Recovering from a fire can feel overwhelming. Flames, smoke, and water from firefighting leave
a property damaged. While it may seem simple to start cleaning and fixing things immediately,
some actions can make the damage worse. Understanding common mistakes can save time,
money, and prevent future problems.
Here are the most frequent errors property owners make during fire restoration and how to
avoid them.
Acting Too Soon Without Assessment
After a fire, many people rush in to start the cleanup. While the urge to fix everything quickly is
natural, acting without a proper inspection can lead to more damage. Structures may be
unstable, and electrical systems can still be live.
What to do Instead:
● Wait for a professional assessment. Certified teams inspect the building and identify
hazards.
● They check for weak floors, damaged ceilings, and electrical risks.
● Documenting damage before starting work also helps with insurance claims.
● A thorough inspection guides repairs safely and prevents accidental injuries.
Ignoring Water Damage
Water used to fight fires often causes hidden problems. Sprinklers, hoses, and foam leave
materials soaked. Wet walls, floors, and insulation can weaken structures and encourage mold
growth if left unattended.
Mistakes to Avoid:
● Letting water sit in floors or ceilings.
● Using household fans or heaters instead of professional drying equipment.
● Skipping moisture checks in hidden areas like wall cavities or attics.
● Professional crews use pumps, industrial fans, and dehumidifiers to remove water
efficiently. Monitoring moisture levels ensures materials dry completely and reduces the
risk of mold or rot.
Failing to Remove Damaged Materials Properly
Some property owners try to clean or repair burned materials themselves. This can worsen
damage or create health hazards. Soot and smoke particles settle onto surfaces and can
corrode metals or stain fabrics.
Key Steps:
● Remove materials that are burned, warped, or saturated beyond repair.
● Discard wet insulation, drywall, or flooring that cannot dry.
● Clean surfaces during drying to reduce long-term damage.
Neglecting Smoke and Odor Cleanup
Smoke can penetrate walls, furniture, and fabrics, leaving a lingering odor. Many people
overlook this step, assuming cleaning visible soot is enough.
What Should be Done:
● Use thermal fogging, ozone, or HEPA scrubbers to target smoke particles.
● Wipe or clean all surfaces, including ceilings and vents.
● Address odors during the drying phase to prevent recontamination.
Overlooking Mold Prevention
Mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours after water exposure. A single damp area can
spread spores quickly, creating health risks and additional costs.
Steps to Prevent Mold:
● Dry materials quickly using fans and dehumidifiers.
● Inspect hidden spaces like subfloors, HVAC ducts, and wall cavities.
● Replace wet insulation and clean ventilation systems.
● Quick action and proper monitoring prevent mold from forming and spreading throughout
the property.
Not Hiring a Certified Restoration Team
One of the biggest mistakes is handling fire restoration alone or hiring inexperienced workers.
Restoration requires knowledge of structural repairs, water extraction, smoke removal, and
safety regulations.
Why Certification Matters:
● Certified professionals follow industry-standard procedures for fire and water restoration.
● They have equipment to handle water, soot, and odors safely.
● Background-checked, trained staff reduce risks during cleanup and rebuilding.
Why Choose Hands & Hammers Restoration Services
Fire restoration involves more than cleaning surfaces. Water, smoke, and soot create complex
challenges. Hands & Hammers Restoration Services, a veteran-owned business in Lewisville,
TX, provides full fire and water restoration services in the Dallas–Fort Worth area. The IICRC-
certified team handles water extraction, structural drying, soot and odor cleanup, and complete
reconstruction. With trained, background-checked professionals available 24/7, Hands &
Hammers restores properties safely and efficiently.
Managing fire restoration requires careful steps and professional guidance. Hands & Hammers
Restoration Services provides 24/7 emergency assistance to help property owners in the DFW
area recover safely and efficiently. Contact us today for more details.
