If you’re dealing with fire damage, you’re also dealing with smoke damage. Extinguishing the burning flames is only part of the battle. Often, what is left behind is dangerous in its own right.

In addition to being unsightly, smoke particles in the air or patches of settled soot put your health at risk. Smoke can carry carcinogens from the materials burned in the fire, and smoke inhalation can irritate your eyes, nose, and throat. Prolonged exposure to smoke can lead to long-term respiratory issues and aggravate existing health problems.

Why Is Smoke Damage So Hard to Remove?

A big part of the problem with smoke is its ability to stick to and enter a wide array of materials and surfaces.

For instance, even if parts of your home seem untouched by the fire, such as your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, that doesn’t necessarily mean the system is in the clear. Smoke can permeate HVAC vents and make your system unsafe to use. Smoke can also invade electrical sockets, and seep into wall crevices and furniture.

Smoke, damaging in and of itself, can also carry and disperse soot around an area. Soot, black and powder-like, is also hazardous to inhale. Because soot is made up of microscopic particles that can infiltrate fabric and other surfaces, it’s difficult to clean and remove. Soot is notably acidic, and if left undisturbed, it can even corrode and damage metal.

Any porous material is especially vulnerable to smoke damage. Drywall and wood flooring can be easily discolored and damaged by smoke.

What to Do About Smoke Damage

In cases of serious fire and smoke damage, it’s best to leave this kind of work to the professionals. Home restoration services typically offer smoke damage remediation and can have your home restored safely.

If you’re interested in fire or smoke damage remediation, feel free to contact us today to learn more about how we can help.