Tips for After a Fire

6/5/2024 (Permalink)

Fire damaged building needing restoration.

SERVPRO^® of Wilson County understands the emotional and physical toll a fire can take on your home or business. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to helping you navigate the challenging process of fire restoration. Here are some essential tips to guide you through a difficult time and ensure a successful recovery.

Safety First

Before you even think about starting the cleanup process, make sure it is safe to enter your property. Structural damage can make buildings unstable, and there could be lingering hazards such as electrical issues or hot spots. Always wait for the fire department to declare the property safe and follow their guidance.

Assess the Damage

Once it's safe to enter, carefully assess the extent of the damage. This includes not only visible destruction from the flames but also water damage from firefighting efforts and smoke damage that can permeate walls, furniture, and other belongings. Documenting this damage with photos and detailed notes is crucial for insurance claims.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurance company as soon as possible after the fire. Provide them with the documentation you’ve gathered and follow their instructions for filing a claim. An adjuster will likely visit to assess the damage and guide you through the claims process.

Hire Professional Restoration Services

While it might be tempting to tackle the cleanup yourself, fire restoration is complex and requires specialized knowledge and equipment. SERVPRO of Wilson County has the expertise to handle the multifaceted aspects of fire damage, including structural repairs, soot removal, and odor neutralization.

Secure the Property

Prevent further damage and potential theft by securing your property. This might involve boarding up windows, tarping over roof damage, and ensuring all entry points are locked. SERVPRO of Wilson County can assist with board ups and roof tarping.

Water Removal and Drying

Water used to extinguish the fire can cause significant damage and create the perfect environment for mold growth. Prompt water removal and drying are essential to prevent further deterioration. We have advanced water extraction and drying equipment to mitigate water damage effectively.

Soot and Smoke Removal

Soot and smoke can leave lasting damage and odors if not properly addressed. Specialized cleaning agents and techniques are required to remove soot from surfaces and eliminate smoke odors from the air and porous materials. Our team is trained in these methods to restore your home to its pre-fire condition.

Clean and Salvage Belongings

Some of your belongings might be salvageable with the right cleaning techniques. SERVPRO of Wilson County uses specialized equipment like ultrasonic cleaners and industrial-grade cleaning solutions to restore items such as electronics, documents, and furniture.

Addressing Odors

Even after the visible signs of fire are cleaned up, odors can linger. We use advanced deodorization techniques and equipment, including air scrubbers and thermal foggers, to remove smoke and soot odors from your home or business.

Repair and Rebuild

Restoration is not just about cleaning up—it’s about getting your life back to normal. This means repairing structural damage and rebuilding where necessary. SERVPRO of Wilson County provides comprehensive rebuilding services to restore your property to its pre-fire state.

Plan for the Future

Once your property is restored, take steps to prevent future fires. This might include installing smoke detectors, creating a fire escape plan, and ensuring electrical systems are up to code. Regular maintenance and safety checks can go a long way in preventing another disaster.

Restoring Your Home or Business After a Fire

5/30/2024 (Permalink)

House suffering from fire damage and needing restoration services for smoke, fire, and water.

A fire in your home is an overwhelming experience, leaving behind damage that can seem insurmountable. At SERVPRO® of Wilson County, we understand the emotional and physical toll a fire can take. Our dedicated team is here to help you navigate the fire restoration process, bringing your home back to its pre-fire condition. Here’s what you can expect from our comprehensive fire restoration services.

Immediate Response

Time is of the essence when dealing with fire damage. The longer you wait, the more severe the damage can become. SERVPRO of Wilson County provides a 24/7 emergency response to ensure that we can address your needs as quickly as possible. Our team arrives promptly, ready to assess the damage and begin the restoration process.

Assessment and Inspection

Upon arrival, our certified technicians conduct a thorough inspection of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This detailed assessment allows us to create a tailored restoration plan that addresses all areas affected by the fire.

Board-Up and Tarping Services

Fires can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs, leaving your home exposed to the elements and potential intruders. We provide board-up and tarping services to secure your property, preventing further damage and ensuring your home’s safety during the restoration process.

Water Removal and Drying

Firefighting efforts typically involve large amounts of water, which can lead to water damage in addition to fire damage. Our team uses state-of-the-art equipment to extract standing water and thoroughly dry all affected areas. This step is crucial to prevent mold growth and structural damage.

Soot and Smoke Removal

Soot and smoke can penetrate surfaces and leave behind lingering odors that are difficult to eliminate. Using advanced techniques and specialized equipment, we meticulously clean and remove soot from walls, ceilings, and other surfaces. Our deodorization process ensures that all traces of smoke odor are eradicated, leaving your home smelling fresh and clean.

Cleaning and Sanitizing

Beyond the visible damage, fire can leave behind harmful residues that pose health risks. Our team cleans and sanitizes all restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. This includes furniture, upholstery, and personal belongings. We use industrial-grade cleaning agents and techniques to ensure your home is safe and habitable.

Restoration and Reconstruction

The final step in the fire restoration process is restoring your home to its pre-fire condition. This may involve minor repairs such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet, or it could require major reconstruction of entire rooms. SERVPRO of Wilson County has the expertise and resources to handle all aspects of restoration, ensuring your home is rebuilt with the highest quality standards.

Compassionate and Professional Service

At SERVPRO of Wilson County, we understand that fire restoration is not just about repairing buildings; it’s about restoring your sense of security and comfort. Our team approaches each job with compassion and professionalism, working closely with you every step of the way to ensure your needs are met and your concerns are addressed.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Wilson County?

Choosing SERVPRO of Wilson County means choosing a team with extensive experience, advanced technology, and a commitment to excellence. We are dedicated to making the fire restoration process as smooth and stress-free as possible, helping you get back to your normal life quickly and efficiently.

If you’ve experienced a fire in your home or business, don’t face the aftermath alone. Call SERVPRO of Wilson County today for expert fire restoration services you can trust.

Surviving Flames and Floods: Tips for Restoration and Recovery

8/29/2023 (Permalink)

Image of a hallway with an emergency exit

Disasters such as fires and floods can instantly turn your world upside down. The aftermath is often overwhelming, leaving you with physical damage and emotional distress as you try to pick up the pieces. When facing such challenges, it is crucial to have a plan in place for effective restoration and recovery. This article will discuss essential tips for navigating fire damage restoration and water damage restoration, along with the valuable assistance provided by SERVPRO® of Wilson County. 

Responding to Fire Damage

There is nothing quite so shocking as experiencing a fire at your home or business. The best scenario after such a disaster is that no one is injured, and almost everything can be repaired, restored, or replaced. After the flames are extinguished and the smoke has cleared, the time for cleanup and restoration has arrived. There are a few best practices to consider regarding fire damage restoration services.   

Safety first is your number one priority. After a fire, ensure that you and your loved ones are safe. Only re-enter your property once authorities have deemed it safe to do so. 

Contact us as soon as possible. We can assess the scope of the damage and develop a tailored restoration plan. 

Evaluate the structural integrity of your home or property. Fire can weaken a building's structure, creating a high-risk environment that can lead to collapse or injuries. We will inspect the property to ensure it is safe for re-entry and to assess any structural damage. 

Address the smoke and soot left behind. Smoke and soot can linger even after the flames are extinguished. We use specialized equipment to thoroughly clean and deodorize your property, eliminating the strong odors that remain and potential health hazards such as burned residue. 

Determine if there is salvageable content. Assess which items can be salvaged and cleaned. Our professionals want to clean, repair, and restore whenever possible rather than automatically assuming that the contents are beyond repair. They can help with content restoration, the process of restoring belongings to their pre-fire condition. 

Navigating Water Damage

Fast-moving and rising floodwater can bring enormous destruction to any structure or property. As with any disaster, a fast and thorough response is needed to begin the water damage restoration process.  

Water damage repair must be done as soon as possible. When dealing with water damage, time is of the essence—contact us to initiate the restoration process promptly. 

Make a thorough assessment of the water damage left behind. We can assess the extent of the water damage to determine the appropriate restoration approach. They will typically advise water extraction, drying, and dehumidification. And, of course, all surfaces must be sanitized to ensure a healthy environment.  

Prevent Mold Growth. Rapid water damage restoration is essential to prevent mold growth. Mold can develop within 24 to 48 hours of water exposure, so quick action is crucial. 

Record All Damage. It is critical to document the damage for insurance purposes. Fortunately, most people have access to cameras on their smartphones. Take photos and videos of the affected areas before restoration work begins. 

Professional Restoration. Emergency Water damage restoration involves a combination of thorough drying, cleaning, and repairing damaged areas. Skilled professionals ensure that your property is restored to its pre-damage condition.  

Professional Help from SERVPRO of Wilson County 

Our experienced technicians possess the knowledge, equipment, and resources to handle both minor and major restoration projects. From emergency response to meticulous cleaning and content restoration, partnering with us can significantly expedite your recovery process. 

We know rebuilding takes time, diligence, and attention to detail at a time when all you want is for your property to be restored. The restoration after a fire or flood can feel overwhelming; therefore, our team prioritizes repairing, restoring, and rebuilding so you can look forward to returning.    

Preventing Future Disasters 

While it is impossible to change Mother Nature or predict disasters, there are steps you can take to minimize their impact: 

• Install Fire Alarms and Sprinklers. These systems can quickly detect and suppress fires, limiting their damage. 

• Maintain Gutters and Drainage. Regularly clean gutters and maintain proper drainage systems to prevent flooding. 

• Check Electrical Systems. Faulty wiring can lead to fires. Regularly inspect your electrical systems and address any issues promptly. 

• Create a Disaster Preparedness Plan. Develop a comprehensive plan that outlines what to do in case of a fire, flood, or other emergencies. And remember to have us on speed dial! 

Surviving fires and floods is a challenging experience, but with the right approach to restoration and recovery, you can rebuild and move forward. Remember, seeking professional assistance from us is crucial for a successful restoration process. By acting quickly, prioritizing safety, and engaging restoration professionals, you can overcome these challenges and emerge stronger. 

Do you ever wonder who you would call for fire and water damage restoration? The answer is simple. Call us today!

Interesting Facts about Commercial Repair and Restoration Services after a Fire

6/28/2023 (Permalink)

Image of fire on plug in a house

With its destructive power, fire can ravage homes and businesses within minutes, leaving behind a trail of destruction. Every homeowner or business owner knows the importance of fire safety, but unfortunately, fire damage can still occur even with the best precautions in place. Whether it is from a small kitchen fire or a major house blaze, understanding the damage's extent and necessary repairs is essential to getting back on your feet quickly. Fortunately, there are experts who specialize in fire damage restoration services who can help you assess and repair any fire-related damage. Let’s discuss different types of fire damage, what kinds of common repairs are necessary, and tips for understanding a plan from a qualified contractor for your needs so that you can restore and rebuild.  

 Fire Damage: Dealing with the Unthinkable 

When a home or business experiences fire damage, assessing the extent of the destruction can be overwhelming. Fire damage can range from minor to severe and cause various issues such as smoke, soot, and water damage from extinguishing efforts. In more severe cases, fires may even cause structural damage to the home or building. 

It is essential to assess the fire damage as soon as possible to ensure that repairs are completed quickly and effectively. This means understanding the different types of fire-related damage that can occur and what repairs are necessary. It also means identifying experienced fire damage restoration services, like SERVPRO®, who have the qualifications to restore your property to its original condition. 

The most common causes of fire damage include faulty wiring, running out of fuel for a heater, or an unattended candle. Other causes may include improper use or storage of combustible materials such as gasoline, oil, or paint thinner; malfunctioning appliances; smoking indoors; arson; and lightning strikes. Depending on the severity of the fire, smoke and soot can spread throughout a structure leading to lingering odors and discoloration on walls and ceilings. Water used during firefighting efforts may also cause additional water damage throughout the affected area. 

The right fire damage restoration services contractor should have experience in all types of restoration jobs, including cleaning, deodorizing surfaces affected by smoke or soot, repairing structural components damaged by heat or water, and mold remediation. 

Assessing the Extent of the Damage 

 When evaluating the destruction caused by fire, fire damage repair experts will inspect the walls, floors, ceilings, roofs, furniture, upholstery, and carpeting for smoke, heat, and water damage. Smoke can cause discoloration on surfaces as well as a lingering odor on the property. Furthermore, all electrical wiring and appliances must be checked for safety reasons. 

By understanding how extensive the impact of a fire incident is, an experienced fire damage restoration services professional will be able to create a plan to restore your home or business to its original condition while ensuring minimum risks during the process.  

The Role of Fire Damage Restoration Services 

Fire damage restoration services encompass a range of specialized techniques to mitigate the effects of fire, smoke, and water damage caused by firefighting efforts. These services not only address visible damage but also tackle underlying issues that may compromise the structural integrity and safety of the property. Let's look at the role of fire damage restoration contractors.   

• Assessment and Planning. Fire damage repair professionals conduct a thorough assessment to evaluate the extent of the damage and develop a comprehensive restoration plan tailored to the property's needs.  
• Fire Damage Cleanup. Debris, charred materials, and unsalvageable items are removed. This process prepares the site for effective restoration.  
• Smoke and Soot Removal. Soot and smoke can permeate every surface and crevice, causing lingering odors and potential health hazards. Fire damage repair professionals employ specialized techniques and equipment to thoroughly clean and deodorize affected areas.  
• Structural Repairs. Fire can weaken structures, compromising their stability. Fire damage restoration contractors repair and reinforce damaged walls, floors, and other structural components to ensure the safety and integrity of the building.   
• Water Damage Restoration. Firefighting efforts to extinguish flames often result in water damage. Fire damage restoration services include water extraction, drying, and dehumidification to prevent mold growth and further deterioration.  

• Content Cleaning and Restoration. Fire damage repair and restoration extend to salvaging and restoring valuable possessions, furniture, documents, and other items affected by fire, smoke, and water damage.   

Interesting Facts about Fire Damage Restoration Services  

Let's look at a few intriguing facts highlighting the significance and challenges of fire damage restoration services.  

• Rapid response is critical to minimize secondary damage after a fire. Restoration professionals are equipped to respond quickly, mitigating further harm and expediting restoration.   
• Fire damage cleanup, repair, and restoration involve using cutting-edge technology and specialized equipment like air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to remove odors and contaminants and restore air quality.   

• Smoke can cause hidden damage in areas untouched by flames. Smoke can penetrate porous surfaces, leaving residue, odors, and contaminants that require professional fire damage remediation.  
• Adequate ventilation is crucial during the restoration process to remove soot, smoke, and excess moisture.   
• Skilled fire damage restoration technicians employ specialized methods for cleaning and restoring personal belongings affected by fire damage.  
• Water damage is an unavoidable byproduct when extinguishing fires and can lead to further damage. Fire restoration professionals use industrial-grade equipment like pumps, fans, and dehumidifiers to extract water, dry affected areas, and prevent mold growth.  
• Fire damage restoration services work closely with the top insurance agencies to assess the damage, document losses, and expedite the claims process. They know how to navigate insurance complexities and provide the necessary documentation for smooth reimbursement.   

Fire damage restoration services are instrumental in helping homeowners and businesses recover from the devastating aftermath of a fire. If you've recently experienced fire-related damage to your home or business, don't hesitate to call SERVPRO today! Their team is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and expertly trained personnel with years of experience restoring properties affected by fires across the greater Nashville area and Wilson County.

Salvageable or Non-Salvageable: Best Practices for Fire Damage Restoration

6/28/2023 (Permalink)

Image of fire damage on a house

The damage can be devastating when a fire strikes your home or business. Smoke, heat, and water combine to leave behind charred surfaces and possessions that may seem destroyed beyond repair. But with the proper knowledge and expertise, much of the destruction caused by fire can be repaired and restored. We will discuss best practices for fire damage restoration and how to determine what materials are salvageable and non-salvageable. We will cover the different categories of fire damage, how they can affect your property, safety considerations when dealing with fires, and steps to properly mitigate and repair any damage. With these tips in mind, you can begin to reclaim your space after a fire. 

Understanding Fire Damage and its Effects 

The most common causes of fires are electrical malfunctions, unattended cooking, misuse of matches and lighters, smoking materials, space heaters, and arson. Other sources, such as candles, wood stoves, lightning strikes, automotive accidents, chemical reactions, and gas leaks from appliances or heating systems, can also spark a blaze. These causes come with several safety considerations when addressing a fire-damaged property. For example, locating hazardous materials like asbestos or lead paint or identifying live power lines are essential for the proper restoration of fire damage. 

Understanding the damage caused by a fire is important for determining what is salvageable and non-salvageable to begin rebuilding your home or business. Fire damage can include structural damage as well as smoke and soot damage which will affect many items in your home or business, including furniture, fabrics and upholstery, walls, floors, ceilings, carpeting, books, and documents.  

In addition to primary fire damage, other secondary damages are caused by water damage from extinguishing efforts, mold, and other environmental hazards. These issues should be taken into account when assessing the extent of the damage. 

By familiarizing yourself with best practices for fire damage restoration, you can begin the repairs to your home after a fire disaster. With this knowledge of what safety precautions to take when dealing with fires, identifying hazardous materials, assessing damages, and determining what is salvageable and non-salvageable, hiring a fire damage restoration service is essential to begin restoring your property following a fire event. 

Identifying Salvageable and Non-Salvageable Materials 

Identifying salvageable and non-salvageable materials after a fire is an important step in the fire damage restoration process. It helps individuals understand the damage's extent and determine the repair and restoration budget. Fire-resistant materials, such as metals, concrete, brick, tile, marble, granite, and treated wood products, are a great place to start when assessing the damage. Additionally, it is important to differentiate between different categories of fire damage, such as heat exposure, smoke residue, chemical residue, and water damage.  

Assessing the Extent of Fire Damage 

After a fire, it is crucial to assess the extent of the damage to create an accurate plan for mitigation and repair. Different types of fire damage can occur, such as structural damage, wiring, insulation, plumbing damage, and contamination from smoke and soot. To assess the extent of fire damage, it is essential to check for structural integrity first. This involves checking if walls are still standing straight or if there are any signs of buckling or warping. It also involves looking for visible signs of water damage caused by fighting the fire with powerful water hoses. 

In addition to assessing structural integrity, it is necessary to identify where smoke and soot have spread throughout the house or structure. Smoke and soot particles can quickly travel through vents and ducts, reaching even distant rooms in a home or building. Particular attention should be paid to testing air quality throughout the affected area to identify possible sources of contamination that could pose health risks down the line. 

Finally, it is essential to take into account potential issues with wiring due to heat exposure during a fire. Electrical wires can suffer from heat shrinkage, which may become brittle over time and cause shorts when they come into contact with other metal objects. Checking each wire individually can be time-consuming but necessary for proper restoration work to be performed afterward and to ensure a safe environment. 

By assessing the extent of fire damage using these techniques, individuals can learn what steps need to be taken for proper mitigation and repair after a devastating event such as a fire occurs on their property. 

Fire Damage Restoration Process and Best Practices 

Fire damage restoration is an intricate process requiring precise attention to safety, damage assessment, mitigation, and repair. Prioritizing safety first is essential; this includes disconnecting all utilities and inspecting for hazardous materials. It is also important to document the extent of the damage with photos. The next step involves mitigation measures such as removing water from affected areas, drying areas, cleaning surfaces, repairing damaged items, replacing non-salvageable items, disposing of hazardous waste safely, and monitoring air quality levels.  

SERVPRO® of Wilson County, will develop a detailed plan regarding your property's restoration. It is vital to ensure that all steps leading up to completion—including assessment of damages; removal of debris; mitigation (cleaning); drying; repair/restoration; disposal/recycling—are appropriately completed by us. 

By following these tips about the fire damage restoration process, individuals can get back on track after experiencing devastating losses due to fires while finding reliable professionals who meet their needs regarding experience and exceptional quality. Call SERVPRO of Wilson County today to schedule a consultation with our fire damage restoration team.

Top 10 Residential Fires

7/5/2022 (Permalink)

Top 10 Residential Fire Hazards in Wilson County

1. Electrical Outlet Issues

Electrical outlets are the most common cause of house fires in the United States. We use more electronic gadgets than ever before in 2021, and we do so frequently via multiple outlets on a single outlet. To help prevent fires, avoid using more than your voltage on a single outlet in your house.

2. Outdated Home Wiring

Household wiring should be inspected on a regular basis to avoid the occurrence of major fire damage in your house. Wiring that is old, frayed, or even damaged by animals may create fire risks both inside and outside your home.

3. Decorative Lights

When decorating with decorative lights, such as outside lights, outlets, surge protectors, extension cords, and turning off your Christmas Tree Lighting when you are not home to avoid accidents, be sure to use the necessary precautions.

4. Hair Products

If you're in a hurry, don't forget to unplug your styling equipment. A simple error might result in significant damage. Make sure your curling iron and dryers are switched off and placed on heat-resistant material to minimize the risk of fire.

5. Toasters

Proper maintenance of your toaster can aid in the prevention of house fires. Crumbs trapped within the toaster might be dangerous since they may cause sparks, which can result in serious issues in the kitchen. Make it a habit to clean your toaster on a regular basis.

6. Candles

We all adore candles and fragrances; however we must be cautious of placement when they are lit. Always try to use holders that keep candles from falling on surfaces or tabletops when placing them.

7. Washer & Dryers

The dryer and washer are two of the most common causes of house fires. Cleaning filters and vents, as well as the outside vents of your home, can assist to prevent fire hazards by removing fluff from your tumble dryer's lint traps.

8. Smoking

If you're a smoker or someone in your home, try to smoke outside. Lighters and matchsticks should always be kept out of reach of children since it's one of the most common causes of house fires.

9. Dust in Electric Sockets 

This is a regular procedure that must be completed as dust accumulates in electrical outlets, posing a fire risk if not regularly cleaned.

10. Electric Blankets

Electric Blankets, on the other hand, can cause fires. Make sure you get an electric blanket with less wear and tear. When not in use, fold the blankets appropriately to minimize electrical problems that may cause fire hazards.

Should you experience a fire, let the experts at SERVPRO of Wilson County help restore your home “like it never even happened.” With our 24/7 emergency dispatch, we will have someone on-site quickly to access the damage and help you in your time of need. (615) 449-5000

Tips for Fire Restoration

3/25/2022 (Permalink)

Tips for Fire Restoration

When it comes to fire restoration and repairing a home after a fire the time needed for restoring your property will depend on several different factors.

Small Fires may only take a day or two for Restoring whereas large spread fires that affect multiple floors could takes weeks if not even months for restoration and remediation.

If you have experience fire damage at your Wilson county home, use the below tips to get back to living your life and restoring your property back to it's pre-fire condition.

Contact a TRULY Professional Restoration Company

The first thing you need when dealing with fire damage is a professional fire restoration company. SERVPRO® of Wilson County is the industry leader when it comes to helping Wilson County residents with their fire damage restoration needs. Having a professional inspect the area for damage and truly understanding the scope of the restoration project is crucial. At SERVPRO we featured the most extensively trained Fire Restoration specialist that are all knowledgeable and licensed for these types of restoration projects.

Securing the Home

One thing most homeowners do not think of when it comes to your home post-fire is protecting it from trespassers and thieves.

Depending on the scale or magnitude of your fire damage, you may have to vacate / leave your home for several days or weeks during the restoration process. Leaving a home or property vacant can leave it unsecure.

Make sure when leaving your property that you utilize appropriate deadlocks and security accessories. This help to secure any valuables and possessions that are left behind.

Keep a Detailed Record

Another thing that is vitally important is keeping records. By keeping record of possessions, values, and losses it will help to make things smoother when it comes to dealing with your insurance agency. Take plenty of photographs of your damage and keep a file of any receipts, prices and quotes of your valuable possessions you would want to be reimbursed for and share it your agent and restoration company.

Contact the Pros

Even though the process of fire repair can be long, our goal is to make the process as easy as possible. If you’ve endured fire damage on your property, make the call to SERVPRO Wilson County  at (615) 449-5000 for a consultation to help get back to your life before the disaster!

Removing Smoke After a Fire

3/25/2022 (Permalink)

Once you have gotten over the shock of a home fire, you'll typically begin to notice that there is a lingering smell of smoke. To remove and remediate this smoke smell after experiencing a fire is often a difficult job but you can rest assured with SERVPRO's restoration in Wilson County you will be in great hands. Here is how we begin to tackle Smoke Damage in your Home:

Air out your Home

The first thing we must do when it comes to the lingering smoke smell is to air out the home by opening windows and placing portable fans in strategic places throughout the house that will begin to pull the air out of the room. Additionally we will begin to clear out furniture.

Positive Pressure Usage

The Positive Pressure Method is used in ventilation when we force air into a structure through an opening.  Once the air forced into the area it will seek the path of least resistance into the structure.If the opening it utilizes as an exit is three quarters or less the size of the initial opening, there remains a residual positive pressure in the compartment where the air is being forced in to. This positive pressure pulls the smoke and heat inside a compartment and moves it out of the controlled ventilation exit with the air being forced through the front ventilation opening.

True Deep Clean of your Property 

To fully remove the smoke from your home, a deep cleaning of the home must happen. Once of the tricks is using baking soda to deodorizer the area. Additionally SERVPRO may utilize the falling cleaning:

Pressure Washing, Washing Walls and Hard Surfaces, as well as applying specialized cleaners throughout the home.

Smoke Damage is a Job for the Pros

When it comes to Smoke Damage after a fire it's typically best to leave the issue to the Pros -  then it’s time to call SERVPRO Wilson County  Contact us 24/7 at (615) 449-5000 today for help! Our team has decades of experience at restoring homes from fire damage and will help you get your home free of smoke and fire damage quickly and safely.

Planning for Fire Damage

3/10/2022 (Permalink)

Knowing the warning signs before a fire spreads in your home might be the difference in saving your home, possessions, or better yet even your LIFE. It is vitally important to know the key points of Fire Detection which can help you get to safety quickly during a home fire as well as help you find the best Fire Restoration Near Me and get started on the fire repair process so it's "Like it never even happened."

• Use Common Senses

If you notice an increase in smoke, this could be a sign of a fire. You'll need to take a few extra seconds to think about your escape route and practice the safest way for you to escape a building if there is a fire. If you hear loud noises from upstairs, it might be an indication that the ceiling has caught on fire, which is the time to use your common sense and immediately evacuate. Stay calm and don't panic as it can make escaping more difficult.

• Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors are one of the most important ways to protect you and your home from fires. They detect smoke before it rises, which is one of the principal indicators of fire. Smoke detectors give off an audible warning if they detect smoke or some other type of high-temperature inferno. It's always good practice to test your smoke detector every few months to make sure that it is working properly.

• Fire Alarm Systems

A smoke detector is designed to measure the level of smoke in your household and alert you to a possible fire. Smoke alarms can be battery operated or hardwired into your home's electrical system. Hardwired smoke detectors are powered when the power is turned on, while battery-operated ones need to be periodically replaced.

A fire alarm system also monitors the levels of smoke in the air and sounds an alarm when it exceeds a certain threshold (this varies depending on the system). This type of fire alarm includes manual call points for evacuation and notification devices such as strobes and horns.

After a Fire Has Affected your Home

Good fire practice and the upkeep of fire alarms, detectors and training is imperative to give you, your family or anyone present in your building a better chance of surviving a blaze. If your property has been affected by a fire, be sure to call  SERVPRO Wilson County  Contact us 24/7 at (615) 449-5000 today for help! Our team has decades of experience at restoring homes from fire damage and will help you get your home free of smoke and fire damage quickly and safely.

Make a Fire Escape Plan

3/10/2022 (Permalink)

When it comes to fires and your home - every second counts. With time being of the essence it is vitally important for families to be prepared and have a fire plan. Homes can become engulfed in flames and filled with smoke in minutes!

Below are some helpful tips from our SERVPRO Fire Restoration in Wilson County team.

Have the Right Equipment

Not only is having the right plan important and could save your life however having the right equipment and knowing it works will help to give you time and further protection. Smoke Detectors and Fire Alarms can help you know when a fire is there and spreading as well as if you have multiple detectors guiding you the best path. Remember to check the batteries monthly!

Another important tool is an escape ladder - especially if your home is two stories. Escape ladders are different from your normal household aluminum ladders used for cleaning gutters and hanging Christmas lights. These types of ladders attached quickly to windows to be deployed in a quick manner for an additional escape route. Also these ladders are flame retardant.

Knowing your Exits and Meeting Designation

If you have children in the home it is important for them to not only know where the best exits are but also where is the place to meet should any major disaster strike and panic starts to set in. Remember your spot should be far enough away to be in a safe distance from the home and fire but should also be easy to get to (normal spots include stop signs, neighbor's homes, etc.).

Planning

Again, Fire and Smoke can spread super fast in the home - thus visibility can be impaired. By practicing your escape routes and plans it helps during the stress and panic of the actual situation to react quickly and appropriately. Again this is especially important for households with children!

Who to Call for Fire Restoration?

After your family has all made it safely out of your home and your home fire has been put out by the fire department, it’s best to call SERVPRO Wilson County  at (615) 449-5000 today to assess your property and configure a strategy. No matter what time of day you call, our team will be ready with 24-Hour Emergency Service to get your home back to normal.

Smoke Odor

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke odor in the home can be a huge headache to deal with. Not only is it unpleasant, but it can also have a negative impact on your health and resale value. Thankfully, SERVPRO Wilson County has you covered! We use thermal foggers to clear the smoke odor from your home, and we can also help with restoration services if needed. Contact us today at (615) 449-5000 for more information or to schedule an appointment. You can also visit our website https://www.SERVPROwilsoncounty.com/ for more details about our services.

Smoke smell can stay in your home long after a fire is extinguished. This is because the smoke and soot particles are very small and can easily become lodged in fabrics, carpets, and furniture. In order to get rid of the smoke smell, it is important to take steps to clean and restore your home. SERVPRO Wilson County can help with both of these things! We use thermal foggers to clear the smoke odor from your home, and we can also help with restoration services if needed.

Smoke odor can be a huge turnoff to potential buyers and can hurt your home value. In fact, smoke odor is one of the leading causes of home sale failures. If you're looking to sell your home, it's important to take steps to clear the smoke odor and restore your home to its former glory. SERVPRO Wilson County can help with both of these things! We use thermal foggers to clear the smoke odor from your home, and we can also help with restoration services if needed.

Don't wait for the smoke to go away on its own - contact SERVPRO Wilson County today! We can help clear the smoke odor from your home and restore it to its original condition. Contact us today at (615) 449-5000 for more information or to schedule an appointment. You can also visit our website https://www.SERVPROwilsoncounty.com/ for more details about our services.

Preventing Fires and Staying Safe

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

Springtime is a great time to cook outdoors. The weather is nice and the food tastes delicious! However, it's important to remember that there are risks associated with outdoor cooking. In this blog post, we will discuss how to prevent fires when you're cooking outdoors and stay safe while you're at it. We'll also provide some tips for cooking outdoors safely. If you have any questions, be sure to contact SERVPRO Wilson County at (615) 449-5000.

One of the main things you can do to prevent a fire while cooking outdoors is to make sure that your grill is in good condition. Check for any cracks or openings in the grill, and make sure that the grates are clean and in good condition. You should also inspect the propane tank for any signs of damage.

Another key to preventing fires while cooking outdoors is to keep an eye on your food. Don't leave your grill unattended, and make sure that you are constantly stirring and flipping your food. If something does start to burn, don't try to put it out with water - this will only make the fire worse. Instead, use a fire extinguisher or a bucket of sand to put out the fire.

If you experience any fire damage due to cooking outdoors, be sure to contact SERVPRO Wilson County at (615) 449-5000. We are here to help you get your life back to normal. Our team of experienced professionals will work hard to make sure the damage is repaired quickly and efficiently. We also offer a wide range of services, so we can meet all your needs.

Detecting a fire in your home

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

Knowing the warning signs before a fire spreads in your home might be the difference in saving your home, possessions, or better yet even your LIFE. It is vitally important to know the key points of Fire Detection which can help you get to safety quickly during a home fire as well as help you find the best Fire Restoration Near Me and get started on the fire repair process so it's, "Like it never even happened."

Use Common Senses

If you notice an increase in smoke, this could be a sign of a fire. You'll need to take a few extra seconds to think about your escape route and practice the safest way for you to escape a building if there is a fire. If you hear loud noises from upstairs, it might be an indication that the ceiling has caught on fire, which is the time to use your common sense and immediately evacuate. Stay calm and don't panic as it can make escaping more difficult.

Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors are one of the most important ways to protect you and your home from fires. They detect smoke before it rises, which is one of the principal indicators of fire. Smoke detectors give off an audible warning if they detect smoke or some other type of high-temperature inferno. It's always good practice to test your smoke detector every few months to make sure that it is working properly.

Fire Alarm Systems

A smoke detector is designed to measure the level of smoke in your household and alert you to a possible fire. Smoke alarms can be battery operated or hardwired into your home's electrical system. Hardwired smoke detectors are powered when the power is turned on, while battery-operated ones need to be periodically replaced.

A fire alarm system also monitors the levels of smoke in the air and sounds an alarm when it exceeds a certain threshold (this varies depending on the system). This type of fire alarm includes manual call points for evacuation and notification devices such as strobes and horns.

After a Fire Has Affected your Home

Good fire practice and the upkeep of fire alarms, detectors and training is imperative to give you, your family or anyone present in your building a better chance of surviving a blaze. If your property has been affected by a fire, be sure to call  SERVPRO of Wilson County  Contact us 24/7 at (615) 449-5000 today for help! Our team has decades of experience at restoring homes from fire damage and will help you get your home free of smoke and fire damage quickly and safely.

Tips for fire restoration

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

FIRE - SERVPRO of Wilson County - Tips for Fire Restoration

Tips for Fire Restoration

When it comes to fire restoration and repairing a home after a fire the time needed for restoring your property will depend on several different factors.

Small Fires may only take a day or two for Restoring whereas large spread fires that affect multiple floors could takes weeks if not even months for restoration and remediation.

If you have experience fire damage at your Wilson county home, use the below tips to get back to living your life and restoring your property back to it's pre-fire condition.

Contact a TRULY Professional Restoration Company

The first thing you need when dealing with fire damage is a professional fire restoration company. SERVPRO of Wilson County is the industry leader when it comes to helping Wilson County residents with their fire damage restoration needs. Having a professional inspect the area for damage and truly understanding the scope of the restoration project is crucial. At SERVPRO we featured the most extensively trained Fire Restoration specialist that are all knowledgeable and licensed for these types of restoration projects.

Securing the Home

One thing most homeowners do not think of when it comes to your home post-fire is protecting it from trespassers and thieves.

Depending on the scale or magnitude of your fire damage, you may have to vacate / leave your home for several days or weeks during the restoration process. Leaving a home or property vacant can leave it unsecure.

Make sure when leaving your property that you utilize appropriate deadlocks and security accessories. This help to secure any valuables and possessions that are left behind.

Keep a Detailed Record

Another thing that is vitally important is keeping records. By keeping record of possessions, values, and losses it will help to make things smoother when it comes to dealing with your insurance agency. Take plenty of photographs of your damage and keep a file of any receipts, prices and quotes of your valuable possessions you would want to be reimbursed for and share it your agent and restoration company.

Contact the Pros

Even though the process of fire repair can be long, our goal is to make the process as easy as possible. If you’ve endured fire damage on your property, make the call to SERVPRO of Wilson County  at (615) 449-5000 for a consultation to help get back to your life before the disaster!

SERVPRO of Wilson County : Fire Safety with Your Kids

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

It’s in the nature of a young child to be curious about fire. With this in mind, it’s best for parents of young children to learn the best way to satisfy their child’s curiosity while also instilling good fire safety practices. Use their curious nature to start a conversation about fire safety, and be sure to cover the following points.

Young Children and Fire Risks

According to the USFA children below the age of five have a much higher risk of dying in a home fire especially when compared to kids in other age groups. The reason for this is obvious: young kids aren’t capable of exiting a home in the event of a fire or understanding the dangers posed by fire.

Introducing Fire Safety to your Kids

Generally, kids aren’t really sure how to react to fires and may even hide from them instead of fleeing to safety. But if you are able to teach them about some basic fire safety facts and tell them in a fun way the exact steps to take or things to do to be safe, they will be able to protect themselves, even when you are not around.

Teach your Kids About Fire Safety 

Regardless of how busy you are or how tight your schedule is, you have to make out time to teach your kids about fire safety. The most important thing to tell your kids about what to do when they encounter a fire is for them not to ever hide under their bed, in their closet or anywhere at all when there is a fire. Instruct your kids to find a safe way to leave the house when there is a fire so they don’t get trapped and to call the authorities once they get to safety.

Make a Family Fire Plan

Instead of bombarding your kids with the intricate details about fires, start small and talk about basic fire. Make sure to talk about the subject often so that it will become second nature to them. Once they’re ready to move forward, start small with making a fire plan that can be used as an exit strategy to help your family get out of the house as safely and quickly as possible. Make sure to review and practice your fire plan both during the day and at night to ensure it’s easy to follow in an emergency.

Coping After a Home Fire

Home fires can have serious emotional and physical consequences and the aftermath can take a while for young kids to overcome. The best way to protect your kids is by preventing home fires in the first place. If you’re unable to prevent a home fire, then make sure to call SERVPRO Wilson County at (615) 449-5000 to help quickly restore your property to its pre-fire condition following a fire.

SERVPRO of Wilson County : Proper electrical safety to avoid fires in the house

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

When working with electricity, safety needs to be your top priority at all times. According to the NFPA, one of the major dangers associated with electrical hazards are fires. Each year, electrical malfunctions account for 35,000 home fires, causing over 1,130 injuries, 500 deaths and $1.4 billion in property damage. To keep electrical components in a state where they are not misused or improperly maintained and cause a fire, it’s best to follow this guide.

Keep an Eye Out For Electrical Red Flags

When it comes to your electrical components, make sure you’re aware of the key warning signs of overloaded electrical systems. This includes (but is not limited to) outlets that are frequently blowing fuses, tripping circuit breakers and lights dimming when other devices are used. Furthermore, if you hear a buzzing sound coming from outlets or switches, or they are warm to the touch, you could have an overloaded electrical system.

Watch for the warning signs of a stressed or worn out electrical system.  These include:

• Cover plates that are unusually warm to the touch may indicate a loose connection. 
• Crackling, sizzling or buzzing noises behind outlets, switches or walls may indicate there’s an unsafe wiring condition called arcing.
• Tripped circuit breakers are yet another indication of an over stressed electrical system. Circuits typically trip because of electrical overloads.  Circuits that trip repeatedly indicate a potential problem that needs attention from a licensed electrician.

Other Signs of Faulty Wiring

As a home ages, so does the wiring system. You can experience issues with worn out outlets, switches, GFCI outlets, and even the circuit breaker panel. Wiring systems in homes that are more than 30-years-old weren’t designed to handle the demands of today’s electricity needs.

If you also find that you are constantly using extension cords to power your appliances or electronics, it might be time to reconsider your electrical outlet needs. This is because extension cords can heat up and catch on fire easily, especially if they’re overloaded.

Lastly, if you find that prongs are not staying secure in your receptacle, it’s definitely time to get your receptacle’s worn contact repaired before a fire breaks loose. This is because loose contacts are known to cause arcing, which can ignite dry wood and dust, leading to fires in no time.

Electrical Fire Restoration Solutions

Electricity is something that even when harnessed and secured, can still lead to home fires due to outside sources such as a power surge, lightning strike or other natural disaster. If an electrical fire breaks out on your property under your watch, it’s best to call SERVPRO Wilson County at (615) 449-5000 to go over your fire restoration options immediately.

SERVPRO of Wilson County : How to use a Fire Extinguisher

2/11/2021 (Permalink)

How to use a fire extinguisher

Wilson County (https://www.SERVPROwilsoncounty.com/)

We should all have at least one fire extinguisher somewhere in our home, but it’s not enough to simply keep one under the kitchen sink. If there is a fire, the safety of yourself and your home relies on knowing how to properly use that fire extinguisher. In case your fire extinguisher has been sitting around collecting dust, here’s everything you need to know before brushing it off and fighting a fire in your home the right way.

Choosing the Right Fire Extinguisher for the Job

Most household fires fall into one of the following categories:

Class A: These fires are fueled by solid combustibles like wood, paper, and cloth.

Class B: These fires are fueled by flammable liquids such as oil, petroleum, and gasoline.

Class C: These fires are started or fueled by faulty wiring, fuse boxes, and appliances.

Class K: These fires are started or fueled by cooking oils and greases, animal fats, and vegetable fats.

Properly Using a Fire Extinguisher

To use a fire extinguisher, follow the acronym PASS as outlined below:

Pull - Pull the pin on the extinguisher 
Aim - Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire 
Squeeze - Squeeze the trigger to release the product 
Sweep - Sweep the nozzle from side to side (slowly)

After Using your Fire Extinguisher

After your first use of your fire extinguisher using the PASS method, follow these steps to stay safe:

• Keep an eye on things: After the flames appear to be out, continue to watch the fire area to make sure it doesn’t reignite. If the fire does start up again, repeat the PASS process.
• Call the fire department: If you didn’t have the chance to call the fire department before discharging the fire extinguisher, do so now. They will be able to inspect the site of the fire and make sure that it is completely extinguished.
• Get to a safe place: Once the fire is out, or if you are unable to extinguish the fire, leave the scene and find a place out of reach of the fire.

Who to Call for Fire Restoration in the Heat of the Moment

Home fires can be highly tense, nerve wracking experiences that can cause anxiety to even the most experienced firefighter. Hopefully, using these tips on how to best use your fire extinguisher in case of a home fire will help you stay safe, it may not always be effective at putting out a fire. In these cases, it’s best to not try to be a hero and instead call the fire department to continue fighting the fire and helping to save your home.

After a home fire has been put out, it’s time to think about getting your home back to its original aesthetic appeal. Although that might be a tall task for some companies, the team at SERVPRO Wilson County is more than capable to restore your property quickly after a home fire. Make sure to call us at (615) 449-5000 for a comprehensive consultation!

SERVPRO of Wilson County : How to Keep Items Safe from Fire

2/11/2021 (Permalink)

How to keep items safe from fire

Wilson County (https://www.SERVPROwilsoncounty.com/)

When disaster strikes your home, it can leave a trail of devastation behind. But the real gut-wrenching loss are those valuables that cannot be replaced, whether a family heirloom, photographs or some other memento. While we certainly cannot predict when a fire or flood will hit, there are some steps you can take to protect those items that are most valuable to you.

The Most Important Items to Protect During a Fire

Although we may consider many items in ours homes to be relatively valuable to us, that list gets narrowed down very quickly when a home fire hits. This list includes (but is not limited to):

• Birth certificates
• Property titles (i.e. your home deed)
• Insurance policies
• Safe deposit box keys
• Social security cards/Passports/Forms of ID
• Spare car/house keys
• Wills and living trusts

This list encompasses anything that is either incredibly difficult or impossible to replace and holds tremendous value to your continued financial wellbeing. These items have relatively no value when it comes to insurance policies so getting reimbursed for the loss of any of them is nearly impossible to do.

Ways to Protect your Priceless Items

When disaster-proofing your priceless items, there are no hard and fast rules about what to keep them. The goal is to have everything in at least two places in case one is destroyed or inaccessible. Generally speaking, you have 5 places to choose from when deciding where to keep your papers:

1. Wallet
2. Safe Deposit Box
3. Online/Digital Storage
4. Attorney
5. Friend or Relative living elsewhere

What to do After your Home Fire

Following the above tips will help you rest easier knowing that, in the case of a home fire, you don’t have to scramble amidst the mounting flames to get your priceless items in order; instead you can focus on the safety of yourself and loved ones. As soon as you have documented everything from your home fire, be sure to call the experienced team at SERVPRO Wilson County at (615) 449-5000 as soon as possible. We have decades of experience in restoring homes from fire damage and you deserve the expertise that we bring to the table.

SERVPRO of Wilson County : Fire precautions to watch out for

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

Fire precautions to watch out for

Wilson County (https://www.SERVPROwilsoncounty.com)

The important thing to remember is that in the event of a fire, every second counts. According to Ready.gov, it only takes 30 seconds for a house fire to become life-threatening. It only takes minutes for thick black smoke to fill a house or for it to be engulfed in flames. This is why it’s important to keep an eye on the following peripherals around your home to ensure you’re in the clear from a home fire in the future.

Check your Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors and fire alarms may be some of the most important items in your home when it comes to your family's safety. These early warning devices may help alert your family to fire and dangerous smoke while there is still time to evacuate, but they need to be periodically tested to help ensure proper function. According to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), smoke detectors should be tested at least once a month and batteries should be replaced at least once or twice a year.

Remember, smoke detectors have a normal life span of 10 years, according to the USFA. Even if you've performed regular maintenance, and your device is still functional, you should replace a smoke detector after the 10-year period or earlier, depending on the manufacturer's instructions.

Keep an Eye on your Appliances

Household appliances make our lives easier every day. However, every machine that operates on electricity or gas presents safety risks and should be used according to the manufacturer’s instructions. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, the number of electrical fires in the United States exceeds 25,000 a year!

Keep the electrical appliances and electrical system in your home in good repair to deter an appliance fire in the future by checking your home’s wiring on a regular basis. If you notice flickering lights, light switches that are hot to the touch, or outlets that don’t work, call an electrician to inspect and fix the problems as soon as possible.

Turn to the Pros After Fire Damage

If you’ve taken these precautions but still have encountered fire damage on your property, then it’s time call SERVPRO Wilson County at (615) 449-5000 for immediate fire damage restoration solutions. The sooner our team can get onto the scene, the faster we can get your home back to its pre-fire condition.

SERVPRO of Wilson County Fire Prevention

10/20/2020 (Permalink)

Fire safety and fire prevention go hand in hand. Whether you’re living in a 500 square foot apartment or a 50,000 square foot mega-mansion, preventing fires from occurring and spreading should always be priority number one. If you are unable to prevent a fire or fall unfortunate to fire damage - you must call on Mt Juliet fire restoration services from SERVPRO to help restore your property to its original condition. In the interim, it’s important to practice these fire prevention best practices to keep your property free from fires of all sizes.

How Prominent Are Home Fires in the U.S.? In 2018, 50.7% of all residential fires in the U.S. started with cooking, according to statistics compiled by the U.S. Fire Administration. Heating, the second most common cause of house fires, was responsible for 9.4% of fires. Being that we are currently in the middle of Fall, headed into Winter, home heating is definitely something that homeowners lean on heavily. With this in mind, it’s recommended that homeowners set their furnace or heating system at a manageable level to avoid starting any fires.

Don’t Overload Your Electrical Outlets

It’s also important to take care, not to overload electrical outlets with multiple high-energy appliances in the kitchen and elsewhere in the home. This is to prevent a surge that could spark and lead to a fire that can often times begin in areas that you would not expect.

Change Your Smoke Alarm Batteries

A good way to remember to change smoke alarm batteries is to change them on Nov. 1, when Daylight Savings Time ends, and again in the spring when Daylight Savings Time resumes. This is to ensure that no matter what time of day or where you are in your home, that you know exactly where a fire is and what measures to take to extinguish it.

If you do experience fire damage Call SERVPRO of Wilson County at (615) 449-5000 if you’ve had a property fire. SERVPRO is the number 1 restoration company dealing with fire and fire damage. The team at SERVPRO has decades of experience in restoring homes from fire damage. This is the level of expertise that homeowners deserve when they’ve experienced any type of catastrophic fire damage on their property.

SERVPRO of Wilson County What Not To Do in A Fire

10/19/2020 (Permalink)

Being stuck in the middle of a fire is one of the worst places to be. The unpredictable nature of a fire in an enclosed area like your home can lead to many different scenarios playing out much faster than you ever thought possible. This is why if your property has been hit by fire damage and you’re looking for the best fire damage repair in Mount Juliet, your search should start and end with SERVPRO of Wilson County. Before you give our team a call after fire damage, make sure you aren’t doing these incredibly dangerous things when you come face to face with a frenzy of fire in your home.

Jump from an Upstairs Window

This should be a no brainer. A fall from even a second floor window will most likely leave you too injured to walk away from the accident. If you’re not able to flee your home fire from the first floor, make sure to use blankets as a rope and throw mattresses out to cushion the landing or better still use a purpose-made escape ladder.

Delay Calling the Fire Department

When you’re faced with a fire in your house, apartment - or business, calling the local fire department first will likely be the difference between life and death. Even if you’re not in grave danger and can flee the property relatively easily, a call to the fire department as soon as the flames become out of control might be enough to save your home or business from being burnt to a crisp.

Retrieve Heirlooms from Upstairs

Fire can spread very quickly blocking your escape route. If you’re on the bottom floor, know that if you head upstairs, the risk of you being trapped up there rises with every second. This is why it’s best to keep all of your precious heirlooms stowed safely in a secure safe or fireproof box. That way you can rest easy knowing that those sought after items will be there after the dust has settled.

 Know What to do in the Heat of the Moment

When you’re in the thick of a home fire, it’s natural that your nerves can get the best of you. This is why it’s so important to practice running through your fire plan so that you and your items can stay safe. After the fire has been put out, it’s essential to call SERVPRO of Wilson County for a consultation at (615) 449-5000 to assess the aftermath of your home fire and put together a plan to keep your home in good condition.

SERVPRO of Wilson County WHAT TO DO IN A GREASE FIRE

10/19/2020 (Permalink)

It's hard not to panic when you see flames in your kitchen, but if you do end up with a grease fire damage in Wilson County, there's a good chance you can put it out yourself if you know what you’re doing. If a grease fire starts, make sure you know how to safely put it out and do what it takes to prevent a grease fire from flaring up in the future. 

Safely Putting out a Grease Fire

If a grease fire starts, act quickly by smothering it with a metal pan lid or cookie sheet over the top. You can also put out a grease fire with baking soda or salt. Whatever you do, do NOT try to extinguish it with water. You'll just end up spreading the fire across your kitchen.

When your pan catches fire, you don't want to burn yourself with scorching hot handles or splashing oil, so don't try to move it or pick it up. If you have a large fire, or it starts to spread, don't put yourself at risk trying to stop it. Just get out and call 911.

Preventing a Grease Fire

A 2018 study found that fat, grease, cooking oil and related substances that could be associated with grease were first ignited in 53% of the home cooking fires that began with cooking materials. This is why the safest method for putting out a grease fire comes with doing everything possible to not have on in the first place. Here are a few tips to help you keep your kitchen from being struck by a grease fire:

• Add food gently to prevent splatter.
• Keep anything that can catch fire away from your stovetop.
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling or broiling food.
• Do not put frozen foods into hot grease.
• Remove as much moisture as possible from the food before putting it in hot oil.
• Keep a lid near the pan you're cooking with so that it is accessible if a fire starts.

If You’ve Been Affected by a Grease Fire

As you can see, most of the advice about how to sidestep a dangerous grease fire comes down to being careful and mindful in the kitchen. If something does happen to your property where a grease fire does occur, make sure to call SERVPRO of Wilson County immediately after a grease fire at (615) 449-5000 to get a team dispatched to your property that understands the importance of fire damage restoration. The SERVPRO team’s methods and experience will ultimately be the difference maker in the future of your property.

SERVPRO of Wilson County - Speed Matters When it Comes to Fire Damage

10/12/2020 (Permalink)

When fires ensue, the best course of action is always speed. Having a fast response has shown to lessen the damage, thereby limiting further damage and reducing costs exponentially. Let’s see why it’s so important to be first to the scene to remediate fire damage and who you should call when you’re faced with fire damages in the areas directly surrounding Mt. Juliet, TN.

How Soon Should You Remediate Fire Damage?

A house fire is one of the most devastating experiences for a homeowner in their lifetime. It is hard to fathom the possibility of having your dream home incinerated, but for many homeowners, this has become a reality. When this happens, many times homeowners will wait to call a fire restoration team until their insurance claim goes through. Unfortunately, since this process can take a little while to complete, it’s best to begin drying the structure as quickly as possible to prevent structural problems or mold from all the excess moisture.

Don’t Touch Anything

Accessing the damages inflicted in your home would be your number one priority. After a fire, there will be a degree of smoke damage to your walls, wallpaper, and paint. As much as possible, avoid touching anything in your home after a fire has happened. You may end up aggravating the situation by touching items that have soot on them. It is also advisable to avoid walking around your home after the fire has been put out because this can worsen the damages.

Separate Damaged from Undamaged Items

Once your insurance adjuster has assessed the damages and you have enlisted the services of SERVPRO of Wilson County to restore your property, separate the damaged items from those that were untouched. Check these items for possible soot and smoke damage. If salvageable, try to restore them via content restoration.

Who Should You Call For Speedy Fire Damage Restoration?

Whether you have been stricken by fire damage recently or want to take a proactive stance to increase the speed of response to a possible fire in the future, it’s important to turn to a team that has a track record for success with fire damage. That company is SERVPRO of Wilson County. Give their office a call at (615) 449-5000 to schedule a thorough consultation for rapid remediation of fire damage.

How to Mitigate Fire Risks to Your Business | SERVPRO® of Wilson County

2/21/2020 (Permalink)

Being aware of the difficulties your business might face is a key facet of being an owner, but it is important that you consider the dangers posed by factors that may not quickly come to mind—namely, fires. Commercial fires can be devastating, leading to costly damage that requires not only funding, but a lapse in business to restore.

The good news is that by implementing fire safety measures and practicing preparedness, business owners can do wonders to reduce the risks they face from a commercial fire.

By checking codes, understanding your risk profile and helping staff be prepared, you can increase your fire safety and reduce the risk that you will ever have to utilize your knowledge.

Implementing Fire Safety Measures at Your Business

Follow code guidelines and inspection schedules. Knowing what fire safety codes apply to your business according to The National Fire Protection Association is a great place to start with your preparedness efforts. Knowing when you should be having regular equipment inspections, what precautions to take with equipment and other key fire safety elements can go a long way in strengthening your efforts.

Identify your specific risks. There are many things that impact the fire risks your business may face, and it is important to recognize that no two businesses have the same risk profile. Therefore, it is vital to gain an understanding of the specific ways your business may be vulnerable, so your efforts can be focused on the right places.

Create (and practice) a fire evacuation plan. Preparing staff for a fire alarm sounding is a great way to ensure that everyone remains calm and makes a quick exit from the building in an emergency. By regularly having fire evacuation drills, you can ingrain the process in everyone’s minds so they can be certain of exactly what should be done during a fire.

Have regular fire safety seminars with staff. Hosting general fire safety demonstrations with staff can supplement your evacuation drills, as well. This will help make sure everyone is aware of exactly what they can do throughout their workday to prevent a fire and give them a forum to communicate any questions or concerns about the risks.

Implementing Measures for Fire Safety in the Home | SERVPRO® of Wilson County

1/21/2020 (Permalink)

The impact of a fire occurring in the home is great, even if it is a relatively small fire. There are many ways that a fire can suddenly begin, and it is always a shock to experience. The good news is that by implementing fire safety measures in the home, the chances of one beginning are greatly reduced.

Retaining all the fire safety information that is around the web can be difficult, as there is a plethora of tips out there. That is why we put together a convenient guide for you to review the top fire safety tips in one place.

How to Prevent the Increasing Likelihood of a Winter Fire | SERVPRO® of Wilson County

12/6/2019 (Permalink)

Shorter days and cooler temperatures are not the only things that winter brings—it also provides an increased likelihood that a fire will occur in the home. Winter is always the peak time for fires in the home, mainly due to increased cooking, heating and decorating that can bring about hazards.

Home Restoration You Can Count On | SERVPRO® of Wilson County

12/2/2019 (Permalink)

There is never a bad time to practice fire preparedness, but if you are worried your family is underprepared, now might be a good time to start. The Red Cross reports that home fires happen with the most frequency during wintertime, which is an indicator that homeowners should be on their guard.

Knowing what to do in case of a fire will give you valuable peace of mind. Make preparations for what you will do if a fire breaks out, such as deciding your escape routes with family members. It is also useful to know what you will do after the fact—specifically, what restoration company you will feel comfortable calling.

Home Restoration You Can Count On | SERVPRO® of Wilson County

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

There is never a bad time to practice fire preparedness, but if you are worried your family is underprepared, now might be a good time to start. The Red Cross reports that home fires happen with the most frequency during wintertime, which is an indicator that homeowners should be on their guard.

Knowing what to do in case of a fire will give you valuable peace of mind. Make preparations for what you will do if a fire breaks out, such as deciding your escape routes with family members. It is also useful to know what you will do after the fact—specifically, what restoration company you will feel comfortable calling.

3 Tips for Fire Prevention | SERVPRO® of Wilson County

10/21/2019 (Permalink)

Most household fires are determined to have been very preventable. Accidents are more prone to happen when we are in the swing of everyday life. The National Fire Prevention Association works without end each year to bring more attention of how preventable fires are to the public.

There are laundry list of things tips to remember in order to prevent fires, but if you follow three of the most common you significantly decrease your chances of having a household fire.

According to NFPA, three tips that prevent fires in your household:

1. Use extreme caution while cooking
2. Do not store any flammable items in places that may become hot.
3. Unplug electrical devices when not using them.

Implementing these three simple tips will significantly decrease your chances of a household fire.

How to make a Home Fire Escape Plan | SERVPRO® of Wilson County

10/21/2019 (Permalink)

According to the NFPA, often times most injuries from household fires are very preventable; but there are not proper fire escape plans in place for household members to follow.

Today, most school systems will participate in practiced fire drills at least once a quarter with their students. The practice of fire drills has been a part of the education system for many years, but something that we forget as we move beyond our grammar school years, but last year alone 3,645 people died due to a fire. This should be an alarming number- particularly for something that is preventable with proper planning.

Depending upon who you ask, there are several keys to remember in creating such a plan; however, we have compiled the list of the must haves.

1. Map out your home.
2. Clearly determine two ways out of each room.
3. Test all smoke alarms for proper functionality.
4. Create an meeting place for you and your children away from the structure.
5. Memorize the phone number to the local fire department.
6. Continually practice your plan.

By creating this plan, you could prevent disaster within your home!

Five Most Common Cause of Electrical Fires | SERVPRO® of Wilson County

10/10/2019 (Permalink)

The most preventable types of fires in the United States are electrical fires. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, nearly 7% of all residential fires between 2014 and 2016 were classified as electrical fires.

The most common place inside of a home for a fire to ignite during a residential electrical fires is within a bedroom, although the largest number of fatalities occur in the living room/den.

In order to prevent electrical fires, it is important to understand how these fires are typically started.

Below we have highlighted the five most common causes of electrical fires:

1. Faulty outlets/appliances
2. Light Fixtures
3. Extension Cords
4. Space heaters
5. Wiring

By identifying these five common cause, we hope that you will be able to more easily detect potential igniters within your home.

If you have experienced fire damage, we are always here to help! Call our restoration experts²⁴⁄₇ so we can address your damages quickly.

Fires and The Residual Damage They Can Cause | SERVPRO® of Wilson County

6/4/2019 (Permalink)

When dealing with fire damage, there is more to be cleaned up than just what is affected by the flames.

Long after the flames are extinguished, soot and smoke left behind can continue damaging property and can give rise to other issues such as mold and rust as well. If left untreated, this damage can compound over time, becoming more difficult and costly to remediate.

The Issues Untreated Fire Damage Can Cause

If you’ve been affected by a fire, it is important to call your restoration team right away to prevent giving rise to other issues such as:

Mold Damage. After a fire, affected areas are often left without any artificial or natural lighting. If the fire was doused with water or set off a sprinkler system, this creates mold’s ideal environment to thrive. Mold can quickly begin growth on almost any surface, leading to discoloration and damages to items and structures.

Corrosion and Rust Damage. Rust and corrosion might not be the first thing you think of when you consider fire damage, but water left untreated on small electronics can cause it to develop and greatly increase the risk for short-circuits or electrical shock.

Soot Damage. Soot is the most common form of carbon byproduct that materials produce when they burn. Most home and commercial fires consist of multiple burned materials, leading to soot that is highly acidic. This acid can cause damage to nearly any surface it comes into contact with, with porous or textured surfaces being the most at-risk. Any soot allowed to remain in the affected area can lead to the damage of carpets, walls and unburnt portions of the house. The longer the soot is allowed to sit, the more unlikely the damage can be reversed.

Questions to Help You Find a Fire Restoration Company

Finding a fire restoration company that you can trust to restore your home to pre-damaged conditions is difficult if you are unsure what to look for. These questions are worth taking the time to ask as you shop around:

* Will they fully clean and sanitize the area to prevent mold growth?

* Do they use industrial-grade air scrubbers to remove odors?

* Do they have a Master Fire Restorer on staff?

* Can they do all levels of restoration, from cosmetic to construction?

If you’ve been affected by a fire, know that SERVPRO® of Wilson County hits all the above qualifications and more. Contact us today to learn how we’re able to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Smoke Detectors in Your Wilson County Property

12/6/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Wilson County reminds you that smoke detectors (smoke alarms) saves lives.

Smoke spreads fast. An alarm gives you time to get out.

SERVPRO of  Wilson County wants you to remember:

• Closed doors can slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire. That is good for reducing smoke damage and fire damage. That is also why you should have a smoke alarm in every sleeping room in the home
• Install smoke alarms on every level of the home
• Large homes might need extra smoke alarms
• Some companies make alarms that are interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound
• Do not turn off smoke detectors when cooking
• Test the smoke alarms at least once a month. There is a test button on the alarm
• When the alarm sounds, get everyone outside and stay outside
• Replace all smoke alarms every 10 years

SERVPRO of Wilson County reminds you to call the fire department once you are outside the home.

Links:

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Smoke-alarms

https://www.nfpa.org/public-education/by-topic/smoke-alarms/safety-messages-about-smoke-alarms

Fire Escape Route

11/6/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Wilson County hopes your home or business never has to deal with fire or smoke damage.  Sometimes, a portable fire extinguisher is not enough to save your property and the only thing you can do is escape.

A small flame can turn into a large fire in a matter of minutes. Lives are more important than objects, so get yourself and others out of danger.

SERVPRO of Wilson County Tips for Escape:

• Make an escape plan ahead of time. Make sure everyone knows the plan
• Make sure that all doors and windows open easily
• Plan at least two different ways of escaping every room
• When you leave, close the doors and windows to shut in the flames
• Practice the plan
• Do not stop to pick up valuables. You can replace objects
• Make sure your plan includes a place to meet that is a safe distance from the home
• Do not turn off smoke alarms when you cook. You may need the warning
• If you have to go through smoke, crawl under it

SERVPRO of Wilson County reminds you to call the fire department once you are outside the home.

Links:

https://www.nfpa.org/public-education/by-topic/fire-and-life-safety-equipment/fire-extinguishers

https://www.nfpa.org/-/media/Files/Public-Education/Resources/Safety-tip-sheets/EscapePlanningTips.ashx?la=en

Fire Damage with Candles

10/10/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Wilson County wants you to be safe from fire and smoke damage. Although fires from candles happen more often around the holidays, many people use candles all year round. It is  important to be careful any time you have an open flame in your home or office.

Fire Prevention is the best way to fight against fire damage or injuries.

SERVPRO of Wilson County offers these Tips for Fire Prevention from Candles:

• Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can catch fire
• Do not let children near candles
• Put out candles when leaving the room or going to bed
• Keep trees and other plants away from candles
• Make sure candles are not near window curtains or blinds that could catch fire
• Keep lit candles in safe candle holders
• If the flame has to burn until the candles are out, keep the candles in holders that keep the flames behind glass
• If the flame has to burn until the candles are out, keep the candle holders in a sink or a metal container of water
• Do not leave children alone in a room with lit candles
• Do not light candles in the bedroom. You might fall asleep. One third of all candle fires start in the bedroom
• If the power goes out, use flashlights instead of candles
• If someone in the home or office uses oxygen, do not use candles
• Fire damage from candles happens 35 times a day in the U.S.

A little caution goes a long way to protect you and your loved ones. If  you have to deal with damage caused by smoke or fire from a candle, your friends at SERVPRO of Wilson County are just a phone call away.

Links:

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Top-causes-of-fire/Candles

https://www.nfpa.org/~/media/files/public-education/resources/safety-tip-sheets/religious_candles_safety_tips.pdf

Fire Prevention

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

The U.S. Fire Administration reports that a small flame can turn into a major fire in just 30 seconds. Flames and smoke can fill the house in just a few minutes. SERVPRO of Wilson County will help you recover from fire damage. We hope you never need that kind of help.  The best fire control is fire prevention.

Please take a moment to review these safety tips for fire prevention week October 7-13.  We hope to help keep everyone safe.

SERVPRO of Wilson County offers these Tips for Fire Prevention:

• Items that can catch fire include: dish towels, oven mitts, paper, curtains, wooden spoons, decorations
• Heat sources include: light bulbs, fireplaces, stove tops, furnaces, candles, or electric heaters.
• Keep items that can catch fire at least 3 feet away from heat sources
• Keep kids at least 3 feet away from heat sources
• Turn off heat sources when you leave the home or go to bed
• Never use the oven as a heater
• Have the fireplace chimney inspected & cleaned once a year

SERVPRO of Wilson County suggests that you keep one or more fire extinguishers available.

Remember fire is fast. If there is a fire, leave and bring everyone with you. Call 9-1-1 from outside the home.

Links:

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/

Fire and Smoke Services for Your Wilson County Property

9/21/2018 (Permalink)

Fire and smoke damage can be extremely stressful if an experienced team is not called to respond to the emergency.  SERVPRO of Wilson County is available to assist with a team of experts 24/7 to begin the recovery process of your property.  Our team of highly skilled professionals undergo extensive fire and smoke restoration training and certification to restore your belongings “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Wilson County offers extensive cleaning and restoration services to your fire and smoke damaged property.

-Structural Cleaning- Once a fire loss has occurred SERVPRO of Wilson County will assess your fire and smoke loss to determine the depth of cleaning and equipment that must be used to thoroughly restore the structure.  Ceilings, walls, carpeting, artwork, and wood floors all require a specific cleaning process.  A SERVPRO of Wilson County professional may also be able to reduce the cost of refinishing and repainting surfaces by lightly cleaning surfaces with minimal soot.  Lightly cleaning surfaces that have less fire and smoke damage will deodorize and prepare the surface for fresh paint.

-Contents Cleaning- Our team of trained professionals will carefully inspect contents such as furniture, area rugs, and draperies to determine the most appropriate cleaning method.  SERVPRO of Wilson County can provide wet or dry cleaning methods to your contents.  Additionally, preloss condition will be restored to other contents by our professionals using our extensive deodorization and cleaning methods.  SERVPRO of Wilson County can provide you with an inventory list “to be claimed” items if your loss demands our team to remove items from your fire and smoke damaged property.

-Deodorization- SERVPRO of Wilson County also provides you with a specialized deodorization process to rid your property and contents of fire and smoke odors.  Ask your SERVPRO of Wilson County professional to explain the various methods that are available and will work best for you and your family.

Contact your local SERVPRO of Wilson County professional at 615-449-5000 to learn more about what we can do to mitigate your fire and smoke loss.  We are available 24 hour a day/7 days a week to make your loss “Like it never even happened.”

https://www.wilsoncountytn.gov

www.SERVPROwilsoncounty.com

Nashville Smoke and Soot Cleanup

4/27/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.

Smoke and Soot Facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeing through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke-wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Wilson County will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke - Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke - Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperature, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue - Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today - 615-449-5000

Clean Smoke Residues From A Lightning Strike And Fire Damage In Your Old Hickory Home

1/3/2018 (Permalink)

Cleaning Up Smoke Residues

Lightning can be quite unpredictable, and it is not entirely uncommon for it to strike homes, including in Old Hickory. The best action to prevent fire damage from a strike of lightning is to give the lightning a well-grounded path. You can ground your home with a network of aluminum and copper components. The components channel the electricity surge efficiently and quickly into the earth, creating minimal damage to the surroundings.

When lightning has struck your home in Old Hickory, the fire damage it leaves in its wake can be devastating. No matter how severe the damage is, it is best for you to trust the professionals at SERVPRO to help you clean up the mess. We have the training and tools to get your home restore back to its original state before the fire, and to do so safely and quickly.

Cleaning up the smoke residues is one of the essential parts of fire damage remediation. The first step we take is finding and identifying. We inspect your home and test for smoke residues, so we know how severe the damages are and to figure out what cleaning services are needed. We also pretest specific items to figure out the best restoration procedure. By doing these steps, we find and identify the residues, and figure out what surfaces can be cleaned.

SERVPRO techs also need to capture the residues before we can remove them. We use air and fluids to release and carry the soils away. Suspended particles are carried in the fluids and air on contact with them. Vacuuming and dissolving are two methods to contact soils and carry them off so we can dispose of them.

Smoke residues with solid particles contain mostly carbon. Dry particles are loosely attached to surfaces and can be removed by vacuuming. Moisture contacting the particles causes them to be absorbed by the surface and are more difficult to remove.

Soils and residues which are not loose have to be dissolved before removing them. Doing so causes their bond with the surface to be loosened, allowing them to be caught up in the cleaning solution and washed away when the cleaning agent has rinsed away.

By being thorough in our processes, SERVPRO of Wilson County can rid your home of all smoke residues to make it clean and safe again. Residents in the areas of Green Hill, Old Hickory, and Mount Juliet can call us anytime at (615) 449-5000 for assistance cleaning up after a fire.

Click here for more about Old Hickory.

The Larger Scope of Restoring Fire Damages in Lebanon

11/20/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Technicians Quickly Tackle Remediation Challenges After a Fire in Your Home

As if small fires were not traumatic enough, now you have to deal with the overwhelming task of cleaning up the mess. Unfortunately for you, it takes a lot of expertise and experience to get out some of the more deeply rooted fire damages like soot and foul odors. Our team is always ready to tackle even the largest restoration tasks.
 
For 50 years, SERVPRO has been helping people to restore their homes after a fire. Part of this lasting reputation stems from our commitment to minimizing the cost to you directly. Emergency mitigation services can help to preserve more of the items you cherish and help keep the overall claim or out-of-pocket costs to a minimum. That is what makes the company a trusted name for fire damage restoration in Lebanon.
 
Many people do not realize that fire restoration covers a great deal more than just repairing damage to the structure of your home itself. Structural cleaning is a critical step to minimizing your total costs by removing soot that has adhered to surfaces in the area. The objective is to restore these cleaned areas to preloss conditions, by both removing the soot and deodorizing to remove lingering odors.
 
Our SERVPRO professionals can do much more than just clean the soot from walls and floors, however. By testing individual contents within the affected areas of the fire, our team can restore many of your material possessions to preloss conditions as well. Some of the items include your furniture, clothing, carpeting, electronics, artwork, and much more.
 
Mitigating the loss, however, starts with you. It is important to reach out as soon as possible to get the process started. The faster that you react, the faster restoration and preservation can begin. The emergency response of our team ensures that you have someone on site in a short time, walking you through the restoration process that lies ahead.
 
However, our experienced professionals at SERVPRO of Wilson County can only help a situation like this when they are told about it. Big or small, do not let fire damages ruin your home. Give us a call 24/7 at (615) 449-5000.

For more information about the City of Lebanon, Tennesse visit:  https://www.lebanontn.org/

Removing Smoke from Personal Items in a Fire Damage Emergency in Mount Juliet

8/3/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Technicians Assess the Damage and Match it Up With the Most Effective Cleaning Option

It is almost winter, and millions of people are turning to their space heaters to keep warm during the cold spells. Unfortunately, space heaters are one of the leading causes of house fires, at least according to the National Fire Protection Association. Despite their small size, they draw plenty of electricity that tends to overwhelm most extension cords. If the space heater is on, but unattended to, or the unit is too close to a flammable agent such as a mattress, it can start a fire.
 
In the event of a space heater fire, having a restoration company in your emergency contacts is important. SERVPRO has several years of experience dealing with fire damage in Mount Juliet and can respond quickly to your emergency. We use different methods to clean your items, ensuring that everything remains safe during the cleanup process.
 
Removing light to medium non-greasy soils from the fire damage requires dry cleaning. First, SERVPRO professionals clean off surface dust using dusting cloths or feather dusters before vacuuming to eliminate light debris.
 
To remove heavy debris, we use a more aggressive cleaning method: wet cleaning. This process involves using water, with or without a cleaning agent. The item being cleaned up is extremely saturated during cleaning.
 
We also use foam cleaning to reverse smoke damage on upholstery fabrics that may shrink when wet. This technique is especially powerful for light residues or sensitive materials such as box springs and mattresses. If needed, we may use immersion cleaning for materials that do not shrink when completely saturated with a cleaning product. This process is particularly ideal for Venetian blinds that have sustained smoke damage.
 
Several other types of actions come into play in a fire damage situation like this. Detergents allow oil-based soils to blend with water-based cleaning solutions, while alkaline and acidic solutions neutralize each other. Our restorers use these chemical actions to separate smoke residues from the surfaces they attach to during a fire outbreak.
 
Space heater fires are rare and only occur under no supervision. If it happens to you, SERVPRO of Wilson County can respond quickly to counter the smoke and fire damage. Call us right away at (615) 449-5000.

For more information regarding Mount Juliet, click here

Responding To Protect Homeowners In Lebanon From Fire Damage

5/25/2017 (Permalink)

Protect Your Lebanon Home from fire Damage By Calling SERVPRO

Smoke and flames billow out of control as firefighters rush in to put the raging fire out, you and your family stand helpless, mesmerized by the scene. You sigh as the fire consumes room after room of your dream home, asking yourself how anyone could ever recover from such devastation.

When local authorities finally determine that it is safe for you to reenter your Lebanon home, the extent of fire damage you see from the outside diminishes hope even more. You know it is not safe for your family to enter.

After taking your family to a hotel, you make some calls, letting loved ones know what happened and that everyone is okay. Next, you place a call to your insurance company, who suggests you seek help from a professional restoration company before you give up hope.

At SERVPRO, we help families recover from situations like this every day. We often tell people to keep their heads up and look at the situation they are in as an opportunity, rather than a setback. Unless you happen to be one yourself, you should never consider your home lost before giving professional restoration technicians an opportunity to assess the damage.

Expertly trained IICRC certified technicians, like those found at SERVPRO, can deliver remarkable results when dealing with damage caused by heat, smoke, and soot associated with fires in your home. The damage you see may not be quite as severe as you think, or there might just be a way that experienced restoration technicians can restore many of the contents of your home to a quality condition that you simply do not understand, yet.

Giving SERVPRO the opportunity to respond to your emergency situation, provides you with access to technicians with several years experience, advanced equipment, and other resources that make recovering from a fire more of an option that you may think.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Wilson County can respond quickly to any situation, providing you with the help you deserve during an emergency, help you protect your family, and restore your home to a quality pre-damage condition in a quick and efficient manner. Call our offices today. (615) 449-5000

For more information regarding the city of Lebanon, click here:http://www.lebanontn.org

My Neighbor's Home Caught Fire - Why Is My Home Damaged?

5/8/2017 (Permalink)

Why Did My Home Get Fire Damage?

If your neighbor has recently dealt with a fire, you are probably concerned for their safety and any property that might have been lost in the blaze. However, your attention should also be focused on your home, as well. Even if the flames never reached your property, you may find some new spots of damage if you look close enough. SERVPRO often has to perform fire damage restoration services on an entire block for a single fire due to the spread of effects many pyres cause. Here are a few ways your home might require our services for a fire that never touched it.

Smoke Damage

Smoke is the most common problem for homes neighboring a site of fire damage in Old Hickory. Large house fires produce large amounts of smoke, and this material can work its way deep into houses around the block. If your home was downwind of the fire, this might be an especially troublesome factor. SERVPRO carries machinery that makes short work of any smoke damage you may have incurred, cleanly and inexpensively.

Ash Staining and Burn Marks

If your home is close to the nearest neighbor or winds were especially strong at the time of the fire, you may find some visual indicators of damage on the exterior walls and surfaces. There may be burn marks or, more commonly, ash stains present on walls, windows, and roofing. Our SERVPRO technicians help to clean up these unsightly but relatively mild forms of damage without too much cost to you.

Debris and Hazardous Materials

Especially severe fires may produce large amounts of debris or hazardous materials that may fall into your property. Handling these objects and materials yourself is difficult and dangerous. We have the training and personnel necessary to make short work of any offending items tainting your property.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Wilson County is available around-the-clock to help locals who have encountered fire damage of any shape or size. If your home has been hurt by a fire in any way, give us a call at (615) 449-5000.

Get Help Immediately to Limit Fire Damage in Your Watertown Home

4/28/2017 (Permalink)

Fast Response Increases Remediation and Restoration Success

Fires take their toll on personal items and result in a variety of damage that you cannot even see. Calling professional technicians as soon as possible makes restoring many of your items affected by smoke and soot entirely possible. Just keep in mind that the longer it takes for you to make a decision, the more time acidic residues have to damage your belongings.
 
Most people look at the fire damage in their Watertown home with little to no hope of restoration. Luckily expert technicians can tell the difference between a salvageable item and one that is unrestorable. With the right amount of time, the appropriate tools, experience and many advanced cleaning methods at their disposal, many of your items can survive.
 
In many situations, the type of fire, material, and extent of exposure pose particular challenges. Smoke particles can penetrate various surfaces, leaving behind residues and odors that make many restoration companies cringe. However, with the proper ventilation and removal of unsalvageable debris, cleaning and deodorization methods prove highly effective in returning your property to a quality pre-damage condition.
 
At SERVPRO, we have successfully treated curtains and upholstery items found in homes just like yours. We use vacuums and the proper hose attachments, along with cleaning and deodorization techniques to remove stubborn particles. Clothes and bedding provide technicians with unique circumstances; each takes special handling and cleaning methods to remove odors and stains correctly.
 
SERVPRO technicians find that leaving furniture in place and moving it to another location can be challenging as well. Handling furniture items the wrong way can cause additional damage while leaving them where they are can cause significant damage to your flooring or carpeting.
 
Hard flooring caught within the affected area often requires refinishing or replacement. Water used in firefighting efforts stain, rip, and scar flooring. However, under the right conditions cleaning and deodorization techniques can return things to normal.
 
Many of your appliances or fiberglass surfaces can turn yellow if left exposed for too long while metal surfaces produce rust and corrosion, and plastic surfaces stain or discolor within minutes if not wiped down with the correct solution as soon as possible, SERVPRO cleaning professionals can help.
 
Make an immediate choice to call for help, SERVPRO of Wilson County is available 24-7, 365 days a year. With our emergency response teams standing by to assist you with a variety of situations in your home. Call today. (615) 449-5000

How Are Deodorization Agents Used to Restore Fire Damage in Mount Juliet?

3/7/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's Equipment and IICRC Best Standards Neutralize Smoke Damage

Deodorizing technologies are a big part of fire damage restoration. They have made the job of eliminating lingering odors much easier than it was in the past. It is because deodorizing machines imitate the behavior of smoke and soot particles.

These devices can disperse odor busting chemicals in a way that ensures full penetration. Without this, deodorizers have a habit of getting obstructed and settling on top of surfaces, which isn’t very helpful. So, when we repair fire damage in Mount Juliet homes, we always turn to this technology.

Keep reading to learn about the deodorizing agents used and why they are so effective at banishing bad smoke smells.

Masking Chemicals
Masking deodorizers are only used as a supplementary measure because they don’t eliminate smoke odors. They merely hide them. They can be useful if odors are very strong and the SERVPRO team finds it hard to work around them. Sometimes, we apply masking chemicals at the very end of the restoration, when the odor causing particles are gone. They leave a pleasant floral fragrance.

Absorbing Chemicals
These chemicals neutralize smoke particles by drawing them into or onto themselves. In most cases, another method (an air purifier) is then needed to capture these ‘amalgamated’ particles and dispose of them safely.

Pairing Chemicals
Similarly, pairing chemicals neutralize smoke odors by joining with them to form two bound particles. Once contact is made, the odor is assimilated, and a masking agent is applied.

Disinfecting Chemicals
It isn’t just odors that deodorizing machines can disperse, however. They are also an excellent way to release disinfectants, particularly in rooms containing significant amounts of porous items (such as fabrics).

Chemicals ending with ‘-cide’ (Latin root meaning to kill) deal with microorganisms directly. They kill noxious substances in the air. Chemicals ending with ‘-stat’ are used to restrict and control their propagation.

Common Deodorizing Equipment
The success of deodorizing, particularly after a fire, depends on how the chemicals are applied. The aim is to ‘follow’ the smoke into the damaged or compromised items. So, as smoke behaves in a very distinct way – like a kind of mist – the deodorizers replicate this, assuring contact with the unwanted particulates.

The most commonly used machines are wet and dry foggers, vapor diffusers, and ozone and hydroxyl generators. At SERVPRO, we assess the nature of the fire damage first and then decide which method is most suitable.

SERVPRO of Wilson County is a local franchise, with lots of experience handling fire damage in residential and commercial buildings. If you need help fast, we are ready to provide it. Call us 24/7 at (615) 449-500.

SERVPRO Fire Damage Mount Juliet

3/7/2017 (Permalink)

Despite what many people think of when it comes to a home fire, most of the damage is not from the flames. Even in a slightly more rural area, the restoration and replacement costs come from soot and smoke.

With Cedar Creek running through town and the Cumberland River to the North, fire damage to Mount Juliet homes usually starts from the inside or another nearby structure. A brush fire does not find enough fuel to burn long before someone puts it out. Regardless of the source, SERVPRO has the expertise and the equipment needed to help folks get back into their house, apartment or duplex as quickly and safely as possible.

The technicians on our 24-hour response team train to the standards determined by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). Our personnel studies the latest procedures and train on the best equipment needed to remove the soot and smoke that ruin the interior of your home as well as furniture and other personal property.

Each team keeps an extensive inventory of equipment on-hand to meet every challenge. Commercial grade vacuums remove every type of dry soot remaining after a fire. Air movers and exhaust fans circulate air out of as small an area like a laundry room to larger spaces such as foyers and stairwells. Cleaning machines such as shampooers and steamers take care of carpets, furniture and other property such as drapes and curtains.

In addition to the equipment, each team has access to an extensive line of cleaning products. Besides general cleaners like carpet shampoo, we also use specialized cleaners that do not damage paint and clean surfaces such as marble and glass countertops without damaging them.

If the damage is permanent, our team members remove the property for you. We dispose of everything unrestorable under all state and federal regulations.

Please do not attempt to clean your home yourself. If improperly cleaned, soot and the smoke residue is ground deeper into a surface, which may result in it being thrown out. Finally, if you still have power, do not turn on your HVAC system. This action will blow the soot throughout your home.

SERVPRO of Wilson County is here to help you return your home and your life to what it was before the fire. Call us today at (615) 449-5000 to get started.

Fire Restoration Services Offered In Hickory

1/20/2017 (Permalink)

Hickory SERVPRO Fire Restoration Services

Having a fire suppression system installed can stop fires and save lives. The type of system and firefighting efforts deployed, determine the extent of damage you experience after a fire. Regardless, you'll need repairs, so let's take a closer look at what a fire damage restoration process entails.
 
There are precautions that every homeowner in Hickory should be taking to avoid fire damage from developing in their homes. It's common sense, right? You'll want to develop a plan to get to safety to at least walk away with your lives. The same could be said about your home, developing a plan to limit as much damage as possible is a good thing. It would be smart to find a quality local company that helps you plan ahead.
 
Not only does SERVPRO have an Emergency Preparedness Application online for you to use to plan ahead, but we also take the time to explain our services to you and answer each and every question you have during your restoration process. You might agree, having a level of understanding concerning the services that technicians perform on your home are beneficial.
 
At SERVPRO we experience three different levels of fire damage. With minor fires, light smoke residues only affect individual rooms with small losses. Medium fires cause moderate damage and smoke residues cover a larger area. While major fires, engulf large portions of a building charring structural materials, leaving massive damage and repairs necessary throughout the home.
 
SERVPRO provides a variety of services to assist you, consider these the five categories of fire restoration services that we provide.
 
Mitigation - Used to secure the structure, preventing further damage by boarding up openings, winterizing your plumbing to prevent freezing, and establishing a temporary source of electricity to prevent hazards and allow other services equipment to be deployed.
 
Structural Cleaning - With a focus on the removal of smoke residues and deodorizing odors that exist on a building's structural components, repairing or replacing necessary components as needed.
 
Contents Cleaning - Any of your personal property within the affected area, has smoke residues removed. Often enough this service can be performed onsite. However, some situations require your contents to be packed and moved to a safe location.
 
Specialty Restoration - All of your electronics, expensive artwork, clothing, and even furniture that needs refinishing is subcontracted out for special handling.
 
Reconstruction - Some fires cause damage to structural components and materials where restoration is not feasible. Therefore replacement is necessary to return your home to a quality pre-loss condition.
 

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

We can handle all of your restoration services, call SERVPRO of Wilson County today. (615) 449-5000

Homes are Not Immune From Fire Damage

6/26/2016 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Restoration From the SERVPRO Experts

If your home has been devastated by fire, it's good to know that we have the experience and equipment to turn back the clock on fire damage. It is vital that work begins immediately after a fire. The high level of corrosive activity of soot and smoke particles, as well as the settled ashes from burning materials, will corrode both metal and glass, discolor carpets and other textiles, and become stronger-smelling as time passes.

Our crews are trained and certified by IICRC in the repair and restoration of fire damaged homes and businesses. We can reverse residential fire damage in Old Hickory homes. After our crews have repaired and restored your home, all, or most, traces of the fire will only be in your memories.

Our Experienced and Professional Crews Use the Best Equipment to Undo Fire Damage
As we go about the task of cleaning your home after a fire, we also determine which of your items can be restored to like new or nearly so condition. This keeps replacement costs lower, and can help you feel more at home more quickly. As we clean, we repair your home as a whole unit, piece by piece. When it comes to textiles such as carpets and rugs, bedding and throws, pillows and stuffed toys, we use state-of-the-art technology to remove the particles from the fire's smoke that create acrid odors. In certain cases, we can pack-out fire damaged personal items and furnishings for cleaning. Specialized cleaning can eliminate odors even further if needed.

Walls and other hard surfaces are cleaned and if necessary, repainted. This removes stains and odors. Carpets that have been smoke damaged are also specially cleaned and deodorized, and then dried. This is also effective for those carpets that became soaked with water during the fire. Dehumidifiers are required at times to remove the humidity from the firefighters' hoses.

Replacements are Sometimes Necessary
During a fire, sometimes items are damaged by the actual fire. These things are not very easily repaired, and are often set aside and noted in our inventory checklist. Because we are a third party, most insurance companies, particularly the major ones, review our checklists and honor them. We do this so you can present this to your insurance company for faster and usually less-troubled processing. We want to do everything possible to help you regain your home and your life, and as rapidly as possible.

Don't Fight that Fire Damage Alone – Call for Expertise that Can Protect Your Family
We are available 24/7, every day of the year to assist those in our community who have suffered from a fire. You owe it to yourself and to your family to take the necessary steps to regain your home, in not just habitable condition but the condition that you desire. "Like it never even happened." At SERVPRO of Wilson County, we are prepared to help you do just that. Call us at (615) 449-5000.

Lebanon Fire Damage - Treating Fire Damage in Lebanon

4/27/2016 (Permalink)

Lebanon Fire Damage Treatment

Lebanon residential fire damage can wreak havoc on your home, and this holds true regardless of how large or small the fire is. Even a small grease fire in the kitchen can cause widespread damage throughout the home, and the damage can be even more significant from a larger fire from an electrical issue, a lightning strike or another cause. Overcoming the damage and repairing the home to its former condition is a top priority, but the work may be more significant than you might think. 

How a Fire Damages a Home 

The most obvious way a Lebanon fire damages a home is from burning; flames can quickly spread from a small area to cover a larger surface area in the home. They can reach elevated heights, burning from floor to ceiling within a few short minutes. However, the damage from a fire is more widespread than that. Firefighters may use water and fire-retardant chemicals to put the flames out, and these substances can cause additional damage. They can mix with the ash to create an almost mud-like mess. This is combined with other damage from smoke, which can fill the entire home quickly even when the fire is contained to a single room, and special techniques may be required to remove the smoke from the walls, carpeting, and other surfaces. Keep in mind that smoke odors and staining are both concerns. 

How to Clean Up the Damage

At first glance, some homeowners with a do-it-yourself mentality may think about repairing their home on their own, but this is not recommended. Lebanon fire damage cleanup may require water remediation efforts, chemical clean-up, and construction efforts. Also, smoke damage removal may be required to remove the damage from the home. There are special techniques and even advanced equipment that can be used to effectively repair the damage so that your home is restored and all signs of the fire are removed.

Why Time Is of the Essence

While using the right techniques to repair the damage is important, speed is also critical when responding to a Lebanon residential fire damage issue. For example, water that remains in the home for a lengthy period of time can lead to mold growth. This can make a fire damage issue turn into a significant problem that takes more time, effort and money to repair. Besides, you want your home to be returned to normal quickly so that regular daily functions can be restored.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

When you want to overcome Lebanon residential fire damage effectively in as little time as possible, professional services are the answer. SERVPRO of Wilson County is a locally owned company that can respond to your request for assistance, and we will work hard to remedy your damage as soon as possible. Our commitment is to help our valued clients improve the condition of their homes. To set up service with our team, call us today at (615) 449-5000.

Residential Fire Damage in Nashville

1/27/2016 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO for Nashville Fire Damage Restoration

Even a small fire can result in significant damage to your home, and SERVPRO is the right service provider for all your Nashville fire damage restoration needs. The size of the fire will impact how much of your space is burned, but even a small fire can create significant smoke damage in the building. Also, water may have been used to extinguish the fire, and this can result in water damage to your home. If you are looking around your property and wondering how you can fix the damage,  rest assured that we can get the job done for you.

A Fast Response
A fire can rage through your home at any time of day or night, so our hardworking team is ready to respond to your call 24 hours a day. We'll respond quickly because we understand the urgency of the situation. Your goal is to get your home restored to a livable condition as soon as possible, and you may also be concerned about mold growth caused by the water from firefighting efforts. Our specialists are highly experienced and understand your concerns. When you contact our team of restoration specialists for residential fire damage services, you can rest assured that we will begin the process quickly and work diligently to complete quality work promptly. Your home can be restored quickly with our team on the job.

The First Step in Fire Damage Restoration
The first step in a residential fire restoration project is water extraction to dry out the home, and we use specialized equipment and proven techniques to get this process completed quickly. Keep in mind that the longer you postpone calling us to begin the water remediation process, the more likely it is that you will have mold growth in your home. So call the trusted and skilled team at SERVPRO of Wilson County to assist you without delay.

The Restoration Process
After the water has been removed from the home, our professional technicians will take the next step of completing fire damage restoration. This includes removing smoke and soot damage in all areas of the home that have been affected as well as determining which materials and surfaces can be salvaged or refinished. We clean, repair, and restore in an attempt to prevent discarding of items. This mitigates costs to you and allows you to hang on to your precious, personal possessions.

We understand how challenging it can be to deal with Nashville fire damage in your home. Our primary goal is to improve the condition of your home without delays, economically. Our specialists are all IICRC-certified and committed to your satisfaction. We will leave you with the thought that your home is back in pre-loss condition "Like it never even happened."

We’re Fire and Water Damage Specialists

SERVPRO of Wilson County specializes in water and fire damage restoration, the cornerstone of our business. We proudly serve our local communities of Nashville, Lebanon, and Old Hickory and are only a phone call away. (615) 449-5000

Perks And Benefits of Watertown Fire Damage Restoration Services

12/15/2015 (Permalink)

Watertown Fire Damage Restoration Made Easy With SERVPRO

Household fires can cause extensive fire damage in Watertown in a variety of ways. For example, the fire aftermath will typically leave your residential living space covered in soot and ash with smoky odors for good measure. Additionally, your property will likely be subjected to water damage due to the extinguishing work of firefighters. In many cases, homeowners understand the extensive fire damage done to their properties and fall into despair or deep stress. By securing high-quality fire damage restoration services, you can maintain your steadiness while having your property restored quickly and safely. Learn more about the perks and benefits of securing professional restoration services by reviewing the following information compliments of SERVPRO.

Fire Damage Services Clean Your Home Quickly to mitigate damages. Your adjuster should arrive soon after calling your insurance company. By contacting SERVPRO also, we can assess the damage, and since we are an approved vendor for many companies--insurance and property management--cooperative to start promptly the fire damage restoration and limit your liability claim .

Mold Prevention. Another important service provided by fire damage services is mold prevention. By eliminating excessive water and moisture from your property, we can impede the unwanted fungus from growing in your residential living space. This mold remediation work is important because ongoing exposure to the fungus may cause health issues along with damaging your property.

Comprehensive Services. Yet another benefit of hiring a fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO is the total package of offered services. We will likely be able to address and resolve any issue you have as a result of the fire damage. Our equipment, experience, and training are at the ready. The top priority is water removal if standing water is present. The process has many moving parts.
• content restoration at your home or our facilities
• sanitation using antibacterial and antifungal products
• deodorization using ULV foggers
• smoke removal
• odor removal using chemical and liquid foggers to neutralize, not mask the odors
• air duct cleaning for smoke particulates and soot residue
• vent cleaning to polish the finished look

Call SERVPRO For Excellent, Effective Fire Damage Services
Once your Watertown home has been impacted by a house fire, it's logical to hire a branded professional fire damage restoration company. In so doing, you can have your property restored to its original condition effectively and expediently. The IICRC-certified professionals of SERVPRO possess the industry experience and expertise necessary to accomplish each component of the restoration process. We take pride in serving your best interests.

Locally Owned, with National Resources

We live and work in Watertown too; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Wilson County is close by and ready to respond to your fire damage emergency in Watertown, Lebanon, or Mt. Juliet. Always available 24/7 to help. (615) 449-5000

What To Do After Fire Damage in Your Mt. Juliet Home?

10/13/2015 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO to Quickly Restore Your Fire Damaged Home in Mt. Juliet

A House fire can be one of the most devastating experiences that a residential property owner in Mt. Juliet must confront.
Unlike other kinds of property mishaps, fire damage at times is irreversible. In losing personal possessions, family photographs, and witnessing the result of structural damage to their property following a fire, many individuals find themselves trapped in a world of emotional turmoil and financial strain. However, knowing what to do after a house fire can keep all this turmoil in perspective and save you money, and restore your home more expediently. With a plan in hand created from the following quick reference guide for tips and tricks, you will be better prepared to meet such an unfortunate event.

Call Your Insurance Company

The first step you should take following a house fire is to call your insurance company. Your second phone call should be to SERVPRO, an excellent fire damage restoration company.  Our representative will assess and inspect the fire damage at your home. Hopefully, your insurance adjuster will also arrive thereby facilitating a cooperative working relationship with SERVPRO. The company and our rep will help you place your claim and assess the depth and scope of the fire damage done to your residential property. Also, insurance agents and SERVPRO will take photos of the damages done to your property, and we can begin the fire damage repair process.

Contact A Disaster Relief Organization

If the fire damage is severe, homeowners are temporarily left without living space following a fire. In some cases, these individuals can stay with a friend or family member until the restoration process is complete. If there is no relative or friend nearby with whom you can temporarily live, be sure to call a disaster relief organization such as the American Red Cross or FEMA. These organizations can provide you with temporary shelter and meet other needs as your property is restored.

If you are without living quarters the team to call for expedient, excellent restoration assistance is SERVPRO. No company can coordinate the entire process from water extraction, drying, cleaning and repairing your home in Mt. Juliet faster than SERVPRO. Our IICRC-certified technicians offer excellent customer service, use cutting edge equipment, and put your needs first. Our personal and professional approach has made us industry leaders with over 1,650 franchises. We're ready to begin restoring your residential property immediately.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Wilson County is locally owned and operated, so we are part of this Mt. Juliet too. When you have a cleaning or restoration need, we’re already nearby in Waterton and Gladeville and ready to help. We take pride in being a part of the Nashville, TN community. Call us for an instant response. (615) 449-5000

What Happens During Nashville Fire Damage?

6/18/2015 (Permalink)

What Happens During Fire Damage?

A Nashville fire can happen to anyone; events such as cooking while distracted, malfunctioning heating equipment, smoking in the home, a fallen candle or faulty electrical wiring can quickly cause a devastating fire that can damage the home.

It is important that a homeowner cleans as soon as possible to avoid permanent damage and discoloration. Donning a dusk mask, the homeowner must first ventilate the home by placing a box fan in an open window to draw out air, soot and dust. All carpets, floors and walls must then be dried to prevent mold, mildew and water damage. A SERVPRO technician uses dehumidifiers and large industrial fans for effective drying, and walls and ceilings with water damage must be repaired or replaced.

Soot is next removed from the walls and ceilings before it is possible to effectively clean them. Adequately removing oily soot from draperies, carpets and other household items results in preventable stains. A heavy-duty vacuum is used to remove soot from these items, and a mixture of chemicals is used for certain paints on the walls and ceilings. 

Carpets, furniture and draperies are next deodorized to remove Nashville smoke odor before cleaning. Household deodorizing sprays only provide temporary remedy, and may also interact with smoke odor to create an additional unpleasant odor. A professional restoration technician, like SERVPRO, may use a counteractant or an ozone generator to break up Nashville smoke molecules, which permanently eliminates the odor. Only then are the home and items inside prepared to be cleaned with mild alkaline cleaners, detergents and dry cleaning.

Professional restorers, like SERVPRO, also rid household ducts from trapped smoke odors with various techniques such as thermal fogging or using a chemical sealer. Insulation in the attic may also need to be replaced due to its smoke-retaining properties, which may move through a home in warm weather.

When approaching Nashville fire damage, time is of the essence. Within minutes of fire extinguishment, soot can permanently discolor small appliances, plastics and highly porous materials, and walls, flooring, upholstery and furniture becomes permanently damages within days. Professional consultation, like SERVPRO, along with immediate action after a fire can make a profound difference in restoration, repair and replacement costs, and reduces the time needed to return a home to livable conditions.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Wilson County is locally owned and operated and we are proud to be part of this community. We are also part of a national network of over 1,650 Franchises with special Disaster Recovery Teams placed strategically throughout the country to respond to large-scale fire, water, and storm disasters.

We are proud to serve our local communities:

• Fire Damage Nashville, TN
• Lebanon Fire Damage, TN
• Fire Damage Mt. Juliet, TN
• Watertown Fire Damage, TN
• Fire Damage Old Hickory, TN
• Gladeville Fire Damage, TN
• Fire Damage Gallatin, TN
• Goodlettsville Fire Damage, TN
• Fire Damage Hendersonville, TN
• Inglewood Fire Damage, TN

Our expertise in fire damage is extensive. SERVPRO utilizes IICRC training as part of our on-going education to stay ahead of the curve. Call us for help. (615) 449-5000

Nashville Fire Damage - Why You Should Leave Smoke Damage Removal to a Professional

12/16/2014 (Permalink)

Fire damage is just the beginning when your house or office catches fire. Smoke and water also do a lot of damage, and it’s not safe to enter your house after a fire because there could be structural damage. Smoke damage needs to be mitigated as soon as possible in order for the building to be returned to its pre-fire condition.

Why Is Smoke Damage Serious?

Smoke leaves behind powerful odors because of the material burned. Carpets, upholstery, wood and plastics are all burned and create odors and ash that can corrode, etch and discolor as well as cling to the remaining structure. Some of the fumes from the fire damage will seep into the walls and floors and may contaminate the indoor air much later if they are not removed. These cannot be removed with a household cleaner. It takes special equipment and the expertise of professionals to mitigate smoke damage, so the house is odor-free.

The different types of damage include:

 Plastics that melt and change color

 Fiberglass that cracks

 Finishes on appliances that turn yellow

 Metals that tarnish or corrode

 Wood that may need refinishing

The longer you wait to call a professional mitigation contractor, the worse the situation will be. After the fire is out, the smoke and ash remain. It’s also more cost-effective to get the repair started as soon as possible. Even if the fire damage in Nashville is contained in a small part of your house, smoke damage can permeate a greater area.

How Is Smoke Damage Cleaned?

Professionals use thermal fogging to remove smoke odor. This technique opens the pores in the walls and floors to neutralize the odor from the smoke that has entered deep into them. The also use dehumidifiers to thoroughly dry the water damage and ozone generators to neutralize the odor. Different chemicals are required to remove the smoke from different substances such as wood and plastic. The final step in smoke mitigation is to repaint the walls and ceilings.

Professionals Know the Job

The best fire damage professionals are properly trained and certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). They take extensive coursework to get their certification. They will identify all the affected materials in your home and find the source of any odors. Smoke and heat will distribute ash through the home and it can remain in cracks and crevices. Experts know what can be salvaged and what needs to be discarded. They use specialized detergents that have been designed to treat specific types of odor.

Professionals can also increase the possibility of saving property rather than needing to replace it, and they can clean out your vents and ducts. Some of the services offered are:

  Removal of smoke and odor

  Cleaning and sanitizing

  Professional deodorization

  Temporary protection of surfaces already cleaned

  Removing carpets and pads if required

Fire damage is devastating, but it is not over when the fire is out. To get your home back to pre-damaged condition, professional fire and smoke mitigation is essential.

SERVPRO of Wilson County is locally owned and operated and serves Nashville, Lebanon, Mt. Juliet, Watertown, Old Hickory, Gladeville, Gallatin, Goodlettsville, Hendersonville, Inglewood, and the surrounding communities.

SERVPRO of Wilson County’s fully certified water removal staff can perform a complete damage assessment to your home of office, and then recommend and follow the industries standards to get your water removal restoration repaired properly available 24 hours a day

SERVPRO of Wilson County is a 24/7 emergency water removal & flood clean up repair service company, Our technicians are highly trained and experienced with every water damage situation from sewage damage clean up, mold removal, smoke damage repair, fire damage repair, flooded basement, wet carpet, wet walls, carpet water damage, basement water damage, flooded crawl space, sewer backup, sewage removal, mud removal, commercial water damage, restoration, house water damage, building water damage, hotel water damage, flooded building, crawl space water damage, crawl space sewage damage, pump out, dry out, flood water removal, commercial building water removal, building flood damage, hardwood floor water damage, wet hardwood floors, wet carpet drying, sewage restoration, flood cleanup, busted pipe water damage, broken pipe water damage, busted sprinkler water damage, frozen pipe water damage, flood pump out, basement pump out, restoration equipment rental, dehumidifier rental, fan rental, demolition, painting & construction.

How to Get the Fireplace Ready for a Cold Nashville Winter

10/15/2014 (Permalink)

By Jamie Shelley
Oct. 15, 10:55 AM ET

As the weather gets colder in Nashville, and the days get shorter, people retreat indoors to the warmth of their hearts and Madison homes. If they have a fireplace, fall is a good time to make sure that the flue and chimney are in good working order. A few important tips for your Goodlettsville home will make sure that their fireplace is ready for the upcoming winter season. In order to prevent any fire damae to the house.

Checking from the Outside

People should assess their chimney from the outside. They should determine if it is leaning or if there are any chipped masonry joints or bricks. They should also look out for any holes or cracks.

Homeowners in Inglewood should also check for any stains, loose sections and corrosion if their chimney is made from factory-built metal. If the chimney is exposed to the attic, they should make sure to check there as well for any signs that repair needs to be done.

Install a Chimney Cap

A good cap can reduce water and wildlife damage to the chimney. Snow and water can enter an uncapped chimney and subsequently thaw and freeze causing expansion damage. Small wildlife can live in a chimney creating clogs and potentially introducing ticks, worms, fleas and other disease-causing pests to the house. A chimney cap that features screen mesh will keep wildlife out while protecting the roof from sparks and embers.

Check for Stains and Leaks

Inside your Hendersonville home, people should check the area around their fireplace for any dampness or stains. A damaged flue liner or a faulty flashing could cause all of these. If your White House home sees signs of water around their chimney,  the Gallatin homeowner should call a professional immediately.

If their fireplace has grilles and louvers on the front, people should clean them as well. A clean vent will keep the fan working and to prevent dust from gathering. Using a regular vacuum with a hose extension or a shop vacuum gets the job done.

Inspect the Flue

Your Old Hickory fireplace flue is the duct that allows the gas, smoke and other waste products to exit your Mt. Juliet house. It is vital for people to make sure that they inspect the flue for any signs of blockage. This is done to prevent any smoke and gas from returning to the house.

People in Watertown should also not forget that creosote can build up in the fireplace flue and create a fire hazard. If they look up through the flue and cannot see the light from above the house, it may be a sign that it is blocked, and they may need a professional to clear the flue blockage. If they can see the light, people should simply clean the flue with a fireplace brush.

Replace Deteriorated or Broken Brick Lining

People should also not forget to check for any deteriorating or broken brick lining. Cracks found in the lining are not a major concern, but if the brick lining starts to deteriorate to the point that its steel body is exposed, people may permanently damage the structure due to heat from the flames.

Check the Gas Connection

If your Nashville home has a gas-burning fireplace, it is important that they contact their local gas company and inspect the connection. People should have them inspect it for proper flow of gas and any leaks.

The Bottom Line

A fireplace is a beautiful addition to any house as it provides both ambiance and warmth for a homeowner and their guests over the cold months. However, it is important that a fireplace is working safely and efficiently. With regular maintenance, a fireplace can give people years of wonderful service.

SERVPRO of Madison/Goodlettsville Professionals provide fire and water damage restoration services. SERVPRO of Madison/Goodlettsville proudly serves Nashville, Madison, Goodlettsville, Inglewood, Hendersonville, White House, Gallatin, Old Hickory, Mt. Juliet, Watertown, and surrounding areas. We are available 24 hours/7 days a week and are ready to restore damage to your home or commercial structure caused by:

• Water Damage
• Fire Damage
• Disaster, storm and flood damage
• Mold Damage

References:

http://grennanconstruction.com/2013/08/22/5-tips-to-prepare-your-fireplace-for-the-winter/

http://www.hmshomewarrantyblog.com/how-to-prepare-your-fireplace-for-winter-weather/

http://www.camdenfires.co.uk/fireplaces/prepare-fireplace-winter/

http://www.zillow.com/blog/getting-your-fireplace-ready-for-winter-138691/