What to Do if Your Home Suffers From Fire Damage

1/17/2024 (Permalink)

Experiencing fire damage in your home can be a distressing and overwhelming situation. Knowing what steps to take in the aftermath is crucial to ensure both safety and effective recovery. From assessing the extent of the damage to contacting professionals for restoration, navigating the aftermath of a fire requires a systematic approach.

Let's explore the essential actions to take if your home suffers from fire damage, immediate steps to take, safety precautions, and critical measures to begin the restoration process and reclaim a sense of normalcy for you and your family.

About Fire Damage Restoration

The aftermath of a fire wreaks havoc on your home or business, leaving behind a distressing and disorienting situation. During this trying time, finding compassionate expertise is crucial. When facing the aftermath of a fire, reach out to SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel, the trusted leaders in fire restoration. Our team prioritizes your well-being, treating you with utmost care and understanding while ensuring the same meticulous attention of your home and belongings.

Addressing the pervasive damage caused by soot and smoke requires immediate action, and our professionals are primed to initiate the cleanup and restoration quickly. With specialized training, dedicated personnel, and advanced equipment, we're committed to quickly and efficiently restoring your home to its preloss condition, providing you with peace of mind amidst the chaos.

Stay Out of the House

After a fire, returning to your home without professional clearance can be extremely hazardous. The structural integrity of the building may have been compromised by the fire's heat, weakening floors, walls, and the roof, posing a significant risk of collapse.

Also, there could be hidden dangers such as smoldering embers, unstable debris, and toxic fumes from burned materials, which can cause severe health issues if inhaled. Ash residue might contain harmful chemicals and carcinogens, making the air unsafe to breathe without proper protective gear. For these reasons, it's crucial to wait for the all-clear from fire authorities or restoration professionals before reentering a fire-damaged property to ensure your safety and well-being.

Don't Wash Anything

After fire damage, it might seem logical to immediately clean floors, carpets, or upholstery; however, doing so can exacerbate the damage. Smoke residues can contain acidic elements that, when exposed to water or cleaning agents, may set the stains deeper into surfaces, making them more challenging to remove.

Also, improper cleaning methods can spread soot particles further, potentially causing more extensive and irreversible damage to these surfaces. Waiting for professional assessment and guidance ensures the application of appropriate cleaning techniques and products designed to effectively remove smoke residue without causing additional harm.

Protect Chrome with Petroleum Jelly or Oil

Cleaning and protecting chrome with a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil after fire damage is crucial to prevent further corrosion and damage. Fire can leave acidic residues and soot particles that, if left untreated, can quickly degrade the surface of chrome, leading to tarnishing and pitting. Applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly or oil acts as a protective barrier, creating a shield against moisture and contaminants that might accelerate corrosion. This preventive measure helps preserve the integrity and shine of chrome surfaces, aiding in their restoration and minimizing the long-term effects of fire-related damage.

Change the HVAC Filter

Changing the HVAC filter after fire damage is essential to prevent the spread of soot, smoke particles, and contaminants throughout the ventilation system. The residue left by a fire can infiltrate the HVAC system, potentially compromising indoor air quality if not addressed promptly. A fresh filter helps to trap and prevent these harmful particles from circulating, ensuring that the air being circulated is cleaner and healthier. This simple step not only improves the indoor air quality but also minimizes the risk of recontaminating cleaned areas, supporting the overall restoration efforts post-fire damage.

Why SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel?

Why should you reach out to SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel if your home falls victim to fire damage? Here are some reasons:

• We're Faster to Any Size Disaster: When your Holmdel home or business experiences fire damage, you need professional help quickly. SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel is dedicated to responding right away, which helps to prevent further damage and to reduce the cost of restoration.
• We're Fire and Water Damage Specialists: As fire and water damage specialists, we have the training, experience, and specialized equipment necessary to restore your home or business. We are committed to providing superior service while restoring your property back to pre-fire condition.
• Our Restore vs. Replace Mentality: Besides the obvious advantage of lower costs, "restore first" mentality also gets you back into your home or business quicker and with less disruption to your life.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Process

Every fire damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the 'typical' fire damage restoration.

• Emergency Contact - You call us.
• Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment: We'll carefully perform an inspection and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of fire and smoke damage.
• Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service: Fire damage can compromise windows, walls, and roofs, so we can board it up to maintain security and secure against more damage.
• Water Removal and Drying: The water removal process begins almost right away and removes the majority of the water. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process.
• Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces: We use specialized equipment and techniques to remove this from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.
• Cleaning and Sanitizing: We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire.
• Restoration: Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

About SERVPRO Team Harvey

SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel is proudly owned by Lance and Jennifer Harvey - a husband and wife duo that owns three other SERVPRO locations, including SERVPRO of West Somerset County and SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City.

We understand the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it “like it never even happened.”

Tips to Safely Use Your Fireplace

11/23/2023 (Permalink)

As we're sure you're aware, a roaring fireplace can create a warm and cozy atmosphere in any home, but it's crucial to use it safely to prevent accidents and ensure your well-being. Whether you're an experienced fireplace enthusiast or a first-time user, these tips will help you enjoy the comforting ambiance of your cozy home while minimizing risks.

From proper maintenance to safe practices, read on to discover essential guidelines for safely using a fireplace.

Proper Maintenance

Proper fireplace maintenance is paramount in preventing fire damage and ensuring the safety of your home. Regularly inspect and clean your fireplace and chimney to remove accumulated creosote, a highly flammable substance, which can ignite and cause a dangerous chimney fire.

Additionally, schedule an annual professional chimney inspection to identify potential issues like cracks or blockages that could pose a fire hazard. Keep the hearth area clear of combustibles such as paper, decorations, or furniture, and always use a sturdy fireplace screen to contain sparks and embers.

Finally, invest in a high-quality, well-fitted chimney cap to keep out debris and animals, reducing the risk of blockages and potential fire damage. By staying diligent with maintenance, you can enjoy your fireplace safely without the fear of fire-related accidents.

Safe Practices

Safe practices for fireplace use are essential to ensure a cozy and secure environment in your home. First and foremost, never leave a fire unattended, and always keep a watchful eye on it, especially if there are children and pets around.

Use seasoned hardwoods like oak or maple, as they burn cleanly and produce less creosote buildup. Avoid burning treated wood, cardboard, or paper, as they can release harmful chemicals or create excessive sparks.

Keep the damper open while the fire is burning to allow proper ventilation, and close it only when the fireplace is not in use to prevent drafts. Never overload the fireplace with too much wood, and use a fireplace screen to contain the sparks.

Lastly, have a fire extinguisher and a working smoke and carbon monoxide detector nearby, and be prepared to use them in case of emergencies. These safe practices will help you enjoy the warmth and ambiance of your fireplace without compromising safety.

Fire Damage Restoration

If you happen to be dealing with fire damage, we're extremely sorry to hear that. A house fire is one of the most devastating disasters that can occur. With that said, it's important that you seek help for your fire damage ASAP by calling a fire damage restoration company.

SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel is full of experienced fire damage specialists that can help get your home back to the way it was.

SERVPRO's Fire Damage Restoration Process

After the fire trucks leave, your home likely suffers from fire and smoke damage and extensive water damage due to firefighting efforts. SERVPRO has the specialized fire restoration training needed to restore your home to pre-fire condition.

When it comes to the fire damage restoration process, the steps listed below illustrate our process for the "typical" fire damage emergency:

• Step 1: Emergency Contact - The restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will ask questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources.
• Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment - We carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action.
• Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service - Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, we can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs.
• Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present) - The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process.
• Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces - We use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.
• Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing - We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. We're also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.
• Step 7: Restoration - Restoration is the final step - getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Fire Damage Tips

Following any instance of fire damage, prioritizing safety as your top concern:

1. Ensure the house is safe for occupancy.
2. Be mindful of electrical and "slip and fall" risks, which are common hazards.
3. Only engage in activities that you can safely carry out.
4. Exercise caution when handling wet materials, as they can be exceptionally heavy.

What To Do After a Fire:

To minimize the spread of soot and maintain the cleanliness of your home during fire damage restoration...

1. Restrict movement within the house to prevent soot particles from embedding into upholstery and carpets.
2. Keep your hands clean to avoid additional soiling of upholstery, walls, and woodwork.
3. Place clean towels or old linens on high-traffic areas of rugs, upholstery, and carpets.
4. If the electricity is off, empty the freezer and refrigerator, and prop the doors open
5. Safeguard chrome surfaces by applying a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
6. Thoroughly wash both sides of houseplant leaves.
7. Don't forget to replace the HVAC filter.

What Not To Do After a Fire:

1. Don't try to wash walls, painted surfaces, or shampoo carpet or upholstery.
2. Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been exposed to fire, heat, or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
3. Avoid using any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat, or water.
4. Do not switch on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet, as the wiring may be compromised.
5. Do not send clothing items to an ordinary dry cleaner, as improper cleaning methods could set the smoke odor.

How Can We Help?

Not only can we completely restore your home back to preloss conditions, but we can also perform smoke removal, debris removal, soot removal, get rid of smoke odors, and ensure a complete fire damage cleanup has been done.

If your home is also dealing with water damage due to the firefighting efforts, we can also help with water damage restoration, as we are skilled in all of the restoration topics and needs.

We will ensure that everything is taken care of with your insurance company, and walk you through our entire process so you know what is going on and when.

Our team prides themselves on their exceptional work, attention to detail, and the passion to want to help our community when they are at their most vulnerable.

So, if you need fire damage restoration, water damage restoration, storm damage restoration, or anything else - we're the restoration company that you need.

About SERVPRO Team Harvey

SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel is proudly owned by Lance and Jennifer Harvey - a husband and wife duo that owns three other SERVPRO locations, including SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan, SERVPRO of West Somerset County, and SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City.

We understand the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it “like it never even happened.”

Top Causes of Summer Fires

6/27/2023 (Permalink)

When you think of summer, you think about warmth, sun, BBQs, and beach trips. Although summer activities are always a blast - some do come with risks of fires. SERVPRO is here to give you a heads up of what to look out for when it comes to summer to prevent house fires and further damage.

Grill Fires
Many families turn to grilling for dinner and parties in the summer. After all, there’s nothing better than a grilled hot dog or chicken on a warm summer night. However, the Topical Fire Report Series found that there are roughly 5,7000 home grill-related fires each year. To prevent this from happening to you, just be aware of a few things:

• Be sure to light your gas grill with the lid open
• Look to make sure the propane is hooked up to the hose tightly and that there are no loose ends throughout the grill
• If you’re using a charcoal grill, be sure that the coals are cooled before leaving unattended
• Be careful where you position the grill, the heat can melt just about anything that is behind it

Air Conditioners
Many air conditioners cause house fires every year. This is normally due to fault wiring and a lack of cleanliness. Before using your air conditioners, be sure to check out the wires, clean out the filters and the fan, and test it out in shorter time periods before letting it run all day - especially if you plan on leaving the house.

Fireworks
Summer is a time for celebration! Whether you’re celebrating a high school graduation, a birthday, or The Fourth of July, fireworks have become more common when it comes to celebrating. Make sure if you are going to light them off at your home, to have someone that knows what they are doing. Also, light them off as far from your home and neighbors as possible.

Smoking
Smoking can cause fires any time of the year, but if the weather has been dry and someone flicks a cigarette or something alike, chances are it can catch fire on the dry grass near your home. If you or someone at your home is smoking, be sure that they are using an ashtray or something that will help take out the fire so there is no risk of damage.

Fire damage is one of the most heartbreaking occurrences that a homeowner can deal with. That is why it is important to pay attention to all of the preventative measures. If you do have a fire damage emergency and need restoration assistance, SERVPRO is here to help. We’ll ensure that your property goes back to like it was - almost like it never even happened.

About SERVPRO Team Harvey
SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel is proudly owned by Lance and Jennifer Harvey - a husband and wife duo that owns three other SERVPRO locations, including SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan, SERVPRO of West Somerset County, and SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City.

We understand the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it “like it never even happened.”

5 Common Causes of House Fires

2/9/2023 (Permalink)

There is a long list of causes when it comes to home fires. They're beginning to become fairly common. When you're a victim of a house fire you lose everything; all the memories you've made, burnt to a crisp. So, it’s important to be aware of the common causes of house fires so you can pay more attention and be prepared.

Cooking
Cooking is actually the leading cause of home fires in the U.S. Obviously you can’t stop cooking, but there are some tips you can follow given from the National Fire Protection Association to prevent fires from developing:

• Be alert. If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol, don’t use the oven or stove.
• Stay in the kitchen while you’re frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you need to leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the oven or stove.
• If you are simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, check it regularly. Remain in the home while food is cooking and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
• Keep your stovetop clear of anything that can catch fire, including oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, or curtains.

Heaters
Heating equipment is another common cause of house fires. If you’re using old space heaters, consider replacing them with new ones that automatically turn off when overheated, tipped, or have a timer. Remember to keep them at least 3-4 feet away from anything flammable. When it comes to furnaces and chimneys, it’s important to remember to get them professionally inspected, cleaned, and maintained every year. This will prevent debris, build-up, and issues from developing that could cause fires.

Electrical Systems
If you’re just moving into an older home, it’s smart to get a professional electrician out to review all of the wiring to ensure it is all working properly and safely. Be sure to keep an eye out for any discoloration around outlets, as this is a sign of faulty wiring, which can cause a fire. If you notice a burning smell or see lights flickering more than usual, just call a professional to come take a look at everything. It’s better to be safe than in a fire.

Candles
Did you know every year candle fires account for hundreds of thousands of dollars in property damage and hundreds of unnecessary injuries and deaths? With that said, please remember to only burn candles when you’re home and awake, keep them away from anything flammable, don’t let it burn all the way down to the bottom of the glass, and keep them out of reach from children or pets.

Smoking
Smoking is yet another common cause of house fires. If you continue to smoke, we have some tips that we got from the U.S. Fire Administration for you to follow:

• Smoke outside
• Put cigarettes all the way out
• Never smoke around medical oxygen
• Never smoke in bed
• Put your cigarettes out in an ashtray or a bucket with sand, never throw them on the ground.

SERVPRO Fire Damage Repair and Restoration
After the fire trucks are gone, your Hoboken home and belongings likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage, but also extensive water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO of Hoboken / Union City has the specialized fire and water damage cleanup and restoration training and experience to quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition. We also have specific training and equipment for odor removal and deep cleaning of upholstery and carpet.

Fire damage can be devastating for you and your family. Feelings of confusion and stress are common, and you need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis. We always treat your family with the greatest empathy and respect, and we’ll treat your property with great care.

About SERVPRO Team Harvey
SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan is proudly owned by Lance and Jennifer Harvey - a husband and wife duo that owns three other SERVPRO locations, including SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan, SERVPRO of West Somerset County, and SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City.

We understand the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it “like it never even happened.”

What to Do About Secondary Damage After a Fire in Your Aberdeen Home

1/31/2023 (Permalink)

The damage left behind after a fire can be devastating. While some of the restoration requirements are obvious, it’s important to remember to take care of the secondary aspects, such as smoke cleaning, to ensure that your home is fully livable. SERVPRO can help in many ways, and one of them is providing you with a list of what to do about secondary damage after a fire in your Aberdeen home.

Smoke Odor
Before you remove the smell of smoke, you must eliminate all sources of smoke damage, such as burned materials. Have you ever smelled burning plastic? Yeah, you don’t want that. From there, be sure to ventilate the room by opening windows and turning on fans. To circulate and filter the air, you’ll need specialized equipment including air-filtration devices, Hodroxyl generators, Ozone machines, and thermal foggers. Confused? It’s a good thing SERVPRO has all of that!

Soot Residue
Even if an area of the home or a specific object wasn’t burned, the particles carried by smoke can still leave black residue behind. Soot, or carbon residue, is the result of organic matter that hasn’t burned completely. If you attempt to clean it with a sponge or rag, it can smear and permanently stain your walls or surfaces. Instead, use a dry cleaning sponge that can absorb the buildup, or leave it to the team at SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel.

Water Damage
The fire-fighting process can cause significant water damage as well. If water issues aren’t addressed, you can have a much bigger problem to deal with: mold. Because materials like carpeting, insulation, and certain types of drywall aren’t able to dry thoroughly, there’s a good chance you’ll have to get rid of them. Be sure to remove and dry all other items.

Contact SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel After a Fire
The longer fire damage stays unaddressed, the more issues you’re likely to have to deal with down the road. The experts at SERVPRO are available 24/7 and will respond quickly to any restoration emergency.

About SERVPRO Team Harvey
SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan is proudly owned by Lance and Jennifer Harvey - a husband and wife duo that owns three other SERVPRO locations, including SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan, SERVPRO of West Somerset County, and SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City.

We understand the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it “like it never even happened.”

Holiday Safety Tips to Prevent Fires and Frozen Pipes for Your Aberdeen Home

12/21/2022 (Permalink)

‘Tis the season for mistletoes, holiday music, and mall madness. However, ‘tis also the season for house fires and water damage.

Keep your holiday celebrations safe and worry-free with Aberdeen/Holmdel’s SERVPRO, providing you with holiday safety tips to prevent fires and frozen pipes for your Aberdeen home.

Preventing Holiday Home Fires:

Space Heaters
Whether you have a space heater from the 90s that is still kicking or a new, visually appealing fireplace heater, here are some tips to help you avoid a fire due to your heater.

• Never turn on a heater you suspect is damaged.
• Before use, inspect the heater, power cord, and plug for any defects.
• Never leave the heater operating while unattended, or while you’re sleeping.
• Keep materials such as beds, sofas, curtains, papers, and clothes at least 3 feet from the front, top, sides, and back of the heater.
• Make sure the heater plug fits tightly into the outlet - if not, don’t use this outlet. Poor electrical connections are another leading cause of fires.
• Ensure that the heater is placed on a stable, level surface and located where it will not be knocked over.

Christmas Trees
One of the deadliest types of fires that occurs during the holiday season involves live Christmas trees. Here are some tips to help you avoid Christmas tree fires.

• Keep your tree properly watered
• Check for electrical issues and broken bulbs when hanging lights on the tree.
• Remove heat sources in close proximity to the tree.
• Unplug your tree when you’re not home and overnight.

Fireplaces
There’s nothing like sitting in front of a fire, sipping cocoa, and watching a holiday movie. Keep fires from reaching outside the fireplace with these safety tips:

• Clean up build-up and ash before lighting a new fire.
• Schedule an annual chimney inspection before the season.
• Use safe fire starters - this includes well-seasoned hardwood or CSIA-approved logs.
• For kindling, stick to fired twigs or branches
• Ensure all of the embers are completely burnt out before heading to bed.

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes
Did you know that burst pipes are one of the most common causes of property damage during the winter? When temperatures plummet, your house pies can freeze and burst, causing thousands in water damage. Do the following to help prevent this:

• Keep garage doors closed, especially if there are water supply lines in there.
• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing, especially if your sinks are on exterior walls.
• Let cold water drip from the faucets.
  Keep your thermostat set to the same temperature during the day and at night.
• If you’re going away, make sure you leave the heat on in your home no lower than 55 degrees fahrenheit.

What if My Pipes Are Already Frozen?
There’s a few things you can do if you notice your pipes are already frozen.

• Turn on the faucet - as you heat the pipe and the ice begins to melt, you want the water to be able to flow through. Doing this will help the ice melt.
• Apply heat to the section of the pipe using an electric heating pad, hair dryer, space heater, or wrap pipes with towels soaked in hot water.
• Call a licensed plumber.

What if The Damage Has Already Been Done?
If you had a house fire or water damage, give SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel a call. We specialize in disaster restoration and can help with fire damage restoration, water damage restoration, mold remediation, and much more.

Reach out with any and all of your questions and inquiries: (732) 290-3170

About SERVPRO Team Harvey
SERVPRO of Holmdel/Aberdeen is proudly owned by Lance and Jennifer Harvey - a husband and wife duo that owns three other SERVPRO locations, including SERVPRO of West Somerset County, SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City, and SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan.

We understand the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it “like it never even happened.”

Fireplace Safety Tips to Protect Your Monmouth County Home

11/22/2022 (Permalink)

Fireplace Safety Tips to Protect Your Monmouth County Home

Home fire safety is essential and even more so if you own a fireplace. It’s a nice feeling to curl up in front of a warm fire during the fall and winter seasons, but it’s a nicer feeling to know you’re safe. Whether you have a wood-burning, gas, or electric fireplace, use these fireplace safety tips to protect your Monmouth County home.

The first and foremost thing you need to do is get your fireplace professionally cleaned and chimney sweeped. Having a professional come to your Holmdel home to get rid of any debris will help prevent house fires and allow you to light fires without excess smoke. While they’re there - it’s also important that they look out for any sneaky animals that made their way in.

Other fire prevention tips include:

• Cracking open a window while the fire is burning
• Being sure the damper or flue is open before lighting or starting a fire
• Making sure all embers have completely stopped burning when you’re heading to bed or leaving your home
• Check the damper by looking up into the chimney with a flashlight
• Use smaller pieces of dry and well-aged wood and avoid wet or green wood, which causes more smoke and soot buildup in the chimney
• When cleaning a fireplace, remove ashes from previous fires, keeping levels of the ash to 1 inch or less
• Make sure the area around the fireplace is clear of anything that is potentially flammable
• Never leave a fire unattended
• Home fireplace safety should include keeping a fire extinguisher on hand

Fire damage can be especially devastating, but you can avoid it with these fire prevention tips. SERVPRO of Holmdel/Aberdeen can help you with fire damage restoration and home fire safety. We will be there for you in a crisis with our specialized fire damage equipment and expertise.

Reach out with any and all of your questions and inquiries: (732) 290-3170

About SERVPRO Team Harvey

SERVPRO of Holmdel/Aberdeen is proudly owned by Lance and Jennifer Harvey - a husband and wife duo that owns three other SERVPRO locations, including SERVPRO of West Somerset County, SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City, and SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan. 

We understand the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it “like it never even happened.”

Is Smoke Damage Covered By Insurance?

4/7/2022 (Permalink)

If your property or one adjacent to you has recently sustained a fire, you may be left to deal with smoke damage. You may be worried about making a claim with your insurance company because you're unsure if smoke-related damage is a covered loss. Here's what you need to know.

About Soot Damage and Insurance

In most cases, any damage from smoke will be covered by your commercial insurance policy, even if the fire occurred at a company right next to yours. That said, you'll need to file your claim properly to increase the chances of it being accepted. Follow these steps:

• Contact your insurance company to report the smoke damage and file a claim
• Assess your loss and prepare a smoke cleanup plan with the help of professionals at SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel
• Record proof of any damage and repairs in photographs, receipts, and other documentation
• Prepare for the insurance adjuster to arrive for surveying purposes

Following the steps above will increase the chances of restoring your property as best as you can. Having a solid plan of action will also make it more likely that your insurance company will approve your claim.

Smoke Cleaning Assistance

SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel is a fire damage restoration company with a team of experts who can help you navigate the claims and restoration process. We are here to help you on an emergency basis, ready to assess the situation and help you build a cleanup plan that will eliminate smoke from your building and reduce odors.

If your home or business is in need of fire restoration or cleanup services, contact SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel today.

Want to learn more about our fire services?
Contact us today at (732) 290-3170.

In a Fire, Time is of the Essence

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know that you have fewer than two minutes to escape a burning home or office building before it may be too late to get out? It takes virtually no time at all for a small flame to become a major inferno. Time is of the essence in these situations, so you need to be prepared.

Have an Escape Plan

According to the American Red Cross, only 26% of families and businesses have created and practiced a fire escape plan. Paired with working fire detectors, this is your key to survival.

At SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel, we've seen the life-altering effects of fires, and we want you to be prepared in case you're ever faced with one. Here are some suggestions to help you create your emergency escape plan, if you don't already have one:

• Draw a map - Create a map that includes all levels of the building. Label all windows and doors. Plan at least two ways out of each room.
• Consider escape ladders - If you your building doesn't already have escape ladders, consider purchasing collapsible ladders to store by windows in bedrooms on the second and third floors
• Teach your children - Once you have your map, teach your children how to escape on their own.
• Practice, Practice, Practice - Review and practice the plan during different times, day and night.

When every second counts, it's important to plan ahead. If your home or business is in need of fire restoration or cleanup services, contact SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel today.

Want to learn more about our fire services?
Contact us today at (732) 290-3170.

What's That Smell?

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

A fire at your home or business can leave behind soot and smoke damage that you can't see, but can definitely smell. Ceilings, walls, flooring, and woodwork can trap the odors that fire leaves behind. So, how can you get rid of that potent smell and restore a fresh, clean environment?

You Need a Professional Fire Restoration Company

Even a small fire can leave odors lingering long after the event if not properly cleaned and deodorized. That's why it takes more than some off-the-shelf cleaning spray to get the job done. Professional fire restoration experts are a necessity to remove the residue and deposits on surfaces and in hard-to-reach places.

At SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel, we have the training and equipment to identify and eliminate these offensive odors. After identifying the source and conditions, our technicians use a proprietary line of odor-removal products capable of penetrating surfaces to neutralize an unpleasant odor thoroughly. We also offer a variety of deodorization methods to fit all your needs.

Want to learn more about fires and odor removal?
Call our experts today at (732) 290-3170.

What to Do About Secondary Damage After a Fire

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

The damage left behind after a fire can be devastating. While some of the remediation requirements are obvious, it's important to remember to take care of the secondary aspects, such as smoke cleaning, to ensure that your home is fully livable.

Smoke Odor

Before you can remove the smell of smoke, you must eliminate all sources of smoke damage, such as burned materials. From there, be sure to ventilate the room by opening windows and turning on fans.

To circulate and filter the air, you'll need specialized equipment, including:

• Air-filtration devices
• Hydroxyl generators
• Ozone machines
• Thermal foggers

Soot Residue

Even if an area of the home or a specific object wasn't burned, the particles carried by smoke can still leave black residue behind. Soot, or carbon residue, is the result of organic matter that hasn't burned completely. If you attempt to clean it with a sponge or rag yourself, it can smear and permanently stain your walls or surfaces. Instead, use a dry cleaning sponge that can absorb the buildup, or leave it to the team at SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel.

Water Damage

The fire-fighting process can cause significant water damage as well. If water issues aren't addressed, you can have a much bigger problem to deal with: mold. Because materials like carpeting, insulation, and certain types of drywall aren't able to dry thoroughly, there's a good chance you'll have to get rid of them. Be sure to remove and dry all other items.

Contact SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel After a Fire

The longer fire damage stays unaddressed, the more issues you're likely to deal with down the road. The experts at SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel are available 24/7 and will respond quickly to any restoration emergency. Call our office at 732-290-3170.

Why Two Minutes Make a Difference in a Fire

10/7/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know two minutes can make a difference between life and death if a fire starts in your home? As research shows, people may have as little as two minutes to escape a home fire before it's too late, according to the National Fire Protection Association.

The best way to protect yourself and your home from fire damage is to identify and remove fire hazards, and have a fire escape plan.

Fire Safety Tips to Protect You and Your Home

Nearly 60 percent of house fire deaths occur in homes with no working smoke alarms. During a fire, having working smoke alarms and a fire escape plan that's been practiced regularly can save lives and your home.

• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas.
• Test smoke alarms every month. If they’re not working, change the batteries.
• Talk with all family members about a fire escape plan and practice the plan twice a year. Include two ways out of every room ( usually a door and a window), with a clear path to an outside meeting place (like a tree, light pole or mailbox) that’s a safe distance from the home.
• If a fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT, and CALL FOR HELP. Never go back inside for anything or anyone.

SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel Is Here to Help in a Fire

Fire and smoke damage is especially destructive. In many instances your property will also suffer from water damage from firefighting efforts. The team at SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel specializes in fire and water damage restoration. We have advanced equipment, training, and certifications that allow us to restore your home to pre-fire condition.

SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel is locally owned and operated and we are proud to be part of this community. We're also part of a national network of franchises with special disaster recovery teams placed strategically throughout the country to respond to large-scale fire, water, and storm disasters.

Want to learn more about our fire damage services?

Call us at (732) 290-3170 today.

The Most Common Cause of House Fires

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

Fires can start for many reasons, but when it comes to your home, the leading cause is cooking, according to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA). By taking a few common-sense precautions, your family can savor the aroma of delicious meals, instead of dealing with the smoke and damage from a kitchen fire.

SERVPRO’s Tips to Avoid Cooking Fires

• Watch the heat: The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking, so stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. Also be sure to check the food regularly if you’re baking, roasting, or boiling.
  
• Keep flammable items away from heat sources: Oven mitts, potholders, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, curtains, and paper or plastic bags can catch fire.
  
• Dress thoughtfully: Remember that loose clothing, long sleeves, and scarves, can dangle onto stove burners and catch fire.
  
• Clean often: Clean up spills, grease, and oil as soon as possible when the stovetop or oven is cool.
  
• Stay alert: Too little sleep, alcohol consumption, and some medication can make you drowsy and less able to concentrate on cooking safety.
  

Make kitchen safety a priority every day and you’ll be less likely to start a fire that can cause serious damage. If a cooking fire does break out, you can count on SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel can start the fire cleanup and restoration process almost immediately. You can feel more at ease knowing we have specialized fire restoration training, personnel, and equipment to quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Looking for more information about fire damage?

Contact us today – (732) 290-3170

How to Find Rapid Response Solutions for a Fire-Damaged Property

4/19/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know the average restoration cost after a small fire is $3,000 to $5,000? Larger-scale fires can destroy roofing and potentially exceed $50,000 in repairs and replacement costs. Fires are often sudden and costly disasters that can impact a home at any time. You need to be prepared if one threatens your property.

The good news is your local SERVPRO provides professional fire restoration services for Aberdeen and Holmdel properties and can return your homes to pre-disaster condition. Our expert team adheres to standards set by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), using commercial-grade tools and EPA-registered biocides.

Odor Damage Control After an Electrical Fire

Electrical fires are known to produce unpleasant and often unhealthy odors, due to:

• Charred electrical wires and burnt rubber
• Melted or singed plastics
• Burnt carpeting and fibers on the property, such as pet hair or clothing fibers
• Damaged flooring or furniture finishes

Our SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel techs provide profession odor-control solutions that include sanitation tools, thermal foggers, and hydroxyl generators.

If you’re looking find rapid-response fire restoration services in Holmdel or Aberdeen, SERVPRO is faster to any disaster.

Call Us Today – (732) 290-3170

Can You Stay in Your Home After Fire Damage?

2/18/2021 (Permalink)

If your house survived a fire, you may wonder if it’s safe to stay there in the aftermath. Many people who go through this traumatic experience have the same concerns about being around fire damage.

The answer depends on the severity of the fire, but it’s a good idea to consider temporary accommodations elsewhere, if possible. In the meantime, SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel can come to the rescue to quickly clean and restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Potential Risks from Fire Damage in Your Aberdeen or Holmdel Home

It’s usually better to be safe than sorry when it comes to sticking around your house after a fire. After the fire trucks leave, your property will be left not only with fire and smoke damage, but also widespread structural damage, water damage and flooding from firefighting efforts. Some of the potential risks include:

• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards
• Soot from combustion, which can contain toxins
• Broken doors or windows, or hanging roof tiles, leave your house vulnerable to the elements

SERVPRO is Here to Help After a Fire

Until SERVPRO’s expert technicians arrive to survey the damage, resist the urge to clean, use electrical appliances, or even open canned or packaged goods that may have been near the fire’s heat. It takes specialized fire and water damage restoration training to ensure that the property — and your health — are safe and sound.

Our team has the expertise and equipment to safely remove pervasive smoke odor, deep-clean soot from upholstery and carpets, take care of structural repairs, and use a carefully monitored drying process to address residual water from fire hoses.

Once you’ve found temporary living accommodations, leave the rest to us. We’ll take care of it, “Like it never even happened.”

Worried About Fire Damage?

Call Us Today – (732) 290-3170

Can Smoke Residue Affect Indoor Air Quality?

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

A fire can end up destroying your property in many ways, but have you ever thought about how it affects the indoor air quality? In addition to the soot and smoke, combusting  materials release hundreds of chemicals and volatile particles that need to be addressed immediately. The impact on your indoor air quality can eventually have an impact on your health.

What to Do When Entering a Property After a Fire

If you enter a property with visible signs of smoke or soot damage, it’s essential to wear a respirator. SERVPRO recommends using an N95 (or equivalent) to avoid inhaling soot particles or microscopic dust. Better yet, allow our team to inspect your property for potential damage that may be damaging your indoor air quality before entering.

How SERVPRO Restores Air Quality?

It’s important to remember that not all soot is the same. When the technicians at SERVPRO Aberdeen/Holmdel begin fire damage restoration in your home or business, we conduct a thorough inspection to analyze the damage and strategize the correct method of elimination.

We’ll devise a cleaning strategy that disconnects and removes soot from surfaces. This involves application of cleaning solutions or solvents and focusing on salvageable materials. From there, we rinse and remove residues and dispose of them according to federal and state laws or regulations.

What Should You Do If You’re Dealing with Fire Residue?

SERVPRO recommends that you avoid adding water to any areas containing smoke or soot soiling. There are also several rules and regulations involving the disposal of fire soiling and the chemical solvents used to dissolve them. Instead, leave the work to the professionals.

If you’re dealing with a fire-damaged property and need assistance controlling indoor air quality, odor and loss mitigation, contact SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel at (732) 290-3170 for assistance.

Want to learn more about fire damage and air quality?

Call Us Today – (732) 290-3170

What are Some Common Causes of House Fires?

12/4/2020 (Permalink)

Fire is one of the most traumatic disasters that any homeowner can experience. Even after flames are put out, the smoke residue can continue to destroy valuable items and housing materials. Fortunately, when you contact SERVPRO technicians within 48 hours, we can inspect your property and restore it to its pristine state.

What are some common causes of house fires?

Kitchen Fires

Most house fires occur between 5-6:00 p.m., right when parents come home from work and start to make dinner. When using kitchen appliances, it’s important to remember to never leave cooking food unattended. One small fire can quickly become uncontrollable if left alone for too long. 

Electrical Issues

Statistically, faulty electrical equipment causes up to 6% of all house fires. Routinely check your appliances for damaged or frayed cords and replace them as soon as possible. 

Heating Appliances

It’s very easy to get distracted and forget to turn off heating equipment in your home. Make a habit of turning off any hot appliances such as irons or ovens, when leaving the room. 

Carelessness

Accidents happen. But it only takes a moment to remember to blow out the flame of a candle or put out a cigarette. Also, ensuring your hot appliances are not near combustible items can save your home and family time and money. 

 Open Flames

Home amenities like fireplaces, candles and outdoor bonfires are enjoyable when controlled, but can quickly turn disastrous if left unattended.

Call SERVPRO After a Fire 

The team at SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel are certified to conduct fire damage restoration. We use cutting-edge techniques and advanced equipment and tools that effectively handle fire loss incidents of any magnitude. 

Once technicians get to your property promptly and begin mitigating the fire damage immediately to prevent substantial repair costs. Our restorers can remove valuable items from the affected area to access every corner of your property. And as always, we keep you informed during every step of the mitigation and restoration process. 

After a fire loss, contact SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel at (773) 290-3170 immediately to mitigate the damage. We can quickly restore your property to its pre-damaged state. "Like it never even happened."  

Want to learn about fire and fire damage?

Call Us Today – (732) 290-3170

Getting Rid of Odor after a Fire

10/13/2020 (Permalink)

Structural fires at a home or business can be overwhelming, but it’s good to know SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel has a knowledgeable team of mitigation experts to reduce property loss. While debris removal, demolition, and deep cleanings are essential to the process, it’s also critical to address the widespread odors that can also permeate the property.

Here’s how SERVPRO can help.

Deodorization

Deodorizing is a critical step in the restoration process of fire damage to homes and businesses. Smoke molecules and the combustion of plastics and other organic materials can lead to a harsh combination of concentrated odors—especially strong in the area where the fire began. SERVPRO has a suite of deodorizing tools that can reduce or eliminate these noxious scents, including our thermal fogger.

Thermal Fogging

Fogging machines are effective in the removal of smoke odors because the generated vapor can penetrate difficult-to-reach areas and affected surfaces. Deodorizing compounds come in many pleasant scents or odorless selections, each rapidly heated by the machine to produce fog. When in contact with smoke and odor molecules, these deodorizing agents can neutralize the compounds.

There are a lot of obstacles after a fire loss incident, you can count on SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel to assist. With our expertise and technology, we make a fire emergency seem “Like it never even happened.”

Dealing with fire odors?

Call Us Today – (732) 290-3170

Most Common Causes of Fire in the House

6/17/2020 (Permalink)

A fire in the house can start quickly and spread fast. From the misuse of an appliance to smoking in your bedroom, fires are living, breathing entities that can destroy your life in an instant. In fact, house fires are the leading cause of all fire deaths in the United States. 

Here are five of the most common causes of house fires and some fire prevention tips. 

How Do Fires Start? 

1. Cooking appliances. Pots, pans, and burning food can easily overheat and catch fire you’re not paying attention. Stay in the room when cooking or ask someone to watch your food while you‘re away from the kitchen. 

2. Candles. Many of us love a nice-smelling candle. If left unattended, it could cause your house to go up in flames. Keep them away from items like books, napkins, and tissue boxes. And of course, always blow them out before leaving a room. 

3. Heating. Portable heaters are used a lot during the winter months. But heating equipment is the second-leading cause of U.S. home fires and the third-leading cause of home fire deaths. Keep portable heaters at least 3 feet away from furniture, laundry, curtains, clothes and anything else that may be a hazard. If you have a furnace, make sure it’s inspected once a year. 

4. Electrical equipment. Microwaves, toasters, and skillets should always be double-checked before using. Overloading an adapter plug can also cause a fire in the house from overuse of electricity. Don’t plug too much in at once. 

5. Smoking in bedrooms. Bedrooms should be considered off limits from smoking. Mattresses and bedding can catch on fire easily, even when you’re awake. Just imagine if you fall asleep with a lit cigarette.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (732) 290-3170

How Can Fire Smoke Damage Affect My Holmdel Home?

4/19/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO to handle the smoke damage in your home to make it seem, “Like it never even happened.”

Fire Smoke Damage Can Cause Discoloration and Etching of Affected Surfaces and Unpleasant Odors in Holmdel

A fire can ruin some building materials and contents of your property, causing irreversible destruction. The flames can move from one item to another, burning them down. The heat a fire produces can radiate and cause nearby items to crack, melt, or even shutter. Once firefighters extinguish the fire, you have to deal with smoke damage.

How can fire smoke damage affect my home?
If you do not attend to fire smoke damage in your Holmdel residence, it can devastate its contents and the structures. That’s the reason why you need to clean up smoke and soot fast after a fire. Smoke may act as an acid and eat away at different materials if you do not clean it up.

One way that smoke can ruin your home is getting into small crevices and cracks because the particles are so fine. Smoke particles can remain undetected for a long time, and they can leave a lingering smoke odor that lasts for months. Structural destruction in the affected areas involves burned materials like countertops, cabinets, and furnishings. If the fire burned for a lengthy period or many materials burned, odor problems are more significant. Hot air rises, and for that reason, smoke damage commonly occurs in the following places:

    •    The areas above where the fire blazed – If no strong currents flowed through the house, the most significant smoke residue usually concentrates on the ceiling above where the fire started.
    •    Outside windows and walls – Cold air usually sinks below the warmer air, and this opens up a path for the smoke to travel to exterior walls and windows. Even though a fire concentrated in the middle of a room, it is common to find a lot of smoke residue on exterior walls.
    •    Surrounding environment – Your house has enclosed spaces, decorations, carpets, furniture, walls, and other features that interact with smoke. Smoke damage can occur in the seemingly enclosed spaces like closed closets, dresser drawers, and wall cavities, which seem closed off. These areas might have more soot than the areas where the fire blazed.
    •    On blinds and behind drapes – A considerable difference in temperature usually occurs between an affected room and the space behind drapes. Naturally, smoke moves to cooler areas, and it is not unusual to find more smoke residue behind drapes than on surfaces facing the room. Similarly, pull shades and Venetian blinds usually attract smoke residue more than surrounding surfaces.

After a fire strikes your house, it is best to call a professional smoke damage restoration firm such as SERVPRO to assess the destruction and come up with a mitigation plan to handle the fire-related damage.

Is it possible to salvage some items?
Yes, you may be able to salvage some items if they are not severely burned. One of the things we consider is cost since some items cost more to salvage, and it is better to replace them. Our restorers can determine which items to clean, replace, or discard.

How do restorers eliminate smoke damage?
Our team locates smoke residues by scrutinizing the affected area. We begin the inspection close to the source of the fire and determine how far smoke traveled through the building.

Our SERVPRO team can ventilate your home thoroughly and properly to allow some smoke particles to leave and prevent them from settling into other items. We can also remove most of the debris and clean all surfaces or areas where the destruction took place.

Our restorers can also use order neutralizing products to remove smoke orders from the house. We can eliminate the smell from your home by removing and cleaning affected items. We can also use suitable products to clean the building materials of your house to eradicate the smell.

Cleaning items with smoke odor

Curtains and upholstery
Our crew can use specialized tools and techniques to eliminate smoke particles from curtains and upholstery. Our specialists can decide which materials are cost-effective to clean. Regular vacuum cleaners can cause more destruction by pushing soot and smoke particles deeper into the material.

Wooden furniture
It is tricky to clean wood furniture. If you do not use suitable cleaning agents, you may end up stripping the varnish and stain. Some cleaning products can also cause the metal frame to rust. Our team knows which cleaning agents are suitable for each material.

Hardwood flooring
Hardwood flooring is porous, and this means that smoke particles can get nestled in it easily. In severe cases, it might be necessary to refinish or replace the floor. If the damage is not critical, our team can mop and deodorize the hardwood floor.

Household textiles
Smoke odor can remain in carpets, clothing, and drapes unless it is deodorized properly. Our SERVPRO team can use deodorizing processes that break up the smoke molecules to eradicate the smells.

Removing smoke odor from your home
The heat of a fire can cause the pores in the walls to expand, and they can fill with smoke. Once the fire is extinguished, the home cools, and the pores close, trapping the smoke smell in between the walls of your house. When the weather is warm, the pores open and release the trapped smoke smell. We can eliminate this odor by using thermal fogging equipment. Thermal foggers heat the deodorizer and spray it in the form of a fog. The deodorizer can reach even the spots that are tough to reach. It attaches to the smoke particles and absorbs them, therefore neutralizing the odors. We may also spray an odor counteractant on structural surfaces or use a duct sealer to seal exposed structural timber.

Saving time is vital when dealing with fire smoke damage. By acting fast, you can prevent permanent destruction. Call SERVPRO of Aberdeen / Holmdel at (732) 290-3170 to handle the smoke damage in your home to make it seem, “Like it never even happened.”

For more about Holmdel click here.

We Put The Flames Of Worry Out In Holmdel After A Fire

2/27/2020 (Permalink)

Our fire and smoke restoration technicians helped return this bathroom to its pre-fire conditions after we received a call from the homeowner.

Fire Damage can Leave Your Holmdel Residence’s Furniture Stained and Saturated with Smoke Residue

When the plastics inside a Holmdel residence catch fire, the thick black smoke forcing its way into the air cover surfaces with an oily soot. This residue might feel oily but it contains numerous tiny and very sharp particles that work their way into surfaces. Other materials leave behind a dry soot, albeit still full of sharp, microscopic particles, but we can more easily clean this from upholstered furniture.

When SERVPRO works on a residence in Holmdel with fire damage, we address not only the structural concerns but also the contents. These items are what make your house a home, and restoring them often saves significant amounts of money. Replacing items that we could restore through cleaning and making minor repairs costs our customers money they could use elsewhere. 

To strip soiling away caused by fire damage, we use special solvents that increase the pH to 10. This helps dissolve the oils in the soot and keep them from staining the fabric. We do this using a method called the Showcase cleaning method and it also protects the fabrics from over-cleaning.

We gently brush off any excess soot of the dry variety and test for colorfastness in a relatively unsoiled area. Along with the usual shampoo, we combine a cleaner and rinse combination. This strengthens the shampoo and helps disintegrate the soot. 

Upholstered furniture comes in different fabrics, some of which are much more loosely woven than others. To keep from wetting the cushion underneath the upholstery, we dip the sponge or brush in the suds on top of the solution, and not in the actual liquid. We use sponges and only the softest brushes to clean the more delicate fabrics, as stiffer bristles can damage the weave, as well as the actual fibers.

Once we finish cleaning each piece, we rinse it with an upholstery machine and extract the excess moisture. We then tent the cushions to ensure even drying, checking periodically to rotate the cushions.

SERVPRO of Aberdeen / Holmdel treats each aspect of your home after fire damage takes a toll. We also restore homes after other disasters. Call us at (732) 290-3170 for mitigation services in Hazlet, Aberdeen, and Matawan.

See more about Holmdel.

Professional Restoration Services Make All the Difference for Your Fire Damage in Holmdel.

1/20/2020 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO help restore your Holmdel home after a fire damage.

Fire damage in your Holmdel home.

In Holmdel, we live a reasonably pleasant life.  We enjoy the beauty of our community and its proximity to larger metropolitan areas.  It is not a coincidence that publications recognize us as a great place to live year after year.  However, not all is picture-perfect, and homeowners are not immune to the perils of owning a home.  Changing seasons and the effects of the weather all contribute to making property owners vulnerable to accidents and natural disasters.  Sometimes, these mishaps also appear due to our own doing, such as leaving an open flame unattended. Regardless of its origin, restoring your home after a misadventure is of top priority to preserve your sanity and sense of normalcy.

If your home in Holmdel suffers from fire damage, our crew at SERVPRO is at your fingertips.  All you need to do is call our 24/7 hotline and allow us to arrive at your home to assess the damage and develop a clear and specific plan to restore it as soon as possible.  Beyond the actual residue left after the fire, homes can encounter ancillary complications. For example, you may find that the sprinkler system wet your belongings, altering moisture levels, and creating a need for water extraction and drying efforts.  Similarly, the fire can leave behind a foul smell that permeates your furniture and curtains, and no store-bought air freshener seems to work. Regardless of your situation, our expert technicians are here to help.

Homeowners who question whether their job requires a professional team should reach out to us at SERVPRO and allow us to share why we can make a difference.  Aside from having staff specially trained to tend to situations like yours, our equipment is also industry-grade and not generally available to the average homeowner.  The combination of our training and tools make the restoration process an efficient one and allows us to mitigate your losses in terms of both time and money.

At SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel, we sincerely hope you never encounter a situation in your home that requires our services.  However, please rest assured that a call to our office at (732) 290-3170 is a call to industry experts.  Our goal, like yours, is to leave your home, “Like it never even happened.”

To find out more about Holmdel, click here.

Call Us Anytime Day Or Night In Holmdel After A Fire Strikes

12/5/2019 (Permalink)

Our technicians helped return this bathroom to its pre-fire conditions after a fire struck this home using our expertise, experience and equipment.

Proper Restoration for Holmdel Smoke and Fire Damage

Many Holmdel property owners do not realize how destructive fire losses can become. Even smaller disasters that can get quickly extinguished have the potential to disperse harmful smoke particles, soot, and other debris throughout the house. These particles can linger in the air long after a fire gets extinguished, making it a wise choice to seek out the experience and cutting-edge equipment available to our SERVPRO professional restorers.

Because homeowners and occupants of the residence should not stay subjected to these harmful particulates for prolonged periods, handling fire damage in Holmdel houses should happen immediately. Our technicians are on call 24/7 to mobilize to disasters even as they are happening. We strive to provide a fast turnaround on fire losses, helping to get emergency services and mitigation tactics started as soon as first responders have approved entry into the property.

Fire damage can force the relocation of families, so efficiency is vital to getting these people back into their homes as promptly as possible. This process starts with establishing an understanding of the preloss condition of the residence and the work necessary to return the house to that point. Our SERVPRO team has a comprehensive approach to fire recovery, actively staying involved with mitigation, cleaning, reconstruction, and final restorative steps. Not only does this save our customers money, but it can make restoration more efficient as well.

Smoke and soot effects present the greatest obstacle to getting families back into their homes after a fire. We have cutting-edge air quality devices like air scrubbers and hydroxyl generators that can both utilize HEPA filtration to limit particulates circulating in the air. Not only can these devices help to make the air cleaner to breathe in the recovery zones, but it can simultaneously reduce harsh smoke odors present in the area as well.

Even small fires can present enough of a risk to homeowners to require temporary relocation. We work with you and your insurance company to provide the fastest path to getting things back to normal through nearly every task in the restoration of fire losses. Give our SERVPRO of Aberdeen / Holmdel a call anytime at (732) 290-3170.

See more about Holmdel.

Get Rid of Fire Damage Once and For All in Your Holmdel Home

10/19/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can remediate fire damage in your Holmdel home.

Meeting the Needs of Your Insurance Provider After A Fire in Holmdel

Every insurance provider is different and knowing what your specific company requires after a disaster is the difference between a slow recovery process and one that can start immediately for Holmdel homes. Fires require a fast response where mitigation is a vital element to keeping restoration costs from steadily increasing. Our account with more than 800 insurance companies can help to streamline the inspection and approval processes to get our technicians working to protect your home as quickly as possible.

We strive to meet the needs of your insurance provider by working with the adjuster on inspections and estimations, as this keeps all parties aware of fire damage in Holmdel residences and the expected plan to correct it. We encourage homeowners to reach out to our SERVPRO team first so that we can get started on the inspection and estimation portions of the project to help expedite claims approvals and green lights for starting our mitigation and restoration phases.

The work that our crew chief and production manager do when assessing damage begins to meet the demands of your insurance provider. We catalog damages and photograph affected areas so that we can better document the work that must get completed to bring your home back to preloss condition.

Because of our experience in the fire recovery niches, we have a full roster of qualified professionals to handle nearly every aspect of restoration that your home needs. We even have a team of licensed general contractors that can help through the controlled demolition and build back portions of recovery for your household. Our SERVPRO technicians can arrive with fully stocked ready trailers to get mitigation work started and work to establish containment zones to prevent the spread of soot, smoke, and odors.

We know that with every passing hour, the situation can worsen in a home that has suffered the effects of a fire loss incident. Let our SERVPRO of Aberdeen / Holmdel team help you to make this situation “Like it never even happened.” We are available 24/7 by calling (732) 290-3170.

Click here to learn more about the township of Holmdel

Call SERVPRO for Smoke Damage Cleanup

4/20/2019 (Permalink)

Fires can be especially devastating to your home or business. After the fire trucks leave, your property will likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage, but also widespread water damage and flooding from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel have specialized smoke damage cleanup and restoration training to restore your home to pre-fire condition. They also can remove the pervasive smoke odor and deep-clean soot from upholstery and carpet.

Our Smoke Restoration Process

SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel know just how devastating a fire can be. Fire and smoke damage can leave your house unsafe and unlivable. Our professionals are trained to clean and restore your home with as little disruption as possible.

Smoke and soot are very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke restoration expertise and experience allow 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.
• There are different types of smoke—wet and dry, which create different types of soot residue after a fire.

Our Smoke Damage Clean Up Process

Before restoration begins, SERVPRO 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. Regardless of the circumstances, you can count on our expertise to take the right steps to improve the damage.

For more information, call (732) 290-3170.

Fireplace Safety

10/24/2018 (Permalink)

Home fire safety is essential, and even more so if you own a fireplace. Who doesn’t love curling up in front of a warm fire during fall and winter seasons? It’s important to know that any type of fireplace, whether wood-burning, gas, or electric, poses a potential danger to your home and loved ones. Use these fireplace safety tips to keep your family safe.

Fire Prevention Tips for Homes with a Fireplace

• Crack open a window while the fire is burning.
• Be sure the damper or flue is open before lighting or starting a fire, and until embers have completely stopped burning, to draw smoke out of the house.
• Check the damper by looking up into the chimney with a flashlight or mirror.
• Use smaller pieces of dry and well-aged wood for home fire safety, avoiding wet or green wood, which cause more smoke and soot buildup in the chimney.
• Have a professional check the chimney annually.
• When cleaning a fireplace, remove ashes from previous fires, keeping levels of the to 1 inch or less for less smoke
• Check for animal nests or other blockages that could prevent smoke from escaping.
• Make sure the area around the fireplace is clear of anything that is potentially flammable.
• Never leave a fire in the fireplace unattended and be sure it’s completely out before going to bed or leaving the house.
• Home fireplace safety should include keeping a fire extinguisher on hand.

Fire damage can be especially devastating, but you can avoid it with these fire prevention tips. SERVPRO of Aberdeen / Holmdel can help you with home fire safety and be there for you in a crisis with has the specialized fire and water damage equipment and expertise. Contact us to learn more.

Flooding & Fire Restoration: Reasons To Hire A Company

8/2/2018 (Permalink)

A lot of people may be stressed about home restoration after flooding or a fire, but even if you are faced with a bad insurance policy or don't know who to hire, don't do this job yourself! Fire restoration and handling water in basement or other areas of the home is not a job for the everyday person for a variety of reasons.

• You're not a professional and most likely, don't quite know what you're looking for…and Dr. Google can't give you that expertise in a few Google searches
• You won't have the right equipment and could expose yourself to more toxins and smoke that you don't need to because of that fact
• The difference between the amount of time it will take you to restore your house vs. how long it will take a restoration company is huge
• You won't remove everything you need to, simply put

Let's dive into some of the issues that a home restoration company can manage and spot that you can't do on your own, when dealing with water and fire damaged homes:

Here's How Restoration Companies Help With Water & Fire Damaged Homes

Water in basement? Mold all over? Intense fire damage? Restoration companies are a worthwhile investment for your own health and the value of your home. Here's why:

1. Water Problems

You probably can't even see the real water damage.

You can remove floodwater, but all the mold, fungus and microbes in the floodwater can grow in wet and moist locations. You may not see it happening right away, but they cause severe illnesses. Over time, you and your family could start to get sick. There is no price too high for your health. A restoration company has the experience and equipment to get rid of these invisible invaders that cause so much havoc on your home and health. And trust us: many individuals have spent countless hours researching mold inspection near me because of health symptoms like allergies and breathing issues. Don't let this happen to you and your loved ones.

2. Fire Damage

While fire will create clearly marked areas of damage, fire also can create more "invisible issues" that the everyday person won't be able to discern.  Usually, this is damage from the smoke. You may have areas of your house that look fine but have intense smoke damage. Only a professional would be able to tell.

And, let's not forget the smell of fire. Smoke is not an easy smell to remove, which is why you should step back and let the professionals handle it.

So, hopefully you realize how valuable a restoration company can be for you. And before you start to look into fire damage or mold inspection near me, consider the following factors when picking a company to entrust with your home:

1. A restoration business should get back to you within an hour of your call, no matter when you call. Their business is helping people with emergencies and disasters.
2. Research their services ahead of time to be sure they can do everything you need first. Plus, a reputable company will offer everything from clean up to restoration.
3. Are they insured? Make sure they have liability insurance just in case something happens while the company is on the job.
4. Read reviews—see what others have had to say about them.

Going through a flood or fire is stressful, but things will get better. The first step is finding a great restoration company that will put your home back together so you can be secure again, and avoid unwanted health hazards like mold and smoke.

Fire Damage Before and After

7/24/2017 (Permalink)

Before and After

This family’s Monmouth County home had significant damage from a fire. It’s always devastating when a family experiences a house fire, but SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel worked hard to recover the structure and contents. We were able to remove the soot and even the smell of the smoke from the home, so that the family returned to a safe, clean space. Our goal is always to make your home “Like it never even happened.” 

What To Expect: 

When we visit your home after a fire loss, we will scope the effected areas to determine the extent of the loss. We will always pretest affected surfaces to determine the type of smoke and which products will help us recover the area most effectively. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. If a fire has damaged your home, call us right away at 732-290-3170. SERVPRO of Aberdeen/ Holmdel will treat you and your family with empathy and respect, and your property with care.  

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 Aberdeen/Holmdel 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. 

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 –732-290-3170

Fire and Smoke Cleanup and Remediation

7/20/2017 (Permalink)

MONMOUTH COUNTY AREA SMOKE AND SOOT CLEANUP

Fire Damage

Have you experienced a loss due to a fire in Your Monmouth County area Home?

CALL SERVPRO OF ABERDEEN/HOLMDEL 24/7 at 732-290-3170

Smoke and soot are very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. We are experienced in assessing and inspecting the extent of smoke or soot damage and our expertise allows us 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, SERVPROof ABERDEEN/HOLMDEL 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 treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call SERVPRO of ABERDEEN/HOLMDEL at 732-290-3170