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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Cleaning Smoke Damage With A Cicero Professional

6/12/2015 (Permalink)

White smoke on a black background Specialty equipment has to be used in order to clean smoke damage.

Cleaning Smoke Damage With A Professional 

It is best to live the job of cleaning Cicero smoke damage to a professional. Many business owners and homeowners have the tools that they need, it can be difficult to restore drapes, carpet and upholstery that have been blackened by the fumes of a fire. Many people believe that they can use basic and simple techniques to clean up Cicero smoke damage. However, if they make a mistake, then they may cause even more damage. As a result of this, the item may need to be replaced. Professionals, like SERVPRO, who have received training from the Institute Of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration can ensure that the job is properly done and has the best results.

A powerful vacuum is the first tool used to clean up smoke damage. Soot is the most important thing to remove from drapes, carpet and upholstery. Soot is oil-based, so it has to be removed as soon as possible. If it is not removed, then it may attract additional dirt. The proper methods have to be used in order to avoid pushing the soot deeper into the carpet and fabric. The furniture and carpet will likely be covered in order to keep it from getting soiled again.

Specialty equipment has to be used in order to clean smoke damage. Rotary devices that eject steam, wet cleaning tools and rotary scrubbers are examples of items that may be used. One advantage of using extractors is that there is minimal or no residue or detergent foam. This allows for deeper suction within the furniture or carpet. Two applications are often required regardless of the tools that are used.

Not protecting the carpet from the furniture, wetting the carpet and using too much shampoo are some of the mistakes people often make when people attempt to clean up Cicero smoke damage. A professional will use the proper methods in order to ensure that your furniture and carpet does not suffer any damage.

Furniture is one of the main factors that affects one's ability to clean Cicero smoke damage effectively. The dye from wooden furniture can cause the carpet to stain. Metal furniture may rust and cause the carpet to stain. Without protective squares and foam blocks, it is very hard to separate the carpet from the furniture until it is dry.

Not only do professionals, like SERVPRO, have the proper tools, but they can also resolve a dispute with the insurance adjuster. Homeowners insurance policies often cover this type of damage. However, adjusters often recommend replacing drapes, carpet and upholstery instead of repairing it. A certified professional, like SERVPRO, can help you decide which is the best option for you.

Professionals, like SERVPRO, will be able to convince the adjuster that items can be restored with the proper techniques and materials are used. Restoration costs may be covered by the policy.

What To Do After A Fire

  • Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
  • Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
  • Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
  • If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
  • Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
  • Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
  • Change HVAC filter.
  • Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

What NOT To Do After A Fire

  • Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us.
  • Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
  • Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
  • Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
  • Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

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