Recent Fire Damage Posts

How to remove Soot from Concrete

2/13/2023 (Permalink)

Brick Soot

Fires can happen anywhere. While the cause of fires vary, every year thousands of homes, commercial properties, and industrial facilities deal with the cleanup after a blaze. In the aftermath of a fire, structural engineers and insurance companies will work together to determine if a property can be salvaged. In many cases, a fire restoration specialist will work with the owner to resurrect the property from the ashes. 

The approach a fire restoration specialist takes to remove soot from brick can be different depending on the cause of the fire, how long it burned, what the fire consumed, type of fire damage and where the soot accumulated. These factors, plus the amount of square footage damaged will determine the recommended cleaning methods. Fires that involve diesel fuel, plastics, rubber, or other petroleum based products typically create an oily soot while fires that involve wood and other construction materials can leave fine powder residue.

Brick is particularly susceptible to water absorption and subsequent damage. Caution should be used when pressure washing brick with liquid cleaning products, as they can penetrate porous masonry products (including mortar and brick) which can lead to material breakdown and deterioration.

Micro-abrasive cleaning is a dry option that cleans the surface soot without the need to deal with liquid runoff. Sponge Blasting is one of the faster methods of soot removal.

Fireplace Safety Tips

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know that the leading cause of accidental fires in American homes comes from fuel burning appliances? According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, solid fuel burning appliances account for 5 to 10 percent of all household fires, and cause major damage for homeowners. The main causes of fire include: inadequate clearance between the wood burner and walls, floors and furniture; creosote buildup in the chimney; poorly or improperly installed chimneys and improper installation of the wood burner itself. These wood burning and fireplace safety tips can help keep you and your family safe this winter.

Fireplace Safety Tips

  • Read the instructions for your wood burning stove and follow them carefully
  • Do not use flammable or combustible liquid (gasoline, kerosene, lighter fluid, etc.) to start a fire
  • Do not burn plastics, wood or garbage that has been painted or treated with chemicals. These materials can create toxic gases and can cause corrosion in the vent, chimney and heater
  • Burn wood recommended by the manufacturer only
  • Put ashes in a metal container with a metal lid. Then place this container onto a concrete surface away from combustible materials outside. These embers may still be hot for several days, so always dispose of them with caution
  • Place both smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home, and test these units regularly.
  • Place a multi-purpose fire extinguisher near your wood burner. The extinguisher should be UL listed or Factory Manual (FM) approved and have a rating of 2A-10B: C at minimum
  • Inspect the firebrick liner in your stove, if you have one. Should the liner show signs of wear, replace it immediately and do not use the unit until the liner is replaced
  • Never close your damper with hot ashes in the fireplace. A closed damper will allow the fire to heat up which will, in turn, force toxic carbon monoxide into your house.
  • Solid fuel units tend to require a lot more maintenance than other heating systems. Therefore, regular inspections and care are needed to protect your home and family against fire and carbon monoxide poisoning

Fire Damage Differences

1/20/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage is almost always devastating, regardless of size and damage. An important thing to know though is the type of fire damage you may have endured. SERVPRO is always here to help in any way we can, even if it's just to educate the community. If you take a good look at the picture here from a past job you can see that this home suffered a major loss due to a house fire. There's damage from smoke, soot, and ash on the walls leaving a black layer and a strong odor. There's regular physical damage that fire tends to cause when something is directly touched or set on fire. Something many people may not realize though is the water damage that comes with a fire. Anytime the fire department is called to battle a fire you can count on water damage from the fire hoses. If the home is left long enough with the water soaking into the furniture, carpets, flooring and everything else in the home, mold can form. If your home suffers a loss from a fire, don't wait! Call SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz to come and get the job done.

Avoiding Data Loss

1/20/2021 (Permalink)

If a business you’re responsible for relies on backing up large amounts of electronic information, you’ll probably want to make sure there’s a way to preserve it in the case of an accident. To be more specific, you’ll want to have a contingency plan set up to deal with the possibility of fire damage. A fire in the server room can do more than simply damage infrastructure. It can also set a business back months while you replace ruined equipment, and—perhaps worst of all—it can obliterate large quantities of data that the company needs on a daily basis. Data could include everything from financial records to client databases, so you should only ignore the risk of fir eat the peril of losing some very important assets. If you’re a contractor working on behalf of one of these businesses, it also represents a significant challenge.

That said, there are a few things you can do to help avoid irreparable data loss in the event of a fire. From preventative measures to restorative treatments, here are a few ideas to help you soldier on when the sparks literally start flying:

Protect your data using cloud based backups

If you’re worried about losing data when physical servers and computers are threatened, there’s one simple solution: house it somewhere else (or at least house a copy there). Using a cloud based backup lets you store an extra version of your most important information using servers that you won’t be responsible for. Since many of the largest cloud based backup solutions (like Backblaze and Crashplan) take special care to preserve their users’ info, it’s a pretty safe bet that nothing will happen to your stash once you entrust it to them for safekeeping. Of course, this won’t save your equipment or facilities themselves, but it’s better than nothing.

Electronic restoration

In the unfortunate event that damage occurs to your servers and you haven’t stored backups of your information elsewhere, electronic restoration might be the only effective route to take. Many highly sensitive technologies can be restored—at least to some extent—including computers, telecommunications technology, manufacturing machinery and medical instruments. By removing corrosion and deposits, it’s often very possible to get these units working like new again for as little as 10-30% of the cost of replacing them entirely. Once a skilled technician removes contaminants such as soot, dust, and deposits from chemical vapors, he should be able to take the equipment apart, clean the individual pieces, reassemble them, adjust the machinery and return it to service.

Proactive planning for fire (and water) disasters

Of course, one of the best ways to deal with damage is to avoid it completely. You can save yourself from the inconvenience of having to restore your equipment by making sure it’s not an easy place for a fire to start or a flood to break out. Avoid storing flammable materials near sensitive equipment, and make sure electronics aren’t stored under your sprinkler system or near water pipes. It’s also a good idea to have maintenance briefed on the nature of the technology in the area so that they use safe and appropriate methods when cleaning or tidying up around it.

Have insurance

Finally, you want to make you have cover if a disaster does happen to strike. Restoring your electronics can save them, but it can also be time-consuming—and you want to make sure you can afford the downtime. That’s why having comprehensive fire and accident insurance is key to keeping you in business when the unexpected occurs. Make sure you understand your policy and keep an up to date copy with you always, just in case.

Data Loss Prevention

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

If a business you’re responsible for relies on backing up large amounts of electronic information, you’ll probably want to make sure there’s a way to preserve it in the case of an accident. To be more specific, you’ll want to have a contingency plan set up to deal with the possibility of fire damage. A fire in the server room can do more than simply damage infrastructure. It can also set a business back months while you replace ruined equipment, and—perhaps worst of all—it can obliterate large quantities of data that the company needs on a daily basis. Data could include everything from financial records to client databases, so you should only ignore the risk of fir eat the peril of losing some very important assets. If you’re a contractor working on behalf of one of these businesses, it also represents a significant challenge.

That said, there are a few things you can do to help avoid irreparable data loss in the event of a fire. From preventative measures to restorative treatments, here are a few ideas to help you soldier on when the sparks literally start flying:

Protect your data using cloud based backups

If you’re worried about losing data when physical servers and computers are threatened, there’s one simple solution: house it somewhere else (or at least house a copy there). Using a cloud based backup lets you store an extra version of your most important information using servers that you won’t be responsible for. Since many of the largest cloud based backup solutions (like Backblaze and Crashplan) take special care to preserve their users’ info, it’s a pretty safe bet that nothing will happen to your stash once you entrust it to them for safekeeping. Of course, this won’t save your equipment or facilities themselves, but it’s better than nothing.

Electronic restoration

In the unfortunate event that damage occurs to your servers and you haven’t stored backups of your information elsewhere, electronic restoration might be the only effective route to take. Many highly sensitive technologies can be restored—at least to some extent—including computers, telecommunications technology, manufacturing machinery and medical instruments. By removing corrosion and deposits, it’s often very possible to get these units working like new again for as little as 10-30% of the cost of replacing them entirely. Once a skilled technician removes contaminants such as soot, dust, and deposits from chemical vapors, he should be able to take the equipment apart, clean the individual pieces, reassemble them, adjust the machinery and return it to service.

Proactive planning for fire (and water) disasters

Of course, one of the best ways to deal with damage is to avoid it completely. You can save yourself from the inconvenience of having to restore your equipment by making sure it’s not an easy place for a fire to start or a flood to break out. Avoid storing flammable materials near sensitive equipment, and make sure electronics aren’t stored under your sprinkler system or near water pipes. It’s also a good idea to have maintenance briefed on the nature of the technology in the area so that they use safe and appropriate methods when cleaning or tidying up around it.

Have insurance

Finally, you want to make you have cover if a disaster does happen to strike. Restoring your electronics can save them, but it can also be time-consuming—and you want to make sure you can afford the downtime. That’s why having comprehensive fire and accident insurance is key to keeping you in business when the unexpected occurs. Make sure you understand your policy and keep an up to date copy with you always, just in case.

Fire safety, But For Kids!!!!

8/24/2020 (Permalink)

Fire safety is one of the most important procedures to know for possible emergencies. Adults may already know what’s important and the do’s and don'ts in a fire emergency but children may not be so knowledgeable, here are some fire safety tips to make sure your young ones know! 

  • Smoke detectors - what they are for, how they work and the sound that they make is crucial knowledge for a child so that they know to associate the alarm with a fire emergency. 
  • Escape routes - Knowing the best possible way to get away from a potentially dangerous area during a fire is very important.
  • Practice opening windows - Knowing how to quickly open a window in an emergency is important to teach your young ones so they are better prepared to quickly act in an emergency.
  • Touch the door and check for heat - A fire raging on the other side of a door is a huge danger, teaching children to check a doorknob for the heat of a fire is important as the fire could spread faster if the door is opened.

 Use these tips to make sure your children are properly prepared for a fire emergency.

Fire Damage Types

8/24/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage is almost always devastating, regardless of size and damage. An important thing to know though is the type of fire damage you may have endured. SERVPRO is always here to help in any way we can, even if it's just to educate the community. If you take a good look at the picture here from a past job you can see that this home suffered a major loss due to a house fire. There's damage from smoke, soot, and ash on the walls leaving a black layer and a strong odor. There's regular physical damage that fire tends to cause when something is directly touched or set on fire. Something many people may not realize though is the water damage that comes with a fire. Anytime the fire department is called to battle a fire you can count on water damage from the fire hoses. If the home is left long enough with the water soaking into the furniture, carpets, flooring and everything else in the home, mold can form. If your home suffers a loss from a fire, don't wait! Call SERVPRO to come and get the job done.

Castaic Fire

6/9/2020 (Permalink)

As you may have seen on the news, a brush fire has started in the Castaic area. The fire has already scorched 75 acres and was about 40% contained as of 10 a.m. yesterday. Due to the strong 25 Mph winds the fire was fueled and grew in size rapidly. It’s highly unlikely that this fire will reach any homes due to the quick action of the Los Angeles County Fire Department. If this fire, or any other wildfire were to reach any homes, you can always count on SERVPRO to come and get the job done. Our lines are open 24 hours a day to ensure the safety of your homes. If your home suffers from a disaster, call SERVPRO and we will make sure it looks like it never even happened.

Ensure You are Protected

1/14/2020 (Permalink)

When a home experiences a fire, the damage to the building and personal belongings can be devastating and could displace a family with nearly nothing but the clothes on their backs for quite a long time. Even areas unaffected by the fire directly can be permanently damaged, for example the higher floors of a building on fire may not be directly affected by the flames but the rising soot and smoke can very severely damage structures and belongings to a point where they have to be completely replaced. Suffering the material loss is bad enough but if a home or family does not have the proper homeowners and renters insurance, the family can end up at a massive loss if not properly covered and reimbursed. If you rent a home it’s highly recommended that you get renters insurance and if you are a homeowner it’s best to make sure that your insurance will cover any potential loss. Another factor to consider is what the area you live or own property in is susceptible to, such as California being prone to wildfire.

Australian Wildfires

1/14/2020 (Permalink)

As you may have heard recently, a tragic series of wildfires has erupted on the eastern coastal regions of Australia. As the fire is still ongoing at this point in time we don’t know the extent of the damage just yet but we know that it has affected multiple millions of acres of land including many cities and towns that have been damaged and cut off from access. The Navy was even deployed to rescue people from coastal towns which had been blocked in by the fires. It has also been reported that the fires have destroyed a huge swath of animal habitats and killed nearly half a billion animals. We from SERVPRO send our best hopes to those affected by the fires in Australia. For any fire safety tips and for your home be sure to check a few of our previous blogs about fires that affect your homes and properties.

How Fire can Spread Easily

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

Be weary of potential sources of fire.

Fire is one of the most dangerous type of disasters for many reasons but mainly how fires start and spread. The reasons fire starts is not always human error but more often than not is the case with a reported majority of fires being caused by human error and negligence outside of arson. The essential ingredients of a house fire is an ignition source and flammable/combustible material. The ignition source in a fire is usually something like a spark or lit cigarette which must be hot enough to ignite a material. Other than that the materials that are ignited have different ignition temperatures such as paper which has an ignition temp of paper is very low at about 140 degrees F. Depending on what materials are near an ignition source fires can start more easily but once a fire is started, most materials will burn so always be cautious with potentially flammable things.

Smoke and Soot from Fire Damage can be Extremely Toxic

8/26/2019 (Permalink)

Be weary of smoke and soot.

Aside from the fact that we all know, that fire damage can be extremely devastating, the smoke and soot from the burning materials can be just ans harmful. Also aside from the damage the smoke and soot does to your property, it can be extremely harmful to your health if you happen to be caught in a property that is on fire. Smoke and soot from materials commonly found in homes can cause very serious health issues such as permanent damage to your respiratory system, immune system, and heart conditions if exposure is prolonged. minor health issues can be things such as watery eyes, runny nose, or a persistent cough. Be sure to avoid smoke and soot at all costs when in a serious fire damage situation. 

Causes of House Fires.

8/26/2019 (Permalink)

Every year approximately 0.03 % of individual homes bur down in the US, causing an estimated $7 billion in damages. These fires have many differing sources that can be prevented with proper attention and care. Here are the most common causes of house fires in the US. 

  1. Cooking (46%)
  2. Heating (13%)
  3. Electrical Malfunction (7%)
  4.  Carelessness (7%)
  5. Open Flame (5%)
  6. Arson (4%)
  7. Equipment Malfunction (4%)
  8. Other Heat (4%)
  9. Appliances (2%)
  10. Smoking (2%)
  11. Exposure (2%)
  12. Natural (2%)

As you can see nearly a majority of the reasons house fires happen with human error whether it be cooking, smoking, or arson, these are issues that can be prevented with proper care and mindfulness. We here at SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills and Los Feliz are always happy to serve in case of a fire, any time, any size. 

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

5/29/2019 (Permalink)

Had a Fire? Call SERVPRO!

Smoke and soot can cause serious damage in hard to reach areas in your home. Our expertise allows us to assess the extent of the damage and develop a comprehensive plan of action. 

Smoke and soot facts:

  • Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper level 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 differing types of soot damage that can occur after a fire. Before our restoration process can begin, we test to find the specific type of soot that has built up. The cleaning procedures may differ depending on the results, here's some additional information on that;

Dry Smoke - Paper and Wood

  • Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Wet Smoke - Plastic and Rubber

  • Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean. 

Protein Fire Residue - produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

  • Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extremely pungent odor. 

Our fire restoration services are available 24 hours a day, anytime you have questions or concerns call us at (323) 667-3100

Average Cost of Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration and Repair

11/8/2018 (Permalink)

Don’t wait to restore your fire damaged home contact our team of experts today! 323-667-3100

Even a small fire within a home can result in extensive damage from smoke and the water used to extinguish the fire. Prompt professional repair and restoration is essential in order to prevent additional damage and problems such as mold growth and wood rot. Before making a call to a professional, here are some things you should know first.

The average cost of repair and restoration services after fire and smoke damage is $2,950. The total cost that a homeowner pays for such repairs will depend on the location and extent of the damage. For example, fire damage to a kitchen may cost more to repair than damage to a closet due to the expense of replacing costly cabinets and appliances. The out of pocket amount that a homeowner pays to have fire and smoke damage repairs might be reduced by homeowner's insurance coverage. 

Water used to extinguish a fire can saturate the walls and floors of the home. The water can quickly cause mold growth and wood rot if the water isn't removed and the home thoroughly dried. Soot from the fire can saturate and stain anything upholstered. Professional restoration is needed in order to salvage the furnishings as well as linens, draperies and carpet. Smoke discoloration and odors can pervade almost everything in a home, including furnishings, carpets and rugs, linens and clothing. Professional restoration is essential in order to save those items. The smoke can also damage the home's air ducts, resulting in foul odors each time the furnace or air conditioner turns on. Restoration and repair services are needed to clean the ducts before the HVAC system is used again.

The larger the area of a home damaged by smoke and fire, the higher the cost in terms of both time and money to repair and restore the damage. It's important to start the repair and restoration process as soon as possible after a fire, as the longer the damage is left untreated, the worse it can become. Because proper repair and restoration may require the use of professional grade chemicals and equipment, the entire process should be left to experienced professionals.

 How to Get Rid of Fire Smoke Smell

4/4/2018 (Permalink)

After your home is affected by smoke, contact SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz for smoke odor removal services to return your home back to normal!

After a fire, the cleanup can seem like a never-ending process. Beyond repairs for items burnt, soot-covered or damaged by water from firefighting efforts, there's the question of how to get smoke smell out of the house. Whether your home has suffered smoke damage from a house fire or from the effects of a wildfire, SERVPRO professionals have the expertise and know-how to get rid of smoke smell in the house quickly and effectively.

Fire smoke infiltrates all areas of a home. It can seep into carpeting, furniture, clothing, draperies, books and even woodwork. Removing fire smoke smell from a home is a process best left to the professionals with the expertise, specialized equipment, and ability to work safely within your home without causing further damage. Often homeowners attempt to dissipate smoke smell with spray deodorizers and scented candles. These tactics only mask the odor of smoke and won't remove it from the home. Smoke particles bury themselves into fabrics, fibers, and other porous surfaces. In order to remove smoke smell completely, items need to be deeply cleaned.

CLEANING

 Essentially everything in a home affected by fire smoke needs to be cleaned. Some items may only require thorough airing to remove smoke smell, but most items like carpeting, rugs, curtains, upholstery, and clothing will need a thorough cleaning and possible sanitization. If the items also are soot-covered, we recommend to handle the item as little as possible and trust it’s cleaning to a professional to prevent further damage. When working out how to get fire smoke smell out of house carpets and upholstery, trust the cleaning experts at SERVPRO for the job. We'll make sure the smoke smell and ash residue are completely removed from deep within the fibers and fabrics. Wash down all hard surfaces with a mild detergent and water — this includes painted surfaces, baseboards, doors, window frames/sills and the outside and interiors of all cabinets and drawers.

Safety Tip: Never eat any food or allow pets to eat food that has been exposed to fire smoke.

Fire Smoke Smell and your HVAC System

4/4/2018 (Permalink)

The science of identifying & eliminating odors can be tricky, so give SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz a call, and leave the restoration to us!

Fire smoke removal from a home or building requires a thorough inspection and cleaning of the HVAC system. Fire smoke can permeate ductwork and linger in the ventilation system long after the fire has passed. The HVAC filter(s) need to be changed and the system should be inspected by a HVAC professional to ensure there has been no damage incurred during the fire.

SERVPRO professionals are IICRC certified in the proper removal of odors. Masking and other short cuts don't work when your odor problem is serious or persistent.

Your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional has the training and equipment to identify and eliminate these offensive odors. By identifying the cause of the odor and determining the conditions in which it contacts any surfaces, the odor can often be removed over time without a trace.

Fire Prevention Tips

3/9/2018 (Permalink)

Have A Fire or Smoke Damage Emergency? Call SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz at 323-667-3100

Each year, more than 4,000 Americans die in fires, more than 25,000 are injured in fires, and more than 100 firefighters are killed while on duty. Eighty three percent of all civilian fire deaths occurred in residences. Many of these fires could have been prevented. Direct loss due to fires is estimated at nearly $8.6 billion annually. Intentionally set structure fires resulted in an estimated $664 million in property damage. The following are things you can do to protect yourself, your family, and your property in the event of a

fire:

SMOKE ALARMS AND CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS

  • Install smoke alarms. Properly working smoke alarms decrease your chances of dying in a fire by half.
  • Place smoke alarms on every level of your residence, including the basement.
  • Install a working carbon monoxide detector in the common area of the bedrooms.
  • Test and clean smoke alarms once a month and replace batteries at least once a year. Replace smoke alarms once every 10 years.

COOKING SAFETY

  • Never leave cooking unattended.
  • Always wear short or tight-fitting sleeves when you cook.
  • Keep towels, pot holders and curtains away from flames
  • Never use the range or oven to heat your home.

ESCAPING THE FIRE

  • Have an escape plan. Review escape routes with your family.
  • Make sure windows are not nailed or painted shut.
  • Teach family members to stay low to the floor, where the air is safer, when escaping from a fire.
  • In high-rise, never lock fire exits or doorways, halls or stairways. Never prop stairway or other fire

doors open.

HEATING SOURCE

  • Place space heaters at least three feet away from flammable/combustible materials.
  • Use only the type of fuel designated for your space heater.

MATCHES/LIGHTERS AND SMOKING

  • Keep matches/lighters away from children.
  • Never smoke in bed or when drowsy or medicated.
  • If you must smoke, do it responsibly.

ELECTRICAL WIRING

  • Inspect extension cords for frayed or exposed wires or loose plugs
  • Make sure outlets have cover plates and no exposed wiring.
  • Make sure wiring does not run under rugs, over nails, or across high traffic areas.
  • Do not overload extension cords or outlets.

10 Fireplace Safety Tips To Stay Warm and Safe

3/1/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz is faster to any size disaster! Call us today 323-667-3100

Did you know that the leading cause of accidental fires in American homes comes from fuel burning appliances? According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, solid fuel burning appliances account for 5 to 10 percent of all household fires, and cause major damage for homeowners. The main causes of fire include: inadequate clearance between the wood burner and walls, floors and furniture; creosote buildup in the chimney; poorly or improperly installed chimneys and improper installation of the wood burner itself. These wood burning and fireplace safety tips can help keep you and your family safe this winter.

Fireplace Safety Tips

  • Read the instructions for your wood burning stove and follow them carefully
  • Do not use flammable or combustible liquid (gasoline, kerosene, lighter fluid, etc.) to start a fire
  • Do not burn plastics, wood or garbage that has been painted or treated with chemicals. These materials can create toxic gases and can cause corrosion in the vent, chimney and heater
  • Burn wood recommended by the manufacturer only
  • Put ashes in a metal container with a metal lid. Then place this container onto a concrete surface away from combustible materials outside. These embers may still be hot for several days, so always dispose of them with caution
  • Place both smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home, and test these units regularly.
  • Place a multi-purpose fire extinguisher near your wood burner. The extinguisher should be UL listed or Factory Manual (FM) approved and have a rating of 2A-10B: C at minimum
  • Inspect the firebrick liner in your stove, if you have one. Should the liner show signs of wear, replace it immediately and do not use the unit until the liner is replaced
  • Never close your damper with hot ashes in the fireplace. A closed damper will allow the fire to heat up which will, in turn, force toxic carbon monoxide into your house.
  • Solid fuel units tend to require a lot more maintenance than other heating systems. Therefore, regular inspections and care are needed to protect your home and family against fire and carbon monoxide poisoning

Understanding The Fire Restoration Process

2/28/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz professionals have extensive training and equipment to get your property back to pre-fire condition!

It is imperative that IICRC-approved fire restoration should be implemented as soon as possible after a house fire is out. The longer the delay in contacting a restoration company, the more opportunity there is for damage from water and smoke to intensify. A homeowner’s insurance company should be able to refer an approved and experienced restoration firm such as, SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz. It is surprising just how well restoration works in light of how destructive a fire can be. Depending on the damage, a home can often be restored to its before-fire state. A restoration team has a difficult task to perform, and a great deal of responsibility, but IICRC-approved technicians are well-equipped to return a home to its original condition.

The fire restoration process involves the repair of any structures damaged by smoke, fire, or water. Carpets undergo a chemical process to remove smoke odor. Sub-floor materials undergo inspection for damage and may need to be replaced. Upholstery and curtains are subject to a similar process. Furnishings are taken to a separate location and restored to pre-fire condition. The home is aired out for as long as needed to diminish the effects of odor and mildew, and deodorization efforts continue throughout the process. Through the cooperation of the insurance company, the SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz team, and homeowner(s), a home can be restored and made safe to live in once again.

SERVPRO offers 24/7 Emergency Fire Damage Services

2/28/2018 (Permalink)

For an immediate response, day or night, call SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz 323-667-3100

SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz answers the call and immediately moves into action 24/7. When the fire is out, timing is critical. Fire damage repairs must begin quickly to maximize effectiveness.

Recognizing the trauma and emotional upset that occupants suffer, we work quickly and considerately to mitigate damage on salvageable property, such as household items, fixtures, metals and other contents. Our state-of-the science techniques and cleaning processes often prevent replacement costs, thereby reducing costs. Fire and smoke damage restoration require knowledge and skill; our SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz professionals have the expertise to do the job right.  

Within hours after a fire, metal fixtures including door handles and faucets can suffer permanent damage if not properly treated immediately. With knowledge and compassion, each independently owned and operated SERVPRO office has a team of licensed technicians who are fully trained and certified in fire and smoke damage.

Fire Clean Up & Restoration

11/10/2017 (Permalink)

The aftermath of a major fire in a N.Hollywood home. SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz was called out to complete the fire clean up & restoration

Quality Service You Can Trust. Fire can strike at any time. From small house fires to warehouse infernos, the effects can be devastating. Damage caused by smoke and soot accumulation can render any building uninhabitable. Our SERVPRO 24 hour emergency  crew can help you recover from the extensive damage that fires can cause and get any building back up to your standards. We use an approach that doesn’t just take into account the safety and usability of a building. We move to stop ongoing damage and restore the property to pre-fire conditions.

If the building has taken heavy fire damage, then the process of restoring it might be more extensive. Often, in cases of severe damage, some level of demolition is necessary. SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz will keep the demolition as safe and as contained to the affected area as possible. After that, we will move ahead with the repair and reconstruction process.

During our work onsite, including the clean-up and pack-out, we will be conducting assessments across the entire home, office or industrial building. This helps us develop an understanding of where simple smoke and soot damage cleanup is appropriate, or where we need to begin a more serious reconstruction strategy. Damage assessments and estimates are provided alongside photographs so you understand what work is necessary. If the roof has suffered damage, this might also include a temporary roof repair so that the interior is kept covered and insulated from any environmental damage. From there, we can begin rebuilding the structure and restoring it.

Fire damage can lead to further water damage due to burst pipes and potential mold damage as a consequence. If any further damage is discovered, you will be informed and be given the option to restore these, as well. SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz is always, “Ready for Whatever Happens”.  

Understanding the Different Types of Smoke

4/6/2017 (Permalink)

If your home or business suffers fire or smoke damage, contact SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz at 323-667-3100

The damage to your property following a fire can often be complicated due to the unique behavior 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. The SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz Professionals are thoroughly trained in fire cleanup and restoration and know the different types of smoke and their behavior patterns. Knowing this information is vital to proper restoration. Before restoration begins, The SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz Professionals will survey the loss to determine the extent of impact from fire, smoke, heat, and moisture on the building materials and contents. The soot will then be tested to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. Pretesting determines the proper cleaning method and allows the SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz Professionals to focus on saving your precious items.


The SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz Professionals know smoke can penetrate various cavities within the structure, causing hidden damage and odor. Their knowledge of building systems helps them investigate how far smoke damage may have spread. The following are additional facts you may not know about smoke.



  • 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



  • 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.

  • Fuel Oil Soot (Furnace Puff Backs) – While “puff backs” can create havoc for homeowners, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can, in most cases, restore the contents and structure quickly.

  • Other Types (Tear gas, fingerprint powder and fire extinguisher residue) – Special loss situations require special care.


The SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz Professionals are trained to handle even the toughest losses. 

The Harmful Effects of Smoke and Fire

4/6/2017 (Permalink)

Contact us today at (323) 667-3100 and learn more about our Fire Clean Up & Restoration Services.

During a fire, smoke inhalation is one of the most dangerous effects that incapacitates people. The materials that our furniture, clothing and other items are made of can produce dangerous residue. As a fire spreads inside a building, it will produce two life-threatening events - consume most of the breathable oxygen and create toxic gasses.

Not only will fire damage affect structures, but it is also quite lethal to people. Smoke contains tiny particles that are harmful in their own way. These include vapors which are inhaled or absorbed through the skin and that act as poison within the body. Minute particles of our burning property are so tiny that they penetrate our respiratory and digestive system. These minute particles are so small; they enter our lungs, as well as cause irritation to our eyes. 
 
Toxic gasses are a part of the characteristics of smoke. These gasses are the most deadly substances anywhere, consisting of carbon monoxide, hydrogen, cyanide and phosgene which is formed when products like vinyl are burned. These gasses also absorb the air we are trying to breathe, either by consuming it or by displacing it with other elements.
  
Smoke inhalation prevention measures can be taken that includes having smoke detectors in every room of a home or office. Also, invest in carbon monoxide detectors which should be placed in areas that are at risk for carbon monoxide exposure. Fire damage is always a devastating experience for you and the family. 

Feelings of confusion and stress are common. This is not the time to work with uncaring professionals. When SERVPRO arrives, we always treat people with great empathy and above all – respect! We will also treat your property and belongings with great care. 

SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz are experts in fire, water and mold remediation. We are locally owned and operated, so that when you call us, we arrive very quickly and are ready to work for you. 

Why Trusting a Restoration Professional After a Fire Is So Important

3/10/2017 (Permalink)

Making Fire & Water damage, "Like it never even happened."

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 such as SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz 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 Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz 323-667-3100 "Like it never even happened."

Are you in need of a Smoke or Soot clean up?

2/28/2017 (Permalink)

When Fire Damage Strikes call SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz at 323-667-3100

Smoke and soot are very invasive and can indulge it's self in various cavities within your home. which causes 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 floor to floor.
  • The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different types of smoke:

  • Wet Smoke

-Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

  • Dry Smoke

-Fast burning, High temperature, Heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services:

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for 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 You Checked Your Smoke Detector?

2/28/2017 (Permalink)

Take precautionary measures & ensure that all of your smoke detectors are working properly

We do a lot of fire damage work. Not only is it very expensive and disruptive it can be devastating to the families involved. While we are always appreciate of the opportunity to help someone in their time of need, there are things that you can do to lower the chances that you would experience a loss like this. Here are some things you should consider.

  • Three out of five home fire deaths result from fires in properties without working smoke alarms
  • More than one-third (38 percent) of home fire deaths result from fires in which no smoke alarms are present.
  • The risk of dying in a home fire is cut in half in homes with working smoke alarms.

The National Fire Protection Association recommends that smoke detectors be tested at least once a month. It is best to have a regular schedule to test your smoke detectors and the recommendation is to pick a day, perhaps the first Saturday of each month, to ensure that it is not missed. Every smoke alarm in the house must be tested. This can be done by pressing the test button and ensuring that the alarm beeps. It is recommended that the back-up batteries be replaced at least annually. For “hard wired” smoke detectors it is advised that they be replace after ten years.

As a home owner, you need to take adequate precautions to protect your family and property. Apart from saving lives, smoke alarms can also help you save important papers, documents, mementoes and pictures.

Fire Cleanup Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz, CA

2/28/2017 (Permalink)

Fire Damage? Call SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz at 323-667-3100

The fire trucks may be gone but without proper immediate response, the real damage and the costs are just beginning. To return your residential or commercial property to its preloss condition requires professional restoration. This is not the job for a do-it-yourself property owner. Click on the link below for more information.


http://www.IICRC.org/consumers/care/fire-smoke-restoration/


Having a fire in your home is devastating. Most people are not educated or prepared for the fire cleanup process. SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/.Los Feliz is here to help.


We will make it "Like it never even happened."


Call us today! 323-667-3100

Common Causes of Fires & How to Prevent Them

11/4/2016 (Permalink)

This kitchen suffered fire damage related to cooking & leaving stove top unattended

Fires can start unexpectedly, but taking precautionary measures can decrease the risks of a fire on your property. Some of the most common causes of fires include; cooking, candles, heating equipment, fire places, electrical appliances, smoking, flammable liquids, Christmas trees, etc. to name a few.  The number one leading causes of fires are related to cooking. Following is a list of some helpful tips that may assist in the prevention of fires on your property;

  • Never leave a stove top in use unattended
  • Use a cooking timer
  • Keep any & all kitchen surfaces (including ceiling) free from grease build up
  • Place heaters at a safe distance away from flammable materials & disconnect when not in use
  • Avoid plugging in too many electrical appliances into one extension cord
  • Keep candles away from curtains, decorations and other combustibles, and make sure candle holders are stable or simply use battery operated candles
  • If possible, smoke outside. If you smoke inside, avoid doing so when tired/sleepy, and use large and deep ashtrays
  • Keep flammable liquids in approved containers and away from electrical and heat sources. If possible, store them outside in a well-ventilated area.
  • Use decorative lights that have been inspected by an independent testing laboratory. In addition, replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections
  • Install smoke alarms
  • Install carbon monoxide detectors
  • Install a fire sprinkler system
  • Install a fire extinguisher

We urge you to take all of these tips into consideration in order to prevent fires on your property. For professional fire and restoration services, please contact SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills 323-667-3100 or visit our website http://www.SERVPROhollywoodhillslosfeliz.com/.