Let’s face it—accidents happen. Dealing with the aftermath of life’s accidents means determining how to clean them up. Sometimes it’s possible to complete the cleaning on your own, but other times it’s not so simple.
Knowing when to call in a professional restoration company to handle structure cleaning can be challenging. After all, many people want to save money when they can by taking on projects themselves. But in certain situations, it’s better—and safer—to call in the professionals. If damage to your home requires cleaning, here are some of the instances when it’s important to recognize you may need help.
For a full explanation of why it’s important to get professional help cleaning soot and smoke damage, read our blog article right here. The main point is that soot isn’t like regular dust or contaminants; the residue is oily and sticky which can leave permanent damage if not cleaned properly. If you try to clean smoke and soot damage yourself, you could cause more harm than good.
If your house has a persistent odor, no matter the source, and nothing you’ve tried has eliminated the smell, it’s time to hire a professional structure cleaning service. Many retail products available do not eliminate odors in your home—they only mask them for a short period of time. After a fire, puffback, or similar event, it’s best to have a professional restoration company assess the damage.
It is important to have your air ducts professionally cleaned after a fire or a puffback. If this step is neglected, a secondary release of odor or soot can happen when the heating or cooling system operates bringing you back to square one. It is also a good idea to have your ducts cleaned after a remodel or renovation if the contractor did not seal off the opening in the system or if there is noticeable debris inside or an odor being released into the house.
A sewage backup into your home is extremely hazardous to your health, exposing you to viruses, bacteria, and other microorganisms that can cause illness. Cleanup should begin as soon as possible after the backup has been cleared. Cleanup should be completed by certified professionals who have the tools and training to handle the process safely and effectively.
In addition to removal of the water and sewage material, the process also requires in-depth cleaning of the affected area. Decontamination is important for keeping you and your family healthy, and not every cleaning agent is created equal. Leave decontamination to the professionals.
For more information on dealing with sewage backups, please refer to our free water damage tip sheet here.
Like sewage backups, biohazard situations can put you at risk for illness. Any circumstance that could involve blood borne pathogens or bodily fluids and tissues should be handled by professionals who are trained and equipped with the proper equipment.
Biohazard situations could include hoarding scenes or situations where animal waste or remains are involved. These circumstances require deep cleaning and decontamination beyond the capabilities of non-professionals.
The goal of structure cleaning is to return the affected area to a healthy, livable state, and that often means calling in a professional restoration company for help. If you encounter a situation in your home that requires in-depth cleaning, remember to stay safe, use common sense, and call for help if you’re not sure you should handle the problem on your own.
