremely hot surfaces can result in a devastating cooking fire.

It’s also good to keep cooking appliances clean to avoid a grease buildup on burners, stovetops, and ovens. 

It is essential to keep your household safe and prevent cooking fires at all costs. A few simple precautions can help prevent a cooking fire, which is much easier than dealing with the consequences of property damage. By following the above tips, you will minimize the risk of a fire in the kitchen, enjoy cooking, and cook tasty meals.

Seek Help From a Professional Fire Restoration Company

When something catches fire on the stove, acting fast is crucial. For example, using a suitable fire extinguisher can prevent a small cooking fire from spreading. Or covering the flames with a fire blanket can put them out quickly before doing too much damage.

Suppose the fire is too much and it spreads. In that case, it’s vital to evacuate your house immediately and call your local fire department. 

Once the fire is extinguished, call Dallas fire damage restoration professionals for help right away at (214) 272-7600. 

Our services include emergency pre-cleaning, content and property cleaning, restoration, repair, and deodorization.

Is Your Smoke Detector System Updated?

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Like most appliances, smoke detectors become old and need updating.

Smoke detectors save lives. A smoke detection system is crucial for keeping your family and home safe by warning you of a fire. A working smoke detector is especially vital when someone is sleeping. 

Unfortunately, breathing in poisonous gases like carbon monoxide and smoke causes more deaths than actual fires. In less than three minutes, a small fire can spread quickly, causing everything in a room to catch fire.

Like most appliances, smoke detectors become old and need updating. However, because this small device is inexpensive and can save your life, it’s worth ensuring that you have an updated smoke detector. 

However, the problem is that it’s easy to forget about this unobtrusive device. The last thing you want is for the smoke detector to fail when you need it the most. 

This article examines ways to know if your smoke detector system needs updating. 

How to Know if Your Smoke Detector System Needs Updating

There are two ways to know if you need to invest in a new smoke detection system. The first is age, and the second is signs of malfunction. Of course, it’s vital to regularly check the smoke detection system and replace batteries every year. 

Old smoke detectors need to be updated

You need to update your smoke detector system if it’s more than ten years old. This is because smoke detectors contain finely tuned parts. However, the delicate system in them deteriorates with age. 

Even though it may still work, an old smoke detector is prone to malfunction. For example, it could become less sensitive to smoke and may only sound the alarm when it’s too late. 

There is another reason to replace smoke detectors every ten years. Technology changes, and the chances are that modern, updated smoke detectors are superior to the old ones on your ceiling. 

So, ensure that changing smoke detectors every ten years is part of your home maintenance. 

The smoke detector sounds the alarm for no reason

Of course, a smoke detector that goes too often is better than not working at all. However, nuisance alarms from a smoke detector could be a sure sign it needs updating. But before you rush out to buy a new one, there are a few reasons it may be going off for no reason. Here are a few:

• Dust — Regular cleaning can keep the smoke alarm free from dust because the tiny particles could be causing a false alarm. 
• Connections — Check if the smoke alarm batteries need replacing. If you have a hard-wired smoke detector, ensure that the wiring is intact. Many sensors will sound the alarm if there’s no connection. 
• Steam or smoke from the kitchen — Install smoke detectors at a reasonable distance from the kitchen. This will help to avoid false alarms from boiling water or burned food. 

To ensure your safety, you need dependable smoke detectors that you can count on. Remember that your smoke detection system needs replacing every ten years. 

What if You’ve Experienced a Fire at Your Home? 

In that case, you need our Dallas fire damage restoration services. SERVPRO can mitigate the damaging effects of fire. This includes drying out your home, removing all traces of soot and smoke damage, and repairing our home to its pre-fire state. 

We can also assess your smoke detection system. Call us at (214) 272-7600 anytime, day or night for help ASAP. 

Protect Your Home from the Most Common Fire Hazards

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Our fire restoration professionals know how to remove the effects of fire damage, clean up water damage, prevent mold, and clean smoke and soot stains

Home fire hazards escalate from a single flame to spreading throughout a room and home within a short time. While fire hazards are preventable, they occur commonly in homes because of carelessness and negligence. In addition, fire hazards cause devastating aftermath effects — property destruction and death. 

Here are some tips to prevent fire hazards and protect your home, business, and family.

Regularly Test Your Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors act as the first line of defense from fire because of the early warning sign they give. These can be battery-operated or hardwired and will detect the faintest amount of smoke. There are also smart alarms to send alerts to your mobile device.

It is essential to conduct routine smoke detector checks every six months by pressing your smoke detector button. Weak beeps indicate that it’s necessary to change the batteries. 

Be Careful When Cooking 

The kitchen is where most fire hazards are located. To protect yourself and your family from fire, minimize the dangers by not leaving food cooking on the stove unattended and keeping fabric items away from burners. Always be especially careful when using a deep fryer. 

If you must leave the kitchen, turn off the oven and stop cooking. If there is somebody around, request them to watch over the food until you return.

It’s also a good idea to keep the stove and oven clean to prevent a buildup of grease, which could potentially catch fire if it gets too hot.

Check Your Dryer’s Airflow

Clogged filters or vents in a dryer can cause a devastating fire hazard. You can eliminate fire hazards in the laundry room by cleaning potentially flammable lint from the filters. Also, ensure that nothing gets stuck in the dryer because it can quickly overheat and catch fire. 

Pay Attention to Cords

Electrical fires are another common reason for a house going up in flames. To reduce electrical hazards, always avoid overloading a circuit or plugging too many gadgets into an extension cord. Additionally, never operate any device that has frayed, chewed, or exposed cords. 

But suppose you notice lights flickering for no reason, or they dim when you switch on an electric kettle. In this case, you should call an electrician to check your home’s wiring. 

Store Flammable Products Safely

Every day flammable items in the house like perfume, aerosol cans, hand sanitizer, and alcohol easily combust when placed near heat sources. Keep these products away from high heat sources like hot radiators and furnaces.

Be Cautious When Handling Candles

Candles must be used with care to avoid fire damage. Therefore, never leave a candle unattended. If you need to leave the room, extinguish the candle first. That is much easier than extinguishing a house fire because the candle tipped over. 

Call us 24/7

SERVPRO has a team of experts in Dallas fire damage restoration. If your home has suffered any type of fire damage, call our team today at (214) 272-7600. Our fire restoration professionals know how to remove the effects of fire damage, clean up water damage, prevent mold, and clean smoke and soot stains.

Five Easy Steps to Concrete Restoration After a Fire

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO of Dallas Love today to learn about our Dallas fire damage restoration services in the local area.

Fire can have a devastating effect on concrete. Concrete restoration after a fire is a vital step to ensure permanent damage to concrete doesn’t affect the strength of the building’s structure. Typically, professional fire and water damage restorations take five steps to mitigate fire damage on concrete.

Concrete is the most commonly used material in modern tunnels and structural engineering structures. In terms of fire behavior, concrete is non-flammable, has low thermal conductivity, and has excellent thermal insulation properties. 

These qualities can help protect parts of the structure from fire. However, the concrete’s strength, rigidity, and the surface will be affected at extremely high temperatures. This can decrease the residual strength and durability of the structure. 

Concrete Strength Reduction from Fire

Exposure Temperature

Concrete Color

Strength Reduction

32°F to 570°F 

Unchanged

Unchanged

570°F to 1,100°F 

Pink or Red

0 to 55%

1,100°F to 1,650°F

Gray

55 to 85%

1,650°F to 2,200°F  

Buff

85 to 100%

Greater than 2,200°F 

Yellow

Complete decomposition of the cement paste where calcium hydroxide converts to calcium carbonate

After a fire incident, it is crucial to carry out an initial inspection to determine whether structural repairs are necessary. Due to the excellent insulation properties of concrete, even severely damaged structures can often be repaired. In addition, remedial repairs may include aesthetic restoration to replace the damaged structure.

Five Steps to Restore Concrete After a Fire

Concrete restoration after a fire is vital to ensure it’s safe to live in or occupy the building. SERVPRO tests fire-damaged concrete to assess the best approach to restoring it. Here are some of the steps we may take. 

1. Cleaning and cosmetic enhancement

The first step to restoring concrete after a fire is to remove any smoke and soot particles from the surfaces. This can be done using a sandblasting technique to loosen soot around the affected area. It is vital to remove all traces of smoke and soot before moving to the next step. 

2. Using mortar or resins to repair concrete surfaces

Suppose there are surface cracks in the damaged concrete. In that case, it may be possible to restore it by applying glue, surface-bonding agent, or resin to fill the gaps and prevent moisture from getting into the concrete structure.

3. Using sprayed concrete or flowable concrete to repair and strengthen the concrete structure

Sprayed concrete is a material with rapid hardening qualities to stabilize and repair fire-damaged concrete. This can be applied to spalled concrete to fill cavities and restore a smooth concrete finish.

4. Reinforcing steel or fiber-reinforced polymers used to strengthen concrete (FRP)

In severe fire damage, it may be possible to save the structure by using strengthened steel structures. This can be done by either creating beam-column joints between the existing beam and existing column or increasing the cross-section area and welding additional angle shape profiles. 

5. Complete replacement of specific components.

Some concrete components become so weak after a fire that restoration of the original material is impossible. Therefore, unrepairable concrete must be removed and replaced with a new concrete structure to complete restoration. 

SERVPRO of Dallas Love is Here to Help

In many cases, concrete damaged in a fire is repairable. Contact SERVPRO of Dallas Love today to learn about our Dallas fire damage restoration services in the local area. 

We’re available 24/7 at (214) 272-7600.

The 4 Common Mistakes That Could Cause an Oven Fire

2/10/2022 (Permalink)

Ovens are complicated, multi-faceted devices that can cause fires due to a myriad of factors.

Thanks to the advancements made in fire-prevention technology, as well as general fire safety, we’ve seen a slow decline in fires (3.2%) from 2010 to 2019. But despite the advancements made, fires are still a prevalent issue in the US. Mistakes in the kitchen are the leading cause of US housefires. 

Your kitchen is made up of different components that can cause fires, chief amongst them is your oven. While we tend to think we know how to operate our ovens properly, we still make common mistakes that could potentially set your property ablaze.

To ensure that you avoid these mistakes and don’t have to rely on our Dallas fire damage restoration services, continue reading below.

Avoid these 4 Common Mistakes to Prevent an Oven Fire. 

Ovens are complicated, multi-faceted devices that can cause fires due to a myriad of factors. The most common mistakes that can cause over fires, however, include:

1. Greasy foods placed too close to a heat source

If you’re cooking greasy foods, make sure not to place said foods too close to the oven’s heating source. 

If your food item has too much grease (such as olive oil) and is near a heating source (right under the broiler, for example), the abundance of grease can spatter and spark a fire when in direct contact with it.  

The bottom line is when cooking greasy foods, always place them on the lower oven racks.

2. Dropping food in the oven

Proper oven maintenance means cleaning up any food that has dropped on your oven floor. So, be sure to check your oven regularly for fallen food debris. 

Leftover bits sitting on the surface of your oven can catch fire when at high temperatures. Even if they don’t pose a huge fire risk, they can still smoke and cause lingering odors, which will mean having to call Dallas fire damage restoration services to remove the smell.

The risk of a fire starting due to overcooking is based on the dryness of certain food items (e.g. overheating fallen pieces of a baguette).

3. Using wax paper

When cooking with our ovens, we tend to think that wax paper and parchment paper are the same. They are not.

Wax paper is not as heat-resistant as parchment paper, meaning it will likely melt when exposed to prolonged high temperatures. As a result, the paper component of wax paper can also be set ablaze. Parchment paper, by contrast, won’t catch fire and at most will only darken due to heat.

4. Using the wrong settings

Read and understand your recipe carefully before cooking with your oven. Doing so will ensure that you know which proper settings to use. Without knowing, you can set the oven to broil instead of using a specific temperature, which will likely cause an oven fire.

After the Fire, Call SERVPRO of Dallas Love ASAP

SERVPRO of Dallas Love will gladly provide you with the Dallas fire damage restoration you need to make your property look as good as new.

For any inquiries, you can call us at (214) 272-7600 or visit our contact page.

Winter Is Coming: Fire Safety Tips During a Winter Storm

1/5/2022 (Permalink)

If a fire took place in your home or business, pick up the phone and call the experts at SERVPRO today.

Winter, a gloomy time of year, is packed with holidays and parties to keep the dreariness at bay. But due to the frequent festivities that often take place during this season, we tend to forget many safety precautions — particularly, fire safety tips during a winter storm.

It’s incredibly easy for a fire to get started, especially during a winter storm where firefighters have little to no access to your home or business. But with the right safety protocol, you can be sure to prevent fires in winter. 

Winter Storm Fire Safety Tips

In 2019, more than 1,200,000 million fires occurred in the United States, many of which likely took place during the winter season.

Fires can happen at any given moment. When one starts in your business or home, it can be devastating and you will have to rely on Dallas fire damage restoration for assistance. 

Because of how random and unpredictable fires are, it’s vital that you practice the following fire safety tips during winter.

Always Have a Plan

It’s crucial that you always have an emergency plan in place. With an emergency plan, you can make sure fire damage is kept at a minimum and building occupants are safe if a fire starts. 

Be very meticulous with your plan as you create it. Make sure you have an escape route and a way to extinguish the fire quickly before it gets out of control. 

After your emergency plan is complete, go over it with your employees or members of your household. Other occupants should be aware of the plan and how to execute it during a winter fire.

Never Leave the Kitchen Unattended When in Use

Kitchens are the primary cause of winter and holiday fires. Waiting for a pot to boil or roast to finish can be boring. And, it’s all too easy to walk away from the stove to run another errand. This risks a fire starting, setting your kitchen (and possibly, the rest of your building) ablaze.

Remember to always be attentive and present when cooking during a winter storm. Never leave your kitchen when appliances are in use for extended periods of time, and keep a fire extinguisher handy.

Fire Equipment

Speaking of fire extinguishers, you should consider having one in your home or business if you don’t already. But besides this, you should also consider purchasing other fire prevention equipment. It’s a good idea to have a fire retardant blanket available on your property as well.

Winter Fire Ruining Your Holiday Cheer? Call SERVPRO

If a fire took place in your home or business, pick up the phone and call the experts at SERVPRO today. SERVPRO is highly regarded for its Dallas fire damage restoration and we’d be more than happy to help you.

Call us at (214) 272-7600 or fill out our online form.

Reduce the Risk of Losing Your Property to Fire Damage

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

Reduce the risk of losing your property to fire damage by taking preventative measures. Here's what our SERVPRO experts recommend.

Just about anything can cause a fire. In fact, according to the US Fire Administration, cooking alone proved to be the cause of 50.2% of fires in 2019. Because of how randomly fires can strike, it’s vital that you prepare yourself for any fire emergency. More so, it’s also crucial to know who to call when you need Dallas fire damage restoration.

SERVPRO of Dallas Love has been providing its fire damage restoration services for 35+ years. To learn more about how we can help you, continue reading. 

How We Help Restore Your Property

SERVPRO is always readily available, 24/7. After you contact us, we will immediately get to work assisting you. Upon arrival, we’ll inspect and assess all damage that occurred after the fire.

After inspection is complete and depending on the severity of the damage, we will board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs. This is to ensure security as well as protection against further damage.

If water is present after firefighters extinguish the fire, we will remove the water and dry your premises with dehumidifiers and air movers.

Soot and Smoke Removal

Smoke damage is no joke. It’s best to leave the restoration to the experts to prevent further damage from occurring from a DIY attempt. 

In our 35+ years of service, SERVPRO has provided Dallas fire damage restoration to many individuals. We’ve handled many surfaces and know how to properly remove soot from virtually any surface. 

If your floors, walls, ceiling, or even your textiles have suffered from smoke damage, you can count on us to restore them to their former beauty.

In Need of Dallas Fire Damage Restoration? You Can Count on SERVPRO

You can trust SERVPRO to provide the best fire damage restoration that you won’t get anywhere else. After we’re done, we feel confident that your property will look good as new.

Call us today at (214) 272-7600 or visit our contact page.

Get Expert Help for Your Fire Damage Restoration Now

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage can be catastrophic to your home. Once all living beings are accounted for, reach out to SERVPRO of Dallas Love for fire restoration.

According to the US Fire Administration, from 2019 to 2020, there was a $14.8 billion increase in fire damage losses. While many variables could have caused this increase, it can be assumed the increase may have been due to a lack of immediate action. 

After a fire is out, you should always contact Dallas fire damage restoration services to help reduce losses. SERVPRO of Dallas Love is always ready to help and has been doing so for 35+ years.

Here’s why you should always contact us soon after a fire.

Benefits of Dallas Fire Damage Restoration Services

With fire damage restoration, you’ll receive many benefits as a result of our services. They include:

Cost-Effectiveness

As mentioned above, there was a near $15 billion increase in fire damage losses from 2019 to 2020 alone. If you consider the possibility that this increase was likely due to delayed action on the part of property owners, then you can see why urgency is necessary to help you save money.

By hiring Dallas fire damage restoration services right away, you can counter the damage done to your property and save yourself more money in the long run.

Maintain Property Value

Your property is an investment. To ensure your investment is secured, you always need to treat it with the best care.

In the aftermath of a fire, despite the damages, you can secure your investment with fire damage restoration. With an expert’s touch, your home or business’ foundation will become strong again.

Restore Beauty

Your beautiful property can become ugly immediately after a fire, but its beauty can be restored with restoration services. When it comes to soot-covered walls, floors, ceilings, and even textiles, you can count on SERVPRO to make these parts of your property gorgeous once again.

Get Dallas Fire Damage Restoration Services from SERVPRO Today

If you want to reduce your costs, maintain property value, and restore your property’s look and appeal, call SERVPRO of Dallas Love right away after a fire.

Call us at (214) 272-7600 or fill out our online form.

How Do Garage Fires Start and How to Prevent Them?

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

We hope a garage fire never happens to your home, but if it does, SERVPRO of Dallas Love is at the ready for any fire damage restoration needs.

Fire is perhaps the most destructive element that can damage any home. And when your garage is set ablaze, it’s only a matter of minutes before it’s severely damaged. 

Many factors can cause a fire in your garage, but there are common issues that homeowners should be aware of. Moreover, they should also be aware of how to prevent garage fires.

SERVPRO experts are highly knowledgeable about garage fire causes and prevention. We’ve been providing Dallas fire damage restoration for 35+ years. To learn more about how you can prevent garage fires, continue reading below.

What Causes Garage Fires?

Anything can cause a fire at any given moment. But for garages, specifically, there is one variable that is common: electrical malfunction.

Electrical malfunctions are the least leading causes of garage fires specifically. In fact, the US Fire Administration states that electrical malfunctions only account for about 6.8% of residential fires caused in 2019. But regardless of how common they are, they are still the number one cause for garage fires. Hence, you should be mindful of your electrical wiring and ensure that everything is up to code.

How Do You Prevent Garage Fires?

As mentioned above, electrical malfunctions are the leading cause of garage fires. So make sure there is no faulty wiring.

But besides inspecting your wiring, you should also:

• Store your flammable items (oil, gas, etc.) in a separate area, such as a shed
• Don’t store any items on top of electrical appliances in your garage. If you have a washer and dryer in your garage, don’t leave textiles on top of them
• Don’t plug too many appliances into a single outlet in your garage
• Clean your garage regularly, ensuring no dust remains lingering on its floors
• Install a heat alarm instead of a smoke alarm in your garage

In Need of Dallas Fire Damage Restoration? Call SERVPRO Today

If a garage fire occurred in your home, don’t hesitate at all in contacting the professionals at SERVPRO of Dallas Love. Call us at (214) 272-7600 or visit our contact page to learn more about our Dallas fire damage restoration.

Selling Your House After Fire Damage: Tips for Making It Quick and Easy

11/9/2021 (Permalink)

Our technicians can address all types of water damage, including standing water, drywall water damage, and smoke odor removal.

When a fire has ravaged your home, you may be tempted to give up on it. While you might not want to sell it right away, at least until the repairs are made and the smoke odors in the house dissipate, if you wait too long, you could miss out on opportunities for buyers or even offers.

There are ways to cut through some of these problems so that you can get your property back in order and put it up for sale faster.

Get your house ready for the market as quickly as possible with SERVPRO's help.

Smoke damage clean up

Our technicians are trained in removing smoke damage. We will help you remove not only the smoke odor but also soot, stain, and smoke residue so that your home can be back in its pristine condition.

Fire and water damage restoration

Some areas can be left untouched by flames or smoke during a fire, while other rooms are devastated. Water damage can occur when the fire department sprays water in to put out the flames or when firefighters attempt to save your property by manually dousing the fire. Our technicians can address all types of water damage, including standing water, drywall water damage, and smoke odor removal.

Structural drying

One of the most critical steps to take after a fire is to remove the excess moisture from your property. This will speed up the restoration process and help prevent future problems such as mold.

Deodorization and sanitizing

No matter the damage, SERVPRO of Dallas can remove odors and sanitize any property. Our deodorization and sanitizers can remove smoke and fire residue that makes your property less desirable to future buyers.

Air duct and ventilation cleaning

The lingering smoke smell in the air and vents is one of the most challenging things to deal with. Our technicians can remove smoke and fire residue from your air ducts and ventilation system so that your house is back to its original condition.

Carpet cleaning

When you can't replace the carpet, our technicians can provide fast and effective carpet cleaning.

Contents cleaning

In addition to all types of property damage, you will want your personal items cleaned and sanitized. Our technicians can clean upholstery, clothing, bedding, curtains, and other things that are affected.

Hard floor restoration

If you have tile or hardwood floors, SERVPRO of Dallas can clean and restore them.

Disposal of damaged goods and debris

If you can't clean up the damage, we can help. Our technicians know how to remove damaged building materials, appliances, and furniture so that your house is left clean. Once the work has been done, we can dispose of everything to leave your property in its original condition.

We are IICRC-certified

All our technicians are IICRC-certified which means that they are trained in the latest techniques. This, along with our high level of certifications and accreditations, makes us the top choice when it comes to restoring your property after a fire.

If you need help with selling your house after fire damage, don't hesitate to contact us at : (214) 272-7600 SERVPRO Dallas Fire Damage Restoration. We will follow up with you through each step of the process until we have restored your property back to its original condition.

Our Smoke and Odor Removal Services for Dallas Homes

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

You can count on SERVPRO to help you with our advanced resources and inspection of the home to uncover the primary cause of smoke and odor.

Odor and smoke aren’t just annoying. They can also put your guests and customers off, and that’s bad for your reputation. 

It’s essential to get rid of the offending scent at the molecular level. Exposure to strong odors and smoke can cause health effects. The first step to fixing this situation is to identify the source of the smell. 

It may be a good idea to hire odor removal specialists from SERVPRO to do this critical job for you. We’ll quickly pinpoint the cause of the odor and strike it at the root, so your home or office doesn’t stink anymore. We’ll also thoroughly clean the other areas where the scent may be trapped. 

Take a look at our smoke and odor removal process.

Remove Damaged Items

For smoke removal, SERVPRO teams first do away with all items that have suffered smoke damage. This step helps us ensure the smoke and stench don’t linger after completing the odor removal process. 

Clean All Surfaces

SERVPRO’s teams inspect every nook and cranny of the home to ensure that all surfaces are thoroughly cleaned. Our trained experts take the time to clean surfaces and their contents so no residual scent is left behind.

Use Quality Odor Removal Products

SERVPRO uses experienced teams and advanced materials and products that get inside the very fabric of your home goods and surfaces. Once everything is thoroughly scrubbed and washed, the experts run their top-notch odor removal equipment to eliminate the scent completely. 

Seal Surfaces 

Next, our team seals all of the porous surfaces that may have absorbed the smell. This way, your home becomes an odor-free space.  

Benefit From Our Services in Dallas 

Get rid of distressing scents and smoke in your Dallas home and office.

You can count on SERVPRO to help you with our advanced resources and inspection of the home to uncover the primary cause of smoke and odor. Next, our technicians take measures to get rid of the scent from all surfaces, leaving you with a home that smells and looks clean.

You can contact SERVPRO to get the job done right. Call our Dallas Love franchise at (214) 272-7600 for effective odor removal asap. 

Fire Damage Restoration: What You Need to Know

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is a fire damage restoration company in Dallas, TX, with first-rate quality.

A fire in a business facility or a residential space is a complete nightmare to deal with as the damage is hugely disruptive and damaging. You might feel relieved when the fire is put out and everybody is safe. However, the damage is only the starting.  

Fires generate corrosive byproducts once they burn artificial materials, and these derivatives, with smoke and soot, cause substantial damage to furnishings and surfaces.  This destruction often extends into areas that the fire didn’t even reach.

This is why you should start the fire damage restoration process the moment the fire department unblocks your property. Call SERVPRO Dallas Love 24/7 for a free consultation at (214) 272-7600.

Fire Damage Restoration Process: A Quick Overview

Fire damage restoration is the process in which a building damaged from smoke, fire, and corrosive byproducts is remediated and repaired.  This process includes eliminating corrosion from furnishings and surfaces caused by soot or other byproducts and removing smoke odors at a molecular level. 

It is an intricate process that includes the following steps:

Scrutinizing the Damage

Fire damage restoration experts begin by thoroughly inspecting the property to assess the full extent of the damage caused by smoke, soot, and fire.  They also search for any water damage that often occurs from extinguishing the fire. Once the professionals fully gauge the damage, they start the restoration process.

Property Stabilization

Fire causes considerable damage to the roof and structural core, leaving it vulnerable to further damage from vandalism and the elements. Fire damage restoration technicians can effectively help you secure your home with board-up and roof tarping services to make sure it’s protected in the restoration process.

Content Removal and Cleaning

Things that have been irreparably damaged, such as appliances, personal belongings, and furniture, etc., will be discarded. The experts can help you determine if a specific object can be saved or not or if it’s been damaged beyond reparation. Any items you can easily save are packed and taken to an off-site facility to be carefully restored and cleaned.

Drying

Once the technicians secure the property, fire damage cleanup experts remove standing water and restore any resulting loss. Then, they dry the impacted areas using dehumidification and drying equipment to prevent mold growth and other problems.

Wrapping Up

SERVPRO is a fire damage restoration company in Dallas, TX, with first-rate quality. You can depend on our seasoned professionals to give your space restoration services in case of fire. 

Contact our franchise, Dallas Love, by filling our form or get in touch with us at (214) 272-7600 for efficient fire repair services.