Fire outbreaks are unprecedented, and the damage they leave behind can be disastrous. Unfortunately, the damage may persist after the fire since it leaves a thick cloud of smoke.

Smoke damage is a combination of smoke and soot and can prove extremely hazardous to our health and property. An astonishing amount of damage isn’t caused by the fire burning but by the smoke residue, because it worsens even after the flames are out. If left unattended, smoke damage can even spread to areas of the property that weren’t initially affected by the fire.

As intense as a fire outbreak is, it is too early to breathe a sigh of relief just because the flames are out. You must call professional smoke restoration services to assess and remediate the smoke damage to avoid the situation getting worse.

Read on to understand the types of smoke damage and the effects it can leave behind.

Types of Smoke Damage

The general cause of smoke damage is a fire. However, the type of smoke and soot produced depends heavily on how the fire originated.

Electrical issues, smoking, cooking, and accidental fires are the most common causes of fires in homes and businesses. However, you may sustain specific damage as a result of the following types of fire smoke:

Wet Smoke

Wet smoke describes gasses produced by low-heat smoldering flames, notably those produced by burned rubber or plastic materials. This emits a strong smell of burned plastic and is thick and black, making it adept at destroying your property.

It is also very greasy and can cause metal items to rust and corrode if left for too long. They can be tough to eradicate because of this nature, so it’s a good idea to call the experts.

Dry Smoke

Dry smoke results from high-temperature fires caused by paper or wood. The residue left is usually in a powdery form, which makes it comparatively easier to clean up.

However, its major flaw is also its powdery composition. It can squeeze into even the tiniest places in a room, causing structural devastation in your house. Additionally, it can harm your wiring, resulting in sustained electrical damage to your property.

Its propensity to hide in spaces is why it is not advisable to do a DIY cleanup. Smoke damage cleanup experts have the best equipment and experience dealing with dry smoke.

Protein Smoke

Protein smoke usually results from burning organic matter, such as items in your kitchen. They typically result from cooking fires.

It is easy to think that this type of smoke does minor damage because it is invisible and does not leave black or greasy stains or that its only effects are a strong odor and paint discoloration. 

As it is invisible, it is almost impossible for you to gauge the extent of the damage. The best option for dealing with protein smoke is consulting with professionals.

Fuel Smoke

The combustion of petroleum, oil, or something similar produces fuel smoke. This smoke damage is less likely to be encountered inside a home or business, as it is more common in garages or warehouses that store petroleum.

It has one of the foulest odors and is particularly difficult to clean. Any fabric it comes into contact with is likely irreparable. Once settled, the residue is thick and sticky, allowing it to adhere to almost any surface. It can be a true nightmare without professional help.

The Effects of Smoke Damage

Smoke damage is devastating. Continuous inhalation can lead to acute problems for your health and your home.

It should not be taken lightly, and you need to address it immediately if an accident produces smoke. This also applies even when you don’t feel the adverse effects immediately, as some only develop when smoke damage is left unattended.

Here are five effects of smoke damage:

It Can Aggravate Existing Conditions

People suffering from heart disease may experience chest pain, palpitations, shortness of breath, or fatigue.

People with pre-existing lung conditions may find it difficult to breathe as deeply as they normally would, and they may also have symptoms including coughing up phlegm, chest pain, and wheezing.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon monoxide consumption reduces the body’s oxygen supply, causing headaches and reduced alertness. It can also aggravate angina and existing heart conditions. 

Skin Problems

If you’ve been exposed to fumes and noticed your skin breaking out soon after, the smoke likely was to blame.

Smoke’s soot and ash particles can clog your pores, which can cause acne breakouts, pimples, blackheads, and excessive oil production. It also aggravates skin diseases such as eczema, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and dryness.

Furniture and Wall Damage

Smoke can cause permanent discoloration to a home’s furnishings and walls. Wall coverings like paint or wallpaper may become damaged by acidic residues left behind, coating a fortune in repairs and replacements.

Water Damage and an Unpleasant Odor

Smoke damage can corrode pipes over time and present a risk of leaking which can cause water damage. These pipes may burst and cause mold infestations, biohazards, and structural damage.

Smoke damage is highly time-sensitive as the damage gradually increases by minutes, hours, days, and even weeks. Immediately engaging the expertise of professionals can save a home from immediate and long-term effects. 

At ONEighty Solutions, our specialist team has the appropriate equipment that helps them to safely remediate the smoke damage and return your home to its pre-trauma state. Reach out – we respond to emergencies quickly, and we’re always ready to help!