The Vital Role of Documenting Storm Damage in Norman, OK

9/5/2023 (Permalink)

Documenting storm damage in Norman, OK, is an essential step to protect your property and ensure a seamless insurance claim process.

In Norman, Oklahoma, where unpredictable weather patterns are a part of life, safeguarding your property against storm damage is a responsibility that every homeowner and property owner should take seriously. From powerful windstorms to hail and heavy rains, the potential for damage is real. That's where the importance of documenting storm damage comes into play. In this blog, we'll dive into the significance of documenting storm-related harm to your property and provide you with actionable insights on how to do it effectively.

Understanding the Value of Documentation

Documenting storm damage isn't just about collecting evidence for potential insurance claims; it's about protecting your investment and ensuring that you receive the compensation you're entitled to. Having a thorough record of the damage can make the claims process smoother and more efficient, giving you the best chance of receiving fair compensation for repairs and replacements.

Step-by-Step Guide to Effective Documentation

Safety First: Before you start documenting the damage, ensure that you're safe and that the area is secure. Put your safety and the safety of others as your top priority.

Capture Comprehensive Visuals: Use your smartphone or camera to take clear photos and videos of all visible damage. Capture the details from multiple angles, including any structural damage, broken windows, roofing issues, and fallen trees or debris.

Date and Time Stamp: Make sure your device is set to record the date and time on each photo and video. This will help establish the timeline of the damage.

Note Specifics: Alongside visuals, take detailed notes about the damage. Include descriptions of the affected areas, the extent of damage, and any potential hazards.

Drone Footage: If possible, use a drone to capture aerial footage of your property. This can provide a comprehensive view of the damage and help assess roof damage or other hard-to-reach areas.

Gather Witness Statements: If neighbors or other witnesses experienced the storm alongside you, ask them for their observations and any damage they might have seen. Their statements can add credibility to your documentation.

Save Receipts: If you need to make immediate repairs to prevent further damage, keep all repair receipts, as these can be added to your documentation.

Create a File: Organize all your photos, videos, notes, and receipts in a dedicated digital or physical folder. This will help you access the information easily during the claims process.

Why Promptness Matters

After a storm, it's crucial to document the damage as soon as possible. Not only does this provide accurate evidence before any cleanup or repairs, but it also prevents the insurance company from attributing the damage to other causes that may occur after the storm.

Working with Professionals

In cases of severe damage, involving professionals such as contractors, roofers, or disaster restoration experts such as SERVPRO of Norman, can further bolster your documentation. Their expertise and assessment reports can provide valuable evidence for your claim.

Documenting storm damage in Norman, OK, is an essential step to protect your property and ensure a seamless insurance claim process. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you're not only safeguarding your investment but also increasing your chances of receiving the necessary compensation to restore your property to its pre-storm condition. Remember, thorough documentation is your best ally in the aftermath of a storm.

What Fire Extinguisher Should I Buy? Your Guide to Choosing the Right Type for Your Home or Business

8/8/2023 (Permalink)

Educate yourself about the right fire extinguisher for your property and specific situation.

Fire extinguishers are an essential safety tool in any home or business. They can quickly extinguish small fires before they become major disasters, potentially saving lives and preventing significant property damage. But with different types of fire extinguishers available on the market, it can be challenging to determine which one to choose. In this blog post, we will provide you with a guide on what fire extinguisher to buy by explaining the different types of fire extinguishers and when to use them.

Class A Fire Extinguisher

Class A fire extinguishers are designed for fires that involve ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, or fabric. They are typically filled with water or a foam-based chemical and can neutralize fires that leave behind ash and embers. These fire extinguishers are ideal for homes, offices, and places with large amounts of flammable paper or wood products.

Class B Fire Extinguishers

Class B fire extinguishers are designed for fires that involve flammable liquids, such as gasoline, oil, or propane. These extinguishers typically contain a dry chemical, such as sodium bicarbonate or potassium bicarbonate, that smothers flames and prevents re-ignition. Class B fire extinguishers are ideal for garages, workshops, kitchens, and businesses that use flammable liquids.

Class C Fire Extinguishers

Class C fire extinguishers are designed for fires that involve electrical equipment, such as appliances, wiring, or circuit breakers. These extinguishers use a non-conductive agent, such as CO2 or dry chemicals, to smother the flames and prevent electrical shock. Class C fire extinguishers are ideal for office buildings, factories, and homes with electrical appliances or wiring.

Class D Fire Extinguishers

Class D fire extinguishers are designed for fires that involve flammable metals, such as magnesium or sodium. These fires can be challenging to extinguish and are highly reactive to water or other extinguishing agents. Class D fire extinguishers use a powdered agent, such as sodium chloride or sodium carbonate, to smother the flames and react with the metal to bring the fire to an end. Class D fire extinguishers are ideal for laboratories, production facilities, and other areas where flammable metals are used.

Class K Fire Extinguishers

Class K fire extinguishers are designed for fires that involve cooking oils, animal fats, or greases. These extinguishers typically use a wet chemical that cools the oils while simultaneously smothering the flames. Class K fire extinguishers are ideal for commercial kitchens, restaurants, and other areas where large amounts of oil or grease are stored or used during cooking.

When shopping for a fire extinguisher, it is essential to select one that is appropriate for the types of fires that may occur in your home or business. Most homes and smaller businesses would benefit from a multi-purpose (ABC) fire extinguisher that can handle Class A, B, and C fires. Remember to check the expiration date and regularly ensure that the extinguisher is fully charged and in good condition.

Investing in the right fire extinguisher is critical to ensure the safety of your home or business. Be sure to educate yourself, evaluate your needs, and select the appropriate type of fire extinguisher for your specific situation. Don't hesitate to seek advice from a professional if you have any questions or concerns. By having the right fire extinguisher on hand, you can protect yourself and those around you year-round.

Dealing with Sewage Damage: A Step-by-Step Process for Effective Restoration

7/24/2023 (Permalink)

Dealing with sewage and water damage can be a nasty task.

Sewage damage is a highly unpleasant and hazardous issue that can occur in residential or commercial properties. Whether it's a sewer line backup, a toilet overflow, or a flooded basement due to sewage water, prompt action is essential to mitigate health risks and minimize property damage. In this blog, we will guide you through a step-by-step process for dealing with sewage damage effectively. By following these steps, you can ensure a safe and efficient restoration process.

Ensure Personal Safety

Sewage contains harmful bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants, posing serious health risks. Before entering the affected area, equip yourself with proper protective gear such as gloves, masks, and waterproof boots. If the damage is extensive or involves a large volume of sewage, consider contacting professionals who specialize in sewage cleanup.

Cut Off Electrical Power

If the sewage water has reached electrical outlets, appliances, or switches, shut off the electrical power to the affected area. Avoid handling electrical equipment while standing in standing water to prevent the risk of electric shock.

Ventilate the Area

Open windows and doors to promote airflow and ventilation. This helps to reduce foul odors and aids in drying out the space. Utilize fans and dehumidifiers to enhance air circulation and facilitate the drying process.

Remove Standing Water

Using a pump, wet/dry vacuum, or buckets, remove as much standing sewage water as possible. Take care not to spread the contaminated water to unaffected areas. Dispose of the wastewater following local regulations and guidelines.

Dispose of Contaminated Materials

Porous materials that have come into contact with sewage water, such as carpets, upholstered furniture, and damaged drywall, are considered highly contaminated and should be safely disposed of. Bag them securely and follow proper disposal procedures in your area.

Clean and Disinfect

Thoroughly clean and disinfect all hard surfaces and non-porous materials that have been exposed to sewage. Use a mixture of water and bleach (1:10 ratio) or a commercial disinfectant recommended for sewage cleanup. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper usage and safety precautions.

Dry the Affected Area

Proper drying is crucial to prevent mold growth. Use fans, dehumidifiers, and open windows to dry out the space. Monitor the humidity levels to ensure they are within acceptable ranges (below 60%) to discourage mold growth. After cleaning and drying, sanitize the area once again with a disinfectant to ensure thorough sanitation. Use odor-neutralizing products or techniques to eliminate any lingering odors associated with sewage damage.

Conduct Structural Assessments

Inspect the affected area for any structural damage caused by the sewage backup. This includes checking walls, flooring, and the integrity of plumbing systems. Address any necessary repairs promptly to prevent further damage.

Consult with Restoration Professionals

Sewage damage cleanup can be a complex and challenging process. Consider consulting with professional restoration specialists who have the expertise, equipment, and knowledge to handle sewage cleanup effectively and safely. They can assess the extent of the damage, provide comprehensive cleanup and restoration services, and ensure the proper disposal of contaminated materials.

Dealing with sewage damage requires prompt and thorough action to protect both your property and your health. Ensure personal safety, cut off electrical power, ventilate the area, remove standing water, dispose of contaminated materials, clean and disinfect, dry the space, sanitize and deodorize, conduct structural assessments, and consider consulting with restoration professionals. By following this step-by-step process, you can effectively restore your property and create a safe and healthy living environment once again.

Weathering the Storm: Essential Strategies to Protect Your Building from Storm Damage

6/11/2023 (Permalink)

Protect your business from storm damage is crucial to ensure your safe.

Storms can unleash powerful forces of nature, causing significant damage to buildings and properties. However, with careful planning and proactive measures, you can strengthen your building's resilience and minimize the risk of storm-related destruction. In this blog, we'll explore essential strategies and practical tips to help you protect your building from storm damage, ensuring its safety and durability in the face of severe weather conditions.

Conduct a Storm Risk Assessment

Research and analyze the prevalent weather patterns in your area to identify the types of storms that pose the greatest risk. This knowledge will inform your preparedness efforts and guide your protective measures. Inspect your building for weak points such as compromised roofs, windows, doors, and structural elements. Identify areas that are susceptible to damage and prioritize reinforcement.

Strengthen the Building Envelope

Ensure your roof is in good condition and can withstand strong winds. Repair or replace damaged shingles, tiles, or metal panels. Consider installing hurricane straps or clips to secure the roof structure to the building's walls. Install impact-resistant doors and windows designed to withstand high winds and flying debris. Reinforce weak points, such as garage doors, with bracing systems or additional bolts.

Secure Exterior Elements

Regularly prune trees surrounding your building to prevent branches from breaking and causing damage during storms. Remove dead or weakened trees that may pose a threat. Anchor or store outdoor equipment, furniture, and other loose items to prevent them from becoming projectiles in high winds. Consider temporary removal in anticipation of severe weather.

Enhance Drainage and Water Management

Regularly clean and maintain gutters and downspouts to ensure proper water flow and prevent water from pooling on the roof. Adjust the grading around your building to direct water away from the foundation. Install or maintain proper drainage systems, such as French drains or swales, to prevent water accumulation.

Backup Power and Emergency Preparedness

Consider installing a backup generator to ensure the availability of essential services during power outages caused by storms. Test the system regularly to ensure functionality.

Create a comprehensive emergency plan that outlines evacuation procedures, designated shelter areas, and communication protocols. Educate building occupants on the plan and conduct drills periodically.

Regular Maintenance and Inspections

Conduct regular inspections of your building's structural integrity, roofing, windows, and doors. Address any identified issues promptly to prevent further damage during storms. Keep trees, shrubs, and landscaping elements well-maintained to minimize the risk of falling branches or uprooted trees. Secure loose objects that could pose a hazard during storms.

Protecting your building from storm damage requires proactive measures, diligent maintenance, and preparedness. By conducting a storm risk assessment, reinforcing the building envelope, securing exterior elements, enhancing drainage, ensuring backup power, and practicing regular maintenance, you can significantly reduce the potential impact of storms. Prioritize the safety and durability of your building, ensuring that it remains a resilient and secure structure in the face of severe weather events.

Why Does Rainy Weather Bring Mold into Your Home? Exploring the Causes and Solutions

5/22/2023 (Permalink)

It is important to address underlying issues from water damage.

Mold is a common problem that many homeowners face, particularly during rainy seasons. If you've ever noticed mold growth in your house when it rains, you may be wondering why this is happening. When there are multiple storms coming through the area and hard rain and winds leave behind damage, it is important to ensure your home has not sustained any damages.  In this blog, we'll explore the reasons why mold tends to grow in homes during rainy seasons and what you can do to prevent it.

Moisture

One of the primary reasons why mold tends to grow in homes during rainy seasons is due to the increased moisture in the air. Rainy weather can cause water to seep into your home through leaks in the roof, walls, or foundation, and this excess moisture can create the ideal conditions for mold to grow.

Poor Ventilation

Poor ventilation in your home can also contribute to mold growth during rainy seasons. When your home is not adequately ventilated, moisture can become trapped inside, creating a humid and damp environment that is conducive to mold growth.

Leaks

Another reason why mold tends to grow in homes during rainy seasons is due to leaks. Leaks in your roof, walls, or pipes can allow water to seep into your home, creating areas of dampness that are perfect for mold growth.

Condensation

Condensation can also contribute to mold growth in your home during rainy seasons. When warm, humid air comes into contact with cold surfaces, it can cause moisture to condense, creating areas of dampness that are ideal for mold to grow.

Poor Drainage

Poor drainage around your home can also contribute to mold growth during rainy seasons. If water is not properly drained away from your home's foundation, it can seep into the ground and create areas of dampness that are conducive to mold growth. It is important to keep your properties foundation sealed with proper sealant to prevent water from getting through the cracks to prevent damage.

In conclusion, mold growth in your home during rainy seasons can be caused by a variety of factors, including moisture, poor ventilation, leaks, condensation, and poor drainage. To prevent mold growth, it's important to address these underlying issues by fixing leaks, improving ventilation, and ensuring proper drainage around your home. By taking these steps, you can help keep your home mold-free and healthy.

Give SERVPRO of Norman a call today if your property has damage from rain or flooding. Storms can leave behind wind and rain damage causing your property to have leaks in the ceiling or foundation. 

Clean Sweep: Tips for Removing Soot Damage from Your Home or Business

4/6/2023 (Permalink)

Soot damage can be frustrating, give the professionals a call today.

Soot damage is a frustrating and unsightly problem that can occur in your home or business. Soot, which is a black, powdery substance, is a byproduct of incomplete combustion, such as from a fire or furnace. It can cling to surfaces and be difficult to clean, but it's essential to remove it as soon as possible to prevent further damage. In this article, we'll discuss how to clean soot damage effectively.

Safety Precautions

Before you begin cleaning, it's important to take safety precautions. Wear a respirator, gloves, and eye protection to avoid inhaling soot particles, as they can be harmful to your health. Also, make sure the area is well-ventilated to prevent the buildup of fumes.

The first step in cleaning soot damage is to remove any loose soot using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter. Use the vacuum's brush attachment to gently sweep the soot off the surface. Avoid pressing too hard, as this can grind the soot into the material and make it more difficult to remove.

Next, use a dry chemical sponge to wipe away any remaining soot. These sponges are designed to attract and hold soot particles and can be purchased at most hardware stores. Gently rub the sponge over the surface, using light pressure to avoid damaging the material.

Soot Damage can be severe

If the soot damage is severe, you may need to use a cleaning solution to remove it fully. However, it's important to test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it won't cause discoloration or damage to the material.

For non-porous surfaces such as metal, glass, or plastic, you can use a mixture of warm water and dish soap. Dip a sponge or cloth into the solution and lightly scrub the surface, rinsing with clean water afterward. For porous surfaces such as plaster or drywall, you may need to use a specialized cleaning solution designed for soot removal.

Clean affected areas properly

If the soot damage is from a fire, it's important to clean any affected fabrics, such as curtains, bedding, or clothing, as soon as possible. Launder them using a heavy-duty detergent and hot water to remove any soot particles.

In some cases, soot damage may be too severe to clean effectively, and replacement of the damaged material is necessary. For example, if the soot has penetrated deep into the fibers of a carpet or upholstery, it may be impossible to remove without causing further damage.

In conclusion, cleaning soot damage requires patience, care, and attention to detail. It's important to take safety precautions, remove loose soot, and use the right cleaning solution for the material. With these steps, you can effectively clean soot damage and restore your home or business to its original condition.

Common Causes of Water Damage

3/29/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage is a common problem for homeowners, give the professionals a call today.

There are many different causes of water damage. This article will go over some of the most common causes, but no matter what caused your problem it's important to get it taken care of immediately!

Leaks

Leaking pipes, roof leaks and other sources of water damage can be small or large. They may be hidden in walls, floors and roofs as well as other areas of your home. These leaks can cause mold and mildew to grow in your home's structure and belongings. If left unchecked for too long, these problems can become much more costly than if you had taken care of them right away.

Worn out water supply lines

Water supply lines are often overlooked and not replaced until they break. Water supply lines are usually made of plastic, which is prone to cracking and breaking. Frozen water supply lines can burst when the ice thaws, causing flooding and damage inside your home or business. Animals such as rodents may also chew through your water line and cause it to leak or break completely.

Flooding

Flooding is a common cause of water damage, and it can happen in any season. Flooding is most often caused by storms, heavy rains or snow melt. Heavy snows can also cause flooding if they are followed by warmer temperatures that melt the snow quickly.

Flooding can cause significant damage to your home--and even put you at risk for injury or death if you're caught in it!

Ice dams

Ice dams are a common cause of water damage in the winter. When snow melts on your roof and then refreezes, it can form an ice dam that causes water to back up under shingles and drip into your home. This can be prevented by properly insulating the attic and ventilating it, so that warm air rises up into the attic instead of getting trapped there. If you have an older house with no insulation or ventilation in its attic space (or if you've never checked), now's a good time to look into adding some insulation and vents--it'll save you money down the road!

Frozen or burst pipes

When a pipe bursts, it's usually because of outside temperatures. If you live in a climate where the temperature is below freezing for extended periods of time, your pipes may burst. When water freezes inside the walls of your house or apartment building and expands as it freezes, it can cause cracks in the walls or even break through completely.

If you want to avoid this problem altogether make sure all pipes are insulated properly so they don't crack during cold weather (and any other time). Also make sure that there aren't any leaks anywhere in your house. If there are leaks and they aren't fixed right away, then they could lead to bursts later on!

There are many causes of water damage.

Water damage is a common problem for homeowners. If you have water damage, it's important to act quickly. Water can cause mold and mildew, which can be costly to fix in the long run. Additionally, structural problems may occur if the wood in your home starts rotting due to prolonged exposure to moisture.

Water damage can be a very costly and destructive problem. If you suspect that your home is experiencing water damage, it's important to call in professionals who can diagnose the issues and repair them as soon as possible.

Everything You Need to Know About a Leaking Dishwasher

1/18/2023 (Permalink)

If you experience water damage from your dishwasher leaking, SERVPRO of Norman is here to help clean up the mess.

If you have a dishwasher, chances are you’ve noticed that it’s leaking at some point. If so, don’t worry: You are not alone. Most dishwashers leak at least once in their lifetime and most repairs can be done on your own without calling in a professional repairman for help. Here's what you need to know about the possible causes of leaking dishwashers and what to do if yours is leaking: 

Common Reasons for Leaking Dishwashers

There are several reasons your dishwasher might have a leak. Below are some of the most common causes:

? If your dishwasher is old, it may need to be replaced because it could be damaged or broken in some way.

? Improper installation or poorly installed parts could be the cause of the leak. It’s important that all parts are installed correctly so they function properly and don’t damage other appliances nearby or cause leaks in the machine itself. 

Torn Door Seal

If you have a leaking dishwasher, it could be an issue with the door seal. You will want to inspect this if you notice leaks. This can be done by visually inspecting it (and feeling for any wetness) to see if there are any tears in it. If you find that your door seal is torn, consider calling in a professional to replace it.

Cracked or Broken Water Supply Line

If you have a leaky dishwasher, the culprit could be that the water supply line has developed a small (or large) crack or hole. It's important to check this right away because it can lead to an expensive repair bill if left untreated for too long. Check for leaks by following these steps:

• Disconnect your dishwasher from its water source, usually at the house's outdoor spigot or inlet valve
• Turn off the power to your dishwasher before disconnecting it from its electrical source
• Make sure all connections are fully sealed and tightened (some connections may require pliers)
• Verify there are no leaks coming from any of these connections

Drain Line Leak

The drain line connection could have a leak. The drain line is the connection between your dishwasher and your drain, and it could be causing water to leak into your home. A loose fitting or damaged pipe can cause this issue, as well as damage to a valve or hose.

Valve or Hose Connection Leak

If you're seeing water leaking from your dishwasher, the first thing to check is whether something is broken inside of it. It could be that a valve or hose connected to the dishwasher is leaking.

Checking valves and hoses is simple and can often be done with just a screwdriver. The valve may be located under the sink, so it's worth looking there if you see water around your dishwasher area but can't find where exactly it came from (such as on top of or underneath). If you do find a leaky valve, it might require only minor repairs such as tightening some parts together or replacing them altogether. 

When in Doubt, Call the Professionals

A dishwasher is a convenient appliance for any home kitchen, but it can quickly become an inconvenience if it starts leaking. There are several common causes for a leaking dishwasher, if you suspect that your leaky dishwasher needs repair, call a professional to repair it.

If you experience water damage from your dishwasher leaking, SERVPRO of Norman is here to help clean up the mess and get your Norman home back to normal. Give us a call!

A Broken Pipe and Insurance

11/6/2022 (Permalink)

When you have a broken pipe call your insurance company.

A Broken Pipe and Insurance

Most homeowners insurance policies cover broken pipes, but it's important to know for sure if they're covered and how much you might be able to claim.

How Do I Know If It’s Covered?

If the pipe is inside your Noble, OK home, it's likely not covered by insurance. But if the pipe is on your property line and you share a joint ownership agreement with your neighbor, it could be covered by their homeowner's policy. Alternatively, if the pipe is in front of or behind your house and on city property, it may be covered by municipal insurance.

The first thing to consider is whether or not your pipe was broken due to neglect. If it was, you won't be covered. If you let your pipes freeze and then burst, for example, your insurance company will not help.

The second thing to consider is whether or not the broken pipe was caused by a natural disaster like an earthquake or flood that wasn't under your control. If you have homeowner's insurance and someone else's tree falls on your house during a storm, this would fall under their policy rather than yours because it was an act of nature and not one committed by anyone in particular.

The best way to figure out if your broken pipe is covered is to call your insurance agent. 

Steps to take after a pipe bursts

After a pipe burst, it's important to take the following steps:

• Call a plumber. You'll want to make sure that any damage is repaired and you have an accurate estimate on how much it will cost.
• Get your home inventory and insurance policy ready. After the repair is finished, document all repairs made on your house's interior with photos and receipts so that you can submit them to your insurer as soon as possible after filing a claim. It might seem like overkill at first glance (especially if there's no other damage), but having these documents ready will help speed up the process when dealing with both your plumber and insurance provider later down the line!

Preventing Broken Pipes

As a homeowner, you can help prevent this situation by doing the following:

• Properly maintain your plumbing system. The pipes in your house need to be cleaned regularly, and any leaks should be fixed immediately.
• Use the right tools for the job. If you're replacing a pipe, use an appropriate wrench or pliers rather than a screwdriver; if you're cutting through old lead pipes, use sealed shears instead of a hacksaw (unless you have an industrial-strength one).
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions when installing new fixtures or appliances like toilets and faucets; these will tell you how much water pressure is recommended for each fixture type. For example, there are low-flow shower heads available that have been designed specifically for homes with low water pressure issues such as ours; they'll save money on both water usage and heating bills since they don't require as much water flow to produce steamy showers!
• Hire licensed plumbers with experience working on older houses like yours if possible—they'll know exactly what kind of repairs need fixing before moving forward with any actual work so none gets overlooked later down line!

When you have a broken pipe and need to get it fixed, your first step is to call your insurance company to find out if the damage will be covered. With proper coverage and a little bit of luck, you should be able to get your broken pipes covered by insurance. If not, then it’s time to take action. Contact your insurance provider and let them know as soon as possible so that they can begin filing a claim on your behalf. 

When you need the water that has flooded your home or business mitigated and restoration work done, give SERVPRO of Norman a call! We will help get your Norman business or home back to normal. 

Fire Commercial Cleanup Process

10/29/2022 (Permalink)

If you have commercial fire damage don't hesitate in calling your local SERVPRO

Fire Commercial Cleanup Process

If you've just experienced a fire in your Norman, OK home or business, you're likely dealing with more than just the loss of property and valuables. Smoke and soot can spread quickly after a fire, causing damage that can last for years to come. Cleaning up from a fire is essential in restoring your home or business to its pre-fire condition, but it can also be dangerous if done incorrectly. That's why it's important to hire skilled professionals who have experience cleaning up after fires and know how best to ensure that no residue remains once the smoke has cleared.

Smoke and Soot Spread Fast

Smoke and soot particles are the most visible sign of a fire. They can spread through a building in minutes after a fire, contaminating everything they touch. Soot particles are often the first priority when cleaning up from a fire because they can cause health issues if inhaled over time.

Starting the Cleanup Process

After the fire damage has been assessed and the fire department has left, it’s time to start cleaning up the mess. The first steps in this process are to clean up any debris and soot from walls, floors, and furniture. This can be done using a variety of methods including vacuuming or wet mopping with water and detergent solution. If you have carpets that were damaged by smoke odor, you may need to shampoo them as well.

Call the Professionals

Once the fire is extinguished and the bulk of the smoke has cleared, SERVPRO of Norman will use special equipment to remove particles from carpeting, curtains, and furniture. They will also vacuum soot and ash with a HEPA filter vacuum cleaner. The vacuum should be cleaned after each use to prevent excessive dust accumulation which can become airborne again when disturbed in some way (such as vacuuming).

Air purification. Professionals use advanced air purification methods to remove smoke and soot particles from your building's interior. They'll use air scrubbers, HEPA filters, and other methods to remove particles.

You can also use a vacuum cleaner (like the Shop-Vac brand) to pull dust and dirt from your carpets and floors after a fire has been put out by firefighters. A wet/dry vacuum is another option for removing debris from flooring surfaces

Hiring a professional to clean your house or business after a fire is the best way to get your home back in shape. Although you may be tempted to tackle the job yourself, it's important to remember that these types of cleanup efforts can be very dangerous and should only be completed by professionals who are trained and equipped with the proper equipment.

When you’ve been affected by a fire, it can be easy to overlook the damage that smoke and soot can cause. But if you want your home or business to return to normal as quickly as possible, it’s important to call in professional damage restoration experts who have experience dealing with these types of messes. These professionals will know exactly how much time is needed for cleaning up after a fire before it’s safe for people to return.