Soot Damage and All you need to know....

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

Soot is a mixture of very fine black particles created by the product of incomplete combustion. Soot, the most noticeable result from fire, is primarily made up of carbon, but can also contain trace amounts of metals, dust, and chemicals. Soot is different from charcoal and other byproducts of combustion because it is so fine. These tiny particles are often smaller than dust, mold, and dirt particles. 

There are many factors that contribute to both how much and where soot will eventually settle.

In general soot is caused by both the gaseous and solid byproducts of fire traveling through a given space until settling in cooler temperatures. Thus, allowing soot to form in areas like duct vents and walls not initially affected by the fire.  The “fuel” or materials consumed by fire, ie wood, oil based products or proteins alter the fires intensity, lingering smell and the type of soot present after a fire. The temperature, air flow and type of soot are all contributing factors to the varying magnitude and locations of soot development.  For example “Soot tags” or “Carbon Webbings”, can form when synthetic materials burn at high temperatures. As the material burns it becomes charged. Allowing soot to gather and form webbing like features around areas of low circulation. These are most likely to be seen in corners and near the ceiling.

Cleaning up after a fire is already a daunting and stressful task. The additional health risks to tenants, pets and employees make this a job for professionals. As a leader in Fire Mitigation, your local SERVPRO franchise will consider all factors in devising the correct procedure for cleaning your facility. SERVPRO will put an equal emphasis on cleaning the visible mess and all hidden risks associated with your loss. When the safety of your tenants or employees are of concern,  SERVPRO is here to help, 24/7, 365 days a year.