Smoke & Soot Damage

Wet smoke from smoldering fires produces thick sticky residue. Dry smoke from fast-burning fires leaves powdery residue. Protein smoke from kitchen fires is nearly invisible but pungent. Fuel oil smoke from petroleum fires creates thick black residue.

Surface discoloration from acidic soot residue, odor penetration into porous materials like drywall and fabric, corrosion of metals and electronics, and health hazards from fine particulate matter.

Initial safety assessment, property securing, board-up and tarping, emergency ventilation, damage documentation, smoke penetration depth testing, and air quality testing.

HEPA vacuuming of loose soot, dry sponge and chemical sponge cleaning, wet cleaning and detergent washing, surface treatment and sealing, HVAC system cleaning.

Thermal fogging, ozone treatment, hydroxyl generators, air scrubbing with activated carbon, sealing surfaces with odor-blocking primers like Kilz and Zinsser.

Chemical sponges for light soot, HEPA vacuuming for loose particles, dry ice blasting for heavy deposits, baking soda treatments for odor absorption.

Alkaline cleaners for protein residue, solvent-based cleaners for wet smoke, enzymatic cleaners for organic matter, ultrasonic cleaning for electronics and small items.

Document all damage thoroughly with photos and video. Keep damaged items until adjuster inspects. Get professional air quality testing. Understand ACV vs replacement cost for smoke-damaged contents. File claim promptly and maintain communication log.