3 Reasons Water Damage Is Significant After a Fire

8/25/2020 (Permalink)

Fire and Water Damage

Three Ways Water Can Wreak Havoc On Your Business During A Fire

Fire restoration companies in McHenry County understand that property restoration requires more than smoke cleanup, it also needs water cleanup. Many business owners do not understand the connection between fire and water, but if you think long enough, it is easy to make a connection. However, not all damage comes from expected places. There are at least three ways water can wreak havoc on your business during a fire.

1. Broken pipes
2. Fire hoses
3. Suppression systems
   

Broken Pipes.
Fires can reach temperatures of 1,100 degrees Fahrenheit or more, depending on the materials in the facility. PVC pipes melt around 176 degrees Fahrenheit, which pipes are likely severely damaged. However, you are likely safe if your facility's pipes are copper. Even if your pipes don't melt, the heat causes pressure to build inside the pipes, which may cause pipe breaks or bursts.

Fire Hoses
Most of the water cleanup after a fire is because of the use of fire hoses. These essential fire-fighting tools can expel hundreds, if not thousands, of gallons of water while putting out a blaze. While some water will evaporate because of the heat, the majority will stay in your facility.

Suppression System
The fire suppression system you use will also impact the fire cleanup process. If you have a selective system, only the rooms affected by the fire will have significant water damage. However, if your system is all-or-nothing, your entire building will experience some water loss.
Water cleanup is a significant part of fire restoration. While losing equipment to water damage is disappointing, it is likely less destructive than flames. If a fire is extinguished fast enough, the structure of your facility may survive. If you would like more information about water losses related to fires or are interested in learning about fire suppression systems, then consider contacting a local fire restoration company or your local fire department.