Smoke Damage
Smoke is the product of incomplete combustion
made visible by the presence of small particles of carbon. All burnable
substances involved in the fire create complex odors. Burnt plastics,
fabric, meat, carpet and draperies provide an acceptable analogy of
complex odors. Smoke generally dissipates quickly after the fire leaving
residue. Rapid cooling particles of the incomplete combustion will leave a
difficult film and odor on and in the entire building or home. Smoke is
acidic causing discoloration, corrosion and overall damage to the
property.
Fire, as well as the heat and smoke
associated with it, is one of the most damaging perils to property. The
heat can reach extreme levels and actually melt many objects not even
touched by the fire itself. Smoke can also cause damage to the entire
property even when the fire is contained to one room, and will continue to
corrode objects not cleaned.
Understanding the Chemistry of Fire
The chemistry of fire is a series of complex reactions,
sometimes involving well over 100 chemical elements. The many different
substances that can fuel a fire and the different resulting chemical
reactions that take place mean that fires may be very different in their
cause, their composition and their waste. Mitigation professionals must
understand the chemistry of each fire in order to react appropriately and
to effectively restore the area.
Fires are classified into two groups: simple and
complex. Simple fires result in complete combustion and are usually fueled
by relatively pure fuel, producing no soot and only small amounts of
gasses, fumes and smoke. Complex fires, on the other hand, are the result
of incomplete combustion and are fueled by synthetic materials, including
those found in many toys, carpets, furniture, clothing, plumbing and
bathroom equipment. As complex fires cause the most damage and leave the
most waste.
Smoke Damage
Description
After a fire, smoke residue remains on the carpet in form of dry soot,
smeary or sticky flakes. The residue generally varies depending on the
source and the rate of burning. Strong acrid odors may accompany these
visible effects.
Cause
Due to
combustion, materials in and around carpets release noxious gases as well
as solid or liquid residue that remains on the carpet. This residue may
penetrate into the fibers.
Treatment Quick
ventilation with fresh air goes a long way in dispersing the odors caused
by smoke. The burnt components of the carpet have to be removed while
other smoke residue can generally be cleaned. It is advisable to consult
an experienced Fire Restorer about this. |
