Beware of Doing THIS After a Fire!


A kitchen fire can be a frightening and overwhelming experience, leaving homeowners unsure of what to do next. While it’s natural to want to jump in and start cleaning or fixing the damage, it’s crucial to approach the aftermath of a fire with caution. Making the wrong moves can lead to further damage, health risks, or complications with insurance claims.


Here are key things homeowners should never do after a kitchen fire—and what to do instead.


Don’t re-enter quickly.


After the fire is extinguished, it’s tempting to re-enter your home to assess the damage. However, doing so without clearance from fire officials can be dangerous. Hidden structural damage, lingering smoke, and hazardous air quality may pose serious risks to your safety. Wait for professionals to declare the area safe.


Don’t DIY


Smoke and soot damage require specialized cleaning techniques. Attempting to clean walls, cabinets, or appliances yourself can worsen the damage or cause permanent stains. Instead, contact a professional restoration company with experience in fire damage cleanup. They have the proper tools and knowledge to restore your home safely and effectively.


Don’t use damaged appliances.


Even if they appear functional, appliances exposed to heat, smoke, or water should only be used once inspected by a qualified technician. Fire damage can compromise electrical systems, increasing the risk of short circuits or electrical fires.


Don’t ignore the air quality.


The aftermath of a fire often includes harmful particles in the air, such as soot, ash, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Avoid spending extended time in the affected area until the air has been professionally cleaned and purified. Breathing in these particles can cause respiratory issues and other health problems.


Don’t skip documentation.


Document all damage before cleaning or repairs begin. Skipping this step can complicate your insurance claim. Take photos and videos of all affected areas and thoroughly inventory damaged items.


What you should do


Contact your insurance company immediately to start the claims process and arrange for professional restoration services. Prioritize safety, and don’t hesitate to consult experts who can guide you through the recovery process. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure a safer, smoother recovery after a kitchen fire and protect your home from further harm.


And, of course, call your favorite disaster restoration company for help. After all, it pays to call a pro!

Beware of Winter Invasions!


Winter brings charm and unwelcome guests: Dirt, sludge, and grime. Between snowy boots, dripping umbrellas, and road salt, your home doesn’t take long to look and feel messy. Thankfully, a few simple strategies can keep the muck at bay and help your home spring in great shape.


The winter-ready entry


The entryway is your first defense against winter mess—place heavy-duty doormats outside and inside your door to catch dirt and moisture before they get in. Consider adding a shoe rack or boot tray to keep footwear organized and contained. Encourage family members and guests to remove their shoes at the door.


Create a cleaning kit


Keep a dedicated winter cleaning kit near your entryway for quick touch-ups. Include items like a small broom and dustpan, a microfiber mop, and a spray bottle of all-purpose cleaner. A quick wipe-down of muddy areas as they happen can prevent dirt from spreading.


Protect your floors


Floor protection is key during the winter months. Use washable rugs in high-traffic areas and hallway runners to prevent dirt from reaching your floors. For more delicate flooring, consider laying down protective plastic mats or area rugs that are easy to clean.


Keep pets in check


Pets can track in their fair share of dirt and snow. Wipe their paws with a towel or pet-safe paw cleaner before letting them inside. Keep a mat or towel by the door for extra messy days to catch any lingering moisture.


Regular maintenance


Vacuuming and mopping more frequently during winter is essential to staying ahead of the grime. Focus on entryways, mudrooms, and other high-traffic areas. Don’t forget to check for hidden salt or dirt that might damage your floors over time.


Prepare for spring


Start thinking ahead by decluttering and organizing areas prone to winter buildup. A little prep now will make the spring cleaning season much more manageable. With a few thoughtful measures, you can keep your home clean and welcoming throughout the winter months and be ready to embrace the fresh start of spring without a hassle.


But sometimes, the cleaning tasks you need to complete can be overwhelming. There is help for you when those times occur. Contact your favorite cleaning company for specialized tasks like carpet and furniture cleaning. After all, it pays to call a pro!

Beware of Pervasive Smoke Odors!


Smoke odors, such as wood-burning fireplaces, cooking mishaps, and nearby wildfires, can seep into homes. Once inside, these odors cling to fabrics, furniture, carpet, and even walls, creating persistent smells that may last for months if left untreated.


Understanding how smoke odors permeate a space and learning practical ways to combat them can save homeowners time and frustration.


Why so persistent?


Smoke particles are tiny, allowing them to infiltrate porous surfaces throughout your home. Once they settle, they can be challenging to eliminate, especially in materials like curtains, rugs, and upholstered furniture. Over time, these particles can become embedded in drywall, insulation, and even air ducts, lingering the smell.


In addition to being a nuisance, lingering smoke odors can pose health risks. Breathing in these particles, especially from materials burned in wildfires or cigarettes, can irritate the lungs and worsen respiratory conditions. Smoke odors can also trigger symptoms for those with asthma or allergies, making it essential to address them as quickly as possible.


One of the best ways to prevent smoke odors from entering your home is to seal gaps and cracks, use air purifiers, and maintain your ventilation system. These are three great strategies everyone should embrace.


Quick fixes for existing odors


If smoke odors have already permeated your home, several do-it-yourself methods and products can help reduce their impact:

1. Activated charcoal: Activated charcoal placed in bowls around affected areas can absorb odors over time. It’s especially effective in smaller rooms and enclosed spaces.
   
2. Steam cleaning: For carpet and fabrics that have absorbed smoke, steam cleaning can help release and remove the particles embedded in fibers. A professional steam cleaning is recommended. Renting equipment may help, but it won’t flush contaminants like a professional cleaning can accomplish.
   
3. Essential oils: Using essential oils, like eucalyptus or tea tree, in diffusers or cleaning solutions can mask smoke odors and provide a fresh scent, though it may take several applications. And this is not a permanent solution.
   

For more severe smoke odor issues, such as those caused by house fires or prolonged exposure to wildfire smoke, it’s best to consult a professional cleaning service. Professionals can use specialized equipment, such as ozone generators and thermal foggers, to neutralize smoke odors deeply embedded in the home. After all, it pays to call a pro!

Beware of Weak Vacuum Cleaners!


Keeping your vacuum cleaner in shape is essential for maintaining a home, ensuring your carpet lasts longer, and enhancing the effectiveness of your cleaning routine.


As time passes, your vacuum accumulates dust, debris, and blockages that can hinder its suction power and overall performance, making cleaning an inefficient task for you as a homeowner. A powerful vacuum can quickly become a weak vacuum if not correctly maintained.


The bag


Regularly checking and emptying the vacuum bag or canister is essential to maintaining your vacuum cleaner’s suction power. Aim to do this when it's no more than two-thirds full to ensure smooth airflow and prevent strain on the motor.


The filters


Vacuum filters are crucial for capturing particles and maintaining air quality. Clogged filters can decrease suction power and airflow. Refer to your vacuum’s manual for cleaning or replacing the filters. Rinsing filters with water, replacing them after drying, and replacing non-washable HEPA filters as required are essential to maintain the vacuum cleaner's efficiency.


The flow


When your vacuum cleaner is not working well and seems to be struggling to pick up dirt and debris, it might be due to blockages that are not easily visible. Inspect the hose and brush head for clogs caused by items like coins or hair clumps that can obstruct the airflow in your vacuum cleaner system. Carefully removing these obstacles will help restore its suction power and ensure it continues to operate smoothly.


Clean your vacuum's brushes and rollers to remove dirt from the carpet. Trim any hair or string caught in the brush roll to maintain your vacuum's performance and longevity.


The belts


Vacuum belts rotate the brush; if they wear out or become loose over time, this can affect the vacuum's performance. Check them for any signs of damage or wear. Replacing a worn belt is a cost-effective way to improve the vacuum's performance and avoid potentially more significant problems.


Although you must vacuum regularly, more than vacuuming is needed to keep your home clean and healthy. Scheduling a professional deep cleaning of surfaces, such as carpet, furniture, tile grout, and others, is essential. The pros have specialized equipment, cleaning products, and experience, and are trained in advanced cleaning procedures. Do the right thing and call your favorite cleaning company. After all, it pays to call a pro!

Beware of Ice Dams!


As winter approaches, homeowners must prepare their homes for the challenges that cold weather can bring. One significant danger to be aware of is the formation of ice dams. If not appropriately addressed, ice dams can cause costly damage to roofs, gutters, and interiors.


What are they?


Ice dams occur when snow on the roof melts due to uneven heat distribution and then refreezes along the edges. This creates an ice barrier that prevents further melted snow from draining off the roof. Water backs up behind the ice dam, seeping under shingles and into the home, leading to leaks, mold growth, and structural damage.


Why are they dangerous?


Ice dams can cause various problems, from damaging the roof and gutters to leaking into the home's insulation and walls. This moisture can create conditions for mold, impacting the home's structure and posing health risks to occupants. In severe cases, it can even damage the home's ceilings, walls, and flooring.


Here are some steps to prevent ice dams. A little prevention goes a long way in keeping your house protected.


Ensure proper insulation


The root cause of ice dams is uneven roof temperatures, often due to poor insulation. Ensure your attic is well insulated and ventilated to maintain a consistent temperature across the roof. This helps prevent heat from escaping through the roof, reducing the chances of snow melting and refreezing.


Clean your gutters


Before winter hits, clear your gutters of leaves, debris, and blockages. A clean gutter system allows melted snow to flow freely, reducing the likelihood of ice buildup along the roof's edges.


Use a roof rake


After heavy snowfalls, use a roof rake to remove snow from the roof, especially near the eaves. This reduces the chance of snow melting and refreezing into ice dams.


Consider heat cables


Installing heat cables along the roof's edges can help prevent ice from forming by maintaining a consistent temperature. This is particularly useful in areas prone to severe winter conditions.


Act quickly


If you suspect an ice dam is forming, act quickly by using safe methods to remove the ice or contacting a professional. Proactive measures and proper maintenance can help homeowners avoid costly repairs and keep their homes safe during winter.


If the worst happens…


Call your favorite restoration company immediately if structural or moisture issues impact your home. After all, it pays to call a pro!

Beware of Garbage Disposal Smells!


Garbage disposals are convenient for breaking down food waste, but unpleasant odors can build up over time if not appropriately maintained.


Homeowners, just like you, should be aware that food particles, grease, and bacteria can accumulate inside the disposal, leading to unwanted smells that can spread throughout the kitchen.


Why the smell?


Food scraps, grease, and organic debris that pass through the disposal can get trapped on the sides and in the crevices of the unit. Over time, these particles decompose, allowing bacteria and mold to develop, which results in foul odors. Furthermore, leftover grease and fat can harden, creating a coating on the blades and walls that is difficult to remove.


Nasty indeed.


Here is how to keep your disposal in good working odor without off-gassing malodors that will run you out of the kitchen.


Run the disposal

One of the easiest ways to prevent smells is to run the garbage disposal frequently, even when there is no food waste. This practice helps clear away any particles that may have settled and keeps the blades clean.


Clean with natural solutions

Regular cleaning is vital in keeping odors at bay. Pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the disposal to break down any buildup. Let the solution sit for a few minutes before rinsing it with hot water. Additionally, grinding up citrus peels, like lemon or orange, can help naturally deodorize the unit while cleaning the blades.


Deep clean the blades

If odors persist, it may be necessary to clean the blades. Ice cubes and coarse salt can be added to the disposal and ground together to dislodge stuck food particles. The ice and salt's abrasive action scrapes away the buildup.


Avoid certain foods

Avoid putting fibrous materials (such as celery and corn husks) or starchy foods (like pasta and potato peels) into the disposal to minimize odors and clogs. These items can get caught in the blades or cause blockages, contributing to foul smells.


Following these simple steps, homeowners can keep their garbage disposals fresh, clean, and odor-free. Regular maintenance eliminates bad smells and prolongs the disposal's life.


And when you need extra help with some specialized cleaning tasks, such as carpet cleaning, tile and grout maintenance, furniture care, or others … do the right thing. Call your favorite cleaning company today. After all, it pays to call a pro!

Beware of Cold Weather!


As colder weather approaches, homeowners must prepare their homes for winter. Lack of necessary maintenance can result in costly repairs, inadequate heating, and unpleasant seasonal surprises. However, if you take the time to get your home winterized, many such complaints can be avoided.


Seal leaked windows and doors


Understandably, drafts are among the top reasons for high winter heating bills—cold air seeps in through the gaps around windows and doors, making your heating system fight hard. You must check all your windows and doors for cracks or gaps in the seal. Apply caulking or weatherstripping to seal these areas and keep warm air where it belongs.


Heating system check


Before winter, it is essential to ensure your heating system is working as it should be. This means scheduling a professional inspection and cleaning of your furnace. Regular maintenance will prevent unexpected breakdowns, so your system will run efficiently and save you money in the long run. If you use a fireplace or wood stove, now is also a great time to have those inspected and cleaned to avoid fire hazards.


Insulate pipes


Frozen pipes can be a homeowner's nightmare, generally creating thousands of dollars in water damage when they burst. Avoid all that by insulating your pipes in areas most susceptible to freezing, such as basements, attics, and crawl spaces. Use foam pipe insulation or old towels wrapped around exposed pipes.


Clean gutters and downspouts


When gutters build up, it can cause major issues when winter hits. Water in congested gutters may freeze, damaging your roof and allowing water into your home. Clean your gutters and downspouts before the first freeze to make sure they are free of leaves and other debris. This lets water flow freely from your home, which can prevent ice dams and other winter issues.


Stock up


Finally, prepare for winter storms by stocking up on essential supplies. These would include salt or sand for icy walkways, a snow shovel, and blankets in case of power outages. It's also good to service your snow removal equipment, such as snow blowers, and have them ready before the first snowfall.


Of course, if something happens to your home and you need to be rescued, do the right thing and call your favorite restoration company. After all, it pays to call a pro!