Water Damage Repairs After a Commercial Fire in Sacramento

12/7/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial Fire or Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

At the time of a business fire, hundreds of gallons of water are used by firefighters to extinguish a fire.  As is expected, most businesses may be focused on the loss of their personal property and the fire damage to their structure.  In addition, the amount of water used to put the fire out is also going to cause immediate additional damage issues.  After a fire, some of the water damage you find will be obvious as it is visible to trained mitigation professionals.  The difficult thing about water is that it can permeate into locations that are not readily visible such as under flooring and between walls.  If water is left unattended for an extended period of time, the water damage can quickly form mold and mildew and spread throughout a structure causing additional damage requiring repairs.

Regardless of whether the structure is a home or a business, calling a professional like SERVPRO of North Sacramento to complete the following remediation process to mitigate damages will be needed:  

1.  Cleanup:  

Cleaning a home or business structure is critical.  Once the majority of damaged items have been removed, the interior needs to be cleaned and disinfected.  

2.  Mold Damage: 

The most important issue in preventing mold growth is to control excess moisture and remove standing water fast.  Cleanup and drying out the structure needs to be handled as quickly as possible (within 1 hour to 48 hours).  Mold spores can exist almost anywhere making it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business.  If possible, open windows and doors to air out the affected rooms.  Position fans to dry out the structure and blow the air out of windows and doors.  SERVPRO of North Sacramento offers the following facts related to mold:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air, and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or on a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. 
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return. 
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

3.  Wood Damage: 

When a structure contains any porous material such as wood floors and furniture, they will absorb water very quickly and end up with damage.  Any wood material or wood furniture that is extremely wet and damaged should be removed.

4,  Ceiling Damage:

After a fire, one of the first places to check for damage is in the ceilings.  Damaged ceilings can collapse which may cause more damage or worse yet, injure people in the structure. 

5.  Drywall Damage

When assessing drywall damage, the size of the fire, and the amount of water used to extinguish it will determine the extent of the damage.  Often some portions of the drywall can be saved by drying it out and other portions will need to be cut out and replaced.

6. Caulk and Seal Damage

When the water has been left standing in a structure for some time, the seals around appliances, bathtubs, and toilets will become weak.  If these seals crack or become loose, it could cause catastrophic damage.  All seals should be checked carefully and be removed if damaged beyond repair.  Caulk can be used for the repair.

7. Electrical Damage

Electrical components in a structure including the wiring behind your walls may be damaged and could pose a separate fire risk incident.  Typically, electrical components such as computers, televisions, microwaves, etc. are often damaged as well from not only water but from fire and smoke.  Depending on the proximity from the point of ignition of the fire, these items can be cleaned or replaced which will be determined by your insurance adjuster.

8. Carpet Damage

Carpets can hold mold and other toxic substances after severe water damage. Some carpets and rugs can be dried enough to be salvaged, but others will need to be torn up and replaced. 

9. Drying Your property

Ensuring your home or business is dry before, during, and after restoration should be a priority.   Fans need to be placed throughout the damaged structure to circulate air in every room.  Dehumidifiers should be used in areas that were impacted by the most water damage. 

At SERVPRO of North Sacramento, we know the water damage remediation process is a critical and necessary process. The sooner you select your remediation professional, the quicker you can salvage structural components in your home or business and return to your regular routine of enjoying life and work.  We are focused on helping our community handle disasters as quickly as possible to ensure your experience is "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of North Sacramento: 916-587-3438