Cleaning Contents After a Fire

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

Coffee Table Affected by Soot

There are several factors to consider when cleaning contents affected by residue generated by a fire. What was the source of the fire (what has burned), what times were affected (furniture, dishes, paintings, ceramics, etc.), the temperature of the fire, and the length of time (dwell time) since the fire occurred? 

The number one priority is personal safety. Indoor air quality is often affected by the fire results. Consider wearing gloves, respiratory protection, and disposable outerwear to prevent carrying soot to areas outside of the loss site. If you are displaced until mitigation is complete you may carry soot to your temporary residence. Remember to protect yourself and prevent spreading soot to other areas. 

Sources are often considered "wet" (petroleum-based, plastics, vegetable cooking oil, or animal-based cooking oil.) This soot is often sticky and may stain contents. "Dry" soot is often plant-based, or cellulose-based. Examples include paper, wood, certain furniture components. These are often easier to remove from surfaces, and are less likely to stain. Both "wet' and "dry" soot may have a strong odor. 

The longer the soot remains on surfaces the potential for damage increases. SERVPRO of Fayetteville provides emergency services to reduce damages to contents. 

Content material affects how well an item will clean, deodorize and not retain a stain. Porous materials (fabric, books, paper, unfinished drywall, paintings) are more receptive to soot and may prove more difficult to mitigate. Semi-porous materials (unfinished wood, plastics) often respond better to cleaning. Non-porous materials (glass, ceramics, metals, sealed wood) respond to mitigation with the least amount of residual effects. 

Contents are often removed (packed-out) from the affected structure to an off-site facility allowing more effective cleaning processes. SERVPRO of Fayetteville does utilize pack-out processes to ensure the best results.

Cleaning agents are an important aspect for successfully mitigating affected contents. SERVPRO of Fayetteville uses specific cleaning agents designed for the services provided which are EPA Registered.

Tip: Wear gloves when handling porous items to prevent staining the item. Your natural oils on your hands will set the stain in porous materials. Sometimes these stains are permanent.