Soot Damage

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

You might think that the biggest danger a domestic fire is burning flames. After all, it is the most obvious, immediate indication that a major problem is developing. Yet, we know that this isn’t always the case because soot and smoke are far more insidious.

They move faster than flames and produce toxic debris that can enter the lungs and cause respiratory difficulties. For this reason, you’re advised to steer well clear of a house fire and let the professionals safely neutralize it. Fire damage is a stressful experience, but with help from the SERVPRO Streamwood/ Bartlett/ West Chicago City team, you can turn things around quickly. 

This guide to dealing with fire damage will tell you a little bit about why soot residue is such a challenge and how it can be eliminated. 

What Is Soot? 
Soot is a by-product of incomplete combustion between a form of fuel (vinyl or plastic for example) and the oxygen in the air. It is a fine, black and greasy substance which clings to walls and ceilings after a fire. Soot can be tough to clean because it stains and smears surfaces. It usually produces a pretty unpleasant smell too. 

How Is Soot Removed from Fire Damaged Properties? 
SERVPRO has access to a range of cutting-edge tools and equipment. We have also developed a number of highly effective techniques for soot removal and restoration. The team will use a combination of brushes, cleaning detergents, and ozone deodorizers to lift the oily substance from furniture and prevent it from leaving stains. 

This is a delicate process, but it is important that high standards are adhered to, and the right methods are used. We follow the best practices of the IICRC. Just wiping at soot patches isn’t usually effective, especially when it comes to soft furnishings like sofas, mattresses, curtains, and carpets. Porous items will need the most attention and some objects may have to be removed from the site for additional cleaning.

Can You Get Rid of the Smell Too? 
As soot and smoke produce an acrid, lingering odor, deodorizing machines will be brought into the property to boost the circulation of fresh air and push denser, toxic particles towards special odor killing ‘ozone’ molecules. These molecules eliminate the unwanted smell on contact and then revert back to oxygen. This process requires vacating the premises until the ozone gas has dissipated or converted. 

Once complete, the deodorizing process leaves the home smelling fresh and clean. However, this is the final stage of the remediation project. First, a full inspection is carried out and then the home is cleaned as thoroughly as possible. 

If your home or business suffers fire damage, you need the best help and advice around. SERVPRO Streamwood/ Bartlett/ West Chicago City is a locally based franchise so that we can respond to emergencies in this region at any time. Call us 24/7 at 630-562-9212.