Key Things to Remember About Smoke Damage

5/10/2021 (Permalink)

Time is of the Essence: The sooner you start the restoration process, the lower the level of damage to the property will be. Here’s what the IICRC says for a timeline of a fire:

a. Within Minutes: Acid soot residues cause plastics to yellow; small appliances located close to the source of combustion discolor; highly porous materials (marble, alabaster) discolor permanently.

b. Within Hours: Acid residues stain grout in bathrooms; fiberglass bath fixtures may yellow; uncoated metals tarnish; counter tops may yellow; finishes on appliances, particularly refrigerators, may yellow; furniture finishes may discolor.

c. Within Days: In time, acid residues cause painted walls to yellow permanently; metal corrodes, pits and rusts; wood furniture requires refinishing; vinyl flooring requires refinishing or replacement; clothing becomes soot-stained; upholstery stains permanently.

d. Within Weeks: Restoration costs escalate tremendously. Synthetic carpet fibers may yellow or discolor permanently; silver plate is corroded permanently; glass, crystal, china may require replacement due to severe etching and pitting caused by prolonged exposure to acid soot residues.”

Understanding this, we are always prepared to begin cleanup immediately upon being called out to a new smoke damaged property.

Give SERVPRO of Central Auglaize, Hardin & Logan counties a call if you need help at (937) 354-3540.