After a fire, a professional can provide an assessment and testing inside your home to determine the extent of smoke damage. It’s important to identify areas of hidden soot, odors, and contamination. Otherwise, you may deal with indoor air quality issues and structural damage later. Before hiring a professional, here are the pros and cons you need to know.
Pro: Using Professional Equipment
Professionals use specialized tools and techniques to identify and remove smoke residue. This includes HEPA filtration, industrial-grade cleaning products and thermal fogging. Do-it-yourself methods can be effective in situations where minor amounts of smoke are present. However, often, professional support is necessary.
Pro: Fast Cleanup Efforts
Professionals have a plan in place that includes assessment, cleanup, repairs and documentation. When insurance companies are part of the process, having a knowledgeable team on your side streamlines the process of claims. It’s important that you can get back into your home or business quickly.
Pro: Peace of Mind
Smoke has the potential to seep into the deep layers of drywall, fabric, and ductwork. You may think that you’re cleaning up smoke damage fully. However, leftover damage can lead to future problems. You can experience faster breakdown of parts, components, and connections. It’s possible to experience more repair needs for things like your HVAC system.
The health impact of smoke damage is something that doesn’t always show up right away. You may have residual damage, and it’s spreading through your indoor air by way of your HVAC system. This can cause respiratory issues, allergies, asthma, and increase your risk of certain cancers or cardiovascular disease.
Con: The Cost of Restoration
A DIY approach tends to be more affordable than hiring a professional smoke damage company. However, the treatments and methods that are part of the process are something most homeowners don’t have access to. For smaller jobs, you may debate spending money on hiring a professional.
Con: Inevitable Replacement Needs
Even if you’re working with a top smoke damage restoration company, there may be a need to replace items. Sometimes, damage is so extensive that it isn’t safe to keep items. People often expect that professional support means retention of more building materials and belongings. This isn’t always the case.
What you can confirm is the health and safety of occupants when working with a professional. The goal is to address health risks and structural issues. Full-scale repairs may be necessary. It’s ideal to have access to a team that can quickly make decisions and complete the process.
Make a smart choice when it comes to addressing smoke damage in your home. Reach out to our team at United Water Restoration Group in Charlotte, NC for assistance with fire damage.
