SERVPRO ® of South Tampa Smoke and Soot Cleanup

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial Electrical Fire

Smoke and soot are very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home or commercial property, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage 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 may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two 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 South Tampa will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

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

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little 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 – 813-839-6633

Why Trusting a Restoration Professional After a Fire Is So Important

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

Fire Damage in a Garage

Because of the convection pattern that flames typically form during ignition, smoky residue saturates every opening. The soot constructs up in layers that may end up being solidified and tough to eliminate which is another reason to leave the cleaning to a specialist. When the cleaning teams do arrive, they promptly different salvageable items from charred debris, taking the things creating the strongest odors out for cleaning.

Following a fire, wall surface areas can be harmed by soot. Non-water-based cleaners need to be used to remove soot from walls. These kinds of chemicals should be handled by a specialist due to the fumes and toxicity. Water-based cleaning items can cause spots to bleed into plaster walls which is why a trained specialist should be left to deal with these chemicals.  

Most importantly, a restoration effort reduces the after-effects a blaze can have on the health of those who return in. If a homeowner does not have the property restored by a professional, the results can be found later on down the line. To an untrained eye they might believe the issue has been fixed, they experience the remaining impacts of indoor air pollution for numerous months later on in the form of increased respiratory discomfort.  

Companies like SERVPRO of South Tampa are leading experts in fire restoration. They are trained to help remove your belongings as well as cleaning and storing them until your property has been restored to its original condition.

Call SERVPRO of South Tampa (813) 839-6633

5 Causes for a Fire in your Tampa home

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

Fire Damaged Room

SERVPRO of South Tampa knows that fire is one of the most hazardous types of damage that can damage your home. While safety measures can be put in place to combat fire (like having a fire extinguisher handy or a fire alarm system installed), knowing what the common causes are can help you protect your family and home.
 
Cooking Equipment
 
According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking fires are ranked as the number one cause of home fires in the United States. It is important to always be alert and aware when cooking in your kitchen, and to not leave items unattended. Pots and pans can easily overheat, food can burn, and any time large quantities of grease or oil are involved they can spray and splatter, taking only seconds to ignite into flame.
 
Electrical Equipment
 
Electrical fires are one of the most common threats homeowners face. From overloaded electrical outlets to malfunctioning appliances, fires can start fast and grow strong. Be careful not to overload your circuits or leave lights on overnight, and if you can, start conducting an annual inspection of your home’s electrical systems. This will help you identify and locate any faulty wiring, damaged outlets, or other issues your system may have.
 
Indoor Smoking
 
Smoking is a major contributor to home fires that occur in the United States each year. Lit cigarettes accidentally dropped somewhere in the home can fast ignite its surroundings and build to dangerous levels of fire and smoke. The best way to significantly reduce the risk of this happening is to stop smoking altogether or by smoking outdoors. However, if you choose to smoke inside your home, take proper precautionary measures: Do not smoke in your bedroom or forget to extinguish your cigarette if you become drowsy. Use large, deep ashtrays, and keep them away from anything that will burn.

Appliances & Dryers
 
This one may surprise some people, but your dryer could pose as a major hazard for your home if not properly maintained. When lint and dust build up over time, the dryer vent becomes clogged with highly flammable materials. Regularly cleaning your dryer’s lint trap and routinely inspecting the vent for blockage is the best way to avoid this potential danger.
 
Candles
 
Candles provide wonderful aromas and stunning ambiance to any room, but can be hazardous the moment you neglect them. Always blow out a candle before you leave a room – an unattended open flame is asking for trouble, and can fast lead to a home fire. In addition to blowing it out, be sure to clear away any flammable materials from the vicinity of the candle prior to lighting it. Trimming the wick can also help reduce the size of the flame, better containing it.
 
If you are worried about any of these hazards that may exist in your home or have any questions, feel free to call our team of pros here at SERVPRO of South Tampa at (813) 839-6633

Why Trusting a Restoration Professional After a Fire is So Important

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

Charred Room After Fire

Smoke and Soot are very Invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage 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 may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two 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 South Tampa will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

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

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little 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 SERVPRO of South Tampa Today (813) 839-6633

Why Trusting a Restoration Professional After a Fire Is So Important

4/2/2021 (Permalink)

Fire Damage in Garage

Because of the convection pattern that flames typically form during ignition, smoky residue saturates every opening. The soot constructs up in layers that may end up being solidified and tough to eliminate which is another reason to leave the cleaning to a specialist. When the cleaning teams do arrive, they promptly different salvageable items from charred debris, taking the things creating the strongest odors out for cleaning.

Following a fire, wall surface areas can be harmed by soot. Non-water-based cleaners need to be used to remove soot from walls. These kinds of chemicals should be handled by a specialist due to the fumes and toxicity. Water-based cleaning items can cause spots to bleed into plaster walls which is why a trained specialist should be left to deal with these chemicals.  

Most importantly, a restoration effort reduces the after-effects a blaze can have on the health of those who return in. If a homeowner does not have the property restored by a professional, the results can be found later on down the line. To an untrained eye they might believe the issue has been fixed, they experience the remaining impacts of indoor air pollution for numerous months later on in the form of increased respiratory discomfort.  

Companies like SERVPRO of South Tampa are leading experts in fire restoration. They are trained to help remove your belongings as well as cleaning and storing them until your property has been restored to its original condition.

Call SERVPRO of South Tampa (813) 839-6633

"Like it never even happened."

5 Causes for a fire in your Tampa home

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

Causes of House Fires in Tampa

SERVPRO of South Tampa knows that fire is one of the most hazardous types of damage that can damage your home. While safety measures can be put in place to combat fire (like having a fire extinguisher handy or a fire alarm system installed), knowing what the common causes are can
 
Cooking Equipment
 
According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking fires are ranked as the number one cause of home fires in the United States. It’s important to always be alert and aware when cooking in your kitchen, and to not leave items unattended. Pots and pans can easily overheat, food can burn, and any time large quantities of grease or oil are involved they can spray and splatter, taking only seconds to ignite into flame.
 
Electrical Equipment
 
Electrical fires are one of the most common threats homeowners face. From overloaded electrical outlets to malfunctioning appliances, fires can start fast and grow strong. Be careful not to overload your circuits or leave lights on overnight, and if you can, start conducting an annual inspection of your home’s electrical systems. This will help you identify and locate any faulty wiring, damaged outlets or other issues your system may have.
 
Indoor Smoking
 
Smoking is a major contributor to home fires that occur in the United States each year. Lit cigarettes accidentally dropped somewhere in the home can fast ignite its surroundings and build to dangerous levels of fire and smoke. The best way to significantly reduce the risk of this happening is to stop smoking altogether or by smoking outdoors. However, if you choose to smoke inside your home, take proper precautionary measures: don’t smoke in your bedroom or forget to extinguish your cigarette if you become drowsy. Use large, deep ashtrays, and keep them away from anything that will burn.

Appliances & Dryers
 
This one may surprise some people, but your dryer could pose as a major hazard for your home if not properly maintained. When lint and dust build up over time, the dryer vent becomes clogged with highly flammable materials. Regularly cleaning your dryer’s lint trap and routinely inspecting the vent for blockage is the best way to avoid this potential danger.
 
Candles
 
Candles provide wonderful aromas and stunning ambiance to any room, but can be hazardous the moment you neglect them. Always blow out a candle before you leave a room – an unattended open flame is asking for trouble, and can fast lead to a home fire. In addition to blowing it out, be sure to clear away any flammable materials from the vicinity of the candle prior to lighting it. Trimming the wick can also help reduce the size of the flame, better containing it.
 
If you are worried about any of these hazards that may exist in your home or have any questions, feel free to call our team of pros here at SERVPRO of South Tampa at (813) 839-6633

How to get rid of Fire Damage odors in Tampa

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

How to get rid of Fire Damage odors in Tampa

SERVPRO of South Tampa knows that in dealing with the after-effects of a fire, many Tampa homeowners find that smoke odors are the hardest problem to remove. The difficulty is that odors generate from multiple sources like material burned, level of heat, amount of oxygen present, and more. After extinguishing the fire, determining the exact type of odor residue is often not possible.
 
SERVPRO of South Tampa fire restoration teams combine multiple cleaning techniques and use multi-phase odor control procedures to deodorize a home and eliminate this last effect of Tampa fire damage. With them, technicians can block or destroy odor-causing, smoke residues regardless of the source or intensity.
 
The combination takes odor removal and control procedures to eliminate residues as fast as possible. Technicians first remove all property physically damaged by the fire. Burned structural and personal property exudes an incredible amount of odors, and removing them clears out what are often the strongest odors.
 
Next, they remove any visible residues. If the fire burned fast, it leaves dry, powdery residues that our SERVPRO technicians remove using cleaning sponges. If the residue is very thick, staff may use a spray bottle with water or a mild cleaning agent to make wiping down surfaces easier. A slow-burning fire usually leaves stickier residues which require stronger cleaners and perhaps even a scrub brush or other agitation device to break up them up for removal.
 
If odors remain after property removal and cleaning, then additional techniques such as vaporization are needed to deodorize the home. Multi-phase cleaning starts with chemical containment. The goal is to prevent the release of further odor-causing molecules with a chemical spray that stops it or slows down enough to move to the next phase.
 
The final step to eliminate odors is thermal fogging. Technicians disperse a solvent-based deodorant using a commercial fogger. The heating element breaks down the deodorant to the same size particles as the odor so they can penetrate walls and furniture just as deeply. 
 
Treating homes and personal property for odors can be an extensive process. If you are dealing with the effects of fire damage in your home, call SERVPRO of South Tampa at (813) 839-6633 to schedule an inspection and begin restoration.

What to do when a Fire Strikes Your Tampa Home

1/14/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke cloud

When a Fire Strikes Your Tampa Home

Fire damage in Tampa is one of the worst issues a residential property owner may have to experience. In addition to destroying an individual's valuable possessions, fires can do serious damage to the structural integrity of your property. However, learning more about what steps to take following a fire can help you limit stress, save money, and restore order in your life. To accomplish these objectives, SERVPRO offers the following short outline regarding fire damage recovery steps:

• Once a large fire strikes your property forcing you to vacate, you should not reenter. Unfortunately, fires can do significant damage to the foundation and structure of your property.
• This means that the home can harbor dangerous elements like sagging ceilings, hidden sharp objects, and electrical breakdowns. It's also important to note that your property probably has standing water following the fire due to the extinguishing activities of firefighters. These factors, a few among many, make your property a dangerous place to be.
• Be sure to consult with the department fire marshal or another official to learn when it's safe to reenter the home.
• Contact A Fire Damage Restoration Company like SERVPRO after you call your insurance company. When your property that has been impacted by fire, these pros possess the expertise, equipment, and training necessary to restore your fire damaged property with skill and speed.

There are numerous steps that fire damage restoration experts will complete restoring your property. Some of them include: 

• a thorough assessment of damages
• creation of a customized treatment plan
• cleaning, drying, and smoke and soot removal (including odors)
• elimination of damaged items like rugs, drapes, and carpets
• mold remediation, if lingering water has created this issue

DIY Cleanup and Restoration

Although many homeowners are tempted to complete the fire damage remediation process for themselves, you should avoid this course of action. Homeowners do not possess the specialized equipment necessary to complete the fire remediation work fast and correctly. Additionally, property owners are unaware of the health and safety hazards involved in the remediation process. This means that attempting to complete the restoration process on your own could make you susceptible to injury and illness.

Let The Professionals Of SERVPRO Assist You. Once you realize that you're in need of fire damage remediation services, there's only one company to call: SERVPRO. Our excellent technicians are IICRC-certified and work with skill and persistence to ensure that every corner of your Tampa home is restored to its former condition. Our industry experience has given us a profound awareness of how to expedite and optimize every component of the restoration process, and this is why we achieve such high levels of client satisfaction. "Like it never even happened."

Do you have Fire and Smoke Damage? Call Today (813) 839-6633. 24-Hour Emergency Fire Restoration Service. SERVPRO knows that fire damage can happen any time, so we’re ready to respond 24 hours, 7 days a week—including holidays.

Why Trusting a Restoration Professional After a Fire Is So Important

12/21/2019 (Permalink)

Because of the convection pattern that flames typically form during ignition, smoky residue saturates every opening. The soot constructs up in layers that may end up being solidified and tough to eliminate which is another reason to leave the cleaning to a specialist. When the cleaning teams do arrive, they promptly different salvageable items from charred debris, taking the things creating the strongest odors out for cleaning.

Following a fire, wall surface areas can be harmed by soot. Non-water based cleaners need to be used to remove soot from walls. These kinds of chemicals should be handled by a specialist due to the fumes and toxicity. Water-based cleaning items can cause spots to bleed into plaster walls which is why a trained specialist should be left to deal with these chemicals.  

Most importantly, a restoration effort reduces the after-effects a blaze can have on the health of those who return in. If a homeowner does not have the property restored by a professional, the results can be found later on down the line. To an untrained eye they might believe the issue has been fixed, they experience the remaining impacts of indoor air pollution for numerous months later on in the form of increased respiratory discomfort.  

Companies like SERVPRO of South Tampa are leading experts in fire restoration. They are trained to help remove your belongings as well as cleaning and storing them until your property has been restored to its original condition.

Call SERVPRO of South Tampa

(813) 839-6633

"Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO ® of South Tampa Smoke and Soot Cleanup

10/2/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot are very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage 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 may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two 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 South Tampa will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

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

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little 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 – 813-839-6633

Why Trusting a Restoration Professional After a Fire Is So Important

9/23/2016 (Permalink)

Because of the convection pattern that flames typically form during ignition, smoky residue saturates every opening. The soot constructs up in layers that may end up being solidified and tough to eliminate which is another reason to leave the cleaning to a specialist. When the cleaning teams do arrive, they promptly different salvageable items from charred debris, taking the things creating the strongest odors out for cleaning.
Following a fire, wall surface areas can be harmed by soot. Non-water based cleaners need to be used to remove soot from walls. These kinds of chemicals should be handled by a specialist due to the fumes and toxicity. Water-based cleaning items can cause spots to bleed into plaster walls which is why a trained specialist should be left to deal with these chemicals.  
Most importantly, a restoration effort reduces the after-effects a blaze can have on the health of those who return in. If a homeowner does not have the property restored by a professional, the results can be found later on down the line. To an untrained eye they might believe the issue has been fixed, they experience the remaining impacts of indoor air pollution for numerous months later on in the form of increased respiratory discomfort.  
Companies like SERVPRO of South Tampa are leading experts in fire restoration. They are trained to help remove your belongings as well as cleaning and storing them until your property has been restored to its original condition.

Call SERVPRO of South Tampa (813) 839-6633
"Like it never even happened"