Fire Damage Restoration vs. Renovation: Which Does Your Property Need?

The days following a fire are filled with stress and difficult decisions. On top of insurance claims and safety concerns, you’re likely also thinking about which services you need to make your space livable again. 

Fortunately, there are only two main services to consider: fire damage restoration, which focuses on returning your property to its original condition, and fire damage renovation, which involves improving upon your home’s previous structure and design. This guide covers the key factors to consider when choosing between these services, as well as what to expect when working with local fire damage professionals.

 

	Fire Damage Restoration	Fire Renovation
Purpose	Return the property to its pre-fire condition	Improve the property with updates and upgrades
Timeline	From a week to several months, depending on the extent of damage	Weeks or months, sometimes as long as a year or more
Cost	Typically more affordable than renovations; focuses on clean up and repairs	Usually more expensive; includes improvements and upgrades
Insurance Coverage	Often fully covered by homeowner’s insurance	May require out-of-pocket payments

What Is Fire Damage Restoration?

Fire damage restoration is the process of returning a property to its pre-fire condition. Whether the fire damage is minor or extensive, the restoration process typically involves multiple stages performed by trained technicians.

First, the team will thoroughly assess the property, noting all fire-damaged areas. The technicians will secure the property before extracting any standing water, dehumidifying the air, and drying out affected materials. Smoke and soot removal is an essential stage in which smoke-damaged materials are treated, and air is circulated and cleaned throughout the property. All debris and irreparable materials will be removed and discarded, and then the team will clean up and make repairs as needed. 

Benefits of Fire Damage Restoration

If you want your house back to the way it was prior to the fire, restoration is your best choice. Here are the top benefits restoration has over renovation: 

• Fast recovery: Restoration professionals prioritize a swift recovery, working diligently to mitigate damage and restore the property.
• Primary focus on safety: Fire damage restoration has several goals related to safety: stabilize your property’s structures, eliminate harmful smoke and soot, remove debris and irreparable materials, and make the property safe and inhabitable again. 
• Cost-effective: Compared to renovation, fire damage restoration is typically less expensive, as it focuses on repairs and reconstruction rather than a new building.
• Preserves home design: Your restoration team will aim to restore your home’s original materials and overall design. 
• Accounts for code requirements: Restoration professionals will ensure your home is brought up to current code requirements as required by county and city inspectors. 

What Is Fire Renovation?

Fire renovation is the process of rebuilding and improving a property beyond its original condition. Some common home renovations include kitchen appliance upgrades, a new bathroom flooring installation, and living room window replacements. 

While renovation may be the more enticing option for some homeowners, it’s worth noting that many renovation projects take longer than fire damage restoration would. This is because there’s an extra design stage and a greater focus on bringing a new home vision to life. 

If you’re okay with a lengthened timeline, after a fire might be a good opportunity to make the property improvements you’ve been wanting.  

Benefits of Fire Renovation

Consider these advantages of fire renovations:

• Fresh updates: If you have been wanting to alter your home’s design with a room addition, fresh paint, new floors, or an appliance update, now might be the ideal time. 
• Boost to property value: Renovations like upgrading your kitchen or bathroom can raise property value, a worthwhile investment if you are planning to move in the near or distant future. 
• Upgrade outdated systems: Need plumbing improvements or a new electrical system? Renovations may be your best option. 

What to Consider When Deciding Between Restoration and Renovation

Renovations after fire damage are considered more difficult, given insurance restrictions, timelines, and costs. That said, understanding the following factors can help you more easily determine if it’s possible. 

• Budget: Do you have the budget set aside for a renovation project? Home improvements are typically more expensive than restoration work. Understanding your finances and insurance coverage will help you determine what’s possible. 
• Insurance Coverage: Most homeowner’s insurance policies cover fire damage restoration, while renovations typically require out-of-pocket costs. Talk to an insurance agent to confirm your plan details.
• Timeline: How soon do you want to return home? A contractor can estimate how long restoration work will take versus renovation work. Fire damage restoration is usually the quicker project, allowing residents to get home sooner. 
• Long-Term Property Goals: If you have plans to sell your property in the near or even distant future, new construction and appliances could be a worthwhile investment for your property value.

Call Valley Restoration for Fire Damage Restoration Services in Southern Idaho

For professional fire damage restoration in the Wood River Valley or Magic Valley areas, call Valley Restoration. Since 1968, we have served as the region’s trusted, full-service cleaning and property restoration company, helping residents and business owners rebuild their properties after disaster strikes. 

Our IICRC-certified technicians work through a comprehensive fire damage restoration process: 

• Extensive inspection and documentation of the damage
• Content cleanout and storage
• Dehumidification and odor containment
• Smoke and soot removal 
• Preservation of salvageable belongings
• Repairs and restoration

Valley also offers renovation project financing with GreenSky®, our partner in home improvement financing. The GreenSky® Loan Program allows customers to split large projects into manageable payments, keeping the renovation or restoration work moving forward. Ask about our flexible financing options today

With office locations in Hailey and Twin Falls and 24/7 emergency service, our technicians will arrive at your property quickly to provide localized, expert care. Call 208-788-2789 for professional restoration services!