Preventing Heating Fires

2/8/2024 (Permalink)

As the cold temperatures persist, it's important to ensure that you heat your home safely.

While modern heating systems are designed to be more efficient and have built-in safety features that minimize the risk of fires, it is crucial to note that heating fires can still occur due to various factors. 

Is your property at risk? Let us help you get prepared with our checklist of preventative measures. But remember, if your property does undergo damage, we are open 24/7, 365 days a year to help you through it and to make it "Like it never even happened."

Checklist for preventing heating fires

Overall, there has been a decline in heating fires over the years, however, they still pose a significant risk to homes and individuals. By remaining vigilant, staying informed about safety measures, and taking proactive steps to maintain heating systems, we can continue to reduce the occurrence of these devastating incidents.

• Heat source proximity - Keep anything that can burn at least three feet from all heat sources including fireplaces, wood stoves, radiators, portable heaters, or candles.
• Electrical issues - Always plug space heaters directly into an outlet, and make sure its cord isn’t damaged or frayed.
• Improper usage - Never use an oven to heat your home.
• Maintenance - Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected each year by a professional.
• More information - Visit the U.S. Fire Administration Home Fires page to learn about how to prepare for and prevent home fires including tips for individuals with disabilities and older adults.

source: Ready.gov

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Fire Prevention for Homes and Businesses

12/11/2023 (Permalink)

If you didn't know, it's National Fire Prevention Week. As much as we here at SERVPRO are here to help clean up after fires, our priority is always to help prevent them in the first place. So, we want to share some tips with you that will help keep you and your loved ones safe.

Fire is one of the most devastating disasters that can strike a home or business. It can cause extensive damage to property and possessions, and can even lead to loss of life. That's why it's important to take steps to prevent fires from happening in the first place.

Here are some fire prevention tips for homes and businesses: Home fire prevention tips:

• ?  Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas. Test your smoke alarms every month and change the batteries every year.

• ?  Create and practice a fire escape plan with your family.

• ?  Keep flammable materials away from heat sources.

• ?  Be careful when cooking and using candles.

• ?  Never smoke in bed.

• ?  Have your electrical wiring and appliances inspected regularly by a qualified electrician. Business fire prevention tips:

• ?  Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors throughout your business. Test your alarms every month and change the batteries every year.

• ?  Create and practice a fire escape plan with your employees.

• ?  Keep flammable materials away from heat sources and electrical equipment.

• ?  Be careful when using appliances and equipment.

• ?  Have your electrical wiring and appliances inspected regularly by a qualified electrician.

  How SERVPRO can help after a fire

  If a fire does happen, it's important to call a qualified fire restoration company as soon as possible. SERVPRO is a leading provider of fire restoration services. We have over 2,000 franchises across the United States and Canada, so we're always nearby to help when disaster strikes.

Our team of highly trained and experienced professionals is equipped to handle all aspects of fire restoration, including:

• ?  Emergency water removal

• ?  Structural drying

• ?  Smoke and odor removal

• ?  Content cleaning and restoration

• ?  Construction services

  We work with your insurance company to make the claims process as easy and stress-free as possible. We also offer 24/7 emergency service, so you can always count on us to be there for you when you need us most.

  If you have experienced a fire, contact SERVPRO today. We're here to help you get your home or business back to normal as quickly as possible.

  Additional fire prevention tips:

• ?  Educate your family and employees about fire safety. Make sure everyone knows what to do in case of a fire.

• ?  Have a fire extinguisher on every level of your home or business and know how to use it.

• ?  Keep your fire extinguishers in good working order by inspecting them regularly and

  having them serviced by a professional.

• ?  Consider installing a fire sprinkler system. Fire sprinkler systems can help to extinguish

  fires quickly and prevent them from spreading.

  By following these fire prevention tips, you can help to protect your home or business from the devastating effects of fire.

3 Major Causes of Home Fires

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

Age, faulty wiring, and improper use are all possible causes of a home fire.

Most Common Causes Of a Home Fire

There are many ways to protect your family and your East Brainerd, TN, home, especially when it comes to fire safety. Millions of blazes occur in the United States each year, and some of them cause catastrophic damage that require the services of a fire cleanup and restoration company. If you want to avoid this type of tragedy, it is important to know the most common causes of a home fire and how to prevent them.

1. Malfunctioning or Overheated Appliances

Your home’s stove, washer and dryer and air conditioning system can spark a fire if they fail to operate correctly or overheat. Faulty wiring, age and improper use might all contribute to such circumstances. To prevent this possibility, turn off or unplug appliances when you leave the house, keep your dryer’s filter and ducts clean and have your HVAC system maintained and checked annually.

2. Accidental Arson

The curiosity of children has often led to accidental fires that have raged out of control. Matches, lighters and hand-held units that light with the push of a button can present irresistible temptation to kids, even those who are old enough to understand that fire causes injury and damage. If you have children, keep all flammables out of reach or locked away and avoid leaving cigarette lighters or matches unattended.

3. Holiday Lights

A home fire caused by Christmas or other holiday lights can occur for several reasons. The lights may be old, have a faulty bulb or may overheat when left on too long. They might also be accidentally placed near flammable substances. Even smaller lights can cause a blaze, so you may want to ask a fire cleaning and restoration specialist about how to hang lighted decorations safely, especially if you have a smaller home where a fire might spread rapidly.

Preventing a home fire can be crucial to keeping your family and East Brainerd, TN, property safe. Understanding what might spark a blaze may help you eliminate risk factors around the house and practice fire safety tactics that can be beneficial to everyone who lives there.

Tips for Filing a Renters Insurance Claim After a Fire

6/18/2022 (Permalink)

Clean the screen to prevent a dryer fire.

Three Ways You Can Remove Lint From a Dryer

Almost 3,000 residential fires happen each year due to dirty lint traps in a dryer, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. Preventing a lint fire in your Collegedale, TN, home takes little time and effort, and it can help save you thousands in fire restoration services costs. Here are three ways you can remove lint from a dryer. 

1. Clean the Screen To Prevent a Dryer Fire
After every load in your dryer is done, pull out the lint trap and clean it. Gently start in one corner of the trap and pull the lint away from the screen. Ensure that you don't have any lint left on the trap that might get into the vents. It's also helpful to clean the screen in warm, soapy water every two weeks to help remove built-up dust and small bits of debris that could cause a lint fire. Be sure to thoroughly dry the screen before putting it back into the dryer. 

2. Clean the Vents
Over time, pieces of lint get trapped in the vents and can eventually block airflow from the dryer. When that happens, you are at a much higher risk of fire damage happening to your home. Unplug your machine and remove the exhaust hose from the dryer. Use a vacuum to completely clean the inside of the hose and remove all of the accumulated lint. It's also helpful to access the exhaust hose from the outside vent and use a cleaning rod to remove the lint in the hose from that side. 

3. Deep-Clean the Interior of the Dryer
Because lint pieces can be small and light, they often make their way to the dryer's interior. If not addressed, the pieces of lint can quickly build up and cause blockages, which can be a fire hazard for your machine. While your machine is unplugged, remove the back of the dryer. Wipe down all surfaces with built-up lint and use a vacuum to access hard-to-reach places. 
Taking adequate care of your dryer and its components doesn't take a lot of extra time, and it can keep you and your family safe from a lint fire. 

4 Flameless Alternatives to Candles

6/3/2022 (Permalink)

Using candle alternatives is just one way that you can reduce the chances of an emergency in your home.

Candle Alternatives

Many people like to use candles in their homes. They can provide pleasant scents and create an inviting atmosphere. However, they can sometimes present a danger. If you are unable to use candles in your East Brainerd, TN, home or would just prefer something safer, there are several candle alternatives to consider.

1. Wax Warmers
For some, the primary appeal of using candles is the fragrance. Scented candles are an easy way to add a nice aroma to a room. Electric wax warmers are able to do that without the use of a flame. Because they use heat and electricity, however, they should still be used with supervision.

2. Oil Diffusers
Another way to avoid the risk of a candle fire is to use a diffuser. Electric diffusers and reed diffusers both use scented oils to add fragrance to the environment. If you want something hassle-free, a reed diffuser may be the best option for you.

3. Warm Lighting
If for you, the appeal of a candle is its lighting instead of its scent, then you may only need to invest in a warm lighting fixture. There are a variety of candle alternatives that will serve this purpose. You could opt for a LED lamp that has multiple settings or even just a soft white lightbulb.

4. Flameless Candles
Don’t want to sacrifice any part of the candle experience? Try a battery-operated candle. These items look like regular candles but don’t put your home at risk. Some battery-operated candles come in various scents and some have a flickering light reminiscent of a flame, so you can easily create the atmosphere that you want.
Home fires can be devastating and fire damage remediation services can take a long time to complete. Using candle alternatives is just one way that you can reduce the chances of an emergency in your home. There are several options that you can use while still getting the experience that you are looking for.

Dealing With Smoke Damage After a Fire

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

When you have a fire in your business, it can be absolutely devastating.

Smoke Cleaning After a Fire

When a fire happens to your commercial property in Tyner, TN, there's a lot to handle in the aftermath. One aspect that is not immediately obvious is the task of smoke cleaning. This is an important step that should not be skipped, so be sure to add it to your to-do list.

What It Harms

Smoke damage doesn't just mean seeing some dark smudges on the ceiling. Smoke and soot spreads quickly and can manifest on almost everything in your building. It will affect different items and surfaces in different ways. Some common problem areas can include:

• electronics
  
• documents
  
• furniture
  
• fabric materials
  
  

How It's Cleaned

Depending on what needs cleaning, there can be a method for every scenario. Specific items, such as those listed above, each requires their own customized type of smoke cleaning, that should be conducted by a qualified remediation specialist. Surfaces such as walls and solid furniture can handle the process of dry to wet cleaning. For upholstery and fabric than will shrink if exposed to wet cleaning, there is an option called foam cleaning. Immersive cleaning is a form of wet cleaning in which smaller objects can be totally sunk into a cleaning solution. The list goes on for many more categories.

How It's Reported

If you've hired a smoke odor and cleaning service, they most likely can help you with your insurance claim, as well. You will probably need to inventory all your content that has been damaged by fire or smoke and gather all you can to verify each item's value. Then you can contact your insurance to determine your coverage. If you don't already have coverage, this moment would also be a good time to consider adding it.

Fire damage is a dynamic problem that needs to be approached from multiple angles. One of these angles that shouldn't be dismissed is that of smoke cleaning. Smoke damage can hinder functionality and cause a strong odor. Give it proper attention for complete rehabilitation of your commercial property.

The Top 4 Causes of House Fires and How To Prevent Them

2/25/2022 (Permalink)

Kitchen fire damage in East Brainerd, TN.

House Fires: The Top 4 Causes and How to Avoid Them

There are over 350,000 residential fires reported annually in the United States. Although the rate of occurrence has fallen by over 50 percent in the last four decades, property losses still top $6 billion each year. A home fire in East Brainerd, TN, can be one of the most devastating events a person encounters in his or her lifetime. Awareness of its four leading causes can be an important step toward reducing instances of this disaster.

1. Cooking Gear

Nearly half of all house fires originate in the kitchen. Overheating pots and pans and splattering grease can quickly spark a fire. Grease is highly flammable and notoriously difficult to extinguish once it ignites. Combustible items such as dish towels and paper products should be stored away from sources of heat. It is important to never leave the stove unattended while in use.

2. Heating Equipment

Space heaters are a convenient source of extra warmth in a room but need to be operated safely to prevent a home fire. Keep portable heaters away from flammable property such as furniture, window coverings and clothing. Consider having your furnace inspected annually, as well as yearly chimney cleaning if you utilize a fireplace.

3. Smoking Indoors

Smoking inside the home, particularly in bed, can be a risky behavior. Of the leading fire causes, this one is completely preventable. Caution should be exercised with indoor smoking. Sleepy smokers should always try to extinguish smoking materials before they nod off. The best ashtrays are deep and oversized and should be placed far away from anything that will burn.

4. Electrical Systems and Equipment

From overloaded outlets to faulty wiring, there are many ways an electrical fire can start. Professional inspection of your home’s wiring, particularly in older residences, is an important part of keeping your living spaces safe. Avoid excessive use of extension cords and adaptors, and refrain from overburdening circuits.

With heightened awareness and precautionary measures, a home fire does not have to be in your future. If disaster does strike, enlisting the help of professional fire cleaning services can help you restore your home to its original state as quickly and smoothly as possible.

3 Tips for Planning a Fire Escape Route for Your Home

10/22/2021 (Permalink)

Take time to create and test your plan.

3 Fire Escape Route Planning Tips for Your Home

If a fire were to break out in your Collegedale, TN, home, getting yourself and your family to safety would probably be your top priority. Since fires can happen unexpectedly, having a pre-planned fire escape plan is a wise idea and may help every member of your family get out of the house quickly. If you are ready to create this type of safety plan, there are a few tips you can keep in mind to make it efficient, effective and simple.

1. Plan With the Family

Creating an emergency escape plan with your family present can ensure that everyone living in your home is prepared in case of a fire emergency. Gather everyone together when you have at least an hour to discuss a plan and allow everyone to contribute their ideas. When everyone is prepared and aware of the escape route, this can increase the chances of preventing a disaster if a fire breaks out.

2. Plan More Than One Route

According to the American Red Cross, you have about two minutes to escape your home once a fire starts. If the fire starts near where you have planned to exit or it spreads there, this can cause you to become trapped. To prevent this, you might want to add more than one egress to your fire escape plan. Consider both a front and back entrance escape, either a door or a window, that your family can use if the other is blocked by flames.

3. Have Your Home Inspected for Fire Hazards

While having an escape plan is wise, having your home professionally inspected for potential hazards can reduce the chances of you ever needing it. Have a fire damage and restoration company look over your home and ask their techs for advice about what you can do to make it less prone to fires.

Creating a fire escape plan for your Collegedale, TN, home can protect your family from imminent danger in case the worst should happen. Take time to create and test your plan to give yourself as much peace of mind as possible.

Why You Should Call SERVPRO of Chattanooga For Residential Fire Damage Services

8/23/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Chattanooga is a locally owned and operated authority for residential fire damage.

Call SERVPRO of Chattanooga for Residential Fire Damage Services

When you need residential fire damage services, you should contact a locally owned and operated professional that can quickly diagnose the exact nature of your problem and then get right to work on solving it. Fire and smoke are particularly destructive forces that can gut a structure and cause it to be condemned. If your property is suffering from this sort of damage, you may need immediate help to salvage it.

You'll Need a Company That Specializes in Fire Damage Restoration:

After any damage has occurred, you should contact a company immediately for an initial diagnosis. This will then be followed by a team getting directly to work on cleaning up and fully restoring the affected area. Cleanup, removal of debris, neutralization of remaining odors, and purifying of the air can commence quickly to prevent any further health effects that often arise after fire damage.

Concentrate on Restoration Rather Than Replacement:

The focus of good restoration service should always fixate on restoring your property rather than replacing it. When possible, it's better to isolate quickly and neutralize any issues rather than replacing your entire property. Restoration not only costs you less money in the long run, but it also allows you to quickly get back to living your life faster. If parts of the property do need to be completely rebuilt, talk to the company about timelines for the areas that are fixable first, and then concentrate on the areas that need to be entirely redone.

What to Expect From Any Service:

A reputable restoration service will do an immediate assessment of the damage, followed by board up and tarp service if required. From there, they will remove all affected material and begin airing out and drying the general area. Once all of the debris, smoke, and soot has been eliminated from the area, they can begin restoring your property back to pristine condition.

What to Look For:

It's best to hire a locally owned company that has a focus and connection to your community. You should also ensure that the service personnel you are dealing with are fully qualified, trained, and experienced at diagnosing and solving the problems that affect your property. When you are dealing with severe fire and smoke damage, you want to make sure the company you choose can handle the scope of the project and will help you handle any problems that come up.


SERVPRO of Chattanooga is a locally owned and operated authority for residential fire damage cleanup and restoration. When fire damage threatens properties in the areas of Chattanooga and the surrounding region, we can help. Contact us now for a prompt response to your fire damage emergency at (423) 326-1406.

How To Choose A Fire Damage Restoration Company

8/23/2021 (Permalink)

When you have a fire or water emergency, SERVPRO is ready to help.

The Importance Of Hiring A Reputable Fire Damage Restoration Company

Fires are a dangerous and destructive force and can be very despairing to a homeowner if it reaches a large scale. If a large fire occurs on your residential property, you may feel inclined to panic. And even when the fire is put out, you are likely left with a variety of damages that leave you wondering how you will ever restore your property. While the reality of fire damage may seem overwhelming, recovering from the damages does not have to be so. SERVPRO suggests putting the burden of fire damage restoration upon the professionals.

What To Do Following The Fire

Once the fire has transpired, get in contact with the local disaster relief officials. These individuals will help you secure food, clothing, and temporary shelter if necessary. Also, be sure to call your insurance company. The company's insurance adjuster will survey the damage and monetize the repair costs. SERVPRO recommends getting additional support by calling us to come out and inspect the fire damage and offer a strategic action plan. We are preferred vendors, or work closely, with over 320 insurance and property management companies, government agencies, and state and local bodies. We will gladly coordinate, with you and your adjuster, a Chattanooga fire damage restoration plan, that can begin immediately upon approval. Water and debris removal will mitigate losses and lower your expenses.

Removal of water and charred debris are necessary first steps to lessen on-going degradation of personal and structural property. Boarding up open areas against the elements and vandalism may also be required after major fire damage.

Clean up and Smoke Removal. Interior walls, ceilings, furniture and flooring that is salvageable will be cleaned using IICRC approved techniques. Non-salvageable items will be wrapped and safely discarded to limit contamination. Complex cleaning can be done at our facility by packing and shipping out documented and inventoried items. Smoke, soot, and ash removal is a two-step process. Soot, an oily based residue, requires special sponges, detergents, and techniques for cleaning without staining walls, ceilings, and wood furniture. HVAC system, especially the ductwork, may require special vacuuming and fogging to remove smoke particles and odors. Special foggers are used for final odor removal before an additional application for deodorizing.

Mold Remediation

In addition to eliminating smoky odors and the damage it causes, fire damage restoration experts are skilled in mitigating mold growth. Typically, the extinguishing efforts of the fire department will leave excessive water on your residential property. The mixture of a cellulose food source and water and moisture encourage the expansion of fungi. Air scrubbers, and  foggers, containing disinfectants, antibacterial and antifungal products complete the clean up.

Call SERVPRO. With over 55 years of experience in the fire damage restoration industry, our IICRC-certified technicians work with skill and precision to restore your fire damaged Chattanooga property. We will work, always in your best interest, to get you back to a safe home--"Like it never even happened."

24-Hour Emergency Fire Restoration Service

SERVPRO of Chattanooga is locally owned and operated so we are part of the Chattanooga community too. When you have a fire or water emergency, we’re already nearby in Chattanooga, Harrison, or Collegedale and ready to help. Call us at (423) 326-1406 24/7, 365. 

4 Ways to Clean Belongings After a Fire

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

After a fire, you want to get everything back to normal as soon as possible. You can contact SERVPRO of Chattanooga for professional help.

After a Fire, How to Clean Your Belongings

Watching your Tyner, TN home burn can leave you with an ache in your heart. Not only do you have to deal with a massive insurance claim, but there's a good chance you'll end up losing some of your treasured possessions. When you work with a residential fire damage cleanup crew, some of your smoke-damaged belongings may get saved. Content cleaning is a delicate art that can take the following shapes.

1. Dry-Cleaning: Clothes, furniture and other porous items often have to be cleaned with a dry-cleaning method. This helps remove the smoke and soot that built up during the fire. If you try to wash your clothes on a normal cycle, you may end up causing more damage. The soot has to be removed from the textiles before you can return to a typical cleaning method.
2. Ultrasonic: Non-porous items can go through a more vigorous cleaning than materials that soak up water. The ultrasonic treatment incorporates ultrasound and a cleaning solvent to rid your belongings of soot.
3. High-Pressure Water: If the ultrasonic machine is not big enough for some of your non-porous furniture, the professionals may choose to use high-pressure water. This only works on non-porous items because they won't soak up the excess water.
4. Odor Removal: Smoke isn't the only thing that can cling to your possessions. The odor after a fire can be a long-term reminder of what you went through. After dry-cleaning, ultrasonic or high-pressure water methods have been put in place, you may want to do some sort of odor removal too. Professionals often use thermal fogging or ozone treatments to rid your home of the funky smell.

After a fire, you want to get everything back to normal as soon as possible. This means you need to clean your belongings. If the cleaning process takes longer than expected, you can also use content storage to get your dirty, smelly items out of the house until they're clean.

Responsibly Using a Fire Extinguisher

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

Use the PASS method when using a fire extinguisher.

How To Handle a Fire Extinguisher

By now, fire extinguishers have become staples in most disaster-ready homes and provide billions worldwide with a quick, straightforward way to respond to sudden blazes. Generally, if you’ve used one fire extinguisher, you’ll use them all, as they typically follow the same usage procedure known as PASS:

• Pull the pin to break the tamper seal
• Aim the nozzle at the bottom of the fire
• Squeeze the handle and release extinguisher chemicals
• Sweep the nozzle back and forth at the base of the fire until it’s extinguished
  
  
  

Knowing these steps can save you a ton of hassle with instances like the average kitchen fire in Harrison, TN but to really mitigate as much fire damage as possible, there are a few other things you need to take into account.

Choosing Your Extinguisher

The first thing you should always be aware of is that not every fire extinguisher is good for every job. For example, when dealing with a grease fire, you’ll need a class B extinguisher to really get the job done safely. It’s a good idea to research different extinguisher uses before deciding where to allocate these appliances around your home.

Emergency Services

Just because you have an extinguisher on your side doesn’t mean you won’t need emergency services. Ideally, you should have someone calling 911 as you attempt to extinguish the flames. This ensures you’re able to get the assistance you need in the event that your attempts are unsuccessful.


Furthermore, know when to leave the house. If the blaze becomes too large or your extinguisher runs out of juice, it’s time to get outdoors. You can pass over the firefighting responsibilities to emergency responders and work with a fire cleanup crew afterward to get your home back to normal again.


Keeping proper fire extinguisher handling tips in mind may be able to save your home and your family in the coming years. Be sure to discuss the above tips with every member of your family.

Best Practices for Avoiding a Grill Fire

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

Proper maintenance increases the safety of your grill.

Many people in the spring and summer enjoy cooking out on a grill. While this activity is generally pretty safe, there are times when flames flare up and create a dangerous situation. If you are lucky, the only thing damaged is your meal. Sometimes, though, widespread damage to a garage, lawn or home results. A simple practice such as grill cleaning can eliminate many fires. A dirty grill is often caked with flammable items such as grease and oil. Once these substances ignite, it is important to keep a calm attitude. Often the fire can be extinguished by turning off the grill and keeping the top closed.

The Role of Regular Grill Maintenance

It is crucial to make sure your grill is in good shape before turning it on. Make sure there are no loose parts or obvious problems with the grill. When you turn on the grill, make sure the fire looks stable. When it is time for grill cleaning, follow these steps:

• Turn off the grill and disconnect the propane tank
  
• Soak the grates and metal plates in a bucket of warm water and soap
  
• Use a grill brush to scrub dirty portions of the grill
  
• Empty the drip pan and soak it in the bucket
  
  

A thorough cleaning is the best way to avoid a grease fire. Proper maintenance increases the safety of your grill.

The Role of Fire Restoration

Any time a fire does break out in your home in Harrison, TN, it is important to call for professional help. An experienced fire remediation company will help you restore your home to its original condition. This includes removing all forms of soot and smoke damage as well as restoring any structural damage caused by the fire. In all areas of your home, it is important to practice fire safety. Grill cleaning is one simple way to protect your home from a devastating fire.

No Fire Restoration Job is Too Large

12/21/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Restoration

We recently completed a fire damage restoration job at a local Chattanooga restaurant. Our team responded early Saturday morning when the restaurant opener had an accident while warming up the ovens. The stove caught fire and spread smoke and soot throughout the restaurant. When we arrived on scene, local firefighter fighters had extinguished the fire and we began the water cleanup process. After the water damage was cleared, we began the fire restoration clean up. We removed everything from the walls and floors and began wiping down every inch of the damaged areas. We took many of the items back to our Chattanooga facility to be properly and professionally cleaned in our ozone room. When the Chattanooga restaurant was completely cleaned and rid of smoke and soot, we returned the items to their exact spots. The owners were so thrilled with our professionalism and quick response time that they offered our employees to sign the wall so that our team will always be memorialized in the restaurant. 

If you are in need of fire damage restoration, give SERVPRO of Chattanooga a call at (423) 326-1406. We have a fire team dedicated to fire cleanup and smoke and soot cleanup. Give us a call today!

Walking You Through The Fire Damage Remediation Process

9/23/2020 (Permalink)

Walking You Through The Fire Damage Remediation Process

When you experience fire damage, you may not know how to start the recovery process. Even if the superficial signs of fire damage are cleared away, lingering problems like smoke damage can continue to mar your home over the long term. All fire damage manifests itself differently, but skilled professionals can help homeowners get to the bottom of their issue through a standard fire damage searching procedure.

The cleaning begins after the worst of the fire damage has been taken care of by firefighters and other emergency personnel. Once the smoke clears, our fire damage remediation specialists can begin cleaning up the area. The procedure usually depends on the type of damage present in the 
area, and every remediation process is different for every client.

When our specialists arrive at your door, they'll proceed carefully by inspecting the surrounding area and testing the damaged sections to determine the extent of the damage. The experts always make sure to avoid doing anything that might exacerbate the damage, and they'll run you through the inspection process to develop a plan of action.

If the fire damage was particularly extensive and did damage to your roof or windows, they'll make sure that the security of your home is not compromised by boarding up missing walls and windows and setting tarps around the damaged sections of the roof to maintain your privacy. In addition to making sure that the open areas are covered, experts usually begin the water removal process immediately after. What many 
homeowners don't realize is that water damage appears almost at the same time as smoke damage does. In order to combat such effects, the experts set up dehumidifiers to dry out the remaining water.

When the water has been cleared, the specialists move on to the brunt of the fire damage. They begin by looking into the smoke and soot damage around your home's surfaces, and they then remove it carefully to avoid agitating troublesome particles. Once the surface has been taken care of, the professionals proceed to clean all other areas that may have been damaged by the fire. A standard Decatur fire damage cleaning also takes restorable items into account, and all noticeable odors are removed with fogging equipment and air scrubbers.

The final step in the restoration process involves handling all the remaining minor repairs around the property, such as replacing the drywall and painting over a freshly cleaned surface. This may also involve installing new carpeting and taking care of major repairs to your home.

SERVPRO is locally owned and operated, and all our employees are highly skilled and trained through IICRC guidelines to provide customers with the most thorough cleanup available. Whether you need smoke damage remediated or entire sections of the home repaired after extensive fire 
damage, we're ready to help. "Like it never even happened." When you experience a fire in your home, call us as soon as possible at (423) 326-1406.

Fire Preparation Essentials- Collegedale, TN

8/21/2020 (Permalink)

Recommendations for Quick Recovery After Fire Damage Strikes in Collegedale 

Collegedale fire damage can wreck a home and everything in it. In fact, if the fire spreads far enough, the structure of the home may come tumbling down. Being prepared for a fire is not always easy, but some things can be done. Moreover, it frequently involves making sure the home always has batteries in fire alarms that work and other things like fire extinguishers in the right places. So, for those of you who are interested in what needs to be done first to make sure your family and your home are protected, here are three invaluable Collegedale residential fire damage recommendations that the family members can use to make sure that they are not off guard. 

Recommendation #1 -Invest in a Fire Extinguisher 

Everyone in the home uses the kitchen from time to time. For some people, they may only use it to eat, while others enter the kitchen to make food preparations. Regardless of the situation or the circumstances, people should always keep a fire extinguisher in this area to put out of the fire if one does occur. Fortunately, the cost of a fire extinguisher can vary so people should make sure that they are shopping around for one that they can afford. 

Recommendation #2 – Keep Baking Soda Around Since it is Used for Grease Fires 

It is not unusual for fires to occur in the kitchen area while cooking with grease. Since grease fires can spread quickly, people must know what they can use to recover quickly. One way that people can react quickly is to use baking soda to drown out a grease fire, precisely because it can put out the fire quickly without it spreading to other areas in the home. 

Recommendation #3 - Keep Emergency Numbers Close 

When a fire does occur, time is of the essence. People should have emergency numbers readily available so that they can minimize the time that it takes to get the help that is needed. 

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

If you or someone you know experiences a fire in their home or business, you contact SERVPRO of Chattanooga at (423) 326-1406. 

The Soot Tag Phenomenon

8/21/2020 (Permalink)

How Do Soot Tags Form?

Being fire restoration specialists, we have seen a lot of fire damaged homes and businesses in Chattanooga, TN over the years. Sometimes, the extent of the damage is very evident- especially when the damage is on the walls and ceilings of homes. Other times, the most extensive part of the damage is in the attics or trapped between walls where it is unseen until we dig in with our inspection. 

One of the most common visible instances of fire damage are the black spider webs that seem to spring out of nowhere after a fire. These spider webs are actually called “soot tags” and are not actually related to spider webs at all. 

Soot tags form in areas of low circulation when petroleum/synthetic based sources burn. In a fire, the heat of the fire moves into colder areas since the air seeks to create equilibrium. The soot particles follow the heat into the colder areas with low circulation. Because soot is a product of combustion, the particles themselves are charged which makes it quite easy for them to create long chains of soot or soot tags. It may look like soot is stuck on existing cob webs, but it is actually an entirely new structure. Pretty creepy! 

If your home of business in Chattanooga is affected by smoke or fire damage, give us a call at (423) 326-1406. We are available 24/7 to help when needed. 

Don’t End Your Business Due to Harrison Fire Damage

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

Don’t End Your Business Due to Harrison Fire Damage

It’s hard to stay positive after you’ve received word that your business has been damaged in any way at all; be it through flooding, burglary, or a fire. A calm and reasoned response are proven to be the best way of fixing problems quickly, even if they seem insurmountable at first. 

If your business has been damaged by a fire, it’s important to understand that this doesn’t mean game over. It may take time, and it might test the limits of your insurance policy, but even extensive fire damage can be reversed with the right kind of help and support. 

Fire Damage Restoration Can Save Your Business 

While there are some types of fire damage in Harrison that can’t be repaired, if the blaze was spotted and extinguished quickly, this is unlikely to be the case for your business. However, the success of repair and restoration processes are time dependent, so don’t hang around when it comes to picking a fire damage team. 

Once you’ve arranged for a team of restoration techs to visit the site, the first thing that will happen is a full evaluation. This will let you know exactly how bad the damage is and what needs to be done to bring your business back to life. If you are finding it tough to stay positive, given the circumstances, asking questions and learning about this process can be helpful. It will keep your mind focused on practical, logical steps. 

It will also put an end to speculation. Once you have some answers, you can stop working with ‘ifs’ and start looking ahead to definite possibilities. Usually, it is up to you whether or not you want to be on site while the restorations are being carried out. You will not be allowed into the building, but you can stay close if you’d rather be on top of everything that is happening. For most people, however, staying on site is emotionally draining and they prefer to wait elsewhere while the repairs are ongoing. 

Choosing the Right Fire Damage Restoration Service 

If you are covered for fire damage, your provider will pay for all (or most) of the restoration costs. Nevertheless, this doesn’t mean that it isn’t worth comparing rates and reputations. Fire damage restoration, like most marketable services, can be very affordable, but the best companies aren’t always the cheapest either. 

This is why it’s important to research the various services and provisions on offer. If possible, find some information on the type of equipment that will be used and how many success stories a prospective company has to its name. The best fire damage teams are usually the ones that are highly regarded within the local area, so keep this in mind when searching for yours. 

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Chattanooga can help you get your business back on track after an unexpected fire. We use state-of-the-art equipment and tools to carry out our repairs so that even extensive fire damage is quickly resolved and restored. Call us at (423) 326-1406. 

How to Have a Warm Winter Safely

12/4/2019 (Permalink)

Everyone loves to be cuddled up on the couch with your favorite blanket feeling the warmth of your beloved space heater, right? According to NFPA’s latest U.S. Home Fires Involving Heating Equipment report, released in 2018, heating equipment is the second-leading cause of U.S. home fires and the third-leading cause of home fire deaths. 

What if I told you that more than half (53%) of all heating fire deaths resulted from fires that began when heating equipment was too close to things that can burn, such as upholstered furniture, clothing, mattresses or bedding.

SERVPRO of Chattanooga wants to ensure your holidays are merry and bright, and your homes are filled with joy. Here are seven precautionary tips you can take when using a space heater:

1. Keep heaters at least 3 feet away from any flammable materials, including furniture, blankets, and wastebaskets.
2. Buy a space heater that includes an automatic shutoff. 
3. Do not plug space heaters under your desk on in other enclosed areas.
4. Plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet. Do not use an extension cord or power strip, which could overheat and result in a fire. Do not plug any other electrical devices into the same outlet as the heater..
5. Never leave a space heater unattended.  Turn off and unplug heaters when not in use.
6. Inspect heaters for cracked or broken plugs or loose connections before each use. If frayed, worn or damaged, do not use the heater.
7. Space heaters are only meant to provide supplemental heat and should never be used to warm bedding, cook food, dry clothing or thaw pipes.

If you do happen to experience fire loss of any sort in your home or business, we are here to help. Give us a call at (423) 326-1406, where we are available 24/7! Happy Holidays!

3 Dangers of Soot and Smoke Inhalation - Chattanooga, TN

8/19/2019 (Permalink)

After a fire is diminished and the smoke settles, you may think that you can buy a few bottles of bleach and clean the soot yourself. The issue with this particular DIY project is that smoke and soot following a fire are more than just smelly and unsightly. When combustion occurs during a fire, not all materials burn cleanly, resulting in smoke and soot. Smoke and soot are considered waste products since they contain various chemicals which are harmful to your health. Because modern structures hold an array of chemicals not found in early homes, soot could result in health hazards that make fire restoration a difficult and dangerous task. 

Exposure to smoke and soot during fire restoration may occur via inhalation through the mouth and nose, exposure to the skin and eyes, and ingestion. Because airborne soot particulate is invisible, you may unknowingly be affected. 

1. Respiratory Problems

After a fire has occurred but the smoke and soot have not been cleaned properly by a professional, the occupants are likely to breathe in the tiny soot particles that can eventually embed deep into the lung cavities. The prolonged exposure to soot unleashes a host of breathing problems, including asthma. Bronchitis is also a likely consequence. Respiratory infections are no stranger to those frequently exposed to soot.

2. Cancers

Studies over the years have shown that long term exposure of soot can cause lung, bladder esophageal, and skin cancers due to the toxins that it carries.

3. Decreased Air Quality

A home’s indoor air quality is severely compromised with the presence of soot. Because of the microscopic particle size of soot, it has the ability to travel through the air and tendency to stick to hard surfaces. Soot contamination is very challenging to clean up. 

It is best to call a professional after you have experienced a fire in your home or business. We have the professional experience and equipment to safely clean your home. Call us 24/7 at (423) 326-1406. 

Causes of Fire in Your Crawl Space

8/15/2019 (Permalink)

The crawl space is usually where the water drain pipes and wiring runs, as well as where the air handler for your HVAC is found. Because of possible malfunctions with electrical wiring or mechanical equipment, it can cause a fire. We recently cleaned a job where the wiring caught fire under the house. Smoke and soot filled the HVAC systems and thus the home. This is one of the reasons why we recommend periodically checking your crawl space. In addition to fire hazards, you may have water or mold that you are unaware of. Fires in the crawl space occur on an infrequent basis, but can still have the same result: displacement of occupants. 

We always recommend to have the adequate amount of fire alarms in your home. In most cases with fires in crawlspaces, the fires will burn undetected for a while since there is not typically a smoke detector in crawlspaces. Such a fire could burn for hours or even days until the smoke rises through the HVAC system or you notice from the outside. 

No matter how much of a pain it may be, make it a point to go under your home periodically to check for fires, water, mold, or other issues. 

While it may not be top of mind, be cautious of the space under your home. Be aware of the signs of fires in your crawl space and check it regularly for fire hazards. If you experience a fire in your crawl space, call SERVPRO of Chattanooga at (423) 326-1406. 

What Are The Odds That My Home Gets Struck By Lightning?

7/19/2019 (Permalink)

According to National Geographic, lightning is one of the leading weather-related causes of death and injury in the United States. You may think that it is unlikely that you or your home will be struck by lightning during a thunderstorm, but it is more common than you think. In fact, I have been in a home when it was struck my lightning. It was during a thunderstorm in the middle of the night. I was asleep when suddenly the loudest "bang" woke everyone up. There was smoke coming from the outlets and the power was out. We didn't know what to do! Luckily, the house did not catch on fire but it was extremely unsettling. So, what do you do if your home gets struck by lightning? 

When lightning strikes your home, it often connects to a source first, then jumps to another source.  For example, it can connect to gutters, then jump to a window frame as a 'stepping stone' to the electrical system or water pipes. It can jump from wall outlets to sink faucets, depending on how strong the current is! Lightning presents three main concerns when it hits a home: 

• Fire danger: The biggest danger lightning poses to a house is fire. Often times the damage isn't seen, rather the currents pass through the wiring and create fires within the walls, which burn slowly and dangerously. It is most common for lightning to start a fire in the attic or roof of a house, which is what happened in the photo on this blog. The lightning passed through the structural material in the roof before it reached the wiring/pipes. 
   
• Power surge damage: If lightning chooses any of the home's electrical wiring as its primary or secondary path, the explosive surge can damage even non-electronic appliances that are connected. Lightning can destroy electronics without you even knowing. 
   
• Shock wave damage: Lightning can easily fracture concrete, brick, cinderblock, and stone when it produces an explosive shock wave. The shock waves that lightning create is what produces the thunder that we hear. These may damage your house and produce shrapnel pieces that create further damage. 

If your house gets struck by lightning, the first thing to do is call the fire department. As mentioned before, lightning can spark a fire in the wiring within the walls, and you may not be aware of the fire until it is visible. After the fire department inspects your home/eliminates the fire, you should take steps to restore your home. Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need an electrician to rewire your home. If the lightning did severe damage, it may be necessary to call a fire restoration company to clean your home and your contents.

The customer whose home is in the photo above was extremely grateful with the swiftness and kindness of the SERVPRO of Chattanooga staff who is working on restoring his home to preloss condition. Lightning may seem like one in a million, but like many disasters, you do not know until it happens to you. Be prepared when disaster strikes! 

How to Get the Smell of Cigarette Smoke Out of Your House

5/30/2019 (Permalink)

Have you just moved into a home or apartment with a strong nicotine smell? There are some home remedies to try, but these will only work under certain circumstances. There are many questions to consider, like how long the cigarette smoke has been impacting the area, how strong the smell is, and where the smell is concentrated.

If the home remedies are unsuccessful, it is best to send a professional out to inspect it. Once we can establish the extent of the damage, we begin to plan action steps for ridding the home of the stench. Often nicotine residue can cling to the HVAC system, so a full duct cleaning could be the answer to residual odor that seems to outlast other odor removal methods. If the ducts have been cleaned, then we will ozone the affected areas. We will bring it air scrubbers to remove the airborne contaminants and control the air quality during the restoration and cleanup process.

After the ozone process is complete, we will use a thermal fogger, which uses a special solvent-based deodorizer that is heated and applied as a dry fog/smoke. Thermal foggers rely on a deodorizing solution that is vaporized in the fogger then blown into the room permeating all of the contents and structural elements. This process will ensure that the nicotine odor is gone for good.

If you have more questions or would like to schedule an odor assessment, give us a call at (423) 326-1406.

Stove Top Fire Clean Up in Chattanooga, TN

5/17/2019 (Permalink)

The fire in this Chattanooga home happened on the stovetop, burning the cabinets above and damaging the back wall behind the stove. It was a small fire, but smoke and soot affected the kitchen, dining room, entry, and hallway. Just as there are different methods of extinguishing a fire based on the type of fire, there are also different methods to cleaning up fire damage. Knowing the source of the fire is beneficial in determining what kind of fire clean up we will be remediating. Below is a list of different types of fire damage:

• Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood; Fast burning, high temperatures, dry, powdery, non-smeary residues.
• Wet Smoke – Plastics and Synthetics; Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary.
• Fuel Oil Soot – Furnace Puff Backs.
• Protein – Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
• Other Types – Tear gas, fingerprint powder, and fire extinguisher residue.

In this case, we were cleaning up wet smoke damage. Interior walls, ceilings, furniture, and flooring that is salvageable will be cleaned using IICRC approved techniques. Non-salvageable items will be wrapped and safely discarded to limit contamination. Complex cleaning can be done at our facility by packing and shipping out documented and inventoried items. Smoke, soot, and ash removal is a two-step process. Soot, an oily based residue, requires special sponges, detergents, and techniques for cleaning without staining walls, ceilings, and wood furniture. HVAC system, especially the ductwork, may require special vacuuming and fogging to remove smoke particles and odors. Special foggers are used for final odor removal before an additional application for deodorizing. A fire in your home is a devastating loss, but we are here to make sure the restoration process is as easy as possible.

3 Fire Hazards to Look Out for This Spring- Chattanooga, TN

3/29/2019 (Permalink)

Spring time is such a fun, beautiful time of year. Stay safe out there!

The weather is warmer, the trees are blooming, and my allergies are killing me. Spring has officially sprung! That being said, there are still a wide variety of fire hazards that you should watch out for, even during the warm months.

1. Grills: Whether you’re cooking burgers for the family event or grilling up kabobs for dinner, you will inherently deal with fire. Most are gas grills, which presents an even greater risk. In fact, the NFPA (https://www.nfpa.org/News-and-Research/Data-research-and-tools/US-Fire-Problem/Home-Grill-Fires) reports that an average of 9,600 home fires are caused by grilling each year. Here are some fire safety tips for the grill:

• Always check for any potential fire hazards before firing up the grill.
• If the grill does not light the first time, let the gas dissipate for at least 5 minutes before attempting to light the grill again.
• Be sure the grill is clean before using to get rid of oil and gas residue.
• Make sure the grill is set up in an open, outdoor area and keep it a good distance from the house and railings.

2. Dryers: This is a fire hazard year round. In fact, the leading cause of clothes-dryer related fires is a failure to keep the lint baskets clean. Lint is combustible. Lint causes fires. It takes seconds to clean out the lint basket, so just make a habit of it when you get your clothes out of the dryer. If you have space for a clothesline in the spring and summer months- use it! There’s nothing better than fresh, air dried clothes. The NFPA also recommends cleaning out the vent pipe at least once a year so lint or other flammable particles do not get stuck in the vent pipe. 

3. Outdoor Fire Pits and Bonfires

The necessary safety precautions for an outdoor fire pit are pretty obvious, but keep these in mind when you’re having a party on a cool spring night.

• Always have an adult present around a fire- never leave children unattended! 
• Always have a bucket of water or a water hose available nearby if things get out of hand. 
• Build the fire away from homes, porches, low-hanging trees, or any other fire hazards. 
• Monitor how much leaves, pine needles, pine needs, paper, and other contents into the fire since these itms catch fire quickly and result in high flames and floating embers. 
• Always put the fire out completely before leaving the fire unattended. Don't expect it to die down on its own!

We are always Here to Help when you need us. Call us any time at 423-326-1406! Happy Spring!

Fire Safety During the Christmas Season in Chattanooga, TN

12/4/2018 (Permalink)

Between the feasts at Thanksgiving to the celebration of the new year, the holiday months are a time to enjoy holiday traditions with friends and family. However, most household fire damage happens during these months. Why is this the case? People are doing more cooking, using the fireplace, burning more candles, using decorative lights, and buying real Christmas trees. Follow these simple fire safety tips this holiday season:

When cooking, always keep your eye on the stove. Most kitchen fires happen when food is left unattended. It’s easy to get distracted and walk away for a few minutes. Always set a timer on your phone to remind yourself of the food on the stove or bring a potholder with you as a reminder. It sounds silly, but it works! Remember to keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen at all times. When using a fireplace, always put out the fire when leaving the home or going to sleep. Also, use a fire screen to keep embers and logs from escaping. 

According to the National Fire Protection Association, the incidence of candle fires is four times higher during December. In fact, four of the five most dangerous days of the year for residential candle fires are Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day. To avoid any fire damage, keep about a foot of space between the candle and anything that can burn. This goes for real Christmas trees- the needles tend to dry out which is the perfect storm when mixed with fire. It takes 30 seconds for a dry tree to engulf in flames. Set the candles on sturdy bases and always blow them out when leaving or going to sleep. To minimize the risk of your tree drying out, buy a fresh tree with intact needles, get a fresh cut on the trunk, and water it every day.

Finally, don’t plug more than 3 strings into each other on your Christmas tree. Extension cords should be in good condition and UL-rated for indoor or outdoor use. Rather, opt for a power strip instead and be sure to unplug the lights before leaving the house or going to sleep. When hanging lights outside, avoid using nails or staples, which can damage the wiring. Rather, use UL-rated clips or hangers. 

As always, SERVPRO of Chattanooga is Here to Help when you are dealing with fire damage restoration and fire damage repair. Happy Holidays!

A Quick Response to Smoke Damage Saves Money

8/24/2018 (Permalink)

Kitchen fire damage in a Jasper, TN home

Responding immediately is the best way to save your Jasper, TN, building, assets, and budget when dealing with fire and smoke damage. It's important to keep in mind that there are actions you should take and actions that are better left to the professionals. After leaving the building, contacting emergency personnel, and making sure your staff are okay, it's time to make a couple of phone calls. The first should be to your insurance company and the second to professional fire and smoke cleaning and restoration professionals.

A Focus on Safety

If it is safe to enter the building after smoke damage, make sure you prepare to do so safely.

• Obtain permission from emergency responders, such as the firefighters.
• Wear protective clothing, including a face mask and gloves.
• Ventilate the area by opening windows and doors. Position fans to provide airflow.

Cleaning You Can Do

Although most of the work should be carried out by restoration professionals, there is some cleanup you can tackle while waiting for the restoration company to arrive. Make sure you have permission from your insurance company before you begin cleaning. Your cleaning efforts should start at the ceiling and always move from the top down. If you are using a vacuum, be sure it has a high efficiency filter. The risk of polluted air is a real hazard after soot damage occurs.

Professional Services.

Even if you plan to do a lot of the cleanup on your own, you'll need professionals to assess and complete the task. Did you know that acid soot can lead to discoloration in wood, marble, and plastics within a few short minutes? If left for days, soot residue can lead to permanent discoloration on floors and furnishings. A quick professional response will minimize the extent of damage and could keep your recovery costs down. Fortunately, the cost of restoration following smoke damage may be covered even if the fire occurred at a Jasper, TN, building or office next to yours.

Fire Damage Comes in Many Forms and From Many Causes

5/31/2018 (Permalink)

Windows with fire damage in a Chattanooga home.

The Many Forms and Types of Fire Damage

If your property in Ooltewah suffers from fire damage, you should talk to someone on our team. We are experts at minimizing current damage and keeping damage from increasing in severity. Even after a fire has been extinguished, its effects can continue to grow. We can stop that with state-of-the-art equipment.

Damage can be found even after small fires. These can happen anywhere in the home. They remain small when someone is present and can extinguish the fire before it can spread. The kitchen and bathroom are the most common, with the laundry room and garage coming in second. Bedrooms, living and dining rooms, and hallways can also have fires take place, but these areas are the least common. Patios are also prone to having fires, especially if outdoors cooking is done, or children experiment with a range of items, from fireworks to magnifying lenses

Fire damage can range from discolored concrete and natural rock outside to charred walls and scorched carpets inside. Drywall can suffer additional damage if water is heavily applied when there is a fire, although drywall should resist small, low-temperature fires. Paneling and wallpaper will burn, however, no matter what it is applied to as a covering. Our team members are creative in matching or updating, your pre-fire décor.

Kitchens can experience scorched countertops and cabinets, which need either repairing or replacing. If the cabinet doors are warped from the heat and then the cold from putting the fireout with either water or a fire extinguisher, they are typically replaced as needed. Then the remaining ones are cleaned and re-stained if needed. If floors have been soaked with water in the effort to extinguish the fire, we at SERVPRO are equipped, and experienced, in getting it dry quickly so that underlay and any support beams are not damaged

For fires in the garage and patio areas, we can quickly clean-up scorched concrete so that residues are not tracked into your home, as these can contain harmful substances that were once inert. Vinyl siding that has been damaged can also be repaired. Scorched and burned areas of grass can also be reseeded and started back on track. We can also create and provide an inventory list of damaged items, particularly, but not exclusively, for the garage area. We can list which items are damaged beyond repair, salvageable, or undetermined for insurance purposes.

If you've had a fire in your Ooltewah home cause damage, don't try repairing the area yourself. You need to call us at SERVPRO of East Chattanooga at (423) 326-1406. We'll help you get your home's beauty back on center stage and put the fire behind you.

What Type of Smoke Alarm Is Best for My Home?

5/11/2018 (Permalink)

There are few more frightening experiences than a house fire. While this is the last event Chattanooga, TN residents likely want to think about, it is nevertheless a vital consideration. Protecting your home and the lives of everyone in the household is top priority, so look to the following different types of equipment to choose the best smoke alarm for your home.

While some fire alarms pick up heat, the effectiveness of these models can pale in comparison to a smoke detector. There are three basic types of such detectors to choose between:

1. Ionization Alarms

An ionized detector is generally cheaper than other types of alarms. These alarms use miniscule amounts of radioactive material to ionize the air in a small chamber in the device, allowing the air to carry an electric charge. When smoke passes through this chamber, it causes a disruption in this electrical current, which then sets off the alarm.

2. Photoelectric Alarms

According to most smoke alarm experts, photoelectric alarms have a smaller chance of making false alarms than their ionization counterparts. This type of fire safety device uses a light beam and a photoelectric sensor to detect smoke. While ionized alarms are usually better for spotting fast fires, photoelectric alarms typically best detect smoldering fires.

3. Smart Alarms

Most smart alarms use photoelectric sensors, and some even have a split-spectrum sensor for greater accuracy. Although identical to non-smart detectors in terms of basic function, a smart detector has more customized options and can send alerts directly to phones and tablets.

If you're like most homeowners in Chattanooga, TN you've probably wondered which device is best for your space. Whether you're well-versed in the world of smoke detectors or are just getting started, expanding your knowledge on product options is never a bad idea. Once you've chosen the proper spots in your home for a smoke alarm, you can install the right ones to protect your living space.
Visit http://www.SERVPROeastchattanooga.com/ for more information on fire damage. 

Why Professionals Should Clean Smoke Damage From A Fire

3/30/2018 (Permalink)

Find a contractor local to you who has licenses and trained in restoring fire damage. Don't hire someone who just claims that they know fire cleanup

Fires are a lot more common than you might think. Something as simple as a candle that was left burning unattended could spark a fire. Because of this, fire damage can be a daunting task to have to deal with and clean on your own. In general, trying to clean fire damage on your own without proper knowledge or experience could be quite dangerous. There are many reasons why professionals should be the ones who clean the smoke and fire damage that has been caused by the flames. 

One of the most obvious reasons for having experts clean the problem for you is because they are trained and often certified to do this. Not all fire restoration companies have certifications to do the job, so you need to diligently find a contractor local to you who has licenses and training when it comes to restoring fire damage. Hiring someone who just claims that they clean up after home disasters might not yield the results that you so desperately need to keep your home healthy, clean and safe for the rest of your loved ones. 

Another reason you're going to want to hire the experts to clean up the problem for you is because trying to do it on your own can be downright dangerous. During a fire, a lot of wood is destroyed because of the heat of the flames. This could mean that once-stable floors are now soft, and you could easily fall through a floor that has experienced fire damage. If you have a large home, trying to clean it on your own can also be downright exhausting and a task that is just too much for you to accomplish without the expertise of a professional company that has done this work before dozens of times. 

You also don't want to be working in a home and cleaning it because of the strong and pungent odors that are present. When a fire happens, soot, ash and a lot of tar is released into the air. This is what often causes walls and furniture to become almost black in color. The levels of carbon monoxide in the air might also be incredibly high, making it dangerous or even fatal to be working and cleaning in the home without the right protective equipment. While hiring a company is not something that can be done for free, the amount you spend to hire them for the project is well worth it when it comes to the problems you can avoid. 

In terms of hiring a professional damage remediation company, you need to make sure that you contact them quickly and almost as soon as the fire has been put out. The sooner that the issue can be dealt with and cleaned, the sooner you can stop further fire damage from happening inside of the house. The experts will evaluate the damage and give you a quote on how much the cleanup is going to cost if you make the decision to hire them for their services.      Fires can be especially devastating to your home or business. After the fire trucks leave, your property will likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage, but also widespread water damage and flooding from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO Chattanooga Professionals have specialized Chattanooga fire damage restoration training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your home to pre-fire condition. They also can remove the pervasive smoke odor and deep-clean soot from upholstery and carpet.   SERVPRO of Chattanooga Professionals provide fire and water damage restoration services. SERVPRO of Chattanooga proudly serves Chattanooga, Harrison, Collegedale, East Brainerd, East Ridge, and surrounding areas. We are the Fire, Water, Mold, and Cleaning Experts - available 24 hours a day 7 days a week for your emergency. 

Why Professionals Should Take Care of Smoke Damage after a Fire

8/31/2017 (Permalink)

Why Professionals Should Take Care of Smoke Damage after a Fire

Fire in home and fire in business or workplaces are equally devastating. They cause financial losses and emotional wreck. When there is a fire, the firefighters come to the rescue to try to minimize fire damage as much as they can. After they leave, it should not be assumed that danger has passed. The house or the structure is not safe yet from further destruction. This is why professionals should be contacted to help with the fire cleanup and other needs, including dealing with soot damage and smoke damage.

Without professionals who can address the aftermath of the fire damage after fire in home or fire in business, the property will not return to its normal state. These professionals are from fire damage restoration companies and they will provide services, such as board up, fire cleanup, smoke smell deodorization, and other home and commercial fire damage necessities.

Why Homeowners Should NOT Attempt Fire Damage Restoration

A restoration company exists to help homeowners and business owners get things back to normal as quickly as possible. It may be true that the principles behind residential and commercial fire damage repair are quite simple, but restoration does require some things.

These things include having the experience and the know-how in restoration after fire damage, soot damage, smoke damage, and smoke smell. Manpower is also required in order to perform properly and adequately. This is why homeowners should not try to restore their property on their own.

After Fire, There is Still Danger

Fire is undeniably the immediate danger in fire in home and fire in business. However, even when it is gone, it still leaves threats behind and these threats will continue to affect the property, belongings, and the people in the house or building. Ash and smoke are left behind in home and commercial fire damage. If left untreated, they can cause widespread etching, discoloration, and corrosion. Additionally, the smoke smell can be overpowering.

With the help of professionals, fire cleanup after fire in home or fire in business becomes easy. Soot damage as well as smoke damage can easily be dealt with. They can address these common fire damage problems before they turn to something major.

Working with a Restoration Company

The most important thing when working with a team of professionals from a restoration company is that they are contacted as immediately as possible. The good news is that there are a number of companies out there that promote their fire damage restoration abilities, but it is crucial to look for the following qualities in a restoration business:

The people from the restoration company should have proper training and certification.

They have the necessary tools and equipment for a fire cleanup and other services like home board up.

They are available and can be contacted 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

They are trustworthy with adequate experience in restoration, emergency board up, and other services.

They can provide a detailed plan as to how the fire cleanup will take place and they are not afraid to answer questions raised by the home- or business owners.

These professionals can help eliminate dangers of smoke smell and soot damage, while restoring items that have been affected by fire. However, they must be brought to the scene of the residential or commercial fire damage as soon as possible to stop ongoing problems that ash and smoke residues may cause. This is of paramount importance since there are several things ash can do to a property:

It can discolor almost all surfaces.

Anything that was close to the fire or those made of plastic can start their discoloration process within minutes.

Continuous exposure of finishes on appliances and fiberglass to ash and smoke can lead to them turning yellow.

Walls, upholstery, and clothing may discolor permanently.

Metals may tarnish and start corroding.

Additionally, vinyl and wood may need replacement and immediate board up may be necessary. This may seem costly, but the truth is if a professional is not hired to clean fire and smoke damage right away, fire damage restoration costs will definitely skyrocket within a few weeks. Therefore, it is wise to contact them straight away, if possible before the firefighters leave.
Visit http://www.SERVPROeastchattanooga.com for more information on fire damage.

Entrust Fire Damage Restoration Professionals

7/27/2017 (Permalink)

Entrust Fire Damage Restoration Professionals

A fire in home or fire in business leaves devastation and despair amidst the soot damage, smoke smell, board up doors and windows, and half-charred leftovers of the belongings you cherished most. After the firefighters have extinguished the flames and the whirlwind is over, it seems you're finally ready to assess the fire damage and begin fire cleanup. But, it isn't that easy. The smoke smell and smoke damage are dangerous. Smoke damage may also linger, resulting in a fire re-igniting at any time. Never return to property that has board up or until you've been given the green light to re-enter by fire personnel.

Once you've been given the okay to return to the property to assess the fire damage, do not panic. Fire damage leaves constant reminders of the devastation and loss you've incurred, but a restoration company minimizes the damage and brings a bit of hope into the situation Whether it is a fire in business or a fire in home, a professional restoration company makes the facility complete once again, removing any traces of a fire. They'll alleviate the smoke smell, soot damage, smoke damage, and water damage, too.

Although it is tempting to begin a fire cleanup on your own, avoiding such a decision is beneficial for many reasons. A fire is dangerous, and oftentimes deadly. The fire can re-ignite at any time with something as simple as strong gust of wind causing the trouble. The smoke smell can leave you in the back of an ambulance, and the psychological turmoil may simply be too much to handle during an already difficult time in your life. The quicker you call a restoration company; the sooner fire damage restoration can begin.

A fire damage restoration company works quickly to get your unit back in working condition after a fire in business or a fire in home. The restoration company offers a plethora of services that remove all traces of a fire so you can move on the best that you can. A commercial fire damage company is available for cleanup of a business. You choose the services you want and need for commercial fire damage or residential cleanup.

Leaving the fire cleanup process to the pros offers benefits including:

- Peace of mind and confidence that all dangers of fire damage are removed

- Safety and security -Professionals are equipped with the tools and equipment needed to complete fire damage restoration safely and easily

- Save time and get your place back quicker after a fire in home or fire in business

- Prevent further damage from occurring

- Remove soot damage and smoke damage, as well as the smoke smell

- Commercial fire damage experts provide cleanup for businesses of all sizes, including warehouses and offices

- Trained and certified fire damage restoration experts

When you hire a commercial fire damage or residential fire damage company for cleanup of our property, trained professionals come to the area to evaluate the damage. Fire cleanup technicians then begin removing board up, ash residue, and soot damage. They'll also look for any items that are salvageable and toss anything that is not. The professionals will remove the smoke smell from the property and deodorize areas that need it the most. A board up may occur again after this treatment to prevent any additional contamination.

When you've experienced the devastation of a fire, do not try to handle the cleanup process alone. Trained professionals are at your service with the tools and equipment necessary to thoroughly clean your facility so you can get back to the life that you love. Do not go it alone when the pros are only one call away.
Visit http://www.SERVPROeastchattanooga.com for more information on more information on fire damage.

Fire Damage Restoration Services That Help Make Your Ooltewah House A Home

6/19/2017 (Permalink)

Ooltewah Furnishings and SERVPRO's Fire Damage Restoration Are a "Match"

SERVPRO Restores Furnishings and Structural Elements After a Fire

Did you know that smoke and soot causes far more damage than the actual fire? By penetrating additional rooms smoke and soot residues cause significant damage to paint, carpeting, upholstery, fabrics, clothing, and many other contents found in your home.
 
It takes a professional touch to get fire damage under control in your Ooltewah home. Putting out the flames is only the beginning, a thorough cleaning, deodorization, and redecoration can turn your house back into a home. However, there are more than a few simple steps before this goal becomes attainable.
 
A team of qualified fire damage restoration technicians from SERVPRO can help protect you and your family from general hazards that exist after a blaze occurs on your property. Using different types of advanced cleaning techniques, our technicians provide solutions to a variety of problems that happen during a fire.  
 
It is important to keep in mind that not all furniture restorations are possible, the extent of damage may be permanent. Furniture directly affected by flames or heat can melt and turn items into a hot mess on your floor. However, often enough, the burns are not that severe, which gives technicians a chance to sand and refinish your furniture, allowing you to keep many items you may have otherwise discarded as trash.
 
We start with properly ventilating the area, or moving items to a clean, safe area beyond the range of exposure. We use multiple cleaning, and deodorization techniques to stop damage causing residues in their tracks. Everything from chemical treatments, solvents, wet, and dry procedures help produce different results on a variety of items. SERVPRO technicians treat each item individually, in an attempt to produce the best results possible.  
 
SERVPRO uses vaporizers, foggers, humidifiers, and air moving equipment, reassessing an items condition after each phase of treatment. We slowly but surely produce quality results that often exceed any expectations you might have had.
 
Contact SERVPRO of East Chattanooga for access to expertly trained IICRC certified fire damage restoration technicians, today. Give us the opportunity to answer your call. (423) 326-1406

Data about Ooltewah, TN

Cleaning And Sanitizing Furniture After Fire Damage In Your Chattanooga Home

5/18/2017 (Permalink)

No matter the size or severity of a fire, it is important to get repairs started quickly.

Cleaning And Sanitizing Furniture After Fire Damage

No matter the size or severity of a fire, it is important to get repairs started quickly. Soot is very acidic and, if left long enough, it starts to eat away at different materials in the home. Fabrics are particularly vulnerable, and furniture requires cleaning as soon as possible.

At SERVPRO, we use the finest tools and techniques to repair fire damage inside Chattanooga properties. We are very cautious when handling furniture because movement can cause soot residues to penetrate deeper into porous fabrics.

Why Is Smoke A Big Problem?
Smoke poses a challenge for fire damage restorers because it is a very resilient substance. It is made up of tiny particles of less than ten microns in diameter. It means that the only way to completely remove it from fabrics is to formulate smoke neutralizing chemicals with these same dimensions and consistency. Contact with human skin intensifies the acidic film it deposits on surfaces. For this reason, the SERVPRO technicians use nitrile gloves to prevent further damage.

Is It Possible To Clean Furniture?
The primary challenge, when it comes to cleaning smoke damaged furniture, is the presence of soot. This substance can be extremely stubborn and causes stains if the right cleaning chemicals do not get applied. Dry cleaning sponges are suitable for clearing loose residues and any powdery films on surfaces.

Once the dry soot is gone, the furniture gets sanitized with powerful cleaning agents. They help to prevent further discoloration and deterioration. The final stage is to apply a HEPA vacuum for collecting leftover soft particles. It is likely that the chair pads and any removable pieces of fabric require separate cleaning.

Does This Fix The Smoky Odors Too?
SERVPRO uses a potent oxidizing chemical (like ozone) to get rid of the smoky odors which develop after a fire. If we do not perform a deodorization procedure, the smells can become permanently trapped in the fabric. Ozone is a gas which hooks itself to the odor emitting particles and actively transforms them into particles which are incapable of producing odor.

If you work with SERVPRO of East Chattanooga, you get to benefit from our links to a wide variety of furniture restorers and upholsterers. Together, we can make sure that your home bounces back from fire damage. Call us 24/7 at (423) 326-1406.

For more information regarding Chattanooga, visit: http://www.chattanooga.gov/

Using Odor Counteractants to Eliminate Smoke and Fire Damage in Collegedale Homes

4/18/2017 (Permalink)

When devastation strikes, our SERVPRO team will be there with a lending hand.

How SERVPRO Uses Products to Get Rid of Smoke and Fire Damage Odor in Homes

The smoke removal process is something which most people associate with the end of fire damage restoration. However, companies like SERVPRO implement odor control techniques throughout the entire clean up. The reason for this is that each deodorization method has a slightly different purpose and objective.

For instance, preliminary sprays are used to ensure the environment is safe for the team to start repairing fire damage in Collegedale homes. These deodorizing chemicals are not powerful enough on their own, however, so SERVPRO may also use granular counteractants. Where sprays only prevent more odors from developing, odor counteractants control those that are airborne.

How We Apply Odor Counteractants

Granular deodorants come in a solid form, rather than a spray. This medium means that they are perfect for prolonged use. They can be applied liberally to crawlspaces, attics, cupboards, alcoves, voids above suspended ceilings, and in the plenum of furnace heaters.

Like spray deodorizers, they do release a vapor, but it happens at a slower, more controlled rate. For this reason, they are particularly valuable for households which are vulnerable or sensitive to ‘can to air’ spray applications.

The granular counteractants in the formula are designed to eliminate any odor particles which entered the air before preliminary steps occurred or which the preliminary deodorizers did not manage to trap.

How to Use Granular Counteractants Safely

At SERVPRO, we try to avoid treating plastic, painted, and varnished materials with granular counteractants. In some cases, the chemical formulation causes thinning to surface finishes. If there is no suitable alternative, it may be possible to protect the material with a rudimentary buffer of sorts (aluminum foil or paper plates).

Normally, the application of granular counteractants has to be followed up by a period of thermal fogging. It is especially important for larger homes because the range of crystallized deodorizers is limited. Nevertheless, they are extremely handy when it comes to consistent, controlled odor removal, particularly in small areas (cupboards, behind walls, in attics, etc.)

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of East Chattanooga provides local fire damage repairs and restoration. We are ideally placed to assist homeowners in the Collegedale area. Our state of the art deodorization equipment makes short work of lingering smoke odors. Call us 24/7 on (423) 326-1406.

SERVPRO Fire Damage Crestview

11/20/2016 (Permalink)

Let the experts at SERVPRO help you get your house or business back to normal after fire damage.

When a fire happens, the first thing homeowners want to do is return their home to normal. The last thing they want to do is deal with the paperwork. That's understandable when one of the worst things that can happen to your home actually does, it's a nightmare came true.
As a Crestview homeowner, fire damage isn't just a job to you and we at SERVPRO feel the same way. This is perhaps the most stressful thing to happen to you as a homeowner and we will be with you from the first examination to when we put the keys back in your hand. We have six key steps to make sure it happens.
1) We make sure YOU are satisfied - Our inspectors and technicians will explain the restoration process to you and answer every question.
2) Minimize and further loss - Our teams are highly skilled and trained to prevent secondary property loss from smoke or soot damage and as we move your property out of the damaged areas and then back in once the work is completed.
3) Identify what can be restored - We will test every item that may have been exposed to determine if it can be cleaned, does not require cleaning or could be questionable and depends on your decision. We will also be honest with you about what is no longer useful and needs to be replaced.
4) Save you and your insurance adjuster time - We will help you work with your adjuster to process everything as quickly as possible. Our initial testing and inspections provide the adjuster with the information they need to get your fire insurance case started.
5) Report the scope of loss - Our work reports to the both of you keep the paperwork moving as we restore your home and property. They also help the adjuster review our services and prioritize the work schedule to reduce costs. Once we're done, we will provide a final report that will help the adjuster process all final paperwork.
6) Produce quality restoration - In the end, even if the insurance adjuster is happy with our work, we've failed if you aren't happy. This last step is what customer service is all about for us.
We don't just come in, drag out your possessions, throw on a coat of paint and then hand you a bill. As a locally owned franchise, SERVPRO of N. Okaloosa, Walton, Holmes & Washington is here to help our neighbors through every step of the fire restoration process. If you need us, call us today at (850) 267-0746 to get started.

Securing Your Property After a Fire

10/13/2016 (Permalink)

Fire damage can be devastating. Call SERVPRO to remediate!

There are Many Reasons to Call a Professional Company After Suffering Fire Damage to your Home

When you experience a fire on your property, you may have to leave quickly, leaving your property open and vulnerable. It is important to make sure that your home or business is secured because it protects you, your neighbors and aids in your insurance claims. When you call SERVPRO, they inspect your property and when needed, make it secure.
 
There are several key areas that must be secured from a fire damage event in Chattanooga. These include the perimeter, doors, windows and other damaged areas, like the roof. Doors and windows should be boarded up; roofs may need to be covered with a tarp to keep out inclement weather, insects, and animals.
 
Walls and floors are inspected for their stability. They too may need to be covered with a temporary shoring. The perimeter requires temporary fencing around your property. There are a couple of reasons why securing your property after a fire is necessary. One reason is to keep others protected. Children and pets become curious and wander onto the unsecured property and become injured.
 
If your property is left unsecured and someone gets hurt, you are held financially liable. The second reason to protect your property after a disaster is to keep thieves from stealing what remaining valuables you have and possibly causing additional damage. Also, securing your property helps to prevent inclement weather from causing more damage and to keep animals or insects from chewing on electrical wires and other belongings.
 
SERVPRO uses a variety of materials and methods to prop up weakened walls and floors. This allows their professional technicians to work safely on damaged areas. In some cases, family members and employees can continue to live or work in the property during their restoration process. As a leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO offers a broad range of services, including fire damage restoration, temporary fencing, board-up services, and more.
 
As experts in disaster remediation, SERVPRO of East Chattanooga is armed with the training and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs. We are locally owned and operated, plus we are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you have any questions about a board-up and/or insurance claims, call us today at (423) 326-1406.

How to Avoid Stove Top Fire Damage

8/21/2016 (Permalink)

Food on a stove top should always be attended. Prevention is key. But if you have fire damage, call SERVPRO to remediate!

Attended Cooking and Keeping Safety Materials Nearby Can Help Prevent Fires From Originating in a Kitchen

Cooking tops and stoves have been used by civilizations with advanced metal or stone work for thousands of years, as it is a simple enough concept: a plate or surface is heated by open flame sufficient to cook and burn any food placed upon it. However, these essential appliances also carry a fair bit of risk and are one of the most common causes of fire damage in homes worldwide. Smoke alarms in kitchens are regularly placed directly above the stove so as to react quickly to any fires that start on it. Stoves can cause fire damage large and small, sometimes leading to total loss of the home, so avoiding dangerous practices around them is essential for your home's safety.
 
Always Mind Food
 
A common source of fire damage in Chattanooga is food left cooking unattended on stoves. Even if you are minding time and have a timer set up for its cooking, being out of the room while something is cooking is never a good idea and can lead to fires. Especially with oily or dry foods, food items left on stovetops can burst into flame very quickly, spreading to nearby wooden cabinets and walls. Safe cooking involves regular monitoring of food on the stove, and this is essential in kitchen fire prevention.
 
Watch Where You Put Things
 
Another common cause of fires is when a resident leaves a fabric cooking item, such as a potholder, laying on a hot stove. Any object left on a stove has a risk of starting a fire, and a hot stove top should never be used as a resting place for anything. Simply use the counter that is likely only a few feet away.
 
Keep Safety Materials Nearby
 
If worst comes to worst and a fire starts on a stove, make sure you have a smoke detector nearby and a fire extinguisher in the room. Damaging the stove with extinguisher materials should be the least of your concerns, so don't hold back. Above all, mitigating further damage from the fire is essential, and crucial to this is stopping any small fires in their tracks.
 
SERVPRO of East Chattanooga is equipped to respond to and deal with any house fire quickly so as to mitigate restoration costs for you. The moment the fire has died and your home is secure, call us at (423) 326-1406 24/7 for emergency mitigation and restoration services.

In Need of a Fire Damage Restoration Company?

8/1/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Says: Smoke Detectors Save Lives and Mitigate Fire Damage in Collegedale.

SERVPRO Restores and Repairs Many Fire & Smoke Damaged Properties

The National Fire Protection Association reports that residential households can expect a fire every 15 years or five fires during a lifetime. Most will be small fires with little or no damage. During a lifetime, residential households have a one in four chance of having a fire that is large enough to call the local fire department. Tennessee has seen its fair share of fires. It was once reported that Tennessee had one of the highest fire mortality death rates in the United States. Local fire departments and various community agencies came together to put a program together to prevent fires. Free fire alarms were handed out, as well as free classes held on fire prevention tips for residential and commercial structures.
 
Knowledge is the key to prevention. When fire damage in Collegedale occurs, knowing that you can count on SERVPRO, will save you time, stress and money. We are a trusted leader in the industry of restoration and repairs. We are locally owned and operated. We are proud to be a helping member of the community. We are dedicated, and we are faster to any size disaster. As your one-stop contractor, no matter the extent of your fire damage, we will work with you to return your property to a pre-loss condition. We believe in giving back to the Hamilton County community. Therefore, when the fire alarm goes off, and the fire department responds, we would like to be there by your side as well. Remember, when the fire is out, and its damaging results of smoke, soot, water and mold are left behind, we stand ready to help with restoration and repair processes.
 
SERVPRO of East Chattanooga stands ready to help with all types of fire emergencies and other forms of disasters. Our motto is to “restore first.” This focus to get you back into your home or business quickly is based on our specialized training and advanced equipment to help restore your property. Call us today at (423) 326-1406 so that we can answer any questions you may have about our fire damage restoration services.

What It Takes to Improve Your Home After Fire Damage

6/20/2016 (Permalink)

Don't let fire damage your Collegedale home! SERVPRO of East Chattanooga can restore it quickly and efficiently!

Improving Your Fire Damaged Home - What Does It Take?

Fire can be one of the most destructive forces that can impact a home, causing significant damage in a matter of minutes. Some fires will burn for much longer periods of time, resulting in catastrophic damage to the property. Regardless of how long your fire raged through the home, you need to overcome fire damage so that life can resume as soon as possible. While the damage to your home may have been significant, you may be able to improve the area easily and repair the damage if you follow a few steps. 

Determine the Scope of the Project

As a first step in the Collegedale fire damage repair process, you will need to determine how significant the damage is. Initially, you can review the area that was impacted by the fire directly but bears in mind that this is not the only area where damage has occurred. The area may also be damaged by smoke and water, which could be in the space because of the firefighters who put out the blaze. Remember that smoke can spread throughout the property even if the fire was localized to one or two rooms, and water may spread beyond the burned area as well. 

Begin the Remediation Process

There are different steps that you can take to repair fire damage on a property, and the first step is to remove the water that was left behind by the firefighters. The best way to accomplish this goal is through the use of professional extraction equipment utilized by expert repair technicians. This is the fastest and most efficient method available. Remember that water damage can lead to mold growth if the water remains in the building for a longer period, so time is of the essence. Smoke damage may also need to be addressed at this time. Surfaces such as tile and carpeting that were not impacted by the fire but were damaged by smoke can be professionally cleaned for the best results. 

Repair the Fire Damage

Next, you can begin the difficult process of repairing the fire damage. You may need to remove the materials that have been damaged by the fire, and this may include everything from drywall to support and structural beams. The fire damage may require construction efforts to be completed, but you can easily improve your property when you use the services of a professional fire damage repair team. 

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

When your property is impacted by fire damage, you may feel stressed and anxious about how you will repair it. However, you can move beyond the damage and restore your property with minimal time and effort required when you call SERVPRO of East Chattanooga. Reach our locally owned office for assistance by calling us at (423) 326-1406.

Chattanooga Fire Damage--Quick Repair to Getting Life Back to Normal

4/26/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Says a Smoke Detector Can Prevent Loss of Life and Property

Call SERVPRO to Stop Chattanooga Fire Damage from Displacing You

 A house fire is a tremendously upsetting event, and the need to stay with friends or relatives while the property is in disrepair can extend the trauma. If you're dealing with fire damage in Chattanooga, TN, we are available to repair your home so that you can move back into it quickly and get your life back to normal. We specialize in reversing Chattanooga residential fire damage to help displaced families stop worrying and get back to living.

Our cleanup professionals undergo extensive fire restoration training that meets or exceeds industry standards for all aspects of fire restoration. We make sure that your repaired space looks not only as good as it did before the fire, but also smells smoke-free and is completely free of moisture or water damage. Whenever possible, our Chattanooga residential fire damage professionals will restore not only the structure of your home, but also any contents or family treasures that are salvageable. We understand that your cherished mementos are part of what made your house a home, and we'll save them whenever we can.

A fire can leave you feeling overwhelmed and displaced, but we're here to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can contact us anytime you need us, day or night. Expect to hear from us within the hour and have a Chattanooga residential fire damage cleanup professional on site within four hours. We will immediately examine your space and begin testing restoration treatments to give you a complete assessment of the scope of the job and the expected restorability of specific items. We may even generate a proprietary software program called the CCIS, the Contents Claim Inventory Service. This will itemize damaged articles and materials thereby helping you with the claims process.

Don't let Chattanooga fire damage keep you out of your home any longer than absolutely necessary. Instead, let our cleaning and restoration service help you get life back to normal for you and your family as quickly as possible. If you've experienced a fire, call SERVPRO of East Chattanooga at (423) 326-1406 to get the help you need.

Fire Damage Recovery Process in Decatur

2/19/2016 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO If You Suffer Decatur Smoke and Fire Damage

Learn About the Decatur Fire Damage Remediation Process

When you experience Decatur fire damage, you may not know how to start the recovery process. Even if the superficial signs of fire damage are cleared away, lingering problems like smoke damage can continue to mar your home over the long term. All fire damage manifests itself differently, but skilled professionals can help homeowners get to the bottom of their issue through a standard fire damage searching procedure.

The cleaning begins after the worst of the fire damage has been taken care of by firefighters and other emergency personnel. Once the smoke clears,
the Decatur fire damage remediation specialists can begin cleaning up the
area. The procedure usually depends on the type of damage present in the
area, and every remediation process is different for every client.

When our specialists arrive at your door, they'll proceed carefully by inspecting the surrounding area and testing the damaged sections to determine the extent of the damage. The experts always make sure to avoid doing anything that might exacerbate the damage, and they'll run you through the inspection process to develop a plan of action.

If the fire damage was particularly extensive and did damage to your roof or windows, they'll make sure that the security of your home is not compromised by boarding up missing walls and windows and setting tarps around the damaged sections of the roof to maintain your privacy. In addition to making sure that the open areas are covered, experts usually begin the water removal process immediately after. What many
homeowners don't realize is that water damage appears almost at the same
time as smoke damage does. In order to combat such effects, the experts set up dehumidifiers to dry out the remaining water.

When the water has been cleared, the specialists move on to the brunt of the fire damage. They begin by looking into the smoke and soot damage around your home's surfaces, and they then remove it carefully to avoid agitating troublesome particles. Once the surface has been taken care of, the professionals proceed to clean all other areas that may have been
damaged by the fire. A standard Decatur fire damage cleaning also takes restorable items into account, and all noticeable odors are removed with fogging equipment and air scrubbers.

The final step in the restoration process involves handling all the remaining minor repairs around the property, such as replacing the drywall and painting over a freshly cleaned surface. This may also involve installing new carpeting and taking care of major repairs to your home.

SERVPRO is locally owned and operated, and all our employees are highly skilled and trained through IICRC guidelines to provide customers with the most thorough cleanup available. Whether you need smoke damage remediated or entire sections of the home repaired after extensive fire
damage, we're ready to help. "Like it never even happened." When you experience Decatur fire damage, call us as soon as possible at (423) 326-1406