Austin Fire and Flood

While everyone loves the smell of smoke while cooking food, no one wants that smoke to linger in their house. Unfortunately, smoke from a house fire often stays in a home for a long time after significant fire damage. Luckily, Austin Fire and Flood has some methods they use for smoke odor and soot removal.

A few factors determine the amount of smoke and soot in a home after a massive house fire. A fire’s size and duration are among the chief factors of smoke infiltration.

Different types of materials also affect the type of smoke in a property. Rubber and plastics produce a darker, thicker smoke than wood and cloth. They also create more toxic fumes and soot.

Air Out the House

When detecting a smoky aroma, the first thing to do is air out the house. Open up every door and window, turn off the AC, and run some fans to get air circulating. Taking this step immediately is key to removing as much of the smoke smell as possible.

Fresh air actively works to absorb odors and remove them.

Clean the House Thoroughly

The next step is a thorough cleaning of every room. A deep clean of the house is the only way to ensure smoke odor and soot removal.

Wash & Clean Fabrics

Remove fabrics like curtains, chairs, blankets, rugs, and clothing. Has each one been professionally cleaned to remove the smoke smell? Instruct the cleaners not to place smoke-filled items with other items, as doing so may transfer the smoke odor.

Clean Windows, Screens, Sashes, and Shades

Wash all the windows, screens, frames, sashes, and frames. Pay extra attention to the glass on windows as they could develop a film that holds in the odor. Use a vinegar-based solution to scrub blinds without damaging them.

Wash Everything Else

Wipe down every solid surface in the home. These materials include the walls, floors, ceilings, tubs, countertops, cabinets, and everything else that qualifies as a solid surface. Washing light fixtures and mirrors may also be necessary.

Clean Carpets

Carpets are a sponge for odors. The best way to clean them is by using a steam cleaner or carpet cleaner. Be sure to use these solutions carefully on delicate or old carpets.

If lacking a steamer or carpet cleaner, sprinkle baking soda on the carpet. Then, let it sit for a day, then vacuum it up to remove the odor.

Clean the AC Unit

Cleaning the ducts and air vents is critical because they trap soot and other fire particles. Also, don’t forget to change the filter since it absorbs many particles.

Repaint the Walls

After scrubbing the walls and trim, it’s time to repaint them. Apply a primer and latex paint. Taking these actions will help seal up the smoky smell.

Austin Fire and Flood | Restoration Specialists

If you’ve experienced a house fire, trust an expert team to minimize the damage. Austin Fire and Flood is the top-rated choice in the Georgian Acres, Austin TX area for smoke odor and soot removal. They inspect the damage for free and work to keep costs low.