Different Types of Smoke Residue

11/17/2023 (Permalink)

Fires are difficult to contain no matter the magnitude and even if you are able to successfully stop the spreading, smoke residue is inevitable. Depending on the size, cause, and location of the fire, the residue may look a little different. Here are five different forms of soot from fires.

• Dry smoke residue: Dry smoke residue occurs during fast-burning fires that burn at a high temperature. These are typically fueled by paper or wood. Fortunately, the residue is typically powdery and doesn’t smear when you wipe it which makes for an easy clean-up process.

• Wet smoke residue: Wet smoke is created by low-heat, smoldering fires. Both plastic and rubber produce this residue and the waste is often thick and moist and most often has a stench.

• Protein residue: Protein residue forms when organic material evaporates during a low heat fire. Often a product of cooking, this residue is essentially invisible to the eye, but can permanently damage or discolor painted, varnished, or other finished surfaces.

• Fuel/oil residue: Fuel/ oil residue, also known as petroleum residue is not often found in home or business fires unless petroleum was being stored on site. However, it is not uncommon for a building’s furnace to have a “puff back” when igniting, causing a small explosion. This means that the building owner may be dealing with fuel residue even without the instance of a fire. The residue is sticky and strong and often has an obnoxious odor. It will inevitably ruin fabric or upholstery if not cleaned immediately.

• Fire extinguisher residue: Fire extinguisher residue does not always require cleanup after use unless it is a chemical extinguisher. The reside and clean-up process varies depending on the type of extinguisher used.

Obviously, the ultimate goal is to avoid having any form of fire and therefore, avoid the resulting waste; however, this is not always possible. If your home or business is in need of rehabilitation after a fire, SERVPRO of Parker and Northeast Hood Counties is here to help! We are available 24/7 at 817-598-8714.