4 min read
Incidents involving fire often have disastrous consequences. A tiny spark can become a flame that consumes your entire property in just a matter of minutes. It becomes even more devastating when you consider the amount of damage on your property outside those consumed by the flames.
Knowing What to Expect: Sources of Water Damage After a Fire
Being faced with the aftermath of such a disastrous event is never what you might expect. For instance, most people would never expect to see considerable water damage after fire incidents. Yet, the amount of water involved in such incidents can be substantial and can come from a variety of sources, including:
Firehose
The severity of water damage inflicted by emergency fire response activities will depend on the extent of the fire. In most cases, the water they use will be localized to a particular room or area around your property.
However, bigger fires will require more water to suppress the fire completely. As a result, your property will get flooded, which deals considerable water damage to your walls, floors, ceilings, appliances, and furniture.
Burst Pipes
A pipe bursting can cause excessive water damage after fire incidents. This occurs when the fire produces enough heat to cause the pipe to burst. Most residential and commercial pipelines are made from cast iron, steel, or copper, which are capable of withstanding high temperatures.
However, some pipeline systems now use PVC, which melts more easily, causing excessive amounts of water damage across your property. This can, however, be prevented by shutting off your water main.
Sprinkler Systems
The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) requires the installation of automated sprinkler systems in commercial environments. They contain a heat-sensitive glass bulb that shatters upon reaching a specific temperature.
When this happens, water starts to flow over the affected area to help control the flames and mitigate fire damage. But in the process, the action of the sprinklers contributes to water damage after a fire.
How to Deal With Water Damage After a Fire
The prospect of property damage and loss can be overwhelming, to say the least. Most homeowners even struggle with the mental stress of recovering after such a devastating event.
When going through such an unfortunate incident, know that it’s normal to go through various emotions as you cope. Take the time to process these emotions as well as the aftermath of what has happened so you can carefully plan your next steps.
Here are a few recommendations on what you can do to deal with water damage to your property after a fire:
Contact Your Insurance Provider
One of the first things you should do is contact your insurance provider to let them know about the disaster that has just occurred. This initial call can kickstart your claims process as they provide you with all the information you need about filing a claim.
Locate Salvageable Items and Important Documents.
When fire responders have ruled it safe to enter the premises, do so with caution and carefully explore the surroundings. As you examine the damage, take this chance to look for any important items and documents you can salvage.
Initiate the Drying Process by Removing Standing Water
If the water level is low enough, take this opportunity to begin the drying process by removing standing water from the area. This can help mitigate the damage to your property, such as preventing the growth of mold. If there is any available, you can use tools like a push broom to sweep away water from the floor slowly.
Seek Help from a Professional Service Provider of Fire and Water Restoration in Austin
Enlist the help of fire and water restoration Austin professionals to begin repairs on your property and hasten your recovery. After receiving your call for assistance, these professionals will respond with haste to begin the restoration process right away. They can offer the following services to restore your property to its pre-loss condition in no time:
- Standing water removal
- Dehumidification
- Soot and odor removal
- Damage mitigation
- Emergency repairs
- Property renovation and restoration
Your Go-To Fire and Water Restoration Austin Specialists
At Restoration 1, we understand that a devastating event like a fire can take a toll on you and your family. Our restoration professionals act swiftly with compassion to make the process as seamless as possible to allow you to focus on other important matters.
We handle everything on our end to restore your property to its pristine condition as quickly as possible. Call Restoration 1 of Austin today for a free consultation!
