Smoke Damage

12/12/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke Damage in Casper, WY

Smoke has many interesting characteristics, such as where it travels and how easily it is able to penetrate materials. It’s fascinating to learn the different types of smoke and what materials cause it, and the different kinds of cleaning methods necessary for each type. SERVPRO has many different tools, cleaning products, and deodorization methods that are specifically designed to target each type of smoke. Our technicians know which type of product to use, and how to address the little particles of smoke that hide in cracks, corners, and crevices.

 SERVPRO of Casper’s trained technicians are experienced in identifying what type of smoke is present,  what cleaning method is best for the situation, and what needs to be cleaned.  Through the years we have had calls from many customers that have attempted to do the cleaning themselves, They found that smoke cleanup is very challenging, and best left to the professionals for effective restoration. Customers don’t realize all the little stuff that needs cleaned and the areas that are easily missed. They don’t have access to professional smoke removal products, and the deodorization tools to make sure the problem is fully and properly corrected.

The different types of smoke:

Wet Smoke: (Plastics and Rubber materials)

Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Wet smoke has become more common, as we have ever-increasing amounts of plastic items in our homes. These residues are best cleaned up using “wet” methods, such as liquid cleaners. Pre-deodorizing this type of smoke damage with thermal fogging can aid greatly in the cleaning.

Dry Smoke:  (Paper and Wood materials)

Fast burning, high temperatures, fine, dry particles. “Dry” cleanup methods, such as dry-clean sponges, are typically used to remove most of this smoke. Sometimes, additional wet cleaning needs to be done if the smoke is heavily-concentrated.

Protein Fire Residue: (Protein Foods Meats and Beans)

Discolors paints, and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. This is the most difficult type of smoke to effectively deodorize. Wet-cleaning with grease-cutting additives is necessary. Multiple methods of deodorization, including activated oxygen (ozone) are also necessary.

Fuel Oil Soot: (Furnace Puff Backs)

Fuel-oil furnaces are rare in Wyoming, so puff-backs do not occur often. Cleanup of this type of smoke requires special products to break down the oily residue. In most cases, we can restore the contents and structure quickly.

Other Types: Tear Gas, Fingerprint Powder, Fire Extinguisher Dust)

Each particular loss requires special care. SERVPRO technicians understand how to identify these specialty residues, and remediate them on a case-by-case basis.

If you should have smoke damage in your home or business, call SERVPRO of Casper today. We will assess the damage, and develop a plan to restore your property quickly and effectively.