A fire leaves three kinds of damage
When a fire is put out, the damage is only partly visible. There is the direct burn damage to structure and contents. There is smoke and soot, which spreads far beyond the burned area and settles on every surface. And there is water from firefighting, which soaks into floors, walls and ceilings and can lead to mold if it is not dried quickly.
Fire damage restoration in Lake Andes, SD means addressing all three at once. Mold PE Services brings the water side of our experience together with soot cleaning and rebuilding, so the property is not handed back clean but damp, or dry but still smelling of smoke.
Securing and assessing
Our first visit focuses on protection. We board up broken windows and doors, tarp damaged roofs and secure the property against weather and unauthorized entry. Water from firefighting is extracted and drying equipment is set up to prevent secondary damage.
We then assess every room. Burned materials are identified for removal. Surfaces with smoke residue are tested to determine the right cleaning method, since dry soot, oily residue from synthetic materials and protein residue from kitchen fires each need different techniques. Contents are inventoried with photos for your insurance claim.
Cleaning and rebuilding
Charred framing, drywall and insulation are removed. Salvageable surfaces are cleaned from top to bottom, starting with ceilings and working down. HVAC systems are evaluated, as ducts often carry soot throughout the home. Odor is treated by removing residue and, where needed, sealing affected materials.
Rebuild restores framing, drywall, insulation, cabinets, flooring, paint and trim according to an approved scope. Some structural and electrical work requires permits and licensed trades, which we coordinate. You receive regular updates until the final walkthrough.
How our fire damage restoration process works
- SecureBoard up openings, tarp the roof and extract firefighting water.
- AssessTest residues, inventory contents and define the scope.
- Clean and removeRemove charred materials and clean soot from salvageable surfaces.
- RebuildRestore structure and finishes to pre-fire condition.
What a Lake Andes, SD customer said
A dryer fire damaged the laundry room and smoke went everywhere. They boarded up, dried out the firefighting water and cleaned the whole house. The laundry room was completely rebuilt.Sandra V.Dryer fire, Lake Andes, SD
Fire Damage Restoration questions
Once the fire department releases the property. Board-up and water extraction should happen as soon as possible after that.
Often yes, depending on the residue type and how long it has been present. Burned or heavily affected drywall is replaced.
Wiping soot incorrectly can smear it into surfaces. It is best to leave cleaning to technicians who can identify the residue type.