Fire can be life-threatening and harmful to your property. Even after a fire, the lingering smoke can be more significant trouble. The smell can remain for days, aftereffects like oily surfaces, unsettled ash, and soot that resurface, and the permanent damage makes the treatment of smoke damage mandatory. Residential properties, commercial organizations, and heavy industries can be potential sites of smoke damage. Any place that is vulnerable to fire is also equally vulnerable to smoke crack. It is imperative to know about the types of smoke damage and the adequate procedure to follow to make your resident smoke-free and safe.
Types of smoke damage
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Dry smoke damage
When wood or paper is burnt, dry smoke is the result. Dry smoke is the most common form of housefires, and it can cause substantial damage to life and property. Dry smoke is easier to clean since it does not smear. Additionally, dry smoke accumulates between fine cracks and pores and can stay there for a long time. This can cause cracking or breaking of furniture and may also lead to passive health hazards. Dry smoke is powdery, which is why it does not stain or decolorize walls and carpets. However, a strong smell may persist after dry smoke damage since dry smoke has a strong odor.
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Oil residue damage
If you store petroleum or oil products in your house, they could damage your home to oil residue. There may be instances when a fire releases soot and ash in the atmosphere along with oil. The oil released is sticky, greasy, and difficult to clean. Additionally, it has a powerful smell that persists long after putting after the fire. Since it is hard to clean and trace, it may even remain on furniture or other surfaces. If it stays uncleaned for a longer time, it can permanently damage furniture, primarily made of wood.
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Wet smoke damage
Wet smoke is denser than dry smoke. The burning of rubber and plastic produces it. Even low-temperature welding practices and soldering can produce damp smoke. Wet smoke is by far the hardest to eradicate since it is sticky and greasy. The procedure of its cleaning is more expensive and more challenging since it smears when removed.
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Protein residue smoke damage
Protein residue smoke results from typical day-to-day cooking that involves grilling and cooking chicken or meat. You would notice it when you look up at the wall surrounding the cooking area or the ceiling. It causes decolorization of walls, sometimes causes surfaces to be so oily that they start forming tiny droplets of oil. It leaves a strong smell that stays for several days.
How to treat smoke damage?
- Ventilation: When there is smoke damage in the house, the first step is to open all windows and doors. This ensures that all the smoke capable of eradicating itself leaves the house. Often, the smoke can hinder visibility and irritate the eyes, nose, and ears. To avoid these sensitive issues from surfacing, promote quick and robust ventilation of your house.
- Surface cleaning: Take the matter in your hands as much as you can. Clean all affected surfaces with hard soap and water and try to remove the aftereffects of smoke. Wear a face mask while cleaning to ensure you do not risk your health. Wear adequate clothes that cover your body to ensure smoke of any nature does not come in direct contact with your body.
- Professional services: Experienced personnel are well equipped, have the proper equipment, and go through a thorough cleaning of your living space. Contacting a professional cleaning service to clean your house is advisable and the best option.
Safeguard your residence
To sum it up, smoke can be dangerous to your health. Smoke that fills up in cracks can be harmful in the long run and cause respiratory problems. Firstly, make it a point to store oil and petroleum not to leak or become a potential originator of any fire that may lead to smoke damage. Furthermore, be attentive towards any long-lasting foul smell or over the time decolorization of walls. Assessing the chimneys and fireplaces of your house, cleaning any debris accumulation, and running a thorough check-up once every six months are equally important. Not only does proper supervision and observation protect your home but also helps in emergency planning should a situation arise.
