When fire strikes a home or business, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Knowing what steps to take and who to trust can make all the difference in your recovery. At 3Rivers General Contracting, we specialize in high-end restoration services for both residential and commercial clients throughout the Greater Pittsburgh region. This Q&A style guide answers the most common questions we hear from property owners navigating fire damage.
What is fire restoration?
Fire restoration is the process of cleaning, repairing, and rebuilding a property after a fire. It includes damage assessment, smoke and soot removal, structural repairs, and full restoration of affected areas. The goal is to return the building to a safe, clean, and fully functional condition.
Why should I hire a professional contractor after a fire?
Fires cause more than visible damage. Smoke, soot, and water from firefighting efforts can create hidden risks such as mold, electrical hazards, or weakened structural components. A professional contractor ensures that restoration is done safely and thoroughly. At 3Rivers, we use licensed tradespeople and experienced project managers to oversee every detail of the process.
How soon should I start the restoration process?
The sooner, the better. Once the fire department clears the scene, contact a contractor right away. Delaying restoration allows soot and water damage to set in, increasing costs and potential health risks. Immediate action also helps preserve as much of your structure and belongings as possible.
What does the fire restoration process include?
At 3Rivers General Contracting, our process begins with a full damage assessment. We inspect the property for structural damage, document findings for insurance purposes, and create a customized restoration plan.
From there, we complete debris and water removal, clean soot and smoke damage from surfaces and air ducts, repair or replace damaged materials such as drywall, flooring, and insulation, address any electrical or plumbing concerns, and rebuild and remodel spaces as needed.
Our team handles everything from the initial cleanup to the final walkthrough.
Do I have to rebuild exactly what I had before?
Not at all. Many of our clients use this moment as an opportunity to upgrade their space. As a full-service general contractor, 3Rivers specializes in luxury renovations and home remodels. We can work with you to redesign kitchens, bathrooms, or entire floors as part of the restoration process. Whether you want to modernize your layout or install higher-end finishes, we help bring your new vision to life.
What makes 3Rivers General Contracting qualified for fire restoration in Pittsburgh?
We are a Pittsburgh-based general contractor known for delivering high-end, high-quality construction work. Our fire restoration services are backed by the same attention to detail and craftsmanship that we bring to our kitchen renovations, home additions, new builds, and commercial projects.
Our team understands the building codes, weather conditions, and structural styles common in Southwestern Pennsylvania. We also work closely with local permitting offices and insurance adjusters to streamline your recovery process.
Can you work with my insurance company?
Yes. We assist throughout the insurance claim process. Our team provides detailed documentation, itemized estimates, and progress updates tailored for insurance adjusters. We help ensure that your claim is properly evaluated and that your restoration stays on schedule and within budget.
How long does fire restoration usually take?
Every situation is different. Minor fires that affect one room may take only a few weeks to resolve. Large-scale damage involving structural repairs or full rebuilds can take several months. At 3Rivers, we provide clear timelines upfront and communicate with you regularly to avoid surprises.
What areas of Pittsburgh do you serve?
We serve clients across the Greater Pittsburgh region, including Allegheny, Butler, Beaver, Washington, Westmoreland, and Armstrong counties. Whether your home is in Fox Chapel, Mt. Lebanon, Cranberry Township, or the South Hills, our team is ready to help.
What types of properties do you work on?
We restore both residential and commercial properties. From single-family homes and townhouses to office buildings and retail spaces, our team has the experience to manage restoration projects of all sizes and scopes.
How can I contact 3Rivers for fire restoration?
You can reach out to us by visiting 3riverscm.com or calling us directly at 412-643-4581. We offer consultations and can quickly assess your property to begin the restoration process.
