How do I clean up soot?

DIY soot removal is not recommended. Commercially available products can actually cause permanent damage to surfaces. Soot itself is primarily oil-based, but that residue also contains toxic, possibly biohazard contaminants.

How long does fire damage restoration take?

It's never a quick fix, though we've gathered together a multi-discipline team of contractors and disaster restoration technicians to work in tandem to complete the work as soon as possible. From structural repairs to sand/soda-blasting to odor removal to contents cleaning, our fire damage restoration crew begins as soon as the project scope is determined, and we don't stop until the job is done and both you and the insurance company are satisfied with the results.

How soon can I move back home after a fire?

Depending on the extent or location of the fire damage, some homeowners can move back in a few days or longer. The fire department will usually turn off electricity and gas to the property right away, and that won't be restored until a building inspector says that it's safe to turn those utilities back on. If you experienced significant smoke damage and the home's occupants include elderly persons, young children, or those with chronic health conditions, it may be wise to stay until the smoke cleanup is complete. Contracting with a damage restoration company experienced in fire damage repair can often get you back home sooner because they'll have the resources to hire and manage the many tradespeople who will need to work together to make the home liveable again. One perk of hiring RestoreMore Inc is our guarantee to you and your family! When you hire RestoreMore for damage restoration, if we can't keep you in your home or your home is otherwise uncomfortable, and you have to go stay in a hotel, the first night is on us! Click here to read the rest of our customer guarantee.

I aired out my house after a small fire, but it still smells like smoke. What can I do?

Smoke damage is rarely limited to one area of the house, and it leaves behind a residue that can hide in crevices and out-of-reach areas, and a simple "airing out" may not be sufficient. We recommend consulting with a smoke damage technician who can help you troubleshoot the next steps.

Is fire damage covered by insurance?

Most often, yes. You'll need to check your specific policy for the full scope of coverage, but in general, if the damage was caused by a flame, it's covered. Your best bet is to hire a professional damage restoration company, such as RestoreMore Inc, to help you through the claims process. We know how to avoid some common missteps when it comes to making sure the entire loss is documented and covered. Many homeowners and insurance companies forget, for instance, to consider that your HVAC system will need to be cleaned of soot, and, since fires are extinguished using water, many areas of your home may need to be restored due to water damage even if they weren't directly affected by the fire.

Fire Damage Restoration: Top Five Things You Need to Address

Posted by: RestoreMore Inc. on March 15, 2025

Imagine walking through your home or business and everything you hold dear has been touched by flames. The aftermath of a fire is not just about the visible destruction; it's about the countless, forgotten details that can derail recovery if ignored.

Fire damage restoration is more than just rebuilding walls and replacing furniture. It's about restoring a sense of normalcy, safety, and trust in your environment. In this blog, we delve into the top five things you might be forgetting to address after a fire to ensure a thorough and successful recovery.

From hidden structural damage to overlooked smoke odor elimination, we'll explore actionable insights that help ensure a complete restoration process.

1. Hidden Structural Damage

One of the most common oversights in fire damage restoration is failing to recognize hidden structural damage. Flames, heat, and smoke can compromise the integrity of materials, especially wood, drywall, and even steel, in extreme heat. Post-fire inspections often miss areas not visibly affected, leaving issues that could lead to future hazards.

A case in point occurred in Racine, WI, where a residential property suffered a fire. Initially, the structural damage seemed minimal, but a thorough inspection revealed significant issues with the beams and supports that had been weakened by intense heat.

Actionable Steps

Engage a licensed structural engineer to assess fire-related damages thoroughly.
Use advanced technology like thermal imaging to detect unseen damage.
Prioritize the repair or reinforcement of damaged structural components to prevent future risks.

2. Smoke and Soot Damage

While flames might be the most apparent culprit, smoke and soot inflict their unique form of damage that lingers long after the embers have cooled. Smoke can permeate into walls, ceilings, and HVAC systems, spreading odors and toxins throughout a space.

A story from a business in downtown Racine illustrates this well, where lingering smoke odors affected customer experience despite visible restoration.

Simple cleaning is often insufficient, which is why professional deodorization and air scrubbing services are essential to eliminate these hazards effectively.

Actionable Steps

Implement a comprehensive cleaning strategy that includes air purification and HVAC system decontamination.
Use ozone treatments or thermal fogging to neutralize stubborn odors.
Regularly inspect and maintain HVAC systems to prevent long-term odor and toxins.

3. Water Damage from Firefighting Efforts

Ironically, the water used to extinguish fires can cause its own form of destruction. This is an often-overlooked aspect of fire restoration. Water seeps into flooring, walls, and furniture, creating conditions ripe for mold growth.

Actionable Steps

Immediately extract water and use industrial-grade dehumidifiers.
Inspect for mold growth regularly and apply antimicrobial treatments.
Contact RestoreMore for water damage services to address any issues promptly.

4. Electrical System Damage

Fire can damage electrical systems, posing hidden dangers if not properly addressed. Melting or burning of wiring and outlets can occur even in areas not directly touched by fire.

Actionable Steps

Conduct a thorough inspection by a certified electrician after a fire event.
Replace damaged wiring and components, even if they are visually intact.
Upgrade to modern circuit breakers and protectors to prevent future incidents.

5. Emotional and Psychological Recovery

Restoration is not just physical; it involves emotional and psychological healing as well. Fire can be a traumatic experience, leading to stress, anxiety, and loss. This aspect often remains forgotten amid the chaos of physical rebuilding. Support networks, counseling, and community outreach can play a central role in recovering from such an experience.

Actionable Steps

Offer or engage in community support programs or counseling services.
Participate in local forums where shared experiences can help recovery.
Encourage communication and support among family or business associates to foster a collective healing process.

Conclusion

The road to recovery after a fire requires more than just addressing visible fire damage. From uncovering hidden structural problems to dealing with the personal effects of trauma, a comprehensive approach is crucial. By addressing these often-overlooked aspects, you enhance safety, reclaim peace of mind, and foster a smoother transition back to normalcy.

If you need guidance through your restoration journey, contact RestoreMore to ensure no stone is left unturned in your recovery process.

Our expertise in water, fire, and mold damage restoration services equips you to not only restore your property but also to restore hope and assurance.

Fire Damage Restoration: Top Five Things You Need to Address

1. Hidden Structural Damage

Actionable Steps

2. Smoke and Soot Damage

Actionable Steps

3. Water Damage from Firefighting Efforts

Actionable Steps

4. Electrical System Damage

Actionable Steps

5. Emotional and Psychological Recovery

Actionable Steps

Conclusion

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