House fires, candles, and fireplaces are a source of soot. House fires can cause devastating effects to your home and possessions. Apart from the damage and loss of personal items and furniture, repairs which include window replacements and patching of holes might also be necessary. Besides, once the fire is extinguished, it is still possible to have lingering smoke. Recovery efforts by professionals are required to restore your house to its original splendor.
Soot is acidic and leaves thick unpleasant stains on surfaces or material it encounters. It is a harsh byproduct of fire and is made up of carbon particles from incomplete burning. Soot ranges from whitish-grey to black color and may have the appearance of dry powder or oily film. Due to its electrostatic ability, it clings on walls and surfaces, causing stains that are difficult to remove and require the use of specific tools and procedures. Once your home becomes effected by soot, a fire and soot damage repair professional is needed to clean up the mess. Below are the reasons you need to hire trained personnel.
1- To Protect Yourself
In the event of a fire, smoke and soot still linger long after the fire has been extinguished. These not only destroy your home but can also be detrimental to your health. Inhaling smoke particles and debris can worsen conditions such as asthma. Also, soot damages natural oils on your hands and skin. Professionals have protective gear; including masks, goggles, and gloves, enabling them to work in such areas with minimal risks.
2- To Access and Vacuum Loose Particles
While it is possible to clean surfaces that you can see and reach, intensive cleaning methods to remove soot particles are necessary. Vacuum cleaners fitted with a HEPA filter are essential to remove the loose soot without returning them into the clean air.
3-To Limit Further Damage and Reduce Refurbishment Costs
It is crucial to act promptly and seek help from fire damage restoration experts to minimize damage caused by soot and smoke. If you are not keen, smoke and soot build-up cause stains on walls, floors, light fixtures, and ceilings which with time become more difficult to restore, and you might end up purchasing new items. Professional cleaners have the expertise to clean and fix most of the damaged items.
4- To Get Rid of Smoke Odors
Smoke odors in your house and furniture remain for a long time if not dealt with promptly and adequately. Smoke odor is uncomfortable to both you and your loved ones and can be embarrassing to your guests. Professionals use odor-specific detergents and methods to remove the odor leaving your home with a pleasant smell.
5- To Carry Out Proper Structure Cleaning
After a fire or smoke damage, rigorous cleaning and clearing are required to restore your home and items into their proper condition. Clothing, drapery, electronics, and furniture require specialized cleaning. Plumbing and electrical fixtures also need to be checked and restored by professionals. Besides, the professionals also assess the extent of damage and advise you on the items you can refurbish and those you need to repurchase.
