What to look for in a restoration company

12/4/2018 (Permalink)

No one plans for a disaster, but quick action after a calamity and bringing on SERVPRO of West Forsyth County to mitigate and repair everything can save both time and money. Most of the homeowners living in Winston Salem area who call a restoration company, are doing so for the first time. In many cases, these individuals are concerned about who will in their home.   How will they help with this huge mess and where do I start.   There are many things that cannot be fixed after a disaster and will have to be replaced. Though it may be difficult, this is a process that has to be dealt with swiftly, as the longer it takes to respond, the more damage will add up and make the situation worse.

The problem with burn damage is that it doesn’t end when the flame goes out. There are some things you should do and things you shouldn’t. Ash left behind is highly acidic, and will slowly eat away whatever it touches. Silver and metal finishes can be pitted when left untreated with time. Within minutes, plastics are yellowed and any appliances in the vicinity of the combustion are discolored. This discoloration gets worse and worse, and begins to affect fiberglass and metals after several hours. Fire and flood restoration typically must begin before a few days pass, because metal corrosion takes root and wood furniture requires refinishing as quickly as possible.

After a few weeks, huge costs can be expected, because at this point, carpet needs to be ripped up and replaced, and metal and glass will be permanently etched, many times, beyond the point of being able to salvage it. Getting to the damage quickly is a SERVPRO of West Forsyth County trait. This means windows and appliances will need immediate attention to avoid replacing them. Piping may also be damaged beyond repair, and multiple leaks may cause water damage throughout the home. SERVPRO of West Forsyth is certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration. We can keep this from happening. We are equipped to replace carpeting that is beyond repair and clean furniture in an effort to save it. Restoration is less expensive that replacement, so if we can save you money while making it “Like it never even happened” we will.

Another major disaster that many homeowners have to deal with each year is extreme water damage. This may happen following a hurricane or major storm that causes a river or lake to overflow.  We have seen in recent month’s rain in the Clemmons NC area of 2 inches per hour. Flash floods can occur anywhere.  Water can cause catastrophic and permanent destruction to a building, and it’s not unusual for those affected to be condemned and removed completely in the worst case scenarios.

The problem is that water is that it accelerates the growth of many nasty organisms, from molds and fungi to bacteria and parasites. All of these represent major health hazards, and are difficult to remove if they are allowed to take root. While SERVPRO of West Forsyth County can stop the spread of these organisms by removing rotting material, a homeowner can help out by getting rid of some items in the home right away.

Anything that is textile-based will need to go if it is soaked by water contaminated by sewage. It is often difficult to tell if this is the case, we will err on the side of caution and remove them anyway. Carpeting in the home will need to be ripped up and discarded if it is not dried within 48 hours of being soaked, including the padding that lies underneath the fibers. Clothing, insulation, bedding, paper and stuffed toys will all need to be thrown out if they come in contact with contaminated water. Electronics will likely be destroyed if submerged, though it’s best not to test them, as wiring can be damaged and cause electrical shock. When a catastrophe such as either of these occurs, it is best to contact a reputable company to help as quickly as possible.

SERVPRO of West Forsyth County has the knowledge and equipment to help you and your family should they suffer a WATER, FIRE or MOLD Damage. It’s Best to call us directly 336-946-1131