A house fire can be one of the most stressful experiences a homeowner faces. Even a small fire leaves behind such a mess that it feels impossible to handle. One starts to wonder what to do after the flames are out. You don’t know if you can fix some of the fire damage yourself or not.
We are here to tell you that there are a few steps you can take right away. However, it is recommended to call professionals like Bayco Builders & Restoration for bigger problems. We specialize in restoring homes after fire disasters.
Why Fire Damage Cleanup Is More Complicated Than It Looks
Along with burning things, fire also leaves behind smoke and odors that can seep into the furniture. The crazy part is that it also stays in the air you breathe. Fire damage can be tricky and even dangerous.
What makes cleaning fire damage so tricky?
Smoke from fire damage sticks to surfaces, releasing tiny particles that can irritate your lungs. Soot is a black powdery substance that can stain walls and fabrics permanently if cleaned incorrectly. Fire can weaken the structure of your home. It goes without saying, but it makes walls unsafe to touch. Burned plastics and paints release harmful chemicals that linger in the air in San Jose, CA.
Understanding what is safe to handle yourself and what is not is crucial for your health.
Follow along to find what procedures you can DIY and what you should always leave to the experts.
What You Can Safely Do Yourself
You should only start doing light cleaning and safety checks if the fire damage is minor.
Here are safe DIY steps you can take before the professionals arrive:
Make Sure the Area Is Safe
First things first. Make sure the fire is completely out and your home has been cleared by the fire department after fire damage. Open windows and doors to let fresh air in it helps remove lingering smells.
Wear Safety Gear
Always protect yourself. Put on gloves and a mask to avoid inhaling soot or touching contaminated surfaces.
Remove Loose Soot
Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to gently remove loose soot from the surfaces. Don’t press too hard! Soot can smear easily.
Wipe Surfaces Gently
Use a dry sponge or cloth to wipe away soot from walls and counters. Avoid water at this stage. It can cause stains to set deeper.
Clean Nonporous Items
Metal and glass items can be cleaned with mild soap and water. Be patient and clean gently to avoid scratching surfaces.
Wash Clothes and Fabrics
There is a trick if your linens smell smoky after Fire Damage but are not burned. Try washing them with a mix of detergent and baking soda. Don’t stress if it doesn’t work right away sometimes it takes several washes to remove the odor.
What You Should Leave to the Professionals
Some surface cleaning can be done by yourself. However, deeper fire damage restoration requires special expertise. Trying to tackle it on your own can risk your safety.
Here’s what’s better left to pros like Bayco Builders & Restoration:
- Fire can weaken beams and walls. Professionals know how to perform structural repairs. They first inspect and then repair these safely.
- We use air scrubbers and ozone machines to purify the air. They eliminate odors that DIY cleaning can’t handle.
- Never touch wiring or appliances affected by fire. Only certified electricians should handle the repairs of electrical systems.
- Soot can travel through your ventilation system. Deep cleaning is required for this. Restoration teams clean ducts, insulation and hidden areas to prevent major damage.
Prevent Future Fire Damage
Simple habits can go a long way towards keeping your loved ones safe. Once your home is restored, take steps to prevent fires in the future.
- Install and regularly test smoke alarms.
- Keep a fire extinguisher in your kitchen and garage.
- Never leave cooking unattended
- Don’t delay getting faulty appliances fixed
- Avoid overloading electrical outlets.
- Have your HVAC and wiring checked annually.
Conclusion
When disaster strikes, you don’t have to face it alone. Fire damage cleanup is about your safety and peace of mind. It can feel daunting, but knowing what’s safe to do yourself can make a big difference. You can relax and open windows, vacuum loose soot, and wash lightly affected surfaces. Professional help will be necessary for deep cleaning, repairs, and fixing the air quality. Trust Bayco Builders & Restoration for reliable restoration services. We can handle the tough work and bring your home back to life.
FAQs
How to get rid of the fire damage smoke smell?
Baking soda absorbs odor naturally. Homeowners can leave baking soda in bowls around the house for several days. Activated charcoal is also another great option.
What not to use after a house fire?
Do not consume any exposed food. Avoid using water you suspect is contaminated until it has been tested. Also, refrain from operating the HVAC system until it is professionally cleaned.
How long does it take for fire smoke to leave the house?
The smell can linger for weeks to months, or even years, as smoke particles and volatile compounds embed deep into materials.
What should you never use to put out a fire?
Never use water on an electrical fire. Water conducts electricity and can spread the fire. Similarly, do not use water on a grease/oil fire as it can cause a dangerous splatter.
Is it safe to sleep in a room that smells of smoke?
It is generally not safe! The lingering smell indicates the presence of soot and chemical particles that can cause respiratory issues.
