Fall is one of the peak periods for wildfires in Southern California, and we’ve already had at least one major wildfire break out in Orange County recently. Fire damage will be on many people’s minds for the coming months. We’re the local experts when it comes to fire damage restoration in Orange County, CA, and you can always trust us to help your home recover in the event of fire damage.
What many homeowners don’t realize is that fire is only part of the damage inflicted on a home due to wildfires. Smoke damage is also a major part. In our previous post, we discussed the impact of smoke on a home and the types of damage it does. We’re following up that post with a more in-depth look at what fire restoration experts do to remediate and restore smoke damage in a home.
How Smoke Causes Damage to a Home
To recap the previous post: Smoke can infiltrate areas of your home that seem untouched by fire, spreading through HVAC systems, cracks, and crevices. The result is lingering odors, soot, and toxic residues that can settle on surfaces. Even areas that appear visually unaffected by smoke may still suffer from harmful deposits that deteriorate materials and affect air quality.
The Process of Professional Smoke Damage Restoration
1. Assessment and Inspection
The first step in smoke damage restoration is a thorough assessment of the home. Restoration experts will evaluate the extent of the damage, identify the specific areas affected by smoke, and determine the best course of action for cleanup and restoration. This involves checking both visible and hidden areas, such as within walls, attics, and ventilation systems.
2. Air Quality Control
One of the most crucial aspects of smoke damage restoration is improving the air quality in the home. Restoration professionals use specialized equipment such as air scrubbers, dehumidifiers, and industrial-grade fans to remove contaminants from the air and control humidity. This process is vital in mitigating the spread of smoke particles that can continue to cause damage if not properly contained.
3. Surface Cleaning and Soot Removal
Soot from smoke is highly acidic and can cause extensive damage if left untreated. Fire restoration professionals clean all affected surfaces, including walls, ceilings, and floors. They use commercial-grade cleaning solutions and tools designed to eliminate soot and neutralize harmful chemicals, preventing further deterioration of the home’s materials.
4. Odor Removal and Deodorization
Even after physical soot and smoke residues are removed, the smell of smoke can linger. Professional restorers use advanced deodorizing techniques, such as thermal fogging and ozone treatments, to break down smoke odors at a molecular level. These treatments ensure that your home is free from unpleasant and potentially harmful smells long after the visible damage is gone.
5. Repairs and Restoration
Once the cleaning and deodorization processes are complete, the restoration team will focus on repairing any physical damage caused by the fire and smoke. This can range from replacing damaged drywall and flooring to more extensive repairs, such as reconstructing parts of the home that were severely affected.
Why You Should Leave Smoke Damage Restoration to the Professionals
Smoke damage is more complex than many homeowners realize. DIY methods are often ineffective and can lead to further damage if not handled correctly. Trained professionals have the tools, experience, and knowledge to address smoke damage comprehensively, ensuring that your home is safe and fully restored to its pre-damage condition.
For comprehensive home restoration services you can rely on, contact Jarvis Restoration today!