Tips to Prepare Mitigation & Restoration

When disaster unexpectedly damages your home, the first steps you take could mean the difference between a small clean up and more costly and time-consuming restoration.

Knowing when to call in professional can also save you time in getting your life back to normal and money by preventing further damage to your home. At ServiceMaster of North Idaho, we understand the damage goes below the surface. From our fast response, to our proven expertise, and our ongoing communication, we are committed to restoring your pace of mind. Follow these steps to help minimize damage, and call in the professionals you trust.  (208) 667-6633

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Water Damage

  • Damage from water and bacteria growth can begin within hours. We always recommend calling a professional for help.
  • Remove as much water as possible by mopping or blotting
  • Remove wet area rugs or other floor covering not permanently attached. Do not attempt to remove carpeting.
  • Lift draperies off floor, loop through coat hanger and place hanger on the drapery rod
  • Wipe furniture, prop up wet cushions for even drying and place aluminum foil under furniture legs
  • Move photos, paintings, and art objects to a safe, dry location
  • Do not remove books from shelves. Instead, pack them tightly to prevent warping of pages until a restoration professional can begin specialized drying
  • Open, drawers, closets, and cabinet doors to enhance drying

Smoke & Fire Damage

  • Corrosive by-products can cause irreversible etching in as few as 72 hours. Call for professional help.
  • If the temperature is above 60 degrees, air out the house to reduce smoke odor
  • Clean Formica, chrome, porcelain and aluminum fixtures to prevent permanent tarnishing or etching
  • Change the air filter on your furnace if it uses forced hot air
  • Tape damp cheese cloth over returns and supply registers to capture loose soot in the air
  • Discard any open food packages
  • If the electricity is off, clean out the refrigerator and leave doors propped open
  • Send clothing with heavy smoke damage to a qualified restoration dry cleaner

Vandalism

  • Fast action is required to prevent further damage. Call a restoration professional to remove damage caused by vandals.
  • Make a list of all damage
  • Use a shop vacuum to remove glass particles from carpet and upholstery
  • Remove any debris from carpet or interior walls. Scrape or blot carpets and furniture – do not rub
  • Wash any egg or other residue from the building exterior using water