In July 2024, the Hendricks family living in West Des Moines experienced a surprise kitchen fire. The cause: an unattended stovetop. When the fire department responded and extinguished the fire quickly, it left behind damaged framing, burned-out cabinets, odors throughout the home, and soot that had circulated and impacted the HVAC system. While the fire had been extinguished, the consequences extended beyond what could be easily seen. The smoke had infiltrated deep inside the infrastructure of the home.
The Hendricks contacted Rainbow International of Des Moines, specialists in fire damage restoration in Des Moines. Our trained team arrived within hours of their call and conducted a damage assessment, separating the tasks of fire restoration and smoke remediation. Within a few short weeks, the Hendricks family walked back into their restored home, safe, odor-free, and in like-new condition.
This case study highlights an important but nuanced distinction: the work involved in restoring physical damage following a fire is very different from the work needed to identify and remediate, or mitigate, the effects of smoke. Both are essential and both require specialists.
Understanding Fire Restoration & Work Process
Fire Damage Restoration Des Moines is the process of physically restoring and rebuilding the structure of a home or business after a fire. Fire can adversely affect:
- Structural elements, such as framing, load-bearing walls, and roof supports
- Visible surfaces, such as drywall, flooring, and cabinetry
- Hidden systems, such as electrical, plumbing, and HVAC
The Fire Restoration Process
Fire restoration addresses physical damages, such as collapsed walls, burned surfaces, and splintered framing. It ensures the building is safe and functional again.
- Assessment & Board-Up
Professionals examine all fire-damaged areas, assess structural damage, and secure the property from unauthorized access and further collapse.
- Demolition & Debris Removal
Charred and unstable materials are removed and disposed of properly according to local regulations.
- Structural Repair & Drying
Framing, drywall, and flooring are replaced, if needed, and then dried to prevent water damage from firefighting efforts.
- Reconstruction
Walls, ceilings, flooring, and fixtures are rebuilt to restore the structure to its original state.
Understanding Smoke Remediation & Its Work Process
Fire restoration resolves structural problems, but smoke damage restoration in Des Moines targets the effects of smoke and soot. Smoke, with its toxic corrosive chemicals and unpleasant odor, can linger on walls, upholstery, ductwork, and appliances long after the fire is extinguished.
- Odor – The sharp, acrid smell lingers in fibers, textiles, drywall, and even beneath flooring.
- Soot – Sticky, acidic particles that stain materials and corrode metals.
- Contaminated HVAC – Smoke particles deposit contaminants on surfaces and circulate through ductwork and filters.
The Smoke Damage Restoration Process
Whether you need smoke damage restoration, smoke and fire damage restoration, or smoke damage restoration near me, we focus on:
- Inspection & Testing
Air quality, moisture, and visual inspections determine contamination and odor levels.
- Containment & Protection
Isolate affected areas to prevent soot migration during cleanup.
- Dry Cleaning & Vacuuming
HEPA vacuums and dry sponges remove surface soot.
- Steam and Chemical Treatments
Specific cleaners eliminate smoke odors by penetrating porous materials.
- Odor Removal
Odors are neutralized using ozone generators or thermal fogging systems.
- Air Filtration
HEPA filters and HVAC cleaning remove airborne contaminants.
- Post-Remediation Testing
Final air tests confirm indoor air quality before reoccupancy.
Smoke remediation is about fully restoring air quality and reversing the aesthetic and health impacts of smoke and soot.
Why the Two Services Are Equally Important
Fire restoration involves structural engineers, licensed electricians, and debris removal specialists. Smoke remediation requires certified cleaners, air quality experts, and specialized tools. Many companies do only one or the other, but complete recovery demands both, done by true experts in fire and smoke damage restoration in Des Moines.
- Health & Safety
Fire damage may create unstable structures, while smoke damage can cause respiratory issues, especially for sensitive individuals. Both can render a home uninhabitable. Improper smoke remediation can lead to long-term health risks.
- Prevent Long-Term Damage
Leaving smoke cleanup untreated can discolor or corrode metal fixtures and appliances, and leave behind unbearable odors for years.
- Addressing Water Damage from Firefighting
After identifying fire damage, it’s also essential to identify and remediate water damage from firefighting efforts, including any damage behind opened or removed walls.
- Insurance and Compliance
Most insurance companies in Des Moines require documentation of both structural and smoke restoration. Verified work helps protect against claim denials and ensures code compliance.
Commercial vs. Residential: Similar Concept, Different Scale
Commercial properties, like restaurants, offices, retail stores, come with additional challenges:
- Larger square footage and complex HVAC
- Specialized electronics and equipment
- Business disruption
Commercial smoke damage restoration requires advanced tools and quick execution. Rainbow International of Des Moines expertly handles residential and commercial recovery, regardless of the size of your property.
Why Choose Rainbow International of Des Moines?
Fire leaves behind two types of damage: visible structural loss and the hidden threat of smoke and soot. Both require specialized services for a safe, complete recovery.
Rainbow International of Des Moines delivers comprehensive fire and smoke recovery to restore your home or business to full function and safety. We are your trusted local expert in fire recovery and smoke damage restoration in Des Moines. We offer 24/7 emergency response and are fully IICRC-certified to assess structural damage, neutralize smoke odors, and perform thermal fog treatments, HVAC cleaning, and more.
- Cross-Trained Technicians – Specialists in both fire and smoke damage restoration and remediation
- 24/7 Emergency Response – Immediate action minimizes damage
- Advanced Equipment – From HEPA filters to ozone generators, we use industry-best tools
- Insurance Support – We provide full documentation to streamline your claim
- Proven Results – The Hendricks family is one of many success stories. We’re committed to professional, compassionate, and detailed service
We coordinate directly with your insurance provider so you can focus on what matters, your family and your future. Whether it’s a kitchen fire or a major commercial loss, our team responds quickly, compassionately, and thoroughly.
Ready to recover with confidence? Call us anytime for professional fire and smoke damage restoration services that rebuild your world better.
