Where there is smoke, there is fire . . . sometimes. Of course, all fires produce smoke that can be every bit as damaging as the fire itself. However, there are situations in which you can have smoke damage yet didn’t have significant fire damage. Just as there are different types of smoke damage, there are also different ways to deal with them.

Smoke Damage

  • Dry Smoke Residue – A fire that burns at a high temperature produces a powdery, dry residue. Because this residue doesn’t smear much, it is relatively easy to clean with the right techniques.
  • Wet Smoke Residue – A low temperature, smoldering fire produces smoke damage that has a stronger odor and is stickier, making cleanup more challenging as it will smear easily. This is also the case with fuel/oil residue produced when petroleum products are burned.
  • Fire Extinguisher Residue – There are different types of fire extinguishers. Some need cleanup but others do not.
  • Odors – Odors are another component of smoke damage that can be challenging to deal with. These odors can permeate furnishings, clothing, flooring, window treatments, and other porous surfaces. Each material must be cleaned with a method that won’t further damage it. Some odors, such as from electrical fires, can be quite acrid and require care during smoke damage removal efforts to avoid respiratory issues. Getting back to the concept of smoke damage without a fire, cigarette smoking leaves odors that may be undesirable for the next tenant and need to be resolved.

If you experience a fire at your home or business and are dealing with smoke damage from the fire itself or efforts to put out the fire, give us a call at AdvantaClean of Des Moines Central. We can help clean your property, restore indoor air quality, and deal with water and fire damage. We also perform cigarette smoke odor removal. Count on us for professional results that will be done quickly so your life can get back to normal.