Fires can break out without any unforeseen reason in New York, and it is quite alarming as it leaves behind destroyed properties and other concerning problems. As a homeowner, you must contact insurance adjusters and restoration professionals to fix the damage. However, before you proceed with the cleanup, you must understand the different types of fire destruction, as each has unique characteristics, which will help you plan a proper restoration strategy.
Different types of fire damage
Based on the source of materials involved, the type of smoke, and the duration taken by the firefighters to extinguish the fire – determine the type of fire destruction. There are five types:
1. Structural damage
Structural destruction is the most easily detected form of fire, affecting wooden frames, steel reinforcements, or cracked concrete foundations. This can manifest in several forms, making the walls structurally weak and weakening the foundation of the building. It threatens the overall stability of the house. So, you have to address these fire damage near me problems moving to ensure the occupant’s safety.
2. Smoke and soot damage
Smoke damage has 4 four types: wet, dry, protein, and fuel oil soot smoke. Wet smoke is triggered by low-temperature fire; you would find strong odor and sticky substances as a residual. The dry smoke arises from high-temperature fire, and the residue is finely powdered soot. Protein smoke is generally invisible and affects the paints and varnish, leaving the furnace puff back behind. Most importantly, all this fire destruction leads to potential health risks and respiratory issues, so immediate fire destruction cleanup is necessary.
3. Water and mold damage
When the fire is extinguished, it can lead to water damage, where large volumes of water get soaked up into the walls, floor, and ceiling, weakening these structures. The damp area can also become a breeding ground for mold if left unaddressed, leading to health risks and destruction to the property integrity. So, it is essential to prevent mold, and in case it is discovered, you should take immediate mold safety remediation.
4. Electrical damage
When the heat melts the wires and circuits, it destroys the entire house and compromises the occupant’s safety. Unless addressed promptly, it can lead to electrical shocks or subsequent electrical fire. You need to inspect and repair the electrical system and ask certified electricians to assess the wiring to restore safety critically.
5. Chemical damage
If a chemical or explosive material is exposed to the fire, it can release hazardous substances. This can lead to environmental risk as well as potential health problems. Thus, specialized cleaning and disposal treatment is necessary to fight chemical damage and the release of toxic gas or corrosive substances before it deteriorates the property’s foundation.
How to assess fire damage?
You need to carefully assess the initial stages of the damage by inspecting the property. It is best left for the professional property restoration company to evaluate the structure, smoke or odor, and type of fire destruction. Advanced technology must be implemented to detect hidden destruction. Assessment should be guided by the proper damage cleanup and restoration process.
