Why is SERVPRO a Trusted Name Among Chicago Homeowners for Fire Damage Restoration?

11/16/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can neutralize pungent smoke odors in Chicago attics, but if the rafters and joists are badly fire-damaged, they must be replaced

SERVPRO techs use advanced deodorization techniques during fire damage restoration of Chicago homes 

Fire damage restoration of your Chicago home involves both removing the smoke and soot residues as well as deodorizing the smoke odors. SERVPRO is an Official Licensed Downtown Chicago Operator and has years of experience in restoring commercial and residential buildings.

SERVPRO techs use several advanced techniques to combat odors while restoring fire damage to Chicago properties. The actual deodorizing method used varies depending on the amount and nature of the smoke residue. Once the basic deodorization steps have been performed, the SERVPRO techs perform additional steps to eliminate odors from confined areas. 

How do SERVPRO techs deodorize attics during fire damage restoration of Chicago homes?

Attics present a unique challenge during the deodorization of your fire-damaged Chicago home. The two materials in the attic that are affected the most by smoke residues include-

• Insulation, and
• Structural materials such as rafters

The extent to which smoke has penetrated these structures determines the deodorization technique that SERVPRO techs use.

Fast burning fires can cause smoke particles to penetrate the insulation deeply, and in such cases, the technicians consider removing and replacing the insulation material. However, if the fires are slow burning, the smoke particles usually stay on top of the material, and a ULV fogger is used for deodorization.

In case of smoke residue deposited on the rafters, technicians focus on cleaning them with vacuuming or wiping with a damp cloth, then applying a water-based deodorizer. If the smoke residue is heavy, meaning slight charring of the wood surfaces, wire brushing, or abrasive blasting is used to remove the residue. Technicians then apply a deodorizing pre-sealer that forms a film on the surface to lock in the odors. Mechanical devices like ozone machines and hydroxyl generators are often used to neutralize the chemical composition of the odor-causing molecules. Removing, deodorizing with masking, are two of the processes to restore good indoor air quality.

Call SERVPRO of Hyde Park / E. Bridgeport / Bronzeville at (312) 509-5000; We are available round-the-clock to answer your calls.