Recent Fire Damage Posts

Morgan Hill Fire Damage Is More Manageable After Mitigation

4/10/2023 (Permalink)

shocked man covered in soot holding a wire and making a call If you are shocked to find your home has fire damage, call SERVPRO to make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO Focuses on Fast Fire Damage Recovery

Because there are so many commercial properties and offices joining the thousands of homes in the community, the response of trained professionals to post-fire recovery should be immediate. Each property is uniquely affected by internal structure fires. Our placement in the valley also makes us a target for potential wildfire damage at times, which is an added condition that our SERVPRO team is prepared to face with restoration.

What Are the Emergency Services We Provide? 

Emergency services are the initial line of defense with Morgan Hill fire damage disasters. We prioritize the needed efforts to protect property and its contents from destruction, and this is possible with early and deliberate action by our trained professionals. FSRT-Certified technicians accredited by the IICRC are available 24/7 for a swift arrival window to get early efforts started to restore fire losses, including: 

  • Controlled Demolition – Demolition is one of the processes that help to identify structural compromise rapidly and what must be done to get the house to a stable foundation for build-back services.
  • Content Relocation – The contents of your home can be overwhelmed by fire and smoke damage, making it a vital process to grab all loose items and move them to a safer area of the house.
  • Water Removal – Extinguishment typically introduces a high volume of water to a residence or business, and so our early efforts can focus on needed extraction and material drying.
  • Debris Removal – Soot, ash, smoke solids, and charred remnants of building materials can rest on the residence's flooring, and shoveling and discarding this buildup can be beneficial to later soot cleanup and deodorization.
  • Air Filtration – Aerosolized solids and carcinogenic particles create a volatile and hazardous environment. We can regulate some of these airborne threats using air scrubbers with HEPA filters and hydroxyl machines.

Containment Strategies 

One of the critical stages of fire damage recovery and cleanup is applying and installing containment barriers. Constructing temporary walls with wood and plastic sheeting can prevent the movement of smoke particles and other contaminants after a fire. Containment zones also allow an easier regulation of water damage.  

Soot and Smoke Damage Removal

A considerable obstacle in nearly all fire recovery jobs is the removal of soot and smoke residues. Though wet cleaning thick deposits can be an effective strategy, there are multiple approaches. The process involves using solvents or detergents to emulsify or dissolve the soils. Mechanical action is used in agitating the chemical on the surface to improve the penetration. Abrasive cleaning can include:

  • Steel wool
  • Soft brushes
  • Dusters
  • Hard-bristled brushes
  • Dry vacuums

Deodorization After Fire Damage

Harsh odors are a typical byproduct of combustion, and in some situations, this result could be overwhelming and offensive to the senses. Depending on the material that burns, there could be powerful, intense scents. The effective strategies for resolving these issues include counteracting the smells with chemical agents and cleaning, then letting one of our efficient deodorization tools finish the job.

Are Fire Damage Repairs Needed?

After nearly all structure fires, some degree of replacement and reconstruction is necessary. SERVPRO of Morgan Hill / Gilroy and our general contractor license can complete various repairs and reconstruction needs. We have capable professionals to address reconstruction needs for even larger commercial properties, manufacturing facilities, and office buildings typical to the San Francisco Bay area.

Morgan Hill fire damage incidents can rapidly overwhelm a building, which continues even after extinguishment. Our SERVPRO of Morgan Hill / Gilroy team is quick to respond with mitigative and restorative strategies to protect what matters most. Give us a call today at (408) 500-0657.

Managing Debris during Fire Damage Restoration in Morgan Hill

4/9/2023 (Permalink)

a fire damaged bedroom with soot covering everything Dealing with fire damage certainly comes with its own challenges. Contact SERVPRO right away for effective remediation services.

SERVPRO Resources Ease All Aspects of Morgan Hill Fire Repair

Of all the things you might think about when affected by a fire incident, the accumulation of debris all over your property might not be your main concern. After all, fire consumes materials reducing them to fine residues like soot and ash. However, most incidents create different-sized debris, thus complicating fire damage restoration.

The best way to handle rubble during fire damage restoration in Morgan Hill is by formulating proper management approaches. SERVPRO anticipates the presence of debris at a fire loss site, so we incorporate management procedures in every step of the restoration.

Helpful actions for debris management

  • Collection
  • Chopping up
  • Disposal

Most of the problems caused by debris arise because the remnants are strewn all over the property. Likely remnants include insulation, ceiling, and wall panels partly consumed or soiled by the flames. When tearing these materials from surfaces, a sound collection strategy guarantees they stay within the source areas. Another helpful step is reducing the size of the remnants removed from structural sections. Our SERVPRO IICRC-certified technicians use controlled demolition approaches that do not remove materials unnecessarily. Chopping up the removed materials where necessary is also helpful to ensure better collection and temporary storage before disposal.

Debris storage resources

  • Trash cans
  • Sealable plastic bags
  • Portable storage

Debris management may also depend on how it is formed. In a fire loss, water is as destructive as the flames. Materials affected by water tend to be soggy and consolidated, unlike the remnants of heat action, which might be loosely integrated. Collection and storage should match the quality of the material. A resource like large wheeled trash cans can hold large pieces of wet ceiling or wall panels, while plastic bags are better suited for charred debris.

Handling salvageable items

Some of the materials affected during the incident are salvageable if the right action is taken. Our SERVPRO crews hasten cleanup, drying, and storage to save such items. However, before you get a chance to implement these vital steps, there might be a need for temporary storage. Identifying a section within the house or providing portable storage units helps safeguard the items.

SERVPRO of Morgan Hill / Gilroy professional handles fire damage restoration. Call us at (408) 500-0657. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster. 

Fire Damage Restoration in Morgan Hill Helps Prevent Severe Losses

8/17/2022 (Permalink)

closeup of fire hose expelling water Water damage often follows fire damage. Call SERVPRO for fast, effecient restoration.

Trust SERVPRO for Fire Recovery in Morgan Hill

Fire damage has several adverse effects on a residence; the most obvious is structural damage. Another danger of a fire is damage to water pipes. Heat can melt metal and plastic pipes or destroy the seals, creating leaks.

Leaks can damage your property if you do not detect them quickly. SERVPRO knows the dangers to look out for when performing fire damage restoration in Morgan Hill homes. We can inspect your home thoroughly and look out for the following issues:

  • Ash particles
  • Smoke damage
  • Structural problems
  • Water damage

Ash Particles

Ash is a solid substance that is physically visible following a fire. Ash particles do not spread all over a house because of their density. It is vital to avoid exposure to ash particles. Our team can clean up ash safely. 

Smoke Damage

Smoke residues can seep into walls and other parts of your home. They contain solid particles that mainly consist of carbon. Soot is light in mass and oily. Therefore, it can travel around a house relatively quickly. Our technicians know how to identify smoke residues and the right solutions for treating the issue. SERVPRO offers extensive smoke damage cleanup services using advanced industry equipment. We can use vacuum cleaners to remove dry particles loosely attached to surfaces. We usually vacuum dry smoke residues from affected surfaces before using wet cleaning products. 

Structural Problems

A fire can affect strong materials like concrete. One of the issues we look out for when it comes to structural damage is cracks that form on surfaces because of concrete enlarging from heat. 

Water Damage 

Fire hoses and sprinkler systems might cause excess water to pool in your home, leading to flooding, and repairing or replacing items after water damage is often necessary. Our SERVPRO technicians can remove the water using portal pumps and dry affected surfaces using air movers and dehumidifiers. 

If a fire has affected your house, SERVPRO of Morgan Hill / Gilroy is ready to assist you in bringing things back to normal. Our teams have expertise in dealing with fire recovery tactics. Call us at (408) 500-0657.

Fire Restoration in Morgan Hill Clears the Air and Gets it Clean

7/19/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO soot removal sign Morgan Hill fire damage restoration services are no DIY project. Call now for fast and immediate service.

Rebuilding by SERVPRO is Part of Fire Restoration

An inspection of your residence in Morgan Hill after a fire can reveal various problems that need resolution before it becomes livable again. Our fire restoration services aim to eliminate these deficits with detailed and highly focused methods and techniques.

As we do the work required of our expert technicians in fire restoration in your Morgan Hill property, you can easily see the changes. Soot remains suspended in the air for a very long time after a fire. The particles in soot can create a slight haze, and, as it settles onto things, it makes things feel different. The soot may change the item from clean-feeling to oily or dusty, depending on the type of soot. It also produces a bad odor.

We remove soot and its odors, while our fire restoration services include:

  • Tear-outs of charred stairs, window and door frames, and roofing materials,
  • Rebuilding of those areas, including the electrical wiring and any plumbing, and
  • Repainting areas that need extra care.

These areas seem to burn more deeply during a fire. Structural components that sustain damage get torn out and thrown away in a dumpster. Shingles contain nails, and many shingles themselves have sharp edges and corners.

Stairs, built of wood and covered in carpeting on a steadily rising plane, feed the fire easily. The only route from one level in your home to another, stairways hold a crucial role in any home. We get these rebuilt as soon as possible. Windows and doorways help keep your home secure, necessitating prompt attention. Your roof might suffer damage from the fire and the rescue efforts by the fire department. We repair both of these and anything else to make your house home again.

Our services cover everything necessary to make your home “Like it never even happened.”

For a restoration service you can rely on, call SERVPRO of Morgan Hill / Gilroy at (408) 500-0657.

Enjoy Fire Damage Restoration Faster in Morgan Hill with Pros

5/19/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO van loading up for a job. Fire damage restoration services by SERVPRO are second to none. Call now!

24/7 Fire Damage Response in Morgan Hill with Restoration from SERVPRO

No two fire damage situations are alike; everything depends on what took place. SERVPRO knows that when assessing your Morgan Hill property for house fire cleanup, look at where the fire started; materials burned, accelerants, and other factors. We carefully inspect and assess to pick out the best equipment and processes to get the results you deserve. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster – what this means is we arrive at your door within four hours of the initial contact you have with our customer care team. As a locally-owned and operated franchise, we strive to do quality work for all of our neighbors whenever a fire or another tragedy strikes.

For your fire damage restoration needs in Morgan Hill, some home areas may call for specialized, calculated solutions. Depending on all factors involved, our fire and smoke restoration technicians (FSRT) use proven methods and follow the basic principles of cleanup. As we go, we adapt to achieve the best results, which may include actions like:

  • Initial contact with our representative involves gathering details on your fire event so we can pack our Green Fleet with the right equipment and resources. 
  • After arrival, inspection and assessment of your property include looking at the charred materials, smoke damage, and soot so we can generate a plan of action.
  • Roof tarping and board-up help protect your interior from exposure to the elements so that proper cleanup and restoration can occur.
  • Water removal of standing water and drying helps eliminate everything left by first responders extinguishing the flames.
  • We use specialized equipment and techniques to address soot on surfaces like walls, ceilings, and woodwork.

What About Smoke Odors?

Our team includes Odor Control Technicians (OCT) that know how to evaluate smoke odors so that we can stop them in their tracks. We have EPA-registered cleaning agents, deodorizing pellets, thermal foggers, and other tools to help pull out and remove odorous particulates.

When you need help with fire damage restoration, we are here 24/7 at SERVPRO of Morgan Hill/Gilroy. Call us at (408) 500-0657!

Fire Damage Remediation in Morgan Hill Takes Professional Effort

3/31/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO smoke damage sign Fire damage restoration and remediation services by SERVPRO are second to none. We are ready to help 24/7 365 days a year.

Morgan Hill Professionals Skilled in Fire Damage Restoration Know What to Do

One of the biggest remediation issues in fire-damaged Morgan Hill homes is cleaning fire and smoke-related residues. These residues are left behind by blazes and carried by smoke to different parts of your residence. In order to effectively remove them, it is best to enlist the aid of professionals who know the right measures to take.

SERVPRO’s Morgan Hill fire damage restoration technicians, equipped with all the latest tools of the trade, routinely square away and repair local fire-related problems. Through our years of performing house fire clean-up work, smoke remediation, and fire restoration on fire-damaged homes, we have learned the best methods of resolving such issues. When completing our residue removal service, SERVPRO technicians:

  • First attempt to locate where these fire and smoke remnants have been deposited, beginning their inspection at the origin of the fire and spreading out to its furthest extent
  • Then, identify what types of residues are present in the house and select the cleaning methods/agents best suited for removing them
  • Next, classify the impacted surfaces and ensure that they can withstand the selected cleaning measures
  • Afterward, dry, wet, abrasive, or innovative methods are used to remove located residues effectively
  • Finally, expertly dispose of any residues, and other wastes lifted off of surfaces

Through all of these efforts, we remain mindful of and harness the four key factors governing fire remnant cleaning, namely temperature, agitation methods, chemical action necessary, and time, to facilitate rapid fire damage cleanup.

With all that said, your neighborhood SERVPRO of Morgan Hill/Gilroy is the go-to place for all of your fire damage cleanup and restoration needs. So, whenever a fire damages your residence, don’t hesitate to call us at (408) 500-0657 for assistance.

How Does SERVPRO Handle Emergency Fire Damage Mitigation in Gilroy?

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damaged home SERVPRO IICRC certified fire damage restoration technicians have the training that is needed for your home. We will be on-site A.S.A.P.

Our Gilroy Technicians Follow a Time-Tested Procedure to Minimize Fire Damage.

Half the battle of minimizing fire damage in Gilroy is knowing what to do when the unthinkable occurs. This is where SERVPRO shines because of its extensive restoration industry experience and time-tested mitigation procedures. Once onsite, our skilled experts often know what to do without wasting time figuring things out.

At your Gilroy residence, SERVPRO’s fire damage remediation crew wastes no time in addressing your fire-related issues. Unlike less experienced house fire clean-up firms, we follow a well-outlined plan of action to effectively limit all fire and smoke damage and make it easier to complete fire restoration work on fire-damaged homes at a later time.

The following is a brief description of our company’s fire damage mitigation procedures:

  • We first inspect an impacted home, locating all potential hazards like electrical and structural integrity issues, and then mitigate or fix these serious problems
  • Next, we secure the property by tarping damaged roofs, boarding up broken windows, and fencing in compromised areas so that it is protected from the elements and potential vandalism 
  • Then, our technicians address the effects of fire-fighting efforts by removing water-impacted materials from flooring, blocking furniture, propping up upholstery cushions, extracting water from carpets, removing stains before items dry, and so forth.
  • After that, we work to restore electricity and heat to the property so that the elements can’t do further damage
  • Finally, SERVPRO cleans and protects metal surfaces like door hinges and faucets, remediates essential living areas of the home, seals off non-essential damaged rooms, and fully deodorizes the residence

With this in mind, remember that your helpful neighbors at SERVPRO of Morgan Hill/Gilroy are always ready to assist you. Whenever you need help recovering from fire damage, contact us at (408) 500-0657.

Is It Difficult to Manage Cleanup Processes During Fire Damage Restoration in Gilroy Homes?

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke entering room from under door SERVPRO has a multitude of equipment and cleaners at our disposal to tackle fire damage.

SERVPRO Maximizes Pre-restoration Planning to Ease Fire Cleanup and Other Restoration Processes

Fire leaves Gilroy properties heavily soiled with different residues, from fine soot and ash to sticky or invisible wet smoke residues. Although cleaning is challenging in general, the effort put in planning influences the difficulty level. 

Planning for cleanup during fire damage restoration at your Gilroy property involves many aspects, which is why it is challenging. Since fires occur suddenly, they lead to confusion, impacting your plan-making routines. The planning process also requires you to anticipate issues ranging from scheduling to preventing adverse outcomes. The trained and experienced crews from SERVPRO have the appropriate skills and are not emotionally attached to the loss, which eases planning.

Planning involves many crucial aspects, including:

  • Establishing all necessary cleaning procedures
  • Setting the schedule for the exercise
  • Collecting cleaning resources 

Different procedures might be necessary depending on the type or level of fire damage. The cleaning goals also determine how the cleaning process is done. For instance, the resources needed to clean walls or ceilings depend on whether there is a plan to repaint the surface. When cleaning is the only procedure, thorough procedures are necessary.

The issue of scheduling might puzzle you since the earlier you start, the more beneficial the process. However, individual cleaning tasks may need to be prioritized or put off initially. In general, the process starts from the top areas of the property then progresses towards the ground. Our SERVPRO teams begin with the ceiling, walls, and contents we can clean onsite. We finish by cleaning the floors.

Planning the resources in time ensures no stoppage or delays. Resources vary depending on soiling and the materials in the property. Our SERVPRO crew chiefs also designate a staging area and work areas for maximum utilization of resources.

Some typical resources we use for fire cleanup include:

  • Chemical sponges
  • Air filtration devices
  • Blast cleaning equipment 
  • Trash cans

With the help of SERVPRO of Morgan Hill / Gilroy, fire damage restoration can progress as you expect, making it "Like it never even happened." You can reach us at (408) 500-0657.

A Seamless Process Working on Fire Restoration for Gilroy Home Insurance Providers

10/27/2021 (Permalink)

heavy smoke surrounding smoke detector Fire damage affects all areas of your home, even those far from the blaze. SERVPRO has the tools for complete restoration.

We Provide Effective and Efficient Recovery Solutions to Help Fire-Damaged Gilroy Homes

Fires are a destructive force that can overwhelm your home and your personal belongings. While your first call is likely to your insurance provider to learn about your coverage and options, they reach out to the trusted professionals of SERVPRO to help make this disaster "Like it never even happened." 

When Your Insurance Company Gets Involved

In nearly every sense where fire damage in Gilroy homes occurs, your home insurance provider will get involved. For even odor and light smoke damage situations, filing a claim ensures that the full scope of the damage gets evaluated and restored when emergencies affect your property. Because our SERVPRO team is a trusted vendor for restoration and recovery, we can help get the documentation in place for claims approval to get work started at your residence.

Mitigation and Emergency Services 

With a damage claim approval and the green light for restoration work to begin from your home insurance provider, our SERVPRO team can perform dozens of mitigative actions to protect your property, its contents, and its occupants. Our initial efforts make for a more efficient and cost-effective restoration process from debris removal to air filtration. 

Transition to Build-Back and Repairs 

Our experienced team meets the requirement of insurance providers by offering a range of build-back and reconstruction services. Seamlessly transitioning from mitigation and restoration to repairs and construction helps meet specific deadlines set in place by providers. We can offer an array of helpful services, including:

  • Repair fire damaged building materials
  • Reinstall flooring
  • Reconstruct building envelope

It is likely that after a structure fire, your home is protected under some insurance and coverage. Our SERVPRO of Morgan Hill / Gilroy team can work directly with your provider to meet their specific restoration requirements to keep out-of-pocket expenses to a minimum for our customers. We are available 24/7 at (408) 500-0657.

SERVPRO of Morgan Hill / Gilroy Can Help Morgan Hill Residents After a Fire Damage Incident

9/7/2021 (Permalink)

a fire damaged bedroom with debris and soot everywhere When fire damage occurs, remediation and restoration is critical. Contact our certified SERVPRO team 24/7 for technicians to help you.

SERVPRO’s Fast Response and Trained Experts Can Protect Morgan Hill Homes from the Aftermath of Fire Damage

After fire damage to your Morgan Hill home, restoring contents is often a less expensive option than replacing them. SERVPRO's restoration experts utilize several cleaning methods to clean a wide range of personal property items during fire restoration. 

SERVPRO IICRC-certified technicians routinely use several cleaning methods, including wet and dry cleaning, foam cleaning, and immersion cleaning during fire damage cleanup in Morgan Hill homes. The method used depends on the ability of the item to withstand the cleaning product and the kind of residue deposited. 

What is Immersion Cleaning that SERVPRO Techs use during House Fire Cleanup in Morgan Hill?

Immersion cleaning is an effective cleaning method for contents in your Morgan Hill home that can withstand being completely saturated with cleaning liquid. During such cleaning, the SERVPRO techs usually completely immerse the item into a bath of cleaning product. In the most basic immersion cleaning procedures, mild agitation with towels or brushes dislodges the soils.

If the smoke and soot are bonded tightly on the item's surface, SERVPRO techs use ultrasonic sound waves to create stronger agitation. These high-frequency sound waves create millions of tiny bubbles by compressing and expanding molecules of the liquid in the tank. Strong vibrations set in as the bubbles implode, producing high temperatures and microscopic jet streams of fluid. Effective ultrasonic cleaning requires proper training and experience and is used only in case of contents that can withstand the procedure during fire damage restoration.   

Call SERVPRO of Morgan Hill / Gilroy at (408) 500-0657; we are available 24/7 to help you.

Morgan Hill Residents Need Rapid Fire Damage Restoration After a Kitchen Fire

7/24/2021 (Permalink)

Fireman in kitchen fire Fire and smoke damage in your kitchen is no DIY project. Let the techs from SERVPRO handle all the fire mitigating services needed for your home.

SERVPRO of Morgan Hill / Gilroy Offers a Rapid Response for Fire and Smoke Damage 

One of the common reasons SERVPRO gets called to fire damaged homes is a cooking-related incident. We can address the damage, including foul protein smoke odors, so that you can get your home returned to pre-fire condition “Like it never even happened.” 

SERVPRO is available for prompt, reliable fire damage restoration in Morgan Hill should you have a kitchen fire. When you encounter a grease fire in your home, these are essential tips to remember:

  • Carefully turn off the heat
  • Try to cover the flames using a baking pan or metal lid
  • Smaller flames might be able to get smothered with baking soda successfully
  • Larger flames require the use of a fire extinguisher
  • Never pour water onto the flames
  • Never try moving the pan

Of course, if flames begin spreading, you need to get out of your Morgan Hill home as quickly as possible and call 911. After first responders finish extinguishing the fire, contact our team at SERVPRO to come for fire damage assessment followed by detailed cleaning and restoration. After first responders deem your property safe to enter, we will go in to evaluate the situation to come up with a plan of action for handling fire and smoke damage. 

Experts in Smoke Remediation and Odor Control

At SERVPRO, we have proven methods that allow us to tackle stubborn smoke and foul odors. 

  • Our IICRC-certified technicians have been trained in odor removal
  • We bring advanced equipment to address odor-causing particles, including industrial-grade HEPA filtration
  • The team has access to a broad selection of odor-removal products and EPA-registered cleaning agents

Let SERVPRO of Morgan Hill/Gilroy handle house fire clean up and fire damage restoration. Call us 24-hours a day at (408) 500-0657.

SERVPRO is a Trusted Fire Restoration Company in Gilroy

5/28/2021 (Permalink)

Firemen putting out fire A fire in your home can be very stressful. Let our skilled fire remediation specialists help get your house back to feeling like a home again.

Gilroy Residents can Rely on SERVPRO to Provide Fast and Efficient Fire Restoration of Their Homes.

A fire incident can be a traumatic experience for any homeowner. If you delay the fire restoration of your Gilroy home, you stand to lose much more than what is already lost to the fire. Hiring a professional fire and smoke damage restoration company like SERVPRO can help you prevent further losses and speed up the restoration process. 

Fire restoration of your Gilroy home needs to begin as soon as the firefighters leave the scene. SERVPRO restorers provide prompt services to protect both the loss site and human health. Our immediate objective during fire and smoke damage restoration is- 

  • To prevent fire and smoke to cause additional damage 
  • To provide a safer work site 
  • To prepare the structure for mitigation and restoration

What Emergency Services does SERVPRO Provide During House Fire Cleanup in Gilroy? 

SERVPRO restorers provide emergency services to fire damaged homes in Gilroy to reduce damage and minimize disruption. 

  • Conduct initial inspections- The first job of a SERVPRO restorer is to evaluate the loss site for any health and safety hazards following fire and smoke damage.
  • Boarding up the structure- The structure is properly sealed and boarded to prevent any losses due to intrusions.
  • Drying the structure- It is important to dry any water on the property used to extinguish the fire. SERVPRO experts extract any excess water and set up drying equipment before the fire damage restoration can begin. 
  • Initial cleaning- It is important in some cases when the restoration can't begin immediately. Eliminating the smoke and soot residue can prevent further damage. 

Restoration Experts of SERVPRO of Morgan Hill / Gilroy are available 24/7, Call us today at (408) 500-0657. 

Does Odor Restoration Include Automobiles?

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

Fire Fire damage can be quite overwhelming when it happens in your home. Call SERVPRO right away after an event.

SERVPRO Can Remove Many Forms of Smoke Damage from the Automobile of your Morgan Hill Home.

Your car may seem like the least of your worries after experiencing a property fire. However, automobiles can sustain significant damage from a property fire, whether because they are close to the source of fire or in an enclosed space like a garage affected by smoke. 

Our technicians are trained to carry out fire damage restoration in your Morgan Hill home and its property. Cars can be challenging to clean due to the large number of recesses where smoke can enter and become trapped. Door cavities, dashboards, and air conditioning systems are often at high risk of exposure following a property fire. While technical damage to the car must be repaired by a qualified professional, SERVPRO technicians can deodorize and clean light smoke or odor problems.

  • Technicians can remove non-salvageable components of the car and directly spray deodorant solvents beneath. 
  • Rubber materials in the car are protected with silicone gel before the operation of an activated oxygen unit in the vehicle.
  • Thermal fogging can also be an effective measure against odors in a car alongside ventilation. 
  • Hydroxyl generation is typically the safest way to exchange pungent compounds into inert, non-offensive products

Combat fire odors in all parts of your home. Contact SERVPRO of Morgan Hill / Gilroy for fire damage restoration at (408) 500-0657.

Fire Damage Restoration Service in Morgan Hill

2/15/2021 (Permalink)

glass of wine, fire burning hearth SERVPRO says enjoy your glass of wine and maintain your hearth to prevent fire damage to your Morgan Hill home

How to remove smoke residue from contents after fire damage in Morgan Hill?

A Spanish expedition camped in what is now Morgan Hill in 1772. Settlement began around 1845 with ranches started by the Murphy, Dunne, and Hill families. Hiram and Diana Morgan Hill inherited the land in 1884. They built a weekend estate, which later was named Morgan Hill.

Today the city of Morgan Hill is considered a bedroom community of Silicon Valley, with several high-tech companies headquartered in the area. The city has become a dining, recreational and entertainment destination. Luxury restaurants, wineries, events, and nature parks are among the attractions bringing visitors to the area. It is ranked in the top 20 most expensive places to live in the United States.

Morgan Hill has an approximate population of 50,000 people. Downtown Morgan Hill has over 30 restaurants, stores, boutiques, and historic buildings. Over 250,000 people visit the area every year, taking in the farmer’s market, the Mushroom Mardi Gras, Taste of Morgan Hill, and of course, the Fourth of July parade. There are organized walks for art, pub crawls, and wine tours throughout the year. A few of the exciting things to enjoy in the area include:

Wine Lovers Paradise

  • Anderson Lake Country Park
  • Santa Clara Wine Trail – a few of the many local wineries
  • Guglielmo Winery
  • Light Post Winery
  • Alara Cellars
  • Jason Stephens Winery
  • Morgan Hill Cellars
  • And more
  • Uvas Canyon County Park
  • Morgan Hill Museum
  • Gilroy Premium Outlets
  • Odeum Restaurant
  • Trail dust BBQ
  • Morgan Hill Farmer’s Market

Morgan Hill Museum

Learn about Morgan Hill history while visiting the 1911 Craftsman style home. There are many archives, collections, maps, photos, and memorabilia from the history of the area and Morgan Hill residents in earlier times. Visitors can visit the Morgan Hill House, the Morgan Hill Museum and walk along the Centennial History trail. The trail walks you through history dating from 4000 BC to the present day, including events ranchers settled the area.

Morgan Hill Farmer’s Market

The Morgan Hill Farmer’s market hosts over 35 vendors representing local businesses and farmers in the area. It runs Saturday from 9 am to 1 pm at the Caltrain station on 3rd St and Depot St. Fresh fruit and vegetables recently harvested are offered at the market along with many other local products.

Dissolving and Removing Smoke Residues After a Fire

Fires in your home can cause a great deal of physical damage. However, they also leave smoke deposits in the house on the walls and contents in the area of the fire and adjacent rooms. Grease fires in kitchens often occur, producing an oily residue.

SERVPRO examines the type of smoke residue produced from fire as they assess the fire damage in Morgan Hill homes. We apply the appropriate cleaning methods and agents to remove smoke residues and odors from all of your contents and structures.

  • Soap works well to dissolve oily residues
  • We use solvents to remove non-water-based residues

Contact SERVPRO of Morgan Hill / Gilroy for fire damage services in Morgan Hill and surrounding areas. We can help 24/7. Call (408) 500-0657.

Enjoy the Garlic Festival in Gilroy

12/23/2020 (Permalink)

Garlic We are looking forward to the Garlic Festival in Gilroy.

The Garlic Festival and the Gilroy Farmers Markets are great events coming soon

Gilroy, California, is well known as the garlic capital, and its Garlic Festival, held every year in the summer. This year it is planned for July 2021. Thousands of visitors come to Gilroy's garlic festival to enjoy everything garlic. Music, food, arts and crafts, cooking competitions are all offered with a garlic theme. Almost two tons of garlic are consumed every year. Registration for food competitions starts early in January.

Garlic is added to almost every food you can imagine, including:



Bread

Butter

Ice Cream

Sausage

Many sauces

Seasoning for soups, salads, and main courses.



If you cannot make it to the garlic festival, the Downtown Gilroy Farmers Market may be the next best thing. Every Sunday in downtown Gilroy on 7th street, the open-air market is held between Eigleberry and Monterey street. The market is a year-round market offering organic produce and local foods, with lots of garlic intertwined in all of the products. There are also arts and crafts available designed and produced by local artists.  

SERVPRO of Morgan Hill / Gilroy provides fire damage services to Gilroy residential and commercial business customers and the surrounding area. Call (408) 500-0657. We respond 24/7 to help with all your fire damage needs.

Morgan Hill Historic Downtown Walking Tours

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

inside home with major fire loss SERVPRO is looking forward to seeing you at the Morgan Hill Historic Downtown Walking Tours.

You Can Also Enjoy a Holiday Boutique & Holiday Tea in Morgan Hills

Morgan Hill is an area rich in history, and there is no better way to discover it then through the Morgan Hill Historical Society. A walking tour of Morgan Hill’s historic downtown is a wonderful way to see history up close.  The 2nd Saturday of each month is when the tours take place. Reservations are not required, but they are appreciated. The tour starts at 10:00 AM and ends around noon. The tour is free, but the Historical Society welcomes donations. 

Park at the Community Garage (Enter on 4th St.)

Meet at 50 E. 3rd St (Garage exit)

Other upcoming events include:

Holiday Boutique

Friday, November 5th – Sunday, November 8th

Hiram Morgan Hill House

10 AM – 5 PM

17860 Monterey Road

Morgan Hill, CA 95038-1258

Holiday Teas

Friday, December 4th & Saturday, December 5th

Hiram Morgan Hill House

11:30 AM – 1:30 PM

SERVPRO of Morgan Hill / Gilroy provides fire debris removal services to the area. For more information, contact us at (408) 500-0657. We are proud to be part of such a historical city and look forward to being part of its future.

Can SERVPRO Clean Kitchen Contents After Fire Damage?

9/15/2020 (Permalink)

"We can help" Our experts are available to assist in fire damage restoration efforts right away. Call SERVPRO today.

Morgan Hill Residents Are Concerned About Appliances and Furniture After Fire Damage.

Morgan Hill residents know that the kitchen is the heart of the home. It is where we prepare meals for ourselves or our family, and of course, the kitchen is usually the most popular place to hang out at a party. After a long day, it is refreshing to go to the kitchen for a cold beverage or to start a fresh coffee pot.

Fire damage to your Morgan Hill kitchen can feel devastating. The sight of soot-blackened walls and grimy furniture is upsetting. However, do not despair. SERVPRO has teams of trained fire restoration experts on hand to put your kitchen back together.

Can I prevent fire damage to my kitchen?

Although we are on hand to help you – we hope you will not need us! Take these simple steps to prevent fire damage to your kitchen:

  • Never leave the stove or a hot pan of food unattended
  • Be aware of trip and fall hazards such as trailing cords, and fix them
  • Do not let pets or young children into the kitchen when you are cooking
  • Store dish towels and aprons safely away from the cooker and open flames
  • Keep a fire extinguisher on hand – check it is safe for kitchen use, and familiarize yourself on how to use it

Unfortunately, no matter how careful you are, a disaster can still happen. In the event of fire damage to your kitchen, call SERVPRO of Morgan Hill / Gilroy as soon as you can. We Are Faster To Any Size Disaster, and we will get your kitchen back to normal as quickly as possible.

Why does soot make such a mess?

Soot forms from incomplete combustion of materials during a fire. Soot consists mostly of carbon but can also have traces of metal, chemicals, and even dust. Soot bonds to surfaces, creating a dark residue that can be very difficult to remove.

Soot particles are tiny – smaller than dust or mold – making it easy for them to settle on materials and stick there.

There are different kinds of soot:

  • Dry soot is the most straightforward kind of soot to remove
  • Wet soot happens when fires burn low and slow and is particularly difficult to remove
  • Oily soot comes from burning plastics and rubbers and is greasy and hard to clean
  • Protein soot comes from burning proteins, and is most common in the case of kitchen fires – it smells terrible, and the smell can linger long after the fire is out

Soot is notoriously hard to clean, which is why you should call SERVPRO. All our technicians undertake Institute Of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) training, and are well-versed in handling every type of soot.

Can you clean my wooden furniture?

We will assess wooden furniture and let you know if we can salvage it. If the surface is badly blistered or warped by the flames, it may need refinishing. However, if the main problem is soot stains, we have a range of cleaning methods to help.

Dry cleaning is better for unfinished wood, such as inside drawers or at the back of units, because it does not push the soot deeper into the unprotected grain. For finished wood, we have a range of detergents suitable for wood furniture. We can also carry out semi-refinishing to deal with heavier soot damage, or where the furniture has water stains from fire-fighting efforts.

Can you help with soft furnishings?

Yes – SERVPRO can clean and restore upholstery, drapes, and blinds after a kitchen fire. Our team will advise you on the best cleaning method for each item and get your approval before commencing work.

For some items, such as Venetian blinds, dry cleaning, or ultrasonic cleaning, are ideal. Ultrasonic cleaning pushes tiny bubbles of cleaning solution deep into the stained material to loosen and remove soot particles.

For delicate upholstery, spot cleaning may be a better choice. Spot cleaning uses a carefully-chosen cleaning solution and focuses only on affected areas rather than soaking the entire surface.

What about my appliances?

Soot damaged appliances can be tricky to clean. Our technicians know which cleaning solutions are the safest and most effective on different kinds of devices. We start by dislodging as much soot as we can with dry cleaning to minimize the cleaning fluid we use on your appliances.

We are also mindful of the risks when operating an appliance after a fire. That is why we have an authorized electronic service company check and confirm each machine's safety before turning it back on.

Can SERVPRO help with the smoky smell?

Yes – we use air scrubbers, odor-eating pellets, and, if necessary, a fogger or an ozone generator, to remove odors from your kitchen. We know that kitchen fires can leave a particularly smelly residue, and your kitchen must smell fresh again so you can feel comfortable there.

For help with fire damage cleanup, call SERVPRO of Morgan Hill / Gilroy at (408) 500-0657.

The 4 Key Steps for Operatin a Fire Extinguisher

7/16/2020 (Permalink)

Bathroom fire This campsite bathroom fire was extinguished using a fire extinguisher.

Follow These Four Steps

The right tool at the right time can be a lifesaver, but only if you know how to operate it. If a fire breaks out in your home in, a fire extinguisher could minimize the property damage. It is not a particularly hard item to use effectively; however, it can be helpful to become familiar with the device. If you follow the PASS technique, you will be able to use most extinguishers like a pro. Follow these four steps:

Pull. A pin is normally located on the top of the device. Just pull the pin out to make the unit operational.
Aim. A hose usually protrudes from the fire extinguisher. Take the hose and aim the end of it with a nozzle at the fire. Aim low at the base of the fire for best results.
Squeeze. Squeeze the handle to release the fire fighting agent. This should result in a forceful flow of foam or some other material out of the hose.
Sweep. Move the hose and nozzle along the base of the fire in a controlled sweeping motion. Do this until the fire is completely out or the device runs out of fluid. Keep a close watch on the extinguished fire for a few hours to make sure it does not revive.

In the case of a kitchen fire, you will need to be careful of what type of fire extinguisher or method you use. A grease or oil fire should be controlled by smothering it with a heavy metal pot lid or by pouring large quantities of baking soda on the fire.
To minimize fire damage, it's a good idea to call in a professional fire mitigation company. Trained technicians can arrive Faster to Any Size Disaster and begin the fire restoration process. They will treat water damage as well as work on removing the impacts of soot and smoke with a professional fire cleanup.

When fire damage take control of your life, we help you take it back.

1/11/2019 (Permalink)

The first 48 hours after a fire damage can make the difference between restoring versus replacing your property and personal belongings. SERVPRO of Morgan Hill / Gilroy can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems. SERVPRO of Morgan Hill / Gilroy provide timely response with mitigation services ranging from fire, smoke, and soot removal to contents claims inventory and document restoration. These services help ensure your property, belongings and memories are restored to preloss condition when possible.

What you can do until help arrives :

  • limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet
  • keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork
  • place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas
  • if electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor
  • wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trip and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant
  • if heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures
  • wash both sides of leaves on house plants
  • change HVAC filter, but leave system off until a trained professional can check the system
  • tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.

DON'T:

  • attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your SERVPRO of Morgan Hill / Gilroy
  • attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO of Morgan Hill / Gilroy
  • attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service
  • consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water (they may be contaminated)
  • turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create secondary damage
  • send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

So, before you risk doing further damage by attempting to clean up the damage yourself, call the fire damage cleanup and restoration professionals at 408-500-0657. SERVPRO has worked for over 40 years to help make fire damage "Like it never even happened."

The Importance of Smoke Alarms

12/19/2018 (Permalink)

Fire Loss in Morgan Hill

Smoke detectors and fire alarms are one of the most important items in your home. These early warning devices may help alert your family to fire and dangerous smoke but they need to be periodically tested. Testing them regularly and replacing batteries is one way to help ensure you and your family stays safe should there be a fire in your home. Roughly 3 out of 5 fire deaths happen in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.

According to the USFA, smoke detectors should be tested at least once a month and batteries should be replaced at least once or twice a year.

Smoke alarms are a key part of a home fire escape plan. When there is a fire, smoke can spread fast. Make sure that you test all smoke alarms at least once a month by pressing the button to be sure the alarm is working.

If you have any questions, please call SERVPRO of Morgan Hill / Gilroy at (408) 500 0657!