Recent Fire Damage Posts

Cleaning Helena Properties as Part of Fire Restoration

2/16/2024 (Permalink)

bottle of window cleaner, servpro SERVPRO uses much more than just window cleaner for cleanup and restoration of fire damaged homes in Helena. Here To Help®

Why the Repainting Question Matters After Fire Damage

Helena is the capital of Montana, founded as a gold camp during the state's gold rush. For visitors and its 32,091 residents, various points of interest around the city are worth checking out. On Last Chance Gulch, its main street, one can explore 19th-century architecture while browsing shops, restaurants, and art galleries. The Cathedral of Saint Helena, constructed between 1908 and 1924, is a prominent landmark in the city known for its Gothic Revival architecture. Other places of interest include Bill Roberts Golf Course and Holter Museum of Art.

Cleaning is one of the standard fire restoration processes for Helena properties. However, each fire incident may require different cleaning approaches based on the damage involved. Another factor influencing cleaning is whether the walls and ceilings need repainting. SERVPRO® technicians evaluate the soot residues deposited on the surfaces to determine whether cleaning can restore them to their preloss condition.

Other essential evaluation

  • The type of surface covered in soot
  • Whether the paint is cracked, bubbling, or peeling
  • Whether the surfaces are discolored

If the fire left any of the above issues, cleaning is not the ideal solution. Other procedures, including a fresh paint coat, may be necessary. Cleaning in such a situation is only required to remove the loose residues. Any visual signs of smoke residues left are okay since the paint covers them. Our SERVPRO crews clean the surfaces with an alkaline solution to neutralize the acids left by smoke deposits to ensure the new paint job's uniform appearance and longevity. A deodorizing agent in the cleaning solution may also be necessary to neutralize the pungent odors that smoke residues emit.

Fires might also leave moderate soot and smoke residues. Alternatively, the surface might be impervious, such as tiles. Dry sponge-cleaning and wet cleaning are practical solutions to remove fire residues, restoring a surface to its preloss condition. Unique cleaning approaches such as Peroxide Active Cleaning help restore special surfaces, such as acoustic ceiling tiles, retaining their outstanding appearance.

Tools necessary to facilitate cleaning

  • Agitation tools like soft bristle brushes and sponges 
  • Vacuums
  • Respirators with organic filter cartridges
  • Extension poles

SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls reliably handles fire restoration on any property. Call us at (406) 458-6008. We can make it "Like it never even happened."

Fire Damage Restoration with Skilled Technicians in Helena

3/20/2023 (Permalink)

kitchen with fire damage and insulation falling from the ceiling House fire cleanup in Helena starts when SERVPRO demolishes and removes non-salvageable materials. The first step in fire damage mitigation.

SERVPRO is Available in Helena 24/7 with Effective Fire Damage Restoration

Commercial and residential fires, while different, have many things in common. Any fire event creates challenges regarding smoke remediation and fire damage cleanup. If you have been through a recent fire on your Helena property, you deserve to get results fast in terms of cleanup and restoration. SERVPRO understands not only the basic principles of cleaning and repair but also brings innovative methods to each project we get called to address. We take the time necessary to do it right to get back to life as you knew it before the fire. With our fire and smoke restoration technicians (FSRT), your property will be “Like it never even happened.”

It is normal to become stressed and overwhelmed when starting the process of handling your fire damage in Helena. SERVPRO features IICRC-certified technicians who can work on assessing the damage as soon as first responders on the scene deem your property safe for entry. Our crew chief uses the findings from the inspection to select the best equipment and processes for the job, and we adjust as we go to achieve the best results. This includes scalability for our sizable commercial clients in the Greater Helena area.

What Everyone Should Know About the Impact of Fire Damage

  • Fire affects more than just the materials burned
  • Structural elements must get inspected for safety and integrity
  • Smoke and soot residue infiltrate belongings and materials
  • Water damage is often present due to the process of extinguishing the flames
  • Multiple cleaning and restoration efforts might be required to achieve the best results

How Soon can SERVPRO Arrive to Begin House Fire Cleanup?

Fire impacts many areas, not just where it originated or spreads. Smoke particles are intrusive and often make their way throughout your home on air currents or your HVAC system. SERVPRO gets there fast, with our Green Fleet at your door within four hours of your initial contact with our customer care representatives. This allows us to start the assessment to begin removing unsalvageable materials and charred debris.

  • Our technicians are trained and ready to handle fire-damaged homes and businesses, including immediate tarp-up and boarding services to protect your property during restoration.
  • We select the proper solutions based on the layout of your home or business, the types of materials burned, and any unique challenges.
  • SERVPRO smoke remediation involves handling the removal of soot residues and ash while having containment barriers in place to keep particles from getting tracked into unaffected areas of your property.

Industrial-Grade Tools and Equipment Make All the Difference

SERVPRO has access to an immense inventory of equipment in our warehouse, allowing us to select the correct number of pieces for any job we get called to. Some of the tools of the trade you may see us using during your fire damage restoration project include:

  • Pumps and extractors to handle standing water from extinguishing the blaze
  • Air scrubbers with HEPA filtration
  • Hydroxyl generators and ozone technology
  • Ultra-low volume (ULV) foggers
  • Thermal fogging equipment
  • Odor counteractant beads, granules, or pellets

Could Commercial Fire Restoration Save Time and Money?

As a business owner, you want to save time while remaining prudent about finances. Let the trained professionals handle everything for you rather than having your in-house maintenance team attempt DIY fire cleanup. Not only do we thoroughly inspect all areas for safety risks and possible hazards, but we have the manpower to get your restoration project completed in a fraction of the time. Ask us about putting together your Emergency READY Profile (ERP) to help you remain prepared in the future for any fire or water restoration needs!

When faced with fire and smoke damage, SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls is available to help 24-hours a day. Call us at (406) 458-6008 or request assistance online.

Low Point in Helena - Fire Damage During the Holiday Season

1/22/2023 (Permalink)

a fire damaged hallway with soot covering the walls Dealing with the remains after a fire can be quite stressful. Call SERVPRO for fire damage remediation services.

We Easily Resolve Problems Caused by Fire Damage

Having a house fire can become one of the most stressful events in a lifetime, but having one over the holidays can ruin so much more than just your Helena area home. Regardless of when a disaster like this happens, SERVPRO is nearby to help with fire damage cleanup, restoration, and rebuilding.

The after-effects when your home in Helena sustains fire damage can impact your family for months. Because SERVPRO has extensive experience in the community, we can provide information to our customers regarding resources to help them recover even faster.

There are different ways that fire can affect your home:

  • Accumulation of soot and other contaminants,
  • New, foul odors, and
  • Destruction of interior structures, framework, and personal belongings

The slower a fire burns, the more soot it produces because it never gets hot enough. Higher temperatures make less soot (does depend on the material combusted.) Other by-products of fire include gases and oils. Soot requires a lot of elbow grease to eliminate, making SERVPRO's teamwork essential for a fast recovery.

Those by-products continue to break down into smaller pieces. They become so small that air currents can pick them up and carry them around. When you breathe them into your nose, your brain detects them as a disagreeable odor. Removing the source of such odors happens as we eliminate soot, but we go the extra step with thermal fogging that encapsulates soot particles that we cannot reach with cleaning tools. We also use other methods of odor control. Mechanical means like HEPA-filtered air scrubbers outfitted with activated charcoal filters help to eliminate malodors.

Heat weakens many things, including the wooden frame supporting your home. Our building crew can check for weak areas and take steps to strengthen the framework of your house. Other materials, such as paneling and drywall, carpeting, and furnishings that became charred from the flames, need us to remove and rebuild that area.

When a fire turns your home into a disaster area, call SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls at (406) 458-6008. We'll work with you to make it "Like it never even happened."

What Can I Do to My Fire Damaged Kitchen in Helena?

8/15/2022 (Permalink)

fire damaged room The service crew from SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls understand that fire accidents can strike any time of the day.

Experts from SERVPRO can Help Restore Your Fire Damaged House in Helena

It’s only a few days after your kitchen accidentally caught fire as you prepared dinner for your family in Helena. Although you could stop it before spreading to other parts of the house, the kitchen is still in disarray. Everything has soot, and the ceiling and walls in the house have blackened. A pungent smell that permeates the entire residence is unbearable.

What Help can Experts Offer to Restore Your Kitchen Back to Normal?

It may be hard to restore your fire-damaged kitchen in Helena to its previous condition. Luckily for the residents, SERVPRO technicians are always on standby to help families handle the situation “Like it never even happened.” In case of such an incident, the competent crew arrives promptly to mitigate the damage. All you do is take them through the affected area as they evaluate the extent of the damage.

How do Technicians Mitigate Fire Damage?

After assessing the damage, the crew assembles the necessary equipment to start work immediately. Our team will do the following things to return your kitchen or the entire house to the comfort it had before.

  • Cleaning the structures – All the walls, floors, ceilings, and other structural items are first cleaned
  • Cleaning the contents – The crew checks out what can be restored and cleans those items. This can include things like sooty items in the kitchen
  • Removing off-odors – Our technicians will not just mask the pungent odor but will eliminate it completely using molecular-level solvent deodorizers

What is Outstanding About our Fire Damage Professionals?

Apart from helping you restore order to your burnt-up kitchen, our team of professionals has much more to offer. They can help you with insurance claims for items that cannot be restored. Our techs handle fire-damaged homes with dignity, respect, and professionalism.

How can I Reach out to the Experts in Case of a Fire Emergency?

The service crew from SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls understands fire accidents can strike any day. As such, they are ready to come to your rescue on a 24-hour basis. Call (406) 458-6008 for expert cleaning and restoration if you face a fire outbreak or any fire-related damage.

Fire Damage Does Not Have to Break the Bank in Great Falls

7/24/2022 (Permalink)

a fire damaged room with soot on the wall Whether the fire damage in your home is large or small, team SERVPRO can help. Our certified team has the equipment to tackle the situation.

SERVPRO Handles Fire Restoration Fast to Limit Secondary Damage and Costs at Your Great Falls Property

The thought of having to restore your Great Falls home after a fire can be frightening and overwhelming. However, fires happen when you least expect them, and it is the way you act that counts most. SERVPRO has IICRC-certified fire and smoke restoration technicians (FSRT) who ensure fire damaged homes get cleaned up quickly.

Fire damage in Great Falls can occur due to unattended stovetop cooking, faulty wiring, human error, and more. The good news is that SERVPRO adjusts cleaning methods and techniques accordingly to achieve the best results with water & fire damage restorations regardless of the cause.

SERVPRO helps with:

  • Stubborn fire and smoke damage
  • Removal of charred debris during house fire clean up
  • Odor control and smoke remediation
  • Powerful air scrubber equipment to improve indoor air quality (IAQ) throughout the restoration
  • Controlled demolition, as needed

As mentioned above, odor control is a significant factor during fire damage restoration. Odorous particles move throughout the home, even into unaffected zones. Our deodorization process may include one or more of the following measures:

  • Confined space ventilation with the help of air movers, HEPA air filtration, or box fans to battle trapped odor particles.
  • Elimination of odors found in restrictive places with the help of activated oxygen units--ozone machines.
  • Fumigation with the help of ultra-low volume fogger technology (ULV).

You deserve a rapid response with proven methods to handle the fire damage in your home. Our crew here at SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls is ready and available to get to work 24/7. Call us at (406) 458-6008 to dispatch our Green Fleet.

Some Steps to Fire Damage Remediation Success in Helena

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

fire damaged room The soot and smoke that cover everything after a fire can seem quite overwhelming. Contact SERVPRO for effective fire damage remediation services.

A Little Fire Damage in Helena Kitchen Gets Complete Cleanup

The kitchen is one of the most common areas where fire damage occurs in homes across the United States. Frequently seen situations involve protein-based fires emanating from food cooking in the oven, microwave, or a pan on the stove. 

Unless water gets used to extinguish the blaze, particularly with hot oil, the fire damage in Helena kitchens is often minor, and homeowners usually wipe up the visible smoke residues themselves. This action can lead to more loss and grind odor-causing soot into surfaces.

Protein fires deposit a nearly invisible but very pungent residue around the kitchen area. Solvent-based cleaners get used by SERVPRO to release the grip the smoke damage has on surfaces and wipe cleanly away. In the case of dry smoke, the techs lift it away using specialized sponges without marring the surface they are cleaning. 

Once the smoke and soot get wiped away, SERVPRO techs determine the nature of odor control applications that the kitchen needs. For light smoke odors, time-release gel pellets may be enough. When the scent left behind calls for more significant measures, they have equipment that neutralizes odors at the molecular level.

SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls at (406) 458-6008 stands ready to help local homeowners with any size fire damage restoration. The certified techs bring the house to its preloss condition, "Like it never even happened."

Eliminate Odors Caused by Fire Damage in Helena

3/16/2022 (Permalink)

heavy smoke surrounding smoke detector Smoke and soot residue travels throughout the home. Don't go it alone. Call SERVPRO!

SERVPRO Provides a Multi-Pronged Approach to Odor Control in Helena Homes

Odor control and removal following fire damage in Helena can be challenging for those who attempt to control it. Fighting smell particles requires understanding how fires start and spread and having access to the right tools to take care of the problem. Finding a restoration team with a proven track record to provide fire and smoke remediation needs to be done quickly to avoid problems escalating and letting the fire cause more damage.

In Helena, your fire damage and smoke remediation team begins working with you as soon as you call SERVPRO. Our certified staff knows how to assess the fire damage and combat it using the latest techniques and best practices in our industry. Using various cleaning and deodorizing methods, we achieve a widespread impact with minimal disruption to your daily life. If we were to summarize deodorizing methods, we would include the following:

  • Chemical approaches to break down the chemical composition of the smell particle and neutralize it.
  • Odor counteracting solutions that seek to mask the smell with more pleasant options
  • Killing smell molecules with air scrubbers and other airborne cleaning solutions sprayed through the home. Charcoal filters can assist in this process.

Getting rid of porous surfaces such as upholstered furniture and even bedding helps restore a fresh-smelling home. SERVPRO staff takes care of it all and carefully documents each step for your convenience and to assist in the fire damage insurance claim process.

Clients of SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls know that calling us at (406) 458-6008 is the best investment a homeowner in need of restoration services can make. With our help, many are now living in homes that look and feel “Like it never even happened.”

Fire and Smoke Cleanup Calls for Professionals in Great Falls

2/5/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO fire and water cleanup sign Smoke and odor removal is not an easy task. SERVPRO IICRC certified technicians have the equipment and training for every size disaster.

Great Falls Residents – Call SERVPRO’s Fire and Smoke Cleanup Team

When it comes to fire damaged homes, the event not only devastates your family but also creates a mess of fire and smoke fallout to your living space itself. SERVPRO takes the stress out of this emotional experience by employing our efficient, budget-friendly restoration techniques to local homeowners. We handle everything from the debris cleanup and drying to reconstruction and deodorizing to ensure your property is “Like it never even happened.”

We are not only committed to customer satisfaction when you call for fire and smoke cleanup in Great Falls, but we continuously work on perfecting our processes. We use all the latest techniques and industrial equipment to get the results you expect and deserve with each project. Something that always makes a world of difference in any house fire cleanup will be the attention to stubborn smoke particles and residue.

SERVPRO Smoke Remediation

We offer lasting solutions to all smoke odor issues during house fire restoration calls. Our Odor Control Technicians know how to address different types of residues, and we have the best products at our disposal to eliminate odorous elements.

  • Soot is similar to dust in that it travels throughout the air, so keeping airflow in check is crucial during restorations – this includes ensuring your HVAC system is off
  • Wet wiping with a soft cloth works well on certain surfaces 
  • Air scrubbers with HEPA filtration help pull microscopic particulates from the air
  • Placement of odor counteracting beads inside the air intake portion of your HVAC system help freshen your interior
  • Thermal fogging equipment helps penetrate materials to bind with smoke molecules for easier removal

When you require fire and smoke cleanup assistance, never trust your property to anyone but the best in the area. Call (406) 458-6008 to mobilize a team from SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls to your property. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster!

What Builds Confidence That Fire Damage in Helena Properties Can Be Fully Restored?

11/26/2021 (Permalink)

firemen standing on a ladder as they try to extinguish flames on the outside of a house Dealing with fire damage doesn’t have to be difficult. Contact our certified team to quickly assess and then start the remediation process.

SERVPRO Capitalizes on Better Organization To Reassure Homeowners Affected by Fires

After your property survives a fire incident, a confidence crisis might be your next challenge. You might wonder what the long-term impact of the fire damage might be or the immediate costs you have to foot to restore preloss conditions at your Helena home.

One of the roles played by a professional fire damage restorer in Helena is providing the reassurance that you need after such an incident. SERVPRO technicians have the people skills necessary to provide such assurance. Also, the way we plan and run the restoration process helps build confidence among homeowners since we are greatly organized.

Building confidence takes simple things that you might easily dismiss like:

  • Getting straight answers from the restoration team
  • Availability of sufficient restoration resources
  • Steps taken to protect the damaged property

Although seeking help means handing over the responsibility of fixing broken things to somebody else, it does not mean you should not be involved in any way. Getting clarifications on any aspects is essential rather than being patronized with empty reassurances. Our SERVPRO IICRC-certified technicians ensure you are involved from the start.

Some typical actions that help guarantee this include:

  • Identifying pre-existing issues
  • Asking about your preferences on any hazy issues
  • Explaining various procedures necessary for the restoration

Although fire leaves significant damages around the structure, it does not mean that additional damages are okay. If the restoration team can forestall secondary damages, it can save you unnecessary costs or inconveniences. Since SERVPRO prioritizes the protection of the structure by boarding up or installing roof tarps, you can rest assured that your damaged house is safe from interference by weather elements or vandals. In addition, seeing our teams bring sophisticated equipment into your house creates confidence that all aspects of the damage caused by fire can be fully addressed. 

SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls understands the emotional impact fire damage has on property owners and thus provides solutions that make it "Like it never even happened." Call us at (406) 458-6008 for assistance.

Who Can Repair Fire Damaged Homes in Helena?

10/29/2021 (Permalink)

a plug in a wall that is on fire Electrical fires can spread quickly through your home. Contact SERVPRO to remediate any resulting damage. We are here 24/7 365 days a year to help.

SERVPRO Can Provide Water & Fire Damage Restorations in Helena

One common source of structural blazes has to do with electrical shorts or appliances malfunctioning. One day things can be working fine, but then suddenly, a short occurs, and it ignites your building materials and contents near it. Once the flames ignite, they can spread to other sections of your home as it uses the items in your house as fuel.

Whenever we mitigate fire damage in your Helena home, our SERVPRO technicians start inspecting potential problems at the source. We can then begin working our way out from the source to see which parts of your house got affected. Once we determine where the damage is inside your building, we can conduct the following services:

  • Fire and Smoke Damage Remediation
  • Water & Fire Restorations
  • House Fire Clean Up
  • Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration and Clean Up
  • Fire Damage Restoration

In most cases, the damage will be worse, close to where it started. For example, there could be burnt building materials such as your ceiling if the electrical short occurred above it. If this is the case, we can remove any severely charred materials, including wall studs and roof trusses, if they have more than a quarter-inch of charring.

Further away from the source, the charring on your contents and building materials may not be as severe. If there is less than a quarter-inch of charring on wooden items, they can be saved with sanding or sandblasting. 

After we handle the major structural issues, we can then work towards removing smoke residues and odors. To clean residues, we can use different methods based on the severity and type of smoke. 

If you ever have an electrical fire at your house, call SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls at (406) 458-6008 24/7.

Restoring Fire-Damaged Helena Homes to Pre-Loss Condition

9/26/2021 (Permalink)

a house on fire with smoke billowing from the windows Recent fire? Team SERVPRO is standing by with the certified technicians and effective equipment to tackle the fire damage situation in your home.

We Have Several Obstacles Between a Damaged Helena House and Making it Feel Like Home Again

Determining preloss conditions and pre-existing conditions come from our experienced technicians inspecting the property and its damage before mitigation and recovery start. Our prompt arrival after extinguishment can get this inspection happening fast for work to begin.

Clean and Safe Environmental Conditions

Returning to preloss conditions after fire damage in Helena homes means interfacing with the customer to establish a baseline of pre-existing conditions and conditions in the house before the fire occurred. While air quality improvement should always be a priority with our HEPA air scrubbers and other products, we determine a specific benchmark to achieve or exceed before mitigation and restoration services complete.

Malodor Management in the House

Identifying the pre-fire condition for harsh odors is not complicated. Most homes do not contend with burning smells regularly, so the objective is to reduce and neutralize smells to the point where normal conditions are restored. With counteractant products to start, we can lean on several deodorization tools to finish odor removal, such as:

  • Thermal foggers
  • Air scrubbers
  • HEPA vacuums
  • Hydroxyl generators
  • Ozone machines

Repairs and Reconstruction Necessary After a Fire

Fire losses can leave a considerable need for demolition, build-back, and repairs. Our general contracting license makes this process more seamless, as we can transition directly to these vital processes after much of the restoration and recovery efforts are complete.

It is our ambition to treat your home or business with the urgency and care you expect, which leaves your property looking “Like it never even happened.” To achieve this, we carefully evaluate preloss conditions to ensure that we are fully meeting a property's needs. Our SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls team can help with prompt mitigative actions and restoration solutions when you call (406) 458-6008.

Trust Pros in Helena When it Comes to Fire Damage Mitigation

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

burned kitchen, hole in roof House fire cleanup in Helena starts when SERVPRO demolishes and removes non-salvageable materials. The first step in fire damage mitigation.

SERVPRO Offers Skilled Fire Damage Mitigation – Call Us to Your Helena Property!

When beginning fire damage restoration, the number one priority is reducing losses and damages, translating into hopefully lower costs. SERVPRO has the equipment, manpower, and training to ensure your Helena property gets the attention it needs after a fire event. Once we get done, everything will be “Like it never even happened.”

Once a fire happens, you should never waste time with DIY methods or leaving it to chance with lesser fire and smoke damage repair companies. SERVPRO offers the best when it comes to fire damage mitigation in Helena so that you get rapid results at an affordable price. We even assist with the claims process to make your life even easier.

Our Emergency Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration and Cleanup Includes:

  • Onsite arrival within hours to begin fire mitigation to help reduce secondary damages
  • Detailed explanation from our highly-skilled professionals of each step of the plan for house fire clean up
  • Pre-testing of surface areas and materials to determine restorability
  • Careful cleaning, restoration, and deodorizing your property using state of the art equipment and techniques
  • Final walkthrough after fire restoration gets completed to ensure your total satisfaction

Homeowners should know several important things to help prevent the need for house fire clean up, including:

  • Inspecting all heating sources
  • Checking on smoke alarms regularly
  • Ensuring that your dryer lint basket gets cleaned before each use
  • Maintaining all electrical cords
  • Never leaving a candle or cigarette unattended

Because some fires are unavoidable, you need fire damage mitigation you can trust. Contact SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls by calling (406) 458-6008, and we will have a crew dispatched.

How Can SERVPRO Remove Smoke Odors from Great Falls Homes?

4/1/2021 (Permalink)

a fire damaged roof Home damaged by a fire? Our SERVPRO team is standing by with fire damage remediation equipment.

Fire damage restoration in Great Falls hinges on appropriate cleaning and deodorization tactics

We appreciate how fast fire and smoke damage can spread through fire damaged homes and mobilize quickly after these emergencies to help. Often efficient mitigation and emergency services can limit the irreparable damage and destruction that post-fire effects can cause.

  • Fire damage restoration
  • Fire damaged homes
  • Smoke remediation
  • Fire and smoke damage

How Can Smoke Remediation Help Fire Damaged Homes in Great Falls?

The need for smoke remediation after fire damage in Great Falls homes and businesses is often universal.

Between partially combusted fuels that generate smoke and soot particles coating surfaces in the damaged portions of the property to lingering odors, we have multiple tools and products explicitly designed for remediating, neutralizing, and cleaning smoke damage and soil.

Regardless of how damaging a fire might become, our SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls team has extensive training and experience in making it “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call anytime that you need us at (406) 458-6008.

Structural Fire Damage in Helena?

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

a burned picture frame among more burned rubble Call SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls today at (406) 458-6008 if you need help with professional fire damage restoration.

If a Fire Starts in Your House in Helena, Call SERVPRO

Every year, structural burns account for a large percentage of residential insurance claims. The most common cause of blazes is cooking mishaps. Once the flames ignite, the smoke coming from it can travel through your home and cause several other issues.

During many fire damage projects in Helena, our technicians find that smoke causes issues, including residue-coated surfaces and unpleasant smells. To completely restore your structure after it suffers from smoke damage, our SERVPRO team can take the following measures:

  • Removal of Residues: Depending on the surfaces that got affected, we can use water-based solutions or dry methods to clean off of your walls, ceilings, or contents.
  • Fogging Procedures: If burnt aromas are still prevalent after all surfaces have been cleaned, then we can utilize either an Ultra-Low Volume (ULV) or thermal fogger that dispenses deodorants into the form of a mist or fog.
  • Ozone Generation: We can also use a machine that dispenses O3 into the air that oxidizes malodor molecules.

If you ever have a cooking mishap and a fire starts inside your house, call SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls at (406) 458-6008.

A Fast Restoration Response When Fire Damage Occurs in Helena Properties

12/18/2020 (Permalink)

A home with a fire burning. SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls has your Helena properties covered inside and out. Call us today if you have any issues.

SERVPRO Technicians Provide the Residents of Helena With Professional Fire Damage Restoration Services to Make it “Like it never even happened.”

During the Montana gold rush, Helena was founded as a gold camp and established on 30th October 1864. The gold rush turned Helena into a wealthy city since it hosted over 50 millionaires by 1888. The wealth accumulation contributed significantly to the city’s elaborate Victoria architecture.

According to the 2010 census, the city hosted a population of about 28,190. That made Helena the fifth least populated city in the U.S but the sixth most populated city in Montana. According to the 2019 Census Estimate, the city’s population grew to 81,653.

The History of Helena

Various indigenous people inhabited the Helena area. The Indian Creek and McHaffie sites show evidence that over 10,000 years ago, people who practiced the Folsom culture occupied the area. Native people, including the Blackfeet and the Salish visited the area during nomadic rounds 300 years ago before introducing horses.

In the early 1800s, British Canadians and Europeans began arriving in the area to work along the Missouri River, searching for fur-bearing animals, including beavers.

In the early 1860s, gold strikes in Idaho Territory attracted many immigrants. They inaugurated major gold rushes in 1862 and 1863 at Grasshopper Creek and Alder Gulch, respectively. The area’s population grew so fast that in 1864, the federal government came up with a new territory called Montana. Miners went on looking for new gold discoveries, and on 14th July 1864, the Four Georgians discovered gold in the Prickly Pear Creek. That led to the founding of a mining camp, which was along a creek in an area known as “Last Chance Gulch”.     

The population of the camp had grown to over 200 miners by fall. On 30th October 1864, seven men met to:

  • Name the town
  • Approve the street’s layout
  • Elect commissioners

Tomah was the first suggestion since the committee thought the word connected to the locals who were Indians. Since the committee held the meeting a day before Halloween, names such as Squashtown and Pumpkinville were nominated. Other suggestions involved naming the community after several towns in Minnesota like Rochester and Winona. That was because several settlers came from Minnesota.

At last, a Scotsman, John Summerville, came up with the name Helena. The name was in honor of Helena Township, Scott County. That caused an uproar from other committee members. The name’s pronunciation varied until 1882, when the pronunciation HEL-i-na became dominant.

Captain John Wood surveyed the city for the first time in 1865. Helena’s original streets followed the paths of miners making Early Helena city blocks in various sizes and shapes.

The wealth boom of the city

In 1888, experts estimated that 50 millionaires resided in the city, which was more millionaires per capita compared to any other city across the world. The millionaires had made a fortune from gold. During this period, experts estimated that around $3.6 billion was extracted from this area. Among the most popular placer deposits in Western, the U.S is the Last Chance Placer.

The significant accumulation of wealth in the city led to the development of fine residences. The Victorian neighborhoods and the ambitious architecture in the city reflect the gold years. Miners in the area also attracted the development of the red-light district. Josephine Airey “Chicago Joe” was among the most popular local madams who built a successful business empire in 1874. She was among Helena’s most influential landowners.

Since 1875, the city has been the capital of Montana Territory and, in 1889, the state of Montana. In 1892 and 1894, referendums were held to determine the capital of the state. Helena remained the capital. Until the census held in 1900, Helena was the most populated city in Montana.

The city’s economy

The city has maintained a long record of economic stability. This is because it has been Montana’s state capital and been founded in an area rich in lead deposits and silver. However, the city’s economy is growing slowly. Its capital status has turned it into a major center of activities. The city’s median household income is $50,889, according to the Helena Area Chamber of Commerce. In 2013, the city’s unemployment rate stood at 3.8 percent, which is about 1.2 percent lower compared to the rest of the state.

The training facility for the Montana National Guard, Fort William Henry Harrison, which is located outside the city, contributes significantly to the city’s economy. The facility also hosts the Fort Harrison VA Medical Center, which employs many city residents. 

Fire incidents in Helena

The average number of fire incidents that occurred in Helena from the years 2002 to 2018 and reported to the National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS) is 145 per year. The highest number of fires reported in the area is 82 in 2002 and 211 in 2007. When examining fire subcategories, the most reports belonged to structure fires (35 percent) and outside fires (48.3 percent).

A notable wildfire fire occurred east of Helena in October 2020, damaging two grain bins and burning about seventeen acres before firefighters contained it. Fires are devastating incidents, and they can severely ruin homes. After a fire, reassurance comes from hiring experts who can restore the affected property to its preloss condition.

What restoration services do SERVPRO technicians provide in fire-damaged properties?

When the unfortunate happens in your property, the extent of the damage can be a nightmare and too disruptive. Most property owners feel a sense of relief after the fire department combats the flames, and everyone is safe. However, secondary fire damage in your Helena residence can begin in less than 24 hours. Thankfully, the restorers from SERVPRO have decades of experience and high skills in dealing with fire damage.

During the restoration process, our technicians can:

  • Inspect the affected area thoroughly to note the intensity of the damage and if any water damage occurred when the flames were extinguished.
  • Removal of damaged items from the property - We pack out any salvageable items and take to our off-site facility for restoration.
  • Protecting the property from harsh climate and intruders by boarding up any openings on the roof or walls
  • Water damage restoration and thorough drying - We extract all the water from fire-fighting efforts and dry the property even in hard to reach areas.
  • Smoke and soot damage restoration - Our restorers remove tarnishing caused by corrosive byproducts and smoke residues using advanced cleaning products.
  • Cleaning and disinfecting the entire property - We clean all affected areas thoroughly without causing more damage.    

When a fire incident occurs in your property, do not wait long. Contact SERVPRO of Helena and Great Falls to repair all kinds of fire damage both inside and outside your property. Talk to us today at (406) 458-6008. 

Enjoy Painting, a Drink, and Good Company In Helena This December

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO fire wrapped truck SERVPRO can cleanup the fire damage from the misbehaving fire pit at the Helena area Holter Museum

Holter Museum of Art Invites Artists of All Abilities In Helena To Join An Evening Of Creativity

Are you itching to unleash some creativity this winter? Come join the Holter Museum of Art for their popular “Corks and Canvas” group this December. Enjoy a painting extravaganza where you can meet other artists and paint to your heart’s content while enjoying a seasonal beverage.

  • The winter edition Corks and Canvas will be held behind the museum, so wrap up warm!
  • There will be a fire pit to fight the chill.
  • Enjoy mulled wine while you paint.

The first drink is on the house! Subsequent beverages are $4 for beer and $6 for wine. The event costs $40 for members and $45 for non-members and runs from 6:30 – 8:30 PM.

A fire pit is a beautiful way to stay cozy outdoors in the winter months. Do be careful of the fire risks, though – make sure your pit is well protected and sparks cannot blow into flammable materials. For help with fire damage repair, call SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls at (406) 458-6008.

Can Smoke Damaged Carpets Be Cleaned In My Helena Home?

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

The kitchen of a home ravaged by fire To schedule a service call, contact SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls at (406) 458-6008.

SERVPRO Can Restore Carpets in Your Helena Home

Fire can do more than damage your carpet, it can leave behind unpleasant odors. These odors can be the hardest thing to remove after a fire in Helena, especially from carpet. The odors can become trapped in carpet fibers leaving you with a constant reminder of the fire you want to forget.

Do I Have To Remove My Carpet?

As long as there is no burn damage, you do not have to remove your carpet. SERVPRO offers carpet cleaning services that will get your carpet looking like new again. We have a range of services, including:

    •    Bonnet Cleaning
    •    Hot Water Extraction
    •    Deluxe Precondition and Rinse
    •    Showcase Premier Cleaning

We can get any carpet clean and ensure that smoky odors do not linger. Should any of the carpet be permanently damaged, we will remove it for you.

Is The Carpet Safe Once The Odors Are Gone?

Fires cause enough damage, and the last thing you want to worry about is whether the carpet is clean and safe. Can your kids and pets sit or play on the carpet? The answer is yes. SERVPRO provides professional carpet cleaning that removes all traces of fire odor.

We offer SERVPRO Cleaned standards which meet the requirements of the Center for Disease Control and state health agencies. The deep cleaning service even removes any other build-up and debris that may have been trapped in your carpet, making it overall a safe place to have a seat.

What Is The Next Step?

Call us today to schedule an inspection. How far the smoke traveled through your home will affect the level of carpet damage. We will assess the damage and begin work right away. Cleaning time frames can vary, depending on how much damage was done.

To schedule a service call, contact SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls at (406) 458-6008.

For more about Helena click here.

What Can I Do About Odors in My Home After a Fire?

6/8/2020 (Permalink)

fire damaged wall and ceiling Do you know how to clean smoke and soot damage? SERVPRO does!

SERVPRO Can Remove Smoke Odors and Restore Your Helena Home 

In every fire, there is physical damage from the heat and flames. In residential fires, it is usually limited, with the odors created by smoke and soot often being the hardest sign of the fire to eliminate from your Helena home. 

How Quickly Can You Get Started? 

Once our restoration team arrives, SERVPRO can start removing property scorched by the fire damage. In Helena homes, this usually means demolishing and removing ceiling panels, drywall, and linoleum or carpeting, depending on where the fire started. As an example, if there was a short in the wiring in the living room, our teams remove all this plus items such as lamps, televisions, sofas, and other furniture. 

This first step is important for two reasons. The scorched material in these items generates odors, and it is also covered in soot and smoke particles left by other burned items. Removing these items pulls a large amount of the odor-causing particles completely out of the home and makes cleaning efforts more effective.

How Long Does Cleaning Take? 

Cleaning efforts depend on several factors. Our team has a wide inventory of cleaning agents tailored to each type of odor-causing particle, but using them means knowing what items burned, how long the fire burned, and how far the smoke went through your home. Once we have that information, cleaning can take from a day or two to several weeks.

OK, the Odors are Gone, but is My Home Clean Enough to Live in Again? 

Yes. SERVPRO actions meet the requirements established by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification for returning a clean, safe home to the owner. If you are still concerned for children or older family members, our office offers Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. This goes further and meets the cleaning standards of the Center for Disease Control and state health agencies. 

To schedule a service call, contact SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls at (406) 458-6008.

More about Helena.

What Should I Do About the Fire Damage in My Helena Bedroom?

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

smoke and soot damaged personal items in fire damaged bedroom Fires can be one of the most stressful events homeowners face. Let our SERVPRO team, who has the experience and training, restore your home,

SERVPRO Can Help You Remediate the Fire Damage in Your Helena Home  

Owning pets is a great way to make your home feel more inviting after a long day of work. However, they can become a problem if they cause fire damage in your home. For example, imagine what might happen if your cat knocked an unattended burning candle off the side table next to your bed. As the flame licks the carpet, it can begin to smolder and ignite as well.  

Fortunately, many fires can be caught and put out early, so the fire damage in your Helena home could be relatively small. The key to successfully remediating fire damage without many hiccups is how quickly help arrives at your home. So, if a sudden blaze strikes your home, get help now.  

What Happens If Fire Damage Sits for a Long Time?  

Heat is the key to how the damage from fire settles. As objects cool: 

  • Plastics can yellow
  • Soot can become harder to remove 
  • Malodors linger 

If you call SERVPRO, our technicians can travel to your home swiftly. From the moment you call, a group of our talented technicians can assemble and head for your home as quickly as possible.  

How Can SERVPRO Remediate All of the Various Elements of Fire Damage?  

Fire can bring many side effects to it. However, SERVPRO has an answer to every one of them. Our technicians can: 

  • Use hydroxyl generators to purge malodors
  • Clean greasy and soot-stained surfaces with house-made formulas 
  • Remove burnt carpet 
  • Use scent-sealing paints on the walls affected by smoke 

It's always our goal to leave your home feeling, "Like it never even happened." Remember, no matter what, We're Faster To Any Size Disaster. 

If your home requires fire damage remediation services, get help right now. Call (406) 458-6008 to speak with SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls. We're ready to take your call at any time.   

More about Helena.

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

3/24/2020 (Permalink)

Stovetop fire in this kitchen Our technicians are ready 24/7 and arrive right away to prevent further damage. We have the state of the art equipment necessary for any size job.

Fire Damage in Helena Den Gets Full Restoration Services

Sometimes the worst part of fire damage in a home is not due to the actual flames and heat but the soot and smoke that gets left on every object in the area of the fire.

When cleaning up fire damage in a Helena den that started from a candle too close to the curtains, SERVPRO technicians found many issues more related to smoke and soot rather than charring.

First Action: Containment

The techs put up barriers over the doorways and vents in the room to contain the soot within the den area. Air quality is another essential part of fire damage cleanup, and the techs deploy air scrubbers. These machines grab airborne soot particles and trap them in a maze of HEPA filtration.

Documenting Damaged Contents

Items in the area where the fire began, such as the curtains and nearby items with too much charring for restoration, get removed from the premises. Before doing so, the techs get the approval of the homeowner (or adjuster) and also photograph and document the condition of the item to make filing for insurance claims reimbursement even quicker.

Move-Out of Items for Cleaning

The fortunate part was the homeowner was able to extinguish the fire quickly. However, there was a significant amount of smoke residue left behind. SERVPRO techs sorted through the contents of the den to determine items with restoration potential through cleaning. As the pieces get moved to another area for cleanup, they get photographed, and the techs note the location in the room, so they get returned to the precise spot in the den.

Smoke Residues Need Proper Cleaning Solutions

The removal of smoke residues is never a one-size-fits-all process. Different types of residues can exist side by side in the same room as they are dependent on the kind of things burned and the heat of the flames.

SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls at (406) 458-6008 restores homes with fire damage of any scale. Through the use of their advanced cleaning methods and equipment, the techs make the loss to the house, "Like it never even happened."

See more about Helena.

Effects of The Helena North Hills Fire on Homes

8/6/2019 (Permalink)

The damage from a burning fire is easy to see on a home. The smoke from a wildfire can be equally damaging, but may not be as easily seen. However, it almost always can be smelled. Smoke damage to the exterior and interior of your home from a wildfire can be in the form of smoke stains as well as deeply permeating odors. Smoke odors can seep into drywall, woodwork, fabrics, carpet, books and other personal items.

After the danger of the wildfire has passed and you're able to return to your home, it's time to call your insurance agent and the professionals at SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls. Our IICRC trained professionals will assess the smoke damage as well as any fire/water damage that your home may have suffered during the North Hills Fire. We can determine an action plan for cleaning, restoration and smoke removal. Let SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls effectively remediate wildfire smoke damage from your home. Call us at 406-458-6008 

Common Reasons for House Fires in Montana

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

Barbecue fire getting out of control.

1. Cooking Equipment 

When a pot and pan splatter grease, it can take seconds to cause a fire. When cooking stay close by, especially if using oil or high temperatures. Keep combustibles away from the heat source (e.g. oven mitts, dish towels, paper towels).

2. Electrical Equipment

  1. Make sure your outlets aren't overloaded 
  2. Don't have electrical wires under heavy equipment 
  3. Your Electrical appliances don't have loose or frayed cords/plugs

3.Candles 

Keep candles on a level surface, away from combustible materials and out of reach of children or pets. Always blow them out before leaving the house. 

4. Barbecues 

Use Barbecues away from the house, deck rails, and tree limbs. Maintenance them on a regular basis, clean removable parts (inside and out) with soapy water. Check for potential leaks in the connections by spraying them with soapy water; Watch if bubbles form when you open the gas.

5. Fire Pits

  1. You may need a permit depending on where you live to have a fire. 
  2. You have to have a permit if your fire is bigger than 2 ft tall and 3 ft diameter. 
  3. Keep at least 25 ft away from structures and tree limbs. 
  4. Use a screen over your fire to keep the sparks from flying 
  5. Keep a bucket of water or a hose close by.

Fire Season Safety Tips

8/3/2018 (Permalink)

Always be prepared around fire.

Fire season is here in the Northwest. Preventing a fire accident is far easier than investing in fire and water restoration in the aftermath of such an accident. We've put together a few tips to make your summer activities not only fun and memorable, but also safe.

1. Always have water or a fire extinguisher on hand. When you are having a campfire, or backyard fire pit, it’s always a good idea to keep a bucket of water or hose nearby. Sometimes sparks and flammable materials can fly out of the fire. Having water nearby means you will be able to respond quickly to keep the fire under control.

2. Fireworks should only be used under adult supervision. Everyone loves sparklers and pinweels, but the reality is, they can be very dangerous in the wrong hands. Keep a close eye on children when fireworks are involved. It only takes a split second for a fun fourth of July to turn into a life altering disaster. Additionally, never try to relight faulty fireworks or sparklers. All fireworks and sparklers should be disposed of in a bucket of water.

3. Maintain your gas or charcoal grill. Over time, grease and other flammable materials can build up on your grill. To help prevent a possible grease fire, always maintain your grills and keep them clean.

4. Survey your surroundings prior to lighting a fire or grill. Make sure there is nothing flammable directly adjacent to the fire. This includes deck railings, branches, dry grass or wood. You should also NEVER start a grill indoors or directly under your home’s eaves or soffits. Additionally, when starting a camp fire, take care to clear the area around where you will be starting the fire and make certain there are no dry materials that could catch fire from a nearby spark. Check your local municipalities to ensure that a campfire ban in not in effect in your area.  

5. Always completely extinguish a fire or grill. When you are finished with your fire or using your grill, always make certain that it is completely out. Grills and fires can quickly become a serious disaster when left unsupervised.

Fires, grilling and fireworks are all a part a fun summertime experience, but remember to be smart and safe so that everyone can have an enjoyable experience. SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls wishes everyone a safe and happy summer having fun and making memories. If you follow these tips, you may never need to call us for fire restoration, but do remember, we are always here when you need us. 406-458-6008

Christmas Holiday Safety

12/13/2017 (Permalink)

Christmas Trees can start a huge fire that can completely damage your Helena or Great Falls home. Follow our safety instructions.

The Christmas season is in full swing. During this time each year, the traditional Christmas tree fills the family room surrounded by presents. BE CAREFUL - Christmas tree fires are infrequent, but they can happen. Listed below are a few good measures that will help ensure your home’s safety:
• Make sure you pick a healthy tree; trees with brown needles indicate dryness.
• Make sure your tree is placed in a sturdy stand to prevent it from falling over.
• Make sure your stand has an adequate basin for water.
• Make sure to check and water your tree daily.
• Check your lights to make sure they are fire resistant and supported by a national testing organization.
• Keep your trees a safe distance from any heat source.
• Make sure that the lights and any extension cords used are in good working condition; look for and replace damaged wires.
• Check all the bulbs to make sure they are working properly.
• Make sure you have adequate smoke alarms in the area and they are working properly.
The SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls team wants to ensure that everyone has a safe and joyous season. In the unlikely event that a fire were to occur, know that the SERVPRO team in Helena and Great Falls is ready to assist 24/7 by calling 406-458-6008.

Helena and Great Falls residents protect yourself from Wildfire Smoke.

8/30/2017 (Permalink)

Currently Montana has 600,000 Acres burning. Please stay safe and stay indoors. If restoration is needed call SERVPRO.

Dry conditions in Montana have increased the potential for wildfires in or near wilderness areas. Stay alert for wildfire warnings and take action to protect yourself and your family from wildfire smoke.

When wildfires burn in your area, they produce smoke that may reach your community. Wildfire smoke is a mixture of gases and fine particles from burning trees and other plant materials. This smoke can hurt your eyes, irritate your respiratory system, and worsen chronic heart and lung diseases.

Who is at greatest risk from wildfire smoke?

  • People who have heart or lung diseases, like heart disease, chest pain, lung disease, or asthma, are at higher risk from wildfire smoke.
  • Older adults are more likely to be affected by smoke. This may be due to their increased risk of heart and lung diseases.
  • Children are more likely to be affected by health threats from smoke. Children’s airways are still developing and they breathe more air per pound of body weight than adults. Also, children often spend more time outdoors engaged in activity and play.

Stay alert for wildfire warnings.

Take precautions to decrease risk from wildfire smoke.

If you have question call 406-458-6008.

Take steps to decrease your risk from wildfire smoke.

  • Check local air quality reports. Listen and watch for news or health warnings about smoke in Lewis& Clark and Cascade counties. Find out if your community provides reports about the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Air Quality Index (AQI) or check the report on AirNow.gov. In addition, pay attention to public health messages about safety measures.
  • Consult local visibility guides. Some communities have monitors that measure the amount of particles in the air. In the western United States, some states and communities have guidelines to help people determine if there are high levels of particulates in the air by how far they can see.
  • Keep indoor air as clean as possible if you are advised to stay indoors. Keep windows and doors closed. Run an air conditioner, but keep the fresh-air intake closed and the filter clean to prevent outdoor smoke from getting inside. If you do not have an air conditioner and it is too warm to stay inside with the windows closed, seek shelter in a designated evacuation center or away from the affected area.
  • Avoid activities that increase indoor pollution. Burning candles, fireplaces, or gas stoves can increase indoor pollution. Vacuuming stirs up particles already inside your home, contributing to indoor pollution. Smoking also puts even more pollution into the air.
  • Prevent wildfires from starting. Prepare, build, maintain and extinguish campfires safely. Follow local regulations if you burn trash or debris. Check with your local fire department to be sure the weather is safe enough for burning.
  • Follow the advice of your doctor or other healthcare provider about medicines and about your respiratory management plan if you have asthma or another lung disease. Consider evacuating if you are having trouble breathing. Call your doctor for  advice if your symptoms worsen.
  • Do not rely on dust masks for protection. Paper “comfort” or “dust” masks commonly found at hardware stores are designed to trap large particles, such as sawdust. These masks will not protect your lungs from the small particles found in wildfire smoke.
  • Evacuate from the path of wildfires. Listen to the news to learn about current evacuation orders. Follow the instructions of local officials about when and where to evacuate. Take only essential items with you. Follow designated evacuation routes–others may be blocked–and plan for heavy traffic.
  • Keep it safe Montana.

Teaching children what to do in a fire.

7/7/2016 (Permalink)

Planned evacuation for a house fire.

In 2014, there were an estimated 367,500 reported home structure fires and 2,745 associated civilian deaths. In the United States Fire can spread rapidly through your home, leaving you as little as one or two minutes to escape safely once the alarm sounds. A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. Smoke alarms should be interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound. Pull together everyone in your household and make a plan. Walk through your home and inspect all possible exits and escape routes. Households with children should consider drawing a floor plan of your home, marking two ways out of each room, including windows and doors. Also, mark the location of each smoke alarm. Make sure to have a meeting location outside the home.

Fire Damage: How do we do it?

7/7/2016 (Permalink)

Fire with a lot of belongings. Most of the contents were restored.

Do you ever wonder how SERVPRO keeps up with every customer’s job progress? SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls has a pretty tried and true method to keep everyone up to date on the progress of every job. When a customer first calls in a loss, we at SERVPRO of Helena & Great Falls enter all of the pertinent information into a form called the FNOL or “First Notice of Loss.” This form is sent to everyone involved including our First Responders, Office staff so they can communicate with your insurance company, managers and ownership so they know the status of every job in progress. Every note, assessment, detail associated with that job from that point forward is attached to that initial FNOL so that it is at our fingertips if you ever have any questions or concerns.

Helena and Great Falls Smoke and Soot Cleanup

4/28/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing 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 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 Helena & Great Falls 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 also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (406) 458-6008