PuroClean Property Restoration Experts 
In 2023, a lightning strike caused significant damage to a residential neighborhood in Allen, TX. This calamitous event highlighted the destructive power of nature and the resilience required to rebuild in the aftermath of such an event. Our clients called us when a lightning bolt hit their house, igniting an electrical fire rapidly spreading to the neighboring property. Both homes suffered extensive damage, leading to a challenging and complex electrical fire restoration.
The Challenges of Electrical Fire Restoration
The neighboring homeowners, who share the same insurance carrier, contacted us for help with the mitigation and rebuilding process. This situation was not uncommon, but the extent of the damage made it particularly challenging. Given the severity of the fire damage, the insurance carrier initially considered demolishing the building. In 2021, an estimated 24,200 residential building electrical fires with varying degrees of damage were reported to United States fire departments (U.S. Fire Administration). Thus, it is crucial to address electrical fires quickly.
An engineer was brought in to assess the property’s structural integrity, and while he determined that the house could be saved, the cost of repairs would be substantial—potentially exceeding the cost of starting fresh with a complete rebuild.
One of the bedrooms in the home experienced extensive damage, including charred furniture and a collapsed ceiling.
Despite the engineer’s assessment, the homeowners decided to proceed with repairing the property rather than opting for a complete demolition. This decision set in motion a lengthy electrical fire restoration process that would take nearly a year to complete.
Meticulous Planning and Execution in Fire Damage Recovery
The restoration’s first step was to remove the damaged portions of the building carefully. The extent of the fire damage meant that much of the home had to be deconstructed. However, the demolition process was not straightforward.
Due to the compromised structure, safety was a primary concern. The demolition team had to work slowly and methodically, framing certain areas for support before clearing debris from each room. This meticulous approach ensured the safety of the workers and preserved as much of the original structure as possible.
Some of the debris in the hallway and living room.
Once the home was cleared and reframed, the next major task was to install a brand-new roof. This was a significant milestone in the project, marking the transition from demolition to rebuilding. With the roof in place, the focus shifted to addressing the extensive smoke and soot damage that permeated the remaining structure.
The newly built roof was installed.
Cleaning up after a fire is daunting, mainly because of the pervasive smell of smoke and the layers of soot that coat every surface. To tackle this, our team used sanders to clean all the remaining studs, ensuring that every inch of the structure was free from soot and debris.
This process was followed by chemical sponges designed to remove soot from surfaces without causing further damage. After the sponging process, the entire home was treated with specialized cleaning and deodorizing products to ensure no fire trace remained.
As a final step in the cleaning process, we applied Chlorine Dioxide, a powerful agent known for eliminating odors and disinfecting spaces thoroughly. This step was crucial in ensuring that the home was structurally sound and free from any lingering reminders of the fire.
With the cleaning phase complete, we sealed any required areas. This step was essential to prepare the home for the installation of drywall and other finishes. The sealer acts as a barrier, preventing any remaining odors or contaminants from affecting the new materials.
The cleaning and sealing phase of the electrical fire restoration prevents lingering contaminants.
At this stage, the home was ready for the rebuilding team to take over. The framing was solid, the roof was secure, and the interior was clean and deodorized. After months of uncertainty and upheaval, the homeowners could finally begin to see the light at the end of the tunnel.
Rebuilding after a fire is never quick or easy. Still, with careful planning, skilled craftsmanship, and a commitment to quality, restoring a home to its former glory—or even improving upon it—is possible.
This project was a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of working with a team that understands the complexities of electrical fire restoration. For these homeowners, the decision to repair rather than rebuild from scratch allowed them to preserve a piece of their home’s history while moving forward into a brighter, more secure future.
In the Event of An Electrical Fire, Call PuroClean Property Restoration Experts
While it may seem unlikely, your home is a potential target for lightning strikes, which can cause catastrophic damage depending on where they hit. Fortunately, PuroClean Property Restoration Experts in Allen, TX, are here to provide fire restoration services anytime, any day. Give us a call at (972) 892-000!
PuroClean Property Restoration Experts 