Fires can be one of the most devastating events that can happen to your home. The damage is almost always irreversible, and can cause lasting effects on other areas of the home that were not burned. Smoke from fires contain particles that spread wide distances. Even if it didn’t look like smoke was in a specific room or area, particles could have still traveled into those areas through the air.
When it comes to these particles there are three main types that are left by fire damage within your home, and if you have experienced any type of fire damage within your home, it is important to know what these three types are and how they can affect your home and your health.
1. Protein
Protein residues occur when protein based materials are burned, such as beans and meats. This is identifiable by a dark yellowish residue that feels greasy to the touch. This residue can stick to any surface, including furniture, making it difficult to clean. If it comes in contact with any fibrous surface, such as cloth on furniture, it can be difficult to clean out, and most likely will need replacement. For proper cleanup and removal, proper protein fire cleaning chemicals can be purchased from most home improvement stores. However, it is always recommended to contact your local restoration professionals to make sure the residue is fully and properly removed.
2. Synthetic
Synthetic residues can come from burning materials such as fabrics and plastics. When these materials burn, the smoke produced is thick and black, and also quite toxic. Smoke that is thick like this is filled with oil-based particles, and can leave a smeary and thick residue that needs special care when cleaning. This residue is best cleaned by first being lifted from the surface. A very effective way to do this without smearing is by vacuuming the first layer off the surface it lands on, then by a dry-chem sponge cleaning (which can be purchased at most home improvement stores). This residue can be created by the burning of other materials, such as carpets, furniture, electronics, and window coverings.
3. Natural
Natural residues are produced by the burning of materials such as paper and wood. The smoke produced is much lighter in color typically, and creates dry, papery ash that floats in the air and leaves a powdery layer on whatever it lands on. Natural residues are typically easier to clean than synthetic or protein based residues, and can typically be removed by vacuuming with a hard brush, and followed up by dry-chem cleaning with a sponge.
The ability to identify these different types of residues left by a fire can air in the restoration process of your home. It is important to note that all are toxic, and should not be directly inhaled, so it is important to take the proper precautions when cleaning. Here at Clean Earth Restorations, we want to do our best to provide all of the information we can when it comes to the fire damage restoration process. However, we also recommend allowing the professionals to take care of the cleaning and restoration process to ensure the health of your home and your family. For more information on fire damage and cleaning processes, give us a call at 619-284-4239 or visit our site cleanearthrestorations.com.
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