The destructive power of fire is readily noticeable when it ravages a house and all its contents. However, secondary damage from smoke is often taken too lightly. Unlike flames, smoke damage can go unnoticed or cause issues for an extensive period. Find out the three ways smoke may ruin your home and the mitigation steps you can take to get it back in shape once it’s been affected by smoke.
Consequences of Smoke Damage
Smoke has diverse effects on various materials. On top of that, the temperature and form of fire will create varying levels of smoke damage throughout your residential property. Because smoke fragments are so subtle, one of the deadliest ways they can inflict harm is by slipping into small gaps and cracks.
They can even go undiscovered for lengthy periods, creating a lingering smoke odor that can last for months. The only solution to get rid of the scent from your home is to remove or clean affected items and clean your home’s building components with odor-removing materials.
Lingering Odors
If left without treatment, the strong smoke scent can permeate your home and remain for weeks or months. Just like in a cigarette smoker’s home, the walls, rugs, and upholstery in your home will definitely absorb the smoke and generate a foul odor that is difficult to remove. Smoke’s physical properties allow it to slip into small cracks and places you wouldn’t expect.
A professional cleaning company will inspect to uncover the ideal areas to clean. Materials must be entirely removed from the home in some cases. In other circumstances, a thorough cleaning will eliminate the soot and odors. If you want to learn more about how to get rid of fire-related scents the right way, click here.
Rust and Corrosion
Various compounds and debris can be carried in smoke from a fire. Even if an area is not directly affected by flames, it may be exposed to acidic and hazardous elements drifting through the air. In addition, smoke’s moisture content can corrode your home’s metal fixtures. Smoke can cause rust or corrosion, which may emerge after a fire.
Because rust can form over time, treating your home as soon as possible after a fire is essential. Rust and corrosion can form on metal furnishings, appliances, and electronics if there’s a lot of smoke in the area. Smoke damage doesn’t stop with your home’s exterior; it may also affect things like patio furniture pieces and grills.
Smoke Stains
Smoke stains are easily detectable types of damage. Black smoke and residue can leave unsightly stains on upholstery, fabrics, and flooring. In addition, it may also tarnish wallpaper, backsplashes, and your home’s ceiling. Smoke stains are persistent and will get worse if left for too long. Getting in touch with Saco remediaton services for deep cleaning and steam washing is highly recommended to help bring back the home’s more permanent surface areas to their original condition.
Final Thoughts
Time is always crucial when it comes to smoke damage. The quicker you act, the more chance you will prevent permanent damage. The fastest solution to determine what remediation options are available for homes that have survived a fire is to have them inspected immediately. When in doubt regarding how to proceed, consult a professional for recommendations on removing smoke odors and restoring the property to its pre-fire condition.