SERVPRO of West Somerset County Offers 24-Hour Emergency Services

10/7/2021 (Permalink)

A fire or water emergency is devastating at any time it occurs, but especially after hours. The longer it takes to get the matter resolved, the greater the damage, which is why it is important to know an emergency restoration provider that offers 24-hour emergency services.

Why is Speed so Critical during a Crisis?

Property damage involving water and fire are incredibly invasive. Water will spread rapidly throughout the building, and will be absorbed by furniture, walls, floors and upholstery. The damage resulting from fire will continue even after it has been extinguished. The reason for this is because the particulates and soot which are emitted from the smoke will severely damage metal, fabric and anything that is porous.

Timeline for Water Damage

Minutes after flooding occurs, the liquid will spread all over the building, saturating anything it comes into contact with. The finish on furniture may “bleed” which can lead to permanent stains, especially on carpets. Books, photographs and anything made from paper will warp and swell.

After twenty four hours, the drywall will begin to dissolve and swell. Metallic objects might start to display tarnish, and furniture will crack. Any dyes or inks which are present on clothing and paper will stain and expand. Those who visit the property at this time might also detect a musty scent.

If the water damage hasn’t been repaired between forty eight hours to seven days later, mold will develop which will rapidly spread. Windows and doors will start to warp and swell, and metal will develop rust with corrosion. Paint will blister, wooden objects will warp and swell, and anyone who enters the property at this time is at risk of biohazard contamination. By this point, the restoration cost will substantially skyrocket.

Timeline for Fire Damage

Minutes after a fire subsides, the residue from the soot will settle onto every nearby surface. The soot will react with some materials in a manner that causes rapid corrosion and deterioration. It will become embedded within carpet fibers, drapery and any type of fabric. Materials which are porous will display discoloration.

Hours after a fire occurs, the flooring and wooden furniture might have to be completely refinished, since the soot will start to consume it. Metallic objects will corrode or rust while clothing will be permanently stained. Any nearby walls which are painted will turn yellow in color.

After a week or more has passed and the fire damage has not been repaired, any objects which have been exposed to the soot will be permanently damaged. It is also possible that the building itself might have sustained structural debasement that can make it dangerous to traverse.

As you can see, both water and fire damage is serious and must be addressed as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the harder it will be to restore your valuables, and the costs will rise correspondingly.