Clearing the Air: Understanding Smoke Damage

4/9/2023 (Permalink)

If you are in need of fire, soot, and smoke damage cleanup and restoration services, give our SERVPRO of Sunnyvale North team a call today!

Fire, smoke, and soot damage can be devastating for both residential and commercial properties. In addition to the visible damage caused by flames and soot, smoke can also cause significant damage to your property. Smoke damage can leave behind a lingering odor and can cause discoloration and damage to surfaces and objects.

Smoke damage can occur even if the fire was small or contained to one area of your property. The smoke can travel through the air ducts and spread throughout your property, affecting areas that were not directly impacted by the fire. Here are some common types of smoke damage:

Smoke odor damage

1. One of the most noticeable effects of smoke damage is the lingering odor. Smoke odor can be difficult to remove and can make it difficult to use your property until it is completely eliminated. Professional restoration companies have specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke odor and restore your property to its pre-fire condition.

Discoloration and staining

2. Smoke can cause discoloration and staining on walls, ceilings, and other surfaces. This can be especially noticeable on light-colored surfaces. Professional restoration companies can use specialized cleaning products to remove the discoloration and restore the original color of the affected surfaces.

Corrosion and damage to metal

3. Smoke can also cause corrosion and damage to metal surfaces and objects, such as appliances and furniture. This can make them unusable and may require replacement. Professional restoration companies can clean and restore metal surfaces and objects to their pre-fire condition.

Damage to electronics

4. Smoke can also cause damage to electronics, such as computers, televisions, and other electronic devices. This can cause them to malfunction or stop working altogether. Professional restoration companies have specialized techniques and equipment to restore electronics and prevent further damage.

Contact a restoration company near you for help

If you have experienced fire, smoke, or soot damage, it's important to contact a professional restoration company as soon as possible. The longer you wait to begin the restoration process, the more damage can occur, making the restoration process more difficult and costly.

When choosing a restoration company, it's important to choose a company with experience and expertise in fire, smoke, and soot damage restoration. Look for a company that is certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and has a track record of successful restorations.

In addition to professional restoration, there are some steps you can take to minimize smoke damage to your property:

• Open windows and doors to ventilate the area.
• Clean and vacuum any visible soot or debris from surfaces.
• Change the air filters in your heating and cooling system.
• Cover and protect furniture and other objects to prevent further damage.

Fire, smoke, and soot damage can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. However, with the help of a professional restoration company, you can restore your property to its pre-fire condition. If you are in need of fire, soot, and smoke damage cleanup and restoration services, give our SERVPRO of Sunnyvale North team a call today!