SERVPRO's fire damage restoration technicians are ready to help today.
Fire damage can be catastrophic for homes and businesses. In February 2024, the Smokehouse Creek Fire became the largest wildfire in Texas history, burning over one million acres. Within days of the outbreak, SERVPRO of Amarillo was already working on restoring smoke-damaged homes.
Wildfire Smoke and Soot Damage
The wildfires severely impacted many homes, resulting in extensive structural damage. Most of these homes required complete demolition down to the foundation. However, many other homes could be saved using fire damage restoration techniques. These homes had wildfire smoke damage infiltration, which causes soot damage restoration to be a critical aspect of fire damage cleanup. Professional personal protective equipment (PPE) is required to keep the restorer safe during the cleanup process due to the soot's small particle size.
Professional PPE is necessary because soot is made up of minuscule carbon particles resulting from the incomplete combustion of hydrocarbons and fossil fuels like charred wood, oil, coal, and other materials. Soot contains acids derived from chemicals, metals, soils, and dust, and it can easily penetrate porous materials such as carpet, drywall, and upholstery. If left untreated for too long, soot residue may permanently affect a property's appearance and trap lingering odors and irritants.
During the cleanup phase of the Smokehouse Creek Fire, SERVPRO of Amarillo has noticed wildfire smoke and soot infiltration and build-up in the following places:
- Air Vents: Even with heavy filters installed, smoke was most likely brought into the home through the air vents if the air conditioner was on during the wildfire.
- Window and Door Gaps: Many windows have small, almost imperceptible air gaps around their caulking. When gaps exist, smoke was able to find its way inside the property from the window and door gaps.
- Exterior Walls and Outdoor Spaces: Due to the strong winds that carried the wildfire, we have seen smoke and soot particles clinging to exterior walls.
Smoke and soot that infiltrated homes have caused fine particles to land on every surface of the home, necessitating a ceiling-to-floor soot damage cleaning.
Fire Damaged Personal Belongings
Many customers had fire-damaged personal belongings in addition to structural damage. The same soot particles that infiltrated the homes likely affected their belongings. Content restoration services are needed to properly clean those items so they can be safely handled again.
Content restoration can happen in one of two ways:
- On-Site Content Restoration: If the property is structurally safe and has running electricity and water, it's possible to clean the homeowner's contents on-site. Every item is inspected, inventoried, and cleaned before being put back in its place. Structural cleanup happens either in tandem with content restoration or before it to ensure that contents are only returned to clean surfaces.
- Off-Site Content Restoration: When a property is not structurally sound, or the structural fire damage restoration is extensive, contents may need to be cleaned off-site. This process involves inventorying the property's contents, packing, and transporting them to a safe location. SERVPRO of Amarillo has a fire damage cleaning location near downtown Amarillo.
Textile Restoration and Sanitization
Specialized textile restoration is needed for affected textiles, such as clothing, linens, and stuffed animals. Due to the small size of soot particles, they can easily get embedded into a fabric's weave, which home and commercial washing machines cannot successfully remove. Regular washing machines use mechanical pressure to clean textiles, which may embed the soot particles further into the fabric. To remove over 99% of particles, SERVPRO of Amarillo is certified to use a hydraulic washing machine that produces enough pressure to push detergent and disinfectant-laden water completely through a textile's fabrics.
Contents are returned once the property is clean and safe to inhabit again.
What is SERVPRO of Amarillo Doing to Clean Wildfire Damage?
No matter how tight a property's envelope is, the wind that powered the Smokehouse Creek Fire caused significant smoke and soot to enter homes that were directly in the wind's path.
The following services are commonly needed to clean up after the Texas Panhandle Fires:
- Structural Fire Damage Cleaning, which includes floor-to-ceiling HEPA vacuuming and washing - Air Scrubbing (HEPA) - Air Duct and HVAC Cleaning - Exterior Cleaning - Carpet Cleaning - Deodorization - Content Cleaning - Textile Sanitization - Content Inventorying - Pack-Out/Pack-Back - Storage
SERVPRO of Amarillo Travels
The SERVPRO team services any customer in need, regardless of their location. Our daily service area includes everywhere in the Texas Panhandle, Oklahoma, Kansas, Colorado, and New Mexico. We also travel nationally.
Call SERVPRO for Wildfire Damage Restoration
SERVPRO will restore your home or business to its pre-damage condition. Our comprehensive services cover everything from fire damage cleaning to reconstruction.
Call us today at 806-331-4555. We're Here to Help.
Navigating a Property Insurance Claim After a Wildfire
SERVPRO of Amarillo works with all adjusters to navigate fire damage claims.
The aftermath of a wildfire is challenging for homeowners. We have seen this recently as our community works to rebuild itself after the Smokehouse Creek Fire, which burned over a million acres and affected hundreds of homes.
While we continue to restore properties damaged by wildfires, we are also helping our customers navigate the property insurance claim process.
1. Document the Fire Damage
As soon as it's safe to do so, thoroughly document the damage to your property's extent. Take photos and videos from multiple angles to capture the full scope of damage. Make detailed lists of damaged items, including their value and any relevant receipts or documentation.
Call a professional fire damage restoration company if your property is unsafe to enter. Do not risk your safety. The fire damage restorer will understand the inherent risk and take any appropriate steps they need to take to inspect and document the property themselves.
2. Contact Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance company of the wildfire damage immediately. Most policies require prompt reporting of losses. Be prepared to provide detailed information about the extent of the damage and any immediate needs for temporary repairs or accommodations.
If you have chosen a damage restoration company, provide your insurance company with the vendor's name and phone number. Likewise, give your damage restoration company your adjuster's name, phone number, and email address. This exchange of information will help the restoration company connect with your insurance company to start the claims process.
Your choice of fire damage restoration contractor is your decision. While your adjuster may have a preference or suggest an alternative company, you can refuse the adjuster's suggestion and stick with the company of your choice. Your adjuster may not alter your claim's decision based on your choice of contractor.
3. Understand Your Coverage
Review your insurance policy carefully to understand what is covered and what may be excluded. Wildfire damage may fall under different categories, including dwelling coverage for structural damage, personal property coverage for belongings, and additional living expenses coverage for temporary housing and other necessities.
A professional fire damage restoration company should have experienced staff ready to help you with insurance terminology. They will also speak to your adjuster on your behalf to help them understand that your property needs to be returned to preloss condition.
4. Secure Your Fire Damaged Property
Take steps to prevent further damage to your property, like boarding up windows and the roof, covering exposed areas, and securing valuables to prevent theft or vandalism. You can do this in one of two ways:
Option 1 - hire a fire damage restoration company or contractor. They will assess where your exterior structure has been damaged and secure it in the best way. Typically, they will board up windows and damaged exterior walls and doors, install a roof tarp, and sometimes also install a temporary fence. Depending on the damage's severity and the contents inside, a temporary exterior fence may also be erected by the restoration company. Verify that you or your fire damage restorer turn in a line-item estimate along with before and after photo documentation to your adjuster.
Option 2 - do it yourself. Keep records of expenses incurred for these protective measures, as they may be reimbursable under your policy.
5. Keep Detailed Records
Throughout the claims process, keep thorough records of all communication with your insurance company and adjuster(s), including phone calls, emails, and written correspondence. Note the names of representatives you speak with and keep copies of any documents or forms submitted. Verify that your verbal communication is followed up with a written verification of your conversation.
6. Call Fire Damage Restoration Companies and Obtain Multiple Estimates
Obtain multiple quotes from reputable contractors or restoration companies when seeking repair or restoration estimates. Ensure the estimates are detailed and itemized, outlining the scope of work and associated costs. A detailed cost expense will help ensure accurate reimbursement from your insurance company.
Only sign a contract with a vendor once they have provided you with an estimate and you are sure you want to hire them. Do not accept charges for preliminary estimates.
If the wildfire is significant and has made national news, it is probable that some out-of-town restoration companies may travel to your affected area and solicit work. Consider thoroughly the vendor you choose, particularly if they will return to their business's home base after the restoration work is complete, which may make them unavailable for follow-up.
7. Be Prepared for Property Inspections
Your insurance company may send an adjuster to assess the damage to your property. Be prepared to provide access to your home and provide documentation to support your claim. Accompany the adjuster during the inspection and point out any areas of concern.
A good fire damage restoration company will also be present when your adjuster visits for the property inspection. Verify you coordinate with your contractor so everyone is on the same page.
8. Review Fire Damage Restoration Settlement Offers Carefully
If your insurance company offers a settlement, review it carefully to ensure it accurately reflects the extent of your losses and the coverage provided by your policy. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to seek clarification from your insurance company or legal counsel.
We recommend obtaining multiple bids from fire damage restoration vendors to ensure that your settlement can adequately cover the cost of professional restoration.
9. Consider Hiring a Public Adjuster
If you encounter challenges or disputes with your insurance company during the claims process, consider hiring a public adjuster to represent your interests. Public adjusters are licensed professionals who can help negotiate with your insurance company and maximize your claim settlement. An experienced fire damage restoration company will know how to work with public adjusters.
10. Stay Informed
Property insurance claims after a wildfire can be complex and time-consuming. In high-impact areas, adjusters may be inundated with calls, and processing times will likely be extended. Stay informed about the progress of your claim. Keep lines of communication open with your insurance company and your fire damage restoration contractor, and seek assistance from trusted professionals if needed.
SERVPRO's Fire Damage Insurance Claim Process
SERVPRO of Amarillo has nearly 40 years of experience processing damage restoration claims, and we have helped thousands of homeowners and their adjusters in our years of service. Our fire damage insurance claim process involves:
Inspection, Scope, and Documentation. We will visit your property and document the damage to prepare an estimate. This service is free of charge. You will not be asked to sign any contracts in exchange for it.
Estimate. We prepare an estimate for you and your adjuster to understand what services are needed to restore your property to preloss condition.
Approval from the Insurance Company and Adjuster. We will work with your adjuster to get the estimate approved, which often involves a lot of back-and-forth communication to help your adjuster understand the extent of your property's needs.
Restoration and Reconstruction. After approval, we will restore your property based on the approved estimate.
Follow-Up. After the restoration and reconstruction work is complete, we will continue to be available for any follow-up questions or concerns.
SERVPRO is Here to Help
You don't have to navigate this process alone—seek support from trusted professionals available in your community, like SERVPRO of Amarillo.
We accept all insurance and work with all adjusters.
We serve the entire Texas Panhandle along with Oklahoma, Kansas, New Mexico, and Colorado.
SERVPRO of Amarillo is ready to help with your fire damage restoration. Call for a consultation. All insurance is accepted.
A fire can strike in the blink of an eye, leaving behind devastating damage and destruction. After such a tragic event, figuring out where to start can be overwhelming.
How Do Firefighters Put Out a Fire?
A firefighter's main priority is ensuring the safety of individuals on the affected property. After completing any necessary rescues, their primary focus is to prevent further damage from occurring. This may involve employing various firefighting methods, which could include:
Utilizing fire hoses to extinguish flames
Spraying foam and water on different areas of the building to contain the fire
Cutting holes in walls or roofs to enable smoke and heat to escape
Searching for pockets of fire using thermal imaging cameras
Ventilating toxic smoke from the building
Firefighters are trained to respond promptly to any emergency, and their work can help prevent further loss or destruction of property.
During a firefighting effort, firefighters use large amounts of water to extinguish flames and prevent the fire from spreading. A fire hose can deliver up to 100 gallons of water per minute, depending on the size and intensity of the blaze and the type of building and firefighting technique employed. In some cases, water pressure may need to be increased to ensure it reaches high-rise buildings.
In addition to water, firefighters may also use foam to suppress fires. The foam tends to be more effective than water in certain situations, such as fires involving flammable liquids or gases.
Using water and foam during firefighting can cause significant damage to buildings, even after a fire has been extinguished. Water can seep into floors, walls, and ceilings, causing structural damage and promoting the growth of mold and mildew. Foam can leave a residue that must be cleaned to avoid damaging surfaces.
Therefore, extensive damage restoration, including water restoration, is often necessary after a fire. Properties damaged by fire will likely need mold remediation if left alone for too long. It is strongly recommended to seek professional assistance from an experienced fire restoration company to ensure the proper and safe restoration of any affected property.
What Does a Fire Damage Restoration Company Do?
The goal of damage restoration companies is to secure the property to stop further damage, followed by cleaning, restoring, and reconstructing the property to its pre-fire condition. During extensive restoration work, homeowners may need to file a property insurance claim, which a professional Amarillo fire damage restoration company can handle.
The Fire Damage Restoration Process
The process of fire restoration involves several critical steps to ensure that your property and your life can gradually return to normalcy.
Following emergency response clearance of your property, you must seek the services of a professional fire damage restoration company in Amarillo. These experts will typically follow these steps to restore your property.
1. Helping homeowners file an insurance claim is usually the first order of business.
Although necessary, filing an insurance claim can be complex, time-consuming, and confusing, particularly for homeowners who have recently experienced a devastating fire and are already experiencing overwhelming emotions. A reliable fire damage restoration company can help guide and support homeowners through the claim process and provide necessary assistance.
Sometimes, the insurance company may send an adjuster to inspect the damage first-hand. In such cases, the restoration company would work closely with the adjuster to provide access to the damaged items and answer any queries about the restoration process.
Documenting damages is the first step in filing an insurance claim. A reputable fire damage restoration company will carefully report every aspect of the damage resulting from the fire, including any structural damage, personal belongings, and other items affected by the fire. This step is crucial for the insurance adjuster to assess the damages and determine an appropriate compensation amount.
A professional fire damage restoration company deals with the critical cleanup and restoration processes and handles all communication with the homeowner's insurance company throughout the insurance claim procedure. Additionally, their communication goes beyond submitting documentation and estimates, negotiating on the homeowner's behalf, and providing extra information required by the insurance adjuster.
Working with an experienced and reputable fire damage restoration company will ensure homeowners receive fair and timely compensation. These companies have established credibility and proficiency in dealing with different insurance companies policies and adjusters, which ultimately allows them to navigate the insurance claim process more efficiently and with the homeowner's best interests in mind.
The best restoration companies offer more than just repairs and aid to make the homeowner feel more comfortable by constantly updating them about the claim's progress.
2. The restoration company will assess the damages and secure the property.
Securing the property to prevent further damage is essential after a fire. Restoration companies should take the necessary precautions to ensure the property is safe and secure before restoration work begins. The property's structural integrity will be assessed, and the walls, roofs, windows, and doors will be checked for any damage. If any of these elements have been compromised, they will be boarded up and sealed to prevent rain or debris from entering the building.
Before restoration work can begin, a restoration company must check the electrical and gas systems to ensure the fire doesn't damage them. If either system is damaged, the restoration company must shut off the power and gas supply to prevent further accidents.
In addition, restoration companies will also install temporary lighting and heating systems to provide a safe working environment for their technicians. This is essential for ensuring a proper and thorough restoration process.
To provide complete and effective restoration services after a fire, a certified technician needs to assess the extent of the damage caused by the fire, smoke, and water. To begin the assessment process, a visual inspection of the entire property will be conducted to determine the harm caused by direct flames. The review will include checking the structural elements, such as walls, floors, and ceilings, and assessing the extent of the damage they sustained.
Since smoke damage can be much more extensive than the actual flames, the technician will also pay close attention to any traces of smoke damage. Smoke and soot particles can penetrate surfaces deeply and cause long-term damage and odors if not treated promptly.
Specialized equipment, including thermal imaging cameras, will be used to locate hidden damage caused by the fire, particularly those affected by water. Moisture and mold growth after a fire are expected due to the high moisture levels and lack of ventilation. The restoration crew can also test the air quality to ensure the property is safe.
Water damage is a common problem after a fire due to the water firefighters use to put out the flames. The restoration company will use high-powered pumps to extract any standing water from the property to address this. They will also set up dehumidifiers and air movers to dry the property and prevent mold growth.
Finally, to ensure the safety and security of the property, the restoration company will install temporary fencing and security cameras to deter any unauthorized access, vandalism, or theft. These security measures are necessary for a thorough restoration process.
After the assessment, a fire damage restoration plan tailored to the specific situation will be created. The program will create an itemized breakdown and budget of the steps needed to restore the property to its pre-fire condition and mitigate further damage.
3. The restoration company will provide an estimate for repairing the damages needed to restore your property to its pre-fire condition.
A comprehensive estimate submitted to the insurance company determines the policyholder's compensation amount.
Many damage restoration companies will only perform cleaning and restoration work, but fire damages almost always involve reconstruction services. Make sure to choose a full-service fire damage restoration company that can help you process 100% of your fire restoration needs. Working with just one company will minimize your property's restoration costs and time.
4. After the insurance company has determined the compensation amount, the professional restoration team goes to work repairing any damaged areas of the house.
Such areas typically include:
Removal of asbestos or lead in affected areas
Moving services
Content cleaning and textile sanitization
Smoke damage repairs
Water Damage Repairs
Construction to Repair any Structural Damage
Restoring your home to its initial condition is crucial, supposing it's beneficial for your overall well-being and successful claims with your insurance company.
The restoration company must remove any hazardous materials, such as asbestos or lead, from the property before any restoration work begins. With the necessary equipment and expertise, the restoration company will remove these materials safely and efficiently.
After a fire, a restoration company is expertly equipped to address the removal of debris, smoke, and soot. They use specialized equipment and techniques to ensure that the property is immaculate and safe for occupancy. The first step in the debris removal process is to assess the damage and determine which materials can be saved and which need to be disposed of. The restoration company will use heavy-duty equipment, such as bulldozers and excavators, to remove large amounts of debris and rubble from the property. They will also use hand tools and vacuums to clean up smaller debris.
To ensure a smoother process, the restoration company may use several approaches to report the damaged items to the insurance adjuster. Firstly, they would take inventory of all damaged items, noting the type and extent of damage incurred. They make a detailed list of all damaged items, estimated value, and replacement costs to aid the adjuster in determining the exact coverage of the policy. This comprehensive inventory list would typically include all the items affected by the fire.
Apart from the inventory, the restoration company would work closely with the insurance adjuster to provide any additional documentation or information needed. This may include pictures of the damaged items, receipts or invoices for repair or replacement costs, and any other paperwork necessary for the claims process to proceed without any glitches.
A reputable restoration company will move all damaged items inside the property to a content restoration facility. From there, a highly trained technician will sort through the items to determine which ones can be restored and which must be disposed of.
The restoration company will use specialized packaging materials like bubble wrap, packing peanuts, and furniture covers to protect the salvageable items during transit. After the items are packed and labeled, they will be carefully loaded onto moving trucks and taken to the content restoration facility.
Once the items arrive at the facility, they will be inspected for any remaining damage. The restoration company will use advanced equipment and techniques to remove all traces of smoke, soot, and water damage. For more demanding jobs, specialized equipment like ultrasonic machines and an Esporta Wash System will be brought in for the best results.
After the items have been restored to their pre-fire condition and thoroughly inspected, they will be repacked and labeled for transport back to the property. The restoration company will ensure that each item is returned to its proper location in the property and will work with the homeowner to ensure their complete satisfaction with the restoration process.
The restoration company will employ a combination of techniques to remove smoke and soot from the property. This is because smoke and soot can penetrate deep into porous materials like carpeting, upholstery, and drywall. Their techniques include dry cleaning, wet cleaning, soda blasting, and thermal fogging.
Dry cleaning encompasses dry sponges or chemical cleaning agents to remove loose soot and smoke residue from surfaces. On the other hand, wet cleaning involves using water or cleaning solutions to remove more stubborn soot and smoke residue from surfaces. Soda blasting is another technique that utilizes baking soda to blast away smoke and soot from surfaces, and this technique is effective for brick, stone, and other hard surfaces.
Thermal fogging uses a specialized machine that creates a deodorizing fog of solution. It penetrates deep into porous materials to neutralize smoke odors. This solution can penetrate porous materials, including every crevice and surface, to neutralize smoke odors. The answer is a combination of chemicals that bind to the odor molecules and neutralize them.
Another technique used by restoration companies to remove odors is ozone treatment. An ozone generator creates ozone, a gas that can neutralize odors. The ozone generator is placed in the affected area, and the ozone circulates for some time. The gas reacts with the odor molecules, neutralizing them and breaking them into non-harmful compounds. While ozone treatment is effective, occupants should not be present during treatment, as ozone can be hazardous to human health.
In addition to thermal fogging and ozone treatment, restoration companies may use specialized cleaning agents and equipment to remove odors. Air scrubbers and HEPA filters can remove any lingering odor particles from the air, while specially formulated cleaning agents can clean and sanitize affected surfaces. A thorough inspection ensures the property is spotless and safe for occupancy. A plan for necessary repairs or renovations can then be developed with the property's owner.
If the structural components are partially damaged, repair procedures involve reinforcing them using different techniques, such as applying structural steel beams to support weakened walls and floors. In some cases, restorers may use epoxy or other specialized bonding agents to attach new components to the existing ones.
However, in cases where the components are completely damaged, the restoration company will need to remove and replace them with new materials. This often entails cutting out damaged sections of walls and floors and replacing them with new materials such as drywall or flooring. Restorers will also replace any damaged electrical or plumbing fixtures and install insulation and soundproof materials where necessary.
Ensuring the repair work aligns with local building codes and regulations is essential after a fire. As a result, restoring companies must obtain any necessary permits and undergo inspections to meet all the applicable regulatory requirements.
Furthermore, the restoration company should also install fire-resistant materials to prevent future fire outbreaks. These materials may include fire-resistant drywall, insulation, and wiring to minimize the risk of fire spread. Overall, taking these measures ensures the safety and longevity of the restored property.
How Long Does Fire Damage Restoration Take?
The duration of the fire restoration process largely depends on the scale and intensity of the fire damage. Generally, restorations can take between a few weeks to several months to complete.
If wildfires have seriously impacted your area, delays are likely to occur as fire restoration companies and insurance adjusters work to assist many affected families and businesses. In such situations, it is crucial to remain patient and cooperate with the companies and adjusters as they work towards helping everyone in need.
Hiring the Best Fire Damage Restoration Company
Selecting the right fire damage restoration company is crucial to ensure a satisfactory outcome. It is essential to choose a company with the experience and necessary skill set to handle the unique challenges of fire damage restoration.
To make an informed decision when hiring an Amarillo fire restoration company, you should look for the following traits:
Response Time: When it comes to fire damage restoration, time is of the essence. The longer you wait to initiate the restoration process, the greater the risk of secondary damage. It would help if you considered choosing a professional restoration company that understands the urgency of restoring your property quickly and efficiently. They will arrive on the scene promptly, secure the area, and start the restoration process immediately.
Insurance Claim Processing: Another essential factor to consider when hiring a restoration company is whether they can assist with filing insurance claims. Check if the company can communicate with your insurer and report any damaged items, such as furniture and appliances. This step is crucial, and a good fire damage restoration company will have no issue providing proof of items that need replacement to your insurance adjuster. The best restoration companies usually offer an experienced Project Coordinator who will guide you through filing an insurance claim, ensuring that all necessary steps are taken to maximize coverage. They will also communicate with your insurance adjuster to give you the best chance of a positive outcome. Moreover, these companies will have pre-existing contracts with top insurance companies to help make your claim process smoother. They will work with you and your insurance company to determine the most cost-effective way to restore your property.
Extent of Damage Assessment: Ensure the fire damage company has extensive knowledge in assessing the extent of damage from smoke, soot, water, and other elements. A professional fire restoration company will have the right equipment and expertise to accurately evaluate the damage's extent. With their advanced technology and skill set, they can provide an accurate estimate of the cost and duration of the restoration project. To determine the best approach, they should also offer a detailed assessment that includes what parts of the property have been affected, the kind of damage sustained, and how far it has spread.
Cleaning & Restoration Experience: Make sure the company you choose has experience in cleaning and restoring your specific type of property and affected content. They should have the expertise to identify hidden damage that could cause further problems, such as water damage that could lead to mold growth. It's also essential to verify that the technicians and managers assigned to help have relevant experience and certifications, preferably from the IICRC.
Safety with Professional Tools and Equipment: Safety is another crucial aspect. Fire damage often leaves behind hazardous materials, such as asbestos and lead-based paint, requiring specialized handling. The best fire restoration companies have undergone proper training and invest in the equipment to handle hazardous materials safely. This ensures that your property is safe from any dangerous materials after restoration.
Structural Component Repairs: Verify if the company offers structural repairs like walls, floors, ceilings, etc. Construction will almost always be a significant part of fire damage restoration, and the restoration company you hire should have a construction department or division. These professionals should also have a Project Coordinator to help process your insurance claim.
Content Storing & Return Services:
Confirm whether or not they will store contents offsite (in their facilities) while doing repair work.
Ask to understand how their cleaning process works. The top-of-the-line fire damage restoration companies will have advanced technology to clean your contents, such as an ultrasonic machine and an Esporta Wash System.
Ensure they return all restored items to you when work is complete.
Securing Your Property. A professional restoration company should secure your property against further damage and debris removal caused by the firefighting effort. Services like roof tarping and board-up will help guarantee safety and prevent further loss.
Construction. Verify the fire damage restoration company you choose can also handle the reconstruction portion of your project and that they will work with your insurance adjuster to ensure this is part of your claim.
Hiring the best fire damage restoration company can play a significant role in getting your life back on track after a fire incident.
SERVPRO of Amarillo's Professional Fire Damage Restoration Process
SERVPRO of Amarillo is a premier fire damage restoration company serving Amarillo and surrounding areas. Our franchise is owned and operated by one of Texas' longest-existing SERVPRO franchisees, boasting nearly 40 years of experience in the damage restoration industry.
We offer a comprehensive approach to fire damage restoration, ensuring that every aspect of the restoration process is handled efficiently and effectively. Our extensive knowledge in assessing the extent of damage caused by fire, smoke, soot, and water guarantees that we provide precise estimates of the duration and cost of each restoration project.
SERVPRO of Amarillo uses the most advanced equipment available in the industry, and our technicians undergo extensive training, receiving certifications from both the IICRC and SERVPRO University. With the right equipment, tools, and expertise, we can handle hazardous materials that threaten your property during restoration.
In addition to fire damage cleaning and restoration, we offer structural repair services for walls, floors, and ceilings. Our construction division can start restoration immediately after your property is cleaned and deodorized. Your assigned Project Coordinator will work closely with the insurance adjuster to communicate your needs, ensuring a seamless reimbursement process.
At SERVPRO of Amarillo, we take pride in storing and returning your items to their pre-damaged condition. Our content storing and return services are top-of-the-line, thanks to our advanced technology, ultrasonic machines, and the Esporta Wash System for sanitizing textiles.
Rest assured that we report damaged items, such as appliances and furniture, to your insurer, facilitating a quick and seamless reimbursement process. We're also committed to securing your property from further damage and removing any debris caused by firefighting efforts.
Contact us today to receive a complimentary fire damage restoration consultation.
It is vitally important to act fast after a fire to prevent secondary fire damage problems.
Have you experienced a fire catastrophe in Amarillo? Soot and smoke can be hard to tackle, especially when the black stains have been left untreated for a long time. In addition, the acidic nature of soot and the stench of smoke can make fire-damaged brickwork challenging to restore. You may be wondering if SERVPRO can repair fire damaged bricks. Keep reading to learn about SERVPRO’s Amarillo fire damage restoration services.
What to Do After a Fire
It is vitally important to act fast after a fire to prevent secondary fire damage problems. For example, the quicker you remove soot and smoke from bricks damaged in the fire, the faster your home gets back to normal.
Seek a professional clean-up company immediately. A qualified fire restoration company can restore your house to its former glory.
Be cautious when re-entering your home before clean-up by wearing protective gear.
Properly ventilate your home to ensure circulation of air freely.
Use a professional restoration service to dry the property’s interior, neutralize the soot, and clean fire-damaged bricks.
Types of Fire Damage Affecting Bricks
After extinguishing the fire and the building cools down, a thorough inspection may reveal visual cracks, misalignments, deflections, and distortions.
Damage in mortar joints
Although bricks don’t burn in a fire, the extreme temperatures can affect mortar joints, causing brick structures to become unstable.
Cracks
Extreme temperatures can cause bricks to crack, affecting the structural integrity of a building. SERVPRO will assess the damage to see if it’s possible to repair damaged bricks or if it’s necessary to replace them.
Steel Reinforcement Exposure
Exposed steel reinforcements could result in loss of strength because of quenched steel resulting in load-bearing capacity.
How SERVPRO Repairs Fire-Damaged Bricks
After a house fire or commercial building fire, a thorough inspection of the structure is vital. Fire can damage bricks and cause cracks in places you cannot see. SERVPRO has expertise in cleaning bricks to remove soot and smoke damage. However, we can also repair bricks damaged in a fire.
Here is what we do:
The first step is to clean blackened bricks. This not only removes the harmful effects of smoke and black acidic soot, but it allows us to inspect brickwork.
Next, our team of experts identifies bricks that are cracked or loose in the wall or building facade.
If the building’s structure is intact, we will remove damaged bricks if it’s safe to do so.
The next step involves chiseling out the old mortar and cleaning the area for new bricks.
We then insert new bricks into the space and cure the mortar to ensure it sets and binds well with the surrounding brickwork.
SERVPRO of Amarillo is Here to Help
If you need a qualified fire restoration company in your area, contact SERVPRO for our Amarillo fire damage restoration services. We are the region’s fire restoration experts. You can trust us to repair or replace any damaged bricks in your home.
We have years of experience and expertise in any type of restoration service, and our customers have come to rely on us for high-quality work at a fair price. Call us anytime day or night at (806) 331-4555.
Lessons Learned: What Will Not Burn in a House Fire
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with SERVPRO — your Amarillo fire damage restoration experts.
A house fire is devastating for anyone living there. Fire rips through the property, destroying everything in its wake. When you look at a fire-damaged house, it can be difficult to believe that anything could have survived. However, not all household and precious items burn in an inferno.
According to the National Institutes of Standards and Technology (NIST), the average temperature inside a room during a house fire is around 1,800°F. While this extreme heat is hot enough to melt furnishings, destroy wooden structures, and, unfortunately, cause death, it won’t burn everything.
5 Things in Your House That Can Withstand Fire
After the fire department has left and the house has cooled down, you may find precious items in among the rubble that’s left behind.
Here are some items that won’t burn in a house fire.
Jewelry doesn’t burn in house fires
Precious metals and gemstones typically survive house fires because they have high melting temperatures. For example, gold melts at 1,943°F, meaning house fires rarely destroy gold jewelry. Diamonds have an even higher melting point of 7,280°F.
What’s the lesson learned? After a house fire, carefully check the areas where you kept jewelry. The chances are that gold necklaces, rings, and brooches have survived the inferno.
Steel filing cabinets and safes
Documents or precious items stored in a steel filing cabinet or safe are likely to survive the house fire. Steel has a melting temperature of at least 2,500°F. Therefore, you may find that your business files and documents are safe in your home office. Additionally, easily combustible items like banknotes or legal documents kept in a safe won’t burn in a house fire.
Silverware
You will probably find that silverware — knives, spoons, and forks — survived the house fire. Most flatware is made from stainless steel; therefore, it won’t melt in a blaze. However, you can expect that wooden or plastic handles won’t endure extreme temperatures.
Cookware
You may be able to salvage cookware as you go through the rubble during the aftermath of a house blaze. Cast iron pots and pans or steel cookware are designed to withstand extremely high temperatures. Unfortunately, glass lids, rubber handles, silicone seals will burn during a fire.
Tools
Hand tools are made from carbon steel so that they endure heavy use. So, you may be able to salvage your DIY tools from the garage or home workshop after a house fire. However, it’s unlikely that power tools — many of which have wires and plastic casings — will still be around once the fire dies.
Although your home may resemble a disaster zone after a dreadful fire, you may still be able to retrieve precious items from the debris. Typically, stainless steel and precious metals don’t burn, and it’s possible to restore gemstones after fire damage.
Has Your House Suffered Fire Damage? Contact SERVPRO ASAP
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with SERVPRO — your Amarillo fire damage restoration experts. We can handle every part of the fire cleanup process, including emergency services, smoke odor removal, storage, sanitization, and restoration.
We’re available 24/7 at (806) 331-4555.
A professional odor removal service like SERVPRO knows how to safely get rid of unpleasant odors.
Fires are devastating, regardless of whether they’re caused by parchment paper or something else in your kitchen.
Cooking mishaps were the biggest causes of nonresidential fires in 2019. This could be due to many factors including improper cooking techniques, carelessness, etc. But one thing is for certain — a contributing factor to the cause of these cooking fires is likely the misuse of parchment paper.
Parchment paper has the capability of causing tremendous and destructible fires in properties. But even though this common household good can pose a fire hazard, that doesn’t mean you have to throw it away. In fact, with the right fire safety protocols, you can stay safe when you use it to cook your favorite meals.
Yes, it is. Contrary to popular belief, parchment paper is flammable and can cause a fire in your home or business.
The “paper” portion of the parchment paper is the keyword you need to keep in mind. Like all paper, parchment paper can easily be set ablaze at the right temperature.
Although it is heat-resistant, it’s not entirely heat-proof. As such, you will need to be mindful of how to properly use your parchment paper when cooking.
Parchment Paper Fire Safety: Take These Precautions
When using parchment paper for your next meal, keep these facts in mind:
1. Parchment Paper Burning Temperature
Up around 420°F (215°C) is the temperature you should avoid when cooking with parchment paper. Once parchment paper reaches that temperature, it will begin smoking and will likely combust. How much heat parchment paper can withstand all depends on certain conditions.
2. Not Heat-Proof
As mentioned earlier, parchment paper is only heat-resistant, NOT heat-proof. It will be set ablaze easily once in contact with flame.
Depending on the orientation of the parchment paper during cooking, it can catch on fire easily and spread quickly. So be mindful of where the paper is placed in the oven.
3. Avoid Broiling and Using a Toaster Oven
Do NOT use parchment paper under a broiler or in a toaster oven. Broilers and toaster ovens can reach high temperatures that can cause parchment paper to combust. If not combust, at the very least your parchment paper will smoke and turn black.
4. Always be Attentive
Whenever you’re cooking, you should always be attentive and never leave your pot or pan unattended. When using parchment paper, do not place it near or on a stove.
If the paper is left on a stove that’s turned on, it will set ablaze and you will need local Amarillo fire damage restoration services after the fire is out.
Let SERVPRO Restore Your Property to its Former Glory
Fires are devastating, regardless of whether they’re caused by parchment paper or something else in your kitchen. If you need help restoring your property to pristine condition after the fire is out, call SERVPRO for our fast and reliable Amarillo fire damage restoration services.
If you need Amarillo fire damage restoration, don’t hesitate at all to contact us.
Smoke alarms have been a lifesaver for many home and business owners. Their presence allows building occupants to be aware of possible fires, many of which (1,291,500, to be exact) were caused in 2019 alone.
But despite their intended purpose, smoke alarms can go off for reasons that don’t exactly include a fire. For this reason, many property owners can often get confused as to why their smoke alarms go off randomly.
If you’re curious to know what exactly is causing your smoke alarms to blare at random moments, then continue reading below. Knowing the causes can help identify if a fire is happening and if you will need Amarillo fire damage restoration.
Placement
Even the tiniest amount of smoke is enough to set off an alarm. If your smoke detector is placed within an area where smoke is common (say, a kitchen) then the alarm will always go off.
If you’re installing a smoke detector, install it somewhere where common indoor smoke can’t reach it. Avoid installing it beside a window or door since the draft can interfere with the sensors.
Overcooking Food
When you overcook food, a lot of smoke can billow from your pot, pan, or oven, causing your smoke alarm to go off.
If your smoke detector is placed more than 10 feet away from your kitchen, but still goes off, you should consider adjusting the sensitivity of your alarm.
Dust Buildup
Dust buildup can significantly affect your smoke alarm’s sensors. Due to this, it’s highly recommended that you clean your smoke detectors with a vacuum brush attachment at least once a year.
High Humidity and Steam
If your building is incredibly humid inside, then your smoke detector can confuse the dense moisture particles as smoke particles.
This can also happen if there is steam present, such as when one is taking a shower. If your smoke detector is placed somewhere near a bathroom, you may want to move it to a different location. Or keep your bathroom fan running when you shower.
Batteries Need to be Changed
If you’ve noticed that your smoke detector is emitting a long repetitive beep, then it may be time to change the batteries.
Unless your smoke detector operates on a lifelong battery, you will need to replace the batteries at least once a year.
Call SERVPRO for All Your Restoration Needs
SERVPRO can assist you with restoration when it comes to water, mold, and other building damage. If you need Amarillo fire damage restoration, don’t hesitate at all to contact us.
Don’t let a fire ruin your Christmas this year. When you need Amarillo fire damage restoration, get in contact with SERVPRO right away.
Fires are some of the most destructive disasters, causing countless losses each year for many property owners. And while you may think it could never happen to you, you should always practice fire safety tips to ensure no harm comes to your home, business, and family.
SERVPRO has provided its Amarillo fire damage restoration for 35+ years and we’ve seen fire-causing accidents reoccur too many times for us to count. Continue reading below to learn how you can practice fire safety for Christmas.
Fire Safety Tips
There are many ways to practice fire safety. Covering them all is beyond the scope of this article. But we’ll list the most important and effective fire safety recommendations from the US Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Install a Smoke Alarm
Make sure you have a smoke alarm installed in nearly every area of your home or business. Such areas include:
Center of home
Outside
Offices
Sleeping areas
Inside bedrooms
Replace Smoke Alarm Batteries
Once every year, change the batteries in your smoke alarms. This will ensure that they always remain powered and functioning.
Remain in the Kitchen While Cooking
Christmas usually means lots of baking and cooking. But unfortunately, kitchens can be a major source of housefires. Whenever you’re cooking or baking, always remain attentive and never leave a pan or pot unattended.
Have an Escape Plan in Place
Create an escape plan when a fire occurs. Share this plan with family members and other occupants in the event a fire starts on your property. Also, practice it to ensure everybody knows how to execute the plan and stay safe.
Replace Old Smoke Alarms
If you have a smoke alarm older than 10 years, replace it asap. An old smoke alarm will likely not function as well as it should.
Fire Ruining Your Christmas Spirit? SERVPRO Can Help
Don’t let a fire ruin your Christmas this year. When you need Amarillo fire damage restoration, get in contact with SERVPRO right away.
If you find yourself needing Amarillo fire damage restoration for your home or business, SERVPRO can help.
In 2020, fire departments responded to a fire somewhere in the US every 23 seconds. Because of how randomly fires can strike, it’s vital that you don’t just know what to do in the event of a fire, but what to do in the aftermath as well.
Fires can cause a tremendous amount of damage, and while it may seem okay to be a little careless in the aftermath, there are some things you need to be mindful of before Amarillo fire damage restoration services arrive.
What You Shouldn’t Do
Even though the fire is out, there are some things you should avoid doing. They include:
Occupying the Area
Wherever the fire took place, you should avoid that area. Fires can weaken structures easily, and by occupying those areas where the fire occurred, you’ll likely cause even more damage.
Don’t Try to Fix Anything
Our Amarillo fire damage restoration services are trained to tackle the problem. If you try to restore the damage, you might only cause more problems.
What You Should Do
Keep Occupants Safe
Make sure you secure the area where the damage occurred and keep it off-limits from other occupants. This will ensure no more damage is caused while also ensuring others’ safety.
If You Need to, Remove Valuables
While you should avoid occupying the damaged space, you can remove certain valuables if you must. Valuables in the area where the fire occurred can become more damaged from remaining in a sooty, smoky room.
Call Us Today for Our Amarillo Fire Damage Restoration
If you find yourself needing Amarillo fire damage restoration for your home or business, SERVPRO can help. With our 35+ years of experience, we feel more than confident that we can provide the help and support you need.
If a garage fire has damaged your property, please feel free to contact us right away for our Amarillo fire damage restoration.
Garage fires can be an absolute nightmare to deal with, and the damage after is often costly to repair. Sure, you can just hire Amarillo fire damage restoration services, but if you’re looking to save yourself money in the long run, it’s best to prevent the garage fire in the first place.
While fires can occur randomly, SERVPRO has prepared a small guide below so that you can prevent garage fires from happening in your home or business.
What are Common Garage Fire Causes?
Electrical malfunctions, according to the US Fire Administration, are the least leading cause of residential building fires. But they are the most common cause of garage fires.
Besides electrical malfunctions, improperly stored and used fuel and gasoline are also common culprits in garage fires.
How Do You Prevent Garage Fires?
Since electrical malfunctions are the leading cause of garage fires, it’s crucial that you check up on your wiring from time to time. At least once a month, you should check the wiring in your garage to ensure everything is functioning properly.
Besides wiring, also make sure that you place your gas and other types of fuel in a separate section of your property. If you have a shed, you should put the fuel in there.
Finally, make sure you place any combustible items in your garage in a safe space. If you can, place your combustibles far away from fuel sources, wiring, and any electronics.
After the Fire, Call SERVPRO Right Away
Remember to keep fuel and gas stored properly, and fix any electrical issues to prevent garage fires.
But unfortunately, fires can happen to even the most careful homeowners. If a garage fire has damaged your property, please feel free to contact us right away for our Amarillo fire damage restoration.
No matter how safely you use them, it’s important to understand that fireplaces and chimneys can break down too.
At SERVPRO Amarillo, one of our jobs is to ensure that your fireplace continues to provide warmth and cozy comfort to your home to make it the lovely refuge you deserve. As a full-service restoration and cleaning company, SERVPRO provides you with chimney maintenance, inspection, repair, and cleaning solutions in Amarillo and across Texas.
No matter how safely you use them, it’s important to understand that fireplaces and chimneys can break down too, especially if you live in an older house. We provide quick and reliable repair and restoration services to ensure that your fireplace and chimney are safe to use, well maintained, and primed to keep you warm for years.
Fireplace Cleaning is Critical for Safety and Fire Prevention
If you neglect your fireplace and don’t get it cleaned or repaired, it can become a source of water damage, a shelter for animals, and a significant fire hazard.
The sparks that light up the fireplace are highly flammable creosote. Creosote is deposited throughout the chimney and liner. Without getting the chimney inspected, you can never guess the condition of it on the inside and how clogged with creosote it is.
It’s important to get a thorough inspection done before starting renovations. Of course, you could call the local chimney sweep to do it. But they won’t be able to tell you about the best and safest way to restore the fireplace.
That’s why it’s a good idea to call in our restoration specialists. Our experienced technicians recognize potential fireplace hazards and can fix them, keeping your fireplace in proper working order all year.
And in case your fireplace is badly deteriorated, you might need to replace the old one or install a new one. We can retrofit gas inserts and install new code-compliant gas fireplaces.
Call Us Today for Chimney Repairs and Cleaning
As Amarillo’s best, our expert technicians are only a call away. They examine the interior of your chimney to rule out any potential threats and ensure that it’s safe to use for the entire family. This is done using professional video inspection equipment that helps us look into the fireplace and sweep it carefully.
Go ahead and give us a call before winter gets here. The number is (806) 331-4555, and we’re standing by to serve you.
The experts at SERVPRO ensure the job is executed professionally.
Natural disasters, plumbing issues, sewage problems, and fire damage all lead to foul odor in a building or home. For example, the atrocious odors caused by water damage are musty, whereas those produced after a fire are too smoky to inhale safely.
Regardless of the cause, foul odors can cause health effects.
It is essential to eliminate smoke and odor as quickly as you can. SERVPRO extends odor removal and deodorization services in Amarillo to help you get rid of the foul smell.
Call us day or night for a free quote on our Odor Removal Services at (806) 331-4555.
Fixing the Root Cause
The experts at SERVPRO ensure the job is executed professionally. Instead of simply eliminating the scent, our teams identify its primary source and the surfaces it has penetrated. Once we’ve identified where the smell has permeated, we remove it entirely, at a molecular level, with equipment.
IICRC Certified Teams
Most people attempt to get rid of foul scents by masking them with a more pleasant fragrance. However, this method is only effective if the smell is not strong and persistent.
This is why SERVPRO has employed a team of trained professionals who can identify and eliminate unpleasant scents in residential and commercial settings. Our specialists use their training from the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC) to ensure that all odors are treated and eliminated correctly.
Take Advantage of Odor Removal Services in Amarillo
If you’re catching a whiff of an unpleasant scent, reach out to the experts at SERVPRO. The teams will skillfully identify the smell, find its root cause, and leave your building smoke and odor-free. You can get in touch at any time, as SERVPRO provides 24/7 emergency services.
Fire is an ever present worry. There are some things you can do to mitigate the risk to your home or business.
Dead vegetation, leaves, twigs, etc. should be removed from all outdoor areas and kept under control. Remove dead branches from trees, especially the lower branches.
Keep roofs and gutters free of debris. This should include your home and any outbuildings.
Clear and keep clear attic vents and window screens.
Firewood should be kept at least 30 feet from your home.
Roofing materials with a Class A (the highest) should be used.
Install metal angle flashing on the edge of roofs.
Exposed wooden rafters, while beautiful, should have boxed in eaves.
If the home’s siding is combustible, any decking should have metal flashing installed where it meets the siding.
The 5 feet around your home is the most vulnerable so needs to be the most aggressively maintained.
Outdoor furniture in this area needs to be fire resistant, not combustible.
Relocate all combustible materials.
Remove tree limbs that extend into this zone, it is recommended that no vegetation be within five feet of any structure.
Use only inorganic, non-combustible mulches.
The area from 5 feet to 30 feet should be kept “Lean, Clean and Green”
Regularly trim trees to keep branches 10 feet from other trees.
SERVPRO of West Amarillo is Here to Help with your fire damage. 1-806-331-4555
Give immediate notice of the loss to your insurance company.
Protect the property from further damage, by covering holes in the roofs or walls.
Make an inventory of damaged personal property showing in detail the quantity, description, what you paid for the items when you purchased, how long you have had the items, the amount of damage they sustained and how much it would cost to replace them. Include with the inventory any bills or documents which can help establish the items’ value.
Cooperate with the insurer or his adjuster by exhibiting the damaged property.
Inform your mortgage company of the fire and to keep them informed of activities to restore the property.
If you’re not insured, your recovery will be based on your own resources and help from your community. Private organizations that help with disaster relief include the American Red Cross and the Salvation Army.
SERVPRO of West Amarillo can be reached at 806-331-4555 for any and all of your residential or commercial cleaning and restoration needs.
When the emergency vehicles leave your business, call SERVPRO® of West Amarillo 806-331-4555
When a fire occurs, your property will suffer from not only fire and smoke damage, but also water damage and flooding from firefighting efforts. Depending on the severity of the fire, the accompanying water damage can be worse.
Why you should choose SERVPRO® of West Amarillo Professionals:
Faster to Any Size Disaster
SERVPRO® of West Amarillo Professionals are dedicated to responding immediately when you need help with a fire or water damage event. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, reduces cost, reduces the inconvenience.
Fire and Water Damage Specialists
SERVPRO® of West Amarillo Professionals have extensive training and equipment to get your property back to pre-fire condition, they specialize in fire and water damage restoration, it’s a cornerstone of their business.
Restore vs. Replace Approach
SERVPRO® of West Amarillo Professionals clean and restore your property using specialized equipment and cleaning techniques. They will clean the structure, the contents of the home or business, and clothing items as well. Their "restore first" mentality reduces interruption and gets you back to your life, "Like it never even happened."®
Some extreme fire damage to a ceiling in an Amarillo home.
Fires can be especially devastating to your home or business. After the fire trucks leave, your property will likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage, but also widespread water damage and flooding from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO of West Amarillo Professionals have specialized fire and water damage restoration training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your home to pre-fire condition. They also can remove the pervasive smoke odor and deep-clean soot from upholstery and carpet.
Why you should choose SERVPRO of West Amarillo Professionals:
Faster to Any Size Disaster
SERVPRO of West Amarillo Professionals are dedicated to responding immediately when you need help with a fire or water damage event. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces cost.
Fire and Water Damage Specialists
They specialize in fire and water damage restoration, the cornerstone of our business. SERVPRO of West Amarillo Professionals have extensive training and equipment to get your property back to pre-fire condition.
Restore vs. Replace Mentality
SERVPRO of West Amarillo Professionals clean and restore your property using specialized equipment and cleaning techniques. Their "restore first" mentality reduces interruption and gets you back to your life. And Mom's China? It will look as beautiful as ever.
Over the past five years, house fires have caused 2,620 deaths and $6.9 billion in property damage.
Simple steps to reduce your risk:
Never leave the kitchen while cooking on the stovetop, keep flammable items away from the stovetop.
Have the heating system in your home inspected annually, and avoid kerosene heaters.
Always use a screen for the fireplace.
Practice extreme caution when using space heaters.
Be vigilant about cigarettes.
Never plug too many appliances into one outlet, and extension cords shouldn’t be used permanently.
Use candles only in rooms where an eye can be kept on them, never leave a room with a candle burning. Extinguish all candles before leaving the house or going to bed. Use candles with a sturdy base, so they won’t fall over.
Practice safe grilling, keep a fire extinguisher handy. Do not grill indoors, not even in the garage. Don’t use gasoline!
So many tragedies can be prevented with just a little care and preparation. Protect your home, life, and family.
Dealing with Fire Aftermath? SERVPRO of West Amarillo are the Professionals to Call
SERVPRO of West Amarillo-Fire and Water Restoration Specialists. Serving Amarillo and the surrounding area since 2004. 806-331-4555
Smoke and soot are invasive and can penetrate cavities within your home causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allow us to accurately assess the extent of the damage and 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, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
The type of smoke can affect the restoration process significantly.
Types of Smoke
There are two types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of West Amarillo Professionals will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information gathered during pretesting.
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 temperatures, 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
Because each smoke and fire damage situation is 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 – 806-331-4555
SERVPRO of West Amarillo is Here to Help when it comes to fire damage. 806-331-4555
Safely using your fireplace means:
Ensure the damper is opened before lighting a fire and that it remains opened until the fire is completely out.
The glass doors need to be kept open when using your fireplace as they are only meant to contain drafts when the fireplace is not in use, also fires can get hot enough to shatter the glass.
Only burn wood! Plastics and glossy papers can have toxic fumes. Paper can also cast embers up the chimney and cause fires. Avoid wet or resinous woods such as pine as they can cause creosote to build up in the chimney which is a fire hazard.
Only start a fire with a match or firelighter, don’t use flammable liquids.
Keep flammable décor away from the fireplace, and don’t leave a fire unattended. Have a fire extinguisher handy, and know how to use it.
Crack a window when burning a fire, they require a lot of oxygen. Have a carbon-monoxide detector.
Clean the firebox between fires, putting the ashes into a metal container. Chimneys should be cleaned and inspected by a professional annually.
The roof and chimney need to be kept clean of tree leaves and needles or other debris. Tree branches need to be trimmed away from the chimney.
Safety precautions can fail. If or a loved one find yourselves the victim of a fire, Call SERVPRO of West Amarillo. We're here to help.
SERVPRO of West Amarillo is locally owned and operated. Call us at 806-331-4555
Because your neighbor had a fire!
If you find yourself or someone you know in this awkward position, never fear! SERVPRO of West Amarillo is here to make it "Like it never even happened."
This type of smoke damage is usually covered by insurance, for answers to this question it's best to call your agent to see what they say.
When smoke infiltrates your home and leaves a sooty smelly mess all is not lost!
SERVPRO of West Amarillo can remove most smoke and odors. Ceilings? no problem. Walls? easy! Floors? you bet. Air Ducts? Our specialty! We can even take care of your clothing and other textiles!
Give us a call, and we can come take a look and give you an estimate. We service all 26 counties in the Texas Panhandle so don't hesitate to call.
Any fire extinguisher needs to be inspected regularly to make sure it's in good working order.
You DO have a fire extinguisher, right?
The New York Times recommends the First Alert PRO5. It exceeds minimum size recommendations, only weighs ten pounds, has a metal valve instead of plastic, and can be recharged!
Perhaps you remember the acronym P.A.S.S.?
To help remember, you'll PASS on a fire.
P is for Pull. The silver ring threaded through the handles. Pull it out and just drop it.
A is for AIM. Aim the hose or the nozzle at the BASE of the fire.
Squeeze the handles together and Sweep back and forth.
Not so tough, but super important.
Pull Aim Squeeze and Sweep to PASS on a fire!
SERVPRO of West Amarillo will help to get rid of the smoke smell, and to clean up the soot in your Amarillo home.
You'll be happy to see your home back to looking "Like it never even happened."
What would you guess this type of smoke is? SERVPRO of West Amarillo has the answer! 806-351-4555
Smoke and soot are invasive and can penetrate cavities within a structure, leaving odor and hidden damage. Our expertise and experience with smoke damage allows us to accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.
Smoke and soot facts • Smoke will migrate to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure. • Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor. • The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.
Types of Smoke There are 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 West Amarillo Professionals will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will be based on the information identified during pretesting.
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 temperatures, 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 Because each smoke and fire damage situation is a 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 treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.
Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Us Today – 806-331-4555
Our SERVPRO of West Amarillo family urges you to use your space heaters in a safe manner.
Heating equipment is a leading cause of fires in U.S homes.
In an effort to keep our homes and workplaces warm, many people use alternative heat sources like fireplaces, portable space heaters, and wood burning stoves.
According to the National Fire Prevention Association, heating equipment is responsible for 490 civilian deaths, 1,400 civilian injuries, and $1 billion in direct property damage. Space heaters are the type of heating equipment most often involved in home heating fires, figuring in two of every five of these fires and accounting for 86% of associated civilian deaths, 78% of civilian injuries, and 54% of direct property damage.
Nearly half (48%) of all home heating fires occurred in December, January and February.
Ways to help reduce the risk of a heating related fire.
Keep anything flammable at least 3 feet away from any heat source.
Turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters.
Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container.
Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
If you or a loved on has experienced fire or smoke damage, call SERVPRO of West Amarillo. Fire and water mitigation professionals. 806-331-4555
Home electrical fires account for an estimated 51,000 fires each year, nearly than 500 deaths, more than 1,400 injuries, and $1.3 billion in property damage. Electrical distribution systems are the third leading cause of home structure fires. Many electrical fires can be avoided if basic safety precautions are taken.
Conduct a basic assessment of your home electrical system, electrical cords, extension cords, power plugs, and outlets.
Look for telltale signs of electrical problems such as dim and flickering lights, unusual sizzling and buzzing sounds from your electrical system, insulation and circuit breakers that trip repeatedly. Contact a qualified electrician immediately.
Use extension cords only temporarily, and never with space heaters or air conditioners.
Avoid overloading outlets. Consider having additional circuits or outlets added by a qualified electrician as needed.
In homes with young children, install tamper resistant receptacles to prevent electrical shocks and burns.
Test smoke detectors and AFCIs monthly to ensure that they are working properly.
Establish an evacuation plan that can be used in case of an emergency, and practice with your family.
Use light bulbs that match the recommended wattage on the light fixture.
Have your home electrical system thoroughly inspected by qualified electricians to ensure that all electrical work in the home meets the safety provisions in the NEC.
Install smoke detectors on every level of the home, inside each bedroom, and outside each sleeping area.
Ask a qualified electrician if your home would benefit from AFCI protection, especially during inspections of older homes or upgrades to electrical systems. These advanced new safety devices recognize dangerous conditions that are not detected by standard breakers.
SERVPRO® of West Amarillo is Hero Ready after your Fire
House fires occur one every 85 seconds. SERVPRO® of West Amarillo Fire & Water-Cleanup & Restoration TM 1-800-SERVPRO
After the first wave of heroes have rescued your property from a fire, let the professionals at SERVPRO® of West Amarillo help you restore the property. Combining rapid response, the utmost professionalism, and open communication, we restore not only the home or business, but the customer’s peace of mind, as well.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) offers these statistics on the top causes of house fires:
Cooking (Cause of 49% of home fires)
Heating (Cause of 15% of house fires)
Electrical (10% of home fires caused by electrical issues)
Smoking (21% of fire deaths and 5% of fire caused by smoking)
Candles (21 home candle fires are reported each day!)
If the unthinkable happens and a fire strikes, give the experts at SERVPRO® of West Amarillo a call.
Let SERVPRO® of West Amarillo help and relieve you of the worry of cleaning your home and all the contents inside. "Like it never even happened."®
Losing a home can cause significant emotional distress. You should not underestimate the challenge of evacuation, relocation, and rebuilding after a fire.
It is common for people to experience several stages of adjustment including shock, anger, depression, and hopelessness.
Recovery and coping
In the middle of a crisis, it can become difficult to take care of yourself with so many other worries occupying your mind. Some self-care strategies you may want to consider are:
Practicing proven stress-reduction techniques, such as regular exercises, meditation, and deep breathing.
Allowing yourself to feel bad, cry and release negative emotions in a healthy manner.
Giving yourself permission to feel good. You can have periods of joy even when coping with loss.
Making small decisions daily to feel in control of your life once more.
Putting off major life decisions, such as switching jobs, if possible.
Lowering your expectations of what you “should be doing.”
Not isolating yourself too much. Spending some time with people is healthy in recovery.
Talking about your ordeal with friends and family.
Taking advantage of community support.
Focusing on what you are thankful for despite your loss.
Getting plenty of rest when possible and maintain a normal sleep/wake cycle.
SERVPRO® of West Amarillo is the one to call when a fire disrupts your life. For it to be "Like it never even happened.®" call us at 806-331-4555
A house fire is devastating to the family that lives there. If you’ve found yourself at a loss wondering how to help, SERVPRO® of West Amarillo has some ways you can do just that:
The family will need new undergarments and socks.
Donate any clothing that you may not wear anymore to the family, including cold weather gear or any work attire that might be needed.
Hygiene products such as soap, shampoo, combs, toothbrushes, etc.
A homecooked meal for the family, as eating out can be expensive and become tiresome after a while.
If there are children, any toys and “busy” items to help distract them and uplift them would be welcome.
Invite them out for entertainment or in for a game night, as the small area of a temporary hotel can feel cramped at times.
Offer to help with their laundry, as they won’t have many clothes and will need to wash the ones they have more frequently.
If the family has an infant, they may need a crib, bassinet, diapers, wipes, formula, baby food, bottles, etc.
Pet food or cat litter might be needed as well.
Most important is to make sure that you provide emotional support, make yourself available to them, and do your best to alleviate any stress possible. A house fire is traumatic and stressful situation for the entire family and may be the worst time of their lives.
Home or Commercial Fire Damage Restoration Process
If you find yourself dealing with a fire loss, remember SERVPRO® of West Amarillo
Fire & Water-Cleanup & Restoration TM
Have Questions About Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Today 806-331-4555
After the fire trucks leave, your home or business likely suffers from fire and smoke damage and extensive water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals have the specialized fire restoration training needed to restore your home to pre-fire condition.
Every fire damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage emergency.
Step 1: Emergency Contact
The restoration process begins when you call SERVPRO® of West Amarillo, available 24 hours a day. Our representative will ask a series of questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us dispatch SERVPRO® of West Amarillo with the appropriate equipment and resources.
Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
Our Professionals will carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action.
Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service
Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, the SERVPRO® Franchise Professional can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs.
Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes most of the water. They will then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process.
Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
The SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.
Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing
They will clean all the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. They are also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.
Step 7: Restoration
Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.
SERVPRO® of West Amarillo, Restoration Professionals
Does your kitchen look like this after a culinary adventure?
If you find yourself dealing with fire damage, the experienced team at SERVPRO® of West Amarillo is ready to respond. We are locally owned and operated and are prepared to help with damage from fire and are able to respond quickly.
Immediate action and a fast response can limit damage, prevent further damage and reduce restoration costs. Our highly trained crews have the specialized equipment and resources to handle the job, large or small, residential and commercial. Our teams are prepared with strategically located equipment in case of fire emergency in our area from Texline to Childress and from Follett to Farwell.
Choose SERVPRO® of West Amarillo a local company that specializes in fire, water, and storm damage restoration. We are Here to Help® and ready to respond in the Texas Panhandle!
Property damage from electrical fires is $1.3 billion per year.
When it comes to your home and family, safe use of electricity is of the utmost importance.
That’s from approximately 51,000 home fires and those fires were caused by electricity. The third leading cause of home structure fires is electrical distribution systems.
Many of these fires can be avoided with added care and attention. Avoid running extension cords across or over doorways or under carpets. Consider having additional outlets added by a qualified electrician so that you don’t have to use extension cords or overload existing outlets.
Always replace damaged cords and avoid overloading outlets. Only one high-wattage appliance should be plugged into each receptacle.
Never plug an extension cord or multi plug into a power strip or surge protector
If any of your outlets or switches feel warm, or the lights flicker or dim, you should call a qualified electrician.
Even Small fires can cause odors for years to come if not properly cleaned and deodorized. Fire, smoke, and soot damage in your Amarillo home or business can create unpleasant and potentially permanent problems.
As various materials burn, the smoke produced travels throughout the structure, leaving odorous residues and deposits on surfaces and in hard-to-reach places. Unless fast, professional action is taken, these residues and deposits can cause permanent damage to contents and my result in resurfacing odors.
With technicians certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC), SERVPRO of West Amarillo professionals provide specialized services that can rid your Amarillo home or business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage.
SERVPRO of West Amarillo professionals do not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance, they seek out and remove the sources of the odor. Once the source is found, SERVPRO's own proprietary line of cleaning products is used to treat and prevent the odor from returning. Any restorable item in affected areas will also be professionally cleaned and deodorized, including furniture, draperies and upholstery, electronics, art, flooring, walls, ceilings, HVAC air ducts, and more.
Ask SERVPRO of West Amarillo to explain the various deodorization methods available and which will work best for you.
If you or a customer suffer a fire damage or some other accident and require deodorization services, contact SERVPRO of West Amarillo (806)331-4555. Whether it's fire or water damage, or just a stubborn odor that refuses to go away, we'll help make it "Like it never even happened."
After the fire trucks leave, your home likely suffers from fire and smoke damage and extensive water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have the specialized fire restoration training needed to restore your home to pre-fire condition.
Have Questions About Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Today (806)331-4555
Every fire damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage emergency.
Step 1: Emergency Contact
The restoration process begins when you call SERVPRO of West Amarillo, which is staffed 24 hours a day. Our representative will ask a series of questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us dispatch the nearest SERVPRO of West Amarillo Professional with the appropriate equipment and resources.
Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
Our Professionals will carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action.
Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service
Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, the SERVPRO Franchise Professional can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs.
Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. They will then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process.
Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
The SERVPRO Franchise Professionals use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.
Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing
They will clean all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. They’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.
Step 7: Restoration
Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.
At SERVPRO of West Amarillo, we love to aid in restoration when the need arises, but we also strive to give tips and tricks to keep you safe and out of the face of disaster, if at all avoidable. With Summer approaching, there are lots of hazards to be aware of when performing recreational summertime activities. Small moments of neglect could lead to huge moments of regret! When it comes to summertime safety, here are a few tips:
When around an open flame, such as campfires, either wear form-fitting clothes or do your best to keep loose-fitting clothes away from the open flame.
If you haven’t recently, perform a test on all fire/smoke detection systems. This may also be a good time to replace batteries if needed.
Obey “NO SMOKING” signs in ALL areas, ALL THE TIME.
If barbecuing, avoid cooking too close to the home or under structures, overhangs, and awnings to avoid structure fire.
If you go on vacation, unplug all electrical appliances before leaving. This reduces the chance of electrical fire while you are away! It may also be a good idea to have someone check on your home periodically while you are away.
Follow all Burn Bans, Fire Safety Rules, Laws, and Regulations.
Never leave an open campfire burning! Do not leave the site if there are still hot embers or small flames. If it is too hot to touch, it is too hot to leave!
Be aware of your surroundings before you ever “fire up” your barbecue grill!
When barbecuing, have a fire extinguisher on hand in case of an emergency.
Follow directions when it comes to fireworks. Never point or aim fireworks at structures, vehicles, yourself, other humans, crowded areas, roadways, other fireworks, fire hazards, compressed tanks, animals, etc. or put them in bodies of water, bottles, etc.
Always provide adult supervision to children that are “popping” fireworks.
Never ignite a campfire with starter fluids or other flammable chemicals, as these could EASILY get out of control!
Make sure your home fire pit is at a MINIMUM OF 10FT FROM YOUR HOME! Placing it closer is a fire hazard to your home!
Put fires out with either sand or water, making sure that they are COMPLETELY COOLED before you leave!
Summer is better when you fill it with positive memories and unforgettable experiences—do not let the “unforgettable experiences” be devastating ones. Following these tips will help prevent injury, structure fires, wildfires, and any other kind of devastation. We at SERVPRO of West Amarillo hope you have a SAFE and sunny Summer!
Pictured is the direct damage of the fire on the inside of the Canadian, TX home.
Towards the beginning of the year, SERVPRO of West Amarillo serviced a fire in Canadian, Texas. This fire started outside the home and eventually made its way inside. There was minimal damage, but there is no job too big nor too small for SERVPRO of West Amarillo! We were able to make it "Like it never even happened."
Have you ever wondered what to do when a house fire strikes a family, friend, or loved one’s home? House fires are devastating and destructive, and most usually everyone surrounding the victim(s) want to help in some way… But how? Here are a few of SERVPRO of West Amarillo’s tips on ways that you can help the victim of a house fire:
Provide new undergarments and socks to the family.
Donate any old clothing that you may not wear anymore to the family, including any work attire that the mother, father, or guardian may need.
Buy toiletries and hygiene products for the family, such as soaps, combs, toothbrushes, etc.
Provide seasonal necessities, such as winter coats, if necessary.
Provide a nutritional or homecooked meal to the family, as eating out can be expensive and become tiresome after a while.
If there are small children, provide any used or donated toys and “busy” items to help distract them and uplift them during trying times.
If the family is in a hotel for the time being, invite them out to do something for entertainment, as the small area can feel cramped at times.
Offer to do their laundry at the end of the week, as they won’t have as many clothes as before and will need to wash the ones that they do have more frequently.
If the family has an infant, they may need a crib, bassinet, diapers, wipes, formula, baby food, bottles, etc.
Provide food for their pets if they have any.
Any one of these things would be a blessing to the family, but most importantly, make sure that you provide emotional support, make yourself available to them, and do your best to alleviate any stress possible. A house fire is a very traumatic and stressful situation to the entire family and may be the worst day of their lives.
What do you do when you find fire/smoke damage in your home or office?
SERVPRO of West Amarillo has you covered. We have made a list of what to do and not do while you wait for help to arrive.
DO:
Limit movement in the building to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.
Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork.
Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
If electricity is off, empty freezer abd refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets. trim and appliances, them protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.
If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
Wash both sides of leaves on house plants.
Change HVAC filter, but leave system off until a trained professional can check the system.
Tape double layers of cheese cloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.
Don't:
Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces with out first contacting SERVPRO of West Amarillo.
Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture with out first consulting SERVPRO of West Amarillo.
Attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat or water with out first consulting an authorized repair service.
Consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water. (They may be contaminated.)
Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may cause secondary damage.
Send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.
If your home or business has suffered from fire/smoke damage call SERVPRO of WEST Amarillo (806)331-4555
Our crew working hard to remove drywall and insulation damaged by fire.
A fire in your home or business may not always be caused by something on your property. This particular fire was caused by the neighboring home's electrical fence. This Borger, Tx home has suffered a large loss and is requiring a substantial amount of demolition and cleaning to restore it to its preloss condition.
When a fire or smoke damage occurs and SERVPRO of West Amarillo is called out, we first access the extent of the damages to the structure and contents, and decide if it can be restored on-site, or if the contents need to be packed out and restored off-site.
With this home requiring demolition, we reached the agreement with the homeowner to pack the contents and bring them back for cleaning. We sent a demolition team back to the home to complete that stage, and kept a team at the shop to clean the contents and laundry. When the demolition is complete, we will have our cleaning crew go to the home to clean the remaining damage and prepare the home for rebuild. Once the home has been rebuilt, we will deliver the restored contents and set the home up the way it was before the fire.
If you have fire or smoke damage to your home or office call SERVPRO of West Amarillo (806)331-4555 for more information.
Fire damage, including smoke and soot, affects not only the structure of your house but also your belongings. SERVPRO of West Amarillo Professionals understand your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings are the very things that make a house a home.
If You Have Questions or Need Help, Call Us Today (806)331-4555
Contents Restoration
SERVPRO Franchise Professionals specialize in restoring contents damaged by water, fire, or mold. Their expertise and “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. They pretest your belongings to determine what items they can restore to pre-fire condition. They use several methods of cleaning your contents, including:
Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning.
Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.
Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning.
Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.
Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.
Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.
Move-Outs/Pack-Outs
If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning due to fire damage, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can conduct an organized, efficient move-out of the affected area. A move-out has several benefits, including:
A quicker remodeling process
Protecting items from potential damage
Protecting contents from further on-site damage
When restoration is completed, they will work with you to coordinate the move-in according to your needs. The services offered upon move-in may depend on your insurance coverage.
Electronic Cleanup
Fire-damaged electronics can present a serious hazard. Do not attempt to turn on or operate any electrical device that you suspect has been damaged by fire. Smoke residues can contain acids that corrode metal surfaces. If the residues are not removed, corrosion causes electronic failure in the device. A SERVPRO Franchise will coordinate the restoration of your electronics, including:
Television sets
DVD players
Computers
And more
The key to restoring electronics is taking prompt action to prevent further damage. Electronics will be cleaned and inspected by a qualified electronics technician.
Document / Photograph Drying
When your valuable documents, including photographs, are damaged by water or fire, extreme caution should be taken to help ensure the fire damage does not destroy the document. Although some documents may not be restored to pre-fire damage condition, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can save a great deal and help minimize additional damage..
Depending on the type of documents and the level of fire, smoke, or soot damage, they have five options for the restoration of documents:
Air Drying
Dehumidification
Freezer Drying
Vacuum Freeze Drying
Vacuum Thermal Drying
Contents Claim Inventory Service
When a fire emergency strikes, the damage can often feel overwhelming. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can help ease the worry and confusion during the recovery process by offering our Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS), which provides a detailed and accurate list of your belongings. They take a room-by-room inventory of your contents, including digital photos, and in some instances, bar coding.
People choose SERVPRO in the Amarillo panhandle when disaster strikes because of our highly trained team and our advanced equipment. One of the most impressive pieces of equipment is the ESPORTA. It is built to industrial standards with state of the art electronics. The Esporta wash system is capable of cleaning soot, sewage, water damage, and bi-contaminated soft items. These soft items include but are not limited to: clothing, outerwear, pillows, stuffed animals, leather items, sports equipment, helmets, boots, dolls, etc. The Esporta guarantees the best clean possible utilizing a game changing hydraulic cleaning process which has 4 different compartments with a specially patented tumble providing a food grade clean. When fire, water, mold, or anything else damages your soft goods the Esporta will bring them back to new. The system is 2x better than dry cleaning so it also gets dirty, used sportswear cleaned like it is new again. If you have a disaster and your belongings are seemingly ruined or you just need your uniforms cleaned, call the professionals at SERVPRO of West Amarillo at (806) 331-4555. We are here to help!
This Hereford, Tx house fire was caused by a lit cigarette too close to a functioning oxygen tank.
Fires can be especially devastating to your home or business. After the fire trucks leave, your property will likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage, but also widespread water damage and flooding from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO of West Amarillo Professionals have specialized fire and water damage restoration training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your home to pre-fire condition. They also can remove the pervasive smoke odor and deep-clean soot from upholstery and carpet.
Why choose SERVPRO of West Amarillo Professionals?
They're Faster to Any Size Disaster
SERVPRO of West Amarillo Professionals are dedicated to responding immediately when you need help with a fire or water damage event. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces cost.
They're Fire and Water Damage Specialists
They specialize in fire and water damage restoration, the cornerstone of our business. SERVPRO of West Amarillo Professionals have extensive training and equipment to get your property back to pre-fire condition.
They Have a REstore vs. Replace Mentality
SERVPRO of West Amarillo Professionals clean and restore your property using specialized equipment and cleaning techniques. Their "restore first" mentality reduces interruption and gets you back to your life.
24/7 Emergency Service
SERVPRO's fire damage restoration technicians are ready to help today.
