When combined, fire and water may cost a homeowner big bucks just to repair damages it can cause inside the house. Water clean up resulting from fire is best handled by professionals. However, homeowners can still remedy the situation to a certain degree. Fire and water damage calls for immediate action so it is best to have a game plan on how to go about the restoration process. Here is a short no-nonsense guide to doing water clean up after a fire occurrence.
The very first thing you should do is to contact your insurance company. Contact your insurance agent regarding the policies that cover situations like this, especially considering your intent to have things repaired. Your agent should be able to provide you with the necessary details on the amount of coverage available and information on companies that treat these kinds of damages.
Water easily seeps through dry parts and spreads dampness to dry areas. To quicken the drying process of affected areas, increase ventilation inside by opening windows and turning on fans. This will improve circulation inside and let moisture escape, halting further water damage.
Use a mop to get rid of extra water on floors. If your floors are made of hardwood, water exposure will strip off its protective seal and weaken the wood. Place fan directly toward the surfaces, most particularly the spaces between wood, to ensure that they are completely dried and prevent mold from developing. Let it dry. If damage has visibly affected its appearance, you may opt to refinish it.
Transfer furniture and other items to dry and unaffected parts of the house. Furniture resting on top of damp surfaces such as carpets and wooden floors should be immediately moved out as wetness may weaken their bases. Wet upholstered materials and fabrics should not be left sitting on the floors. Take them out to dry under the sun if still usable.
Smoke from fire produces a black residue called soot. On the whole, this by-product of fire is difficult to remove from upholstery. If you have no prior experience in removing soot from fabrics, doing it yourself is a big risk. There are professionals who can address this problem better.
After removing water and excess moisture from wet walls, floors, and furniture, it is time to take away soot from ceilings and other damaged parts. Removing soot is a sensitive activity. Never use a wet rag or sponge in cleaning it. Using water will only smudge the stain and make it permanent. Use a dry sponge instead and rub from top to bottom applying gentle pressure.
Use mildew and mold remover to clean and disinfect floors and walls.
To remove smoke odors and repair electronics, it is highly recommended to call in a professional. Doing self-repair is fine but if you value safety and want satisfying results, you will need the help of a skilled hand. Water clean up is done quickly and effectively by fire and water damage specialists so, just keep that option in mind.