Tulsa's trusted Water Damage, Fire Restoration and Mold Removal Service expert
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It may seem like there are more questions than answers when you are dealing with water, fire and smoke or mold damage. Here are some answers to commonly asked questions.
First, call for emergency services at once. The local fire department is equipped to combat a house or business fire with the right resources. Once the fire is extinguished, call Restoration 1. When the premises are declared all-clear by the fire department, our team can begin the restoration and cleanup process.
It can take several hours to weeks to clean up the fire damage, depending on the severity. The size of the property and the number of items inside are factors that influence how long the process will take.
Always put your safety first. We typically advise that you keep out until the fire department gives an “all-clear” and allows you to reenter. Understand that a recent fire, even if extinguished, is still unsafe. The smoke and soot can cause respiratory illness, and the fire itself has likely damaged walls and flooring. For instance, even if a floor or wall looks sturdy, these components may be compromised. The floor could give way, or the wall could crumble.
No – it’s best to leave the cleanup to the professionals, who are much better-equipped to handle the aftermath of a fire or flood. Generally, homeowners are not trained to handle contaminants, such as those found in soot and smoke, and will lack proper safety equipment.
Restoration 1 works quickly to salvage and restore as many of your items as possible. Any items affected by the fire are carefully evaluated and salvaged. We absolutely do our best to rescue your prized possessions.
Following a fire, water damage, or mold contamination, you must always be concerned with structural integrity. A disaster will typically weaken the supports of a building. The chance of a wall crumbling or a floor giving way is a genuine possibility. In addition, each of these disasters can affect your health in the form of contaminants, chemical residue, and mold spores.
The items you can rescue from the home will depend on the situation. In the event of a fire, items can be replaced – consider the safety of you and your family first and foremost. If you do happen to have an opportunity to salvage anything, retrieve only your most prized possessions – those that cannot be replaced.
We recommend beginning this “cataloging” process today. Whenever possible, document your costly possessions and snap a photo. Make notes of when/where an item was purchased. Do you have receipts for items? Then include those in an album of the entire list, so you know what must be replaced. Hopefully you’ll never need this list, but if you do, you’ve already saved yourself time and stress.
Restoration 1 recommends investing in a fireproof safe to keep your most prized possessions protected in case of fire or water damage. Such safes are a wonderful investment, though a bit costly upfront. However, they’ll keep special possessions out of harm’s way!
Generally, your homeowner’s insurance policy will cover the cost of repairs and restoration. However, each policy is different. You may wish to file a claim and speak with an insurance adjuster before contacting Restoration 1 for assistance.
Yes – we absolutely recommend filing a claim with your insurance company. If you have homeowners insurance, your policy may cover the cost of repairs and restoration. But each policy is unique – read through yours carefully!
We will work with your insurance company to ensure you receive the necessary restoration services. Many insurance providers are happy to work with a company capable of restoring a property to pre-disaster state.
The technicians at Restoration 1 are equipped with the latest tools, technology, and safety equipment to handle any type of contaminant found in a residential home. We have vast experience handling both asbestos and lead during the restoration process!
You may wish to speak with a contractor who specializes in remodeling or home upgrades beforehand. Restoration 1 specializes in restoration, cleanup, decontamination, and reconstruction where necessary.
Mildew is a fungus that is easily distinguishable by its gray or white coloring. Both mildew and mold are found in moist areas. Mold is typically green or black in color, and results from more severe water damage. Also, mold is potentially harmful, though you should avoid touching either fungus.
Mold stems from moisture, and it can present a slimy, wet, raised appearance, while mildew is “flat.” You can spot mold growth by its dull green, charcoal or black color, and patch-like appearance. Remember, mold growth may be concealed under floors, in the ceiling, behind walls, etc. You may literally smell mold, or suffer physical symptoms such as coughing or sneezing when mold is on your property.
The cost for mold remediation varies depending on the situation. We must first inspect the property and assess the extent of the growth before pricing our services. Restoration 1 is always upfront and honest about pricing for services.
Following water damage, mold will begin to spread within 24 to 48 hours. Within a matter of days, the mold continues to spread throughout the property. An HVAC system or extensive ductwork will aid the mold spores in their travels throughout your home or business – that’s just another reason professional help is required.
We understand your urge to “just do it” – but it is absolutely true that you should never handle mold yourself. Mold is harmful to the health of people and pets. It requires specialized equipment and safety gear to properly remove a mold infestation. One wrong move could allow spores to spread further into your home or business.
Generally, mold remediation requires 3–7 days to ensure no further spores have been transported to other areas of the building.
Mold remediation is designed to reduce the overall levels of mold within a property. Almost every building in the country has mold at an acceptable level. Remediation ensures mold remains at that “normal” level.
Mold causes health issues similar to allergies, which can include coughing, congestion, irritation of the skin or eyes and sore throat.
At Restoration 1 of Tulsa, we know how to best approach a disaster while keeping the safety of your family or employees top priority. Our highly skilled technicians are certified by both the Institute of Inspectors, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and the Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA).
Tulsa's trusted Water Damage, Fire Restoration and Mold Removal Service expert