Fire & Smoke Damage

Fire and smoke damage are very unique and require trained professionals to accurately repair and restore. Homeowners are often tempted to try to clean up the damage on their own, but many times this makes the situation and conditions worse.

Time is of the essence in dealing with professional restoration. The longer the neutralization, corrosion control and cleaning is delayed, the greater the damage and restoration costs.

It is imperative to clean up soot residue as soon as possible. During combustion, soot residue is carried through the air to surfaces and deposits. This process continues repeatedly during combustion and forms layer over layer of soot residue. It becomes hardened and lacquer-like and requires a professional technician to dissolve and remove.

Below is a timeline on how fast the damage happens and its effects on the home or business.

Within Minutes
Plastics will yellow because of acid soot; small appliances near the area of combustion discolor; porous materials discolor permanently

Within Hours
Acid residues stain bathroom grout; fiberglass bathroom fixtures and countertops yellow; metals tarnish; appliances’ finishes turn yellow; furniture finishes may discolor

Within Days
Painted walls permanently yellow due to acid residue; metal corrodes and rusts; wood furniture must be refinished; vinyl flooring is damaged; clothing is stained by soot; upholstery stains permanently

Within Weeks
Restoration costs increase dramatically; carpet fibers yellow and may discolor permanently; glass, crystal, china may require replacement due to major etching and pitting caused by extended exposure to acid soot residues; silver corrodes permanently
In addition to soot residue build-up removal, Airescue technicians will help rid your home or business from the smoky odor. Time is of the essence, so give us a call today!