Structural Cleaning and Decontamination
A building damaged by fire can often be restored, but careful structural cleaning and decontamination are necessary to thoroughly tend to the space. VersaPro Restoration & Construction use specialized methods to treat and remove contaminants from structural materials to restore a safe, sound environment. Emergency assistance is available 24/7.
Specialized Structural Cleaning After a Fire
Fire damage is immediate and can be extensive. The destruction caused by fire is not the only complication – soot and smoke from fire can permeate floors, walls, fixtures, and more, which allows for the harmful and constant release of toxic odors. A comprehensive structural cleaning and decontamination process addresses structures negatively impacted by fire and smoke and helps eliminate health threats from the following materials:
- Concrete. Concrete does not always suffer the heavy fire damage that other materials do, but it can be easily stained. Pressure washing and industrial scrubbers clean concrete after fire when the only concern is superficial.
- Steel. Soot buildup on a steel surface is a health hazard if the residue is inhaled. Steel exposed to high enough heat also loses strength and can buckle or bow. Emergency restoration addresses structural deformities right away to avoid safety issues.
- Drywall. If drywall has not been destroyed by fire, it is likely affected by moisture from firefighting efforts. Structural cleaning is necessary to get rid of stains, soot, and odors, along with advanced drying techniques.
- Wood. Wood is vulnerable to fire damage and smoke residue. The integrity of the wood must be addressed to ensure it can be restored, and chemical treatments and sanding may get the job done. In many cases, replacement of wood is necessary for full restoration.
- Flooring. Modern spaces contain a variety of flooring, from carpet to hardwood, laminate to tile. Carefully selected cleaning and decontamination agents can be used for each unique floor type, but quite often flooring needs to be replaced after a fire.
Components of Structural Cleaning and Decontamination
Structural cleaning and decontamination after a fire is needed to not only tend to the effects left by fire and soot, but significant water damage caused by firefighting efforts. Water has an important job in suppressing a fire, but its presence can lead to erosion and rust in the metal of a structure’s foundation and frame. Restoration pros deliver essential services:
- Scan for hidden moisture and water that could affect load-bearing materials.
- Identify areas that need repair plus waterproofing or sealing.
- Implement water extraction and dehumidification processes.
Once any water damage has been identified, another assessment of the structure’s strength and durability is necessary to recognize any signs of potential future collapse. Structural cleaning and decontamination can begin in appropriate locations and include several possible efforts.
- Removal of soot, burn marks, ash, and contaminants from structural components.
- Identification and removal of all other remnants of fire damage.
- Use of high-pressure washers, advanced scrubbers, chemical solutions, and specialized brushes to clean surfaces.
Real-time assessment of smoke and soot damage and the need for structural cleaning and decontamination leads to the appropriate repair, reinforcement, and reconstruction of a building.
Get Structural Cleaning and Decontamination from VersaPro
The aftermath of a fire is daunting. Even if damage is minor, destruction can look significant. By working with fire and smoke restoration experts, a quick determination about structural cleaning and decontamination needs is made so your space – residential or commercial – can get back to normal right away.
Contact the experts at VersaPro, serving the Detroit Metro area, to have a specialist dispatched to your location. Our services are available around the clock. Disasters like fire and smoke are never convenient. Our team of efficient and experienced pros will mitigate the problem, prevent further damage from developing, and get started on repairs and structural cleaning and decontamination.
