The Best Way To Handle Smoke Damage After A Fire
There are a few things that are more devastating to a homeowner than a fire. Not only does the damage affect the structure, it can also destroy the personal items that are in the home. After the fire has been extinguished, homeowners also have to deal with the after effects such as water damage, chemical residue and smoke damage.
The smoke damage that occurs after a fire can cause discoloration to the walls in the home, and can leave black marks on the wall as well. The resulting smoke damage can be challenging to clean because it is an unpleasant process. Unfortunately, this type of damage can be visible and invisible to the eye.
The damage that is visible to the eye is referred to as soot. Charring can also occur. Charring is the result of burned paint.
The Definition Of Soot
When the materials are burned and/or the fuel is not completely consumed in the fire, a black residue results. This residue is impure carbon particles. Soot is actually a very greasy residue because the plastics in the personal items and the structure itself release greasy molecules. The molecules then stick to the surface of walls, ceilings and other structures.
Because soot is a microscopic particle, it is extremely dangerous for a person’s health. It can prove to be even more dangerous if it enters into a person’s respiratory system.
After these particles enter into the alveoli of a person’s lungs, it then enters into the person’s bloodstream. When it becomes accumulated in the tissues of the body, it can create a pathological reaction in the body once it reaches a certain level within the body.
The type of damage that is not visible to the eye is the smoke odor. By removing these odors, the home can be restored to its previous condition. Homeowners can hire professional contractors who specialize in soot and odor removal after a fire.
Tips To Cleaning Smoke Damage
The process of cleaning a home with smoke damage should occur as soon as the home is deemed safe to reenter. It is important to remember that the longer the smoke damage is allowed to remain in the home, the more difficult it will be to remove it.
Before the cleaning process begins, you should make sure you are wearing the appropriate safety gear. This includes gloves and a face mask.
The house should be aired out completely before cleanup work begins. The main purpose of cleaning is to remove the soot and any other carcinogenic particles that may be combustible. All soot stains should be cleaned up first because they can quickly stain. After the soot is removed, the deodorizing process of the cleanup can begin.
The removal of soot is a long process. Do not expect all of the soot damage to be removed during the first cleaning process.
Cleaning Smoke Odor
One of the major problems with smoke odor is that it cannot simply be masked over with a more pleasant scent. Depending on the severity of the smoke odor, you can try several DIY approaches including:
• Spraying the area with vinegar
• Sprinkling baking soda in liberal amounts
• Using activated charcoal
Perhaps the most effective way to remove smoke odor from the home is to hire a professional restoration company that specializes in fire cleanup.
Although a fire can be a devastating process to go through, it is also important to follow proper procedures when handling smoke damage. Consider hiring a restoration company to ensure a thorough elimination of all smoke related damage.
