Post-Fire Water Damage: What It Is and How to Counter It

After the flames of a house fire are out, post-fire water damage quickly becomes the next threat. The potential for loss of property and possessions doesn't end when the fire department rolls up the hoses. In many cases, hundreds of gallons of water have been introduced into the home to put out the fire. Also, the intense heat of a fire may have ruptured water supply lines that also inundate the house. All that water remains on the premises, saturating absorbent materials and soaking building materials.

In the aftermath, you may be ordered by the fire department to delay entering the structure for your own safety until a fire inspector issues an all-clear. Once you gain entry, these are some of the issues of post-fire water damage you'll be facing:

  • Toxic mold growth " Once moisture contacts dormant spores, mold begins growing within hours and releasing reproductive spores into the air. Professional disinfection services must begin ASAP to prevent permanent establishment of mold in surfaces and structure of the home.
  • Structural damage " Water-sodden walls and ceilings may be structurally unsound due to the weight of absorbed water.  Be alert to signs such as sagging ceilings or water-soaked drywall and take precautionary measures.
  • Saturated materials " Carpeting, drapes, cushions, mattresses and other highly absorbent materials may retain many gallons of water. Indoor drying isn't feasible and all such materials should be removed from the home as soon as possible.
  • Excess humidity " Damaging levels of water vapor in the air can migrate through the entire house, even where standing water is limited to a certain area. To prevent further fire and water damage, humidity must be exhausted with industrial-strength fans or by utilizing professional-grade dehumidifiers.

For more information on controlling post-fire water damage, contact the water damage contractors at Rytech Restoration.

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