Everything you need to know about SMOKE

7/30/2020 (Permalink)

two technicians cleaning ceiling from soot

 Behavior of Smoke

A fire loss is very complex because of the unique behavior of smoke. That is why it is important to have trained technicians. SERVPRO Professionals know their smoke!

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas
• Smoke migrates to upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows through plumbing systems, using holes around pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke will greatly affect the restoration process.

Type of Smoke:

1. Wet Smoke- Plastics and Rubbers
   Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.
2. Dry Smoke- Paper and Wood 
   Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore the smoke rises. 
3. Protein- Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire
   Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
4. Fuel Oil Soot- Furnace Puff Backs
   While the "puff backs" can create havoc, SERVPRO can normally restore the contents and structure quickly
5. Other Types- Tear gas, fingerprint powder and fire extinguisher residue
   Special loss situations require special care. SERVPRO Professionals are trained to handle your toughest losses!