What Not to do About Soot in New Castle, PA

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

If soot and ash are present from fire damage, you should never try to clean them using water.

Did you know...

In the event of a fire emergency in your home or work place, ash and soot can cause a huge mess. Soot is a black, dusty, grimy substance that can coat all of your belongings and property. 

What is the first way most of us think to clean a dirty mess? Soap and water should clean it up, right?

WRONG. 

If soot and ash are present from fire damage, you should never try to clean them using water. 

Whether soot is dry or oily, you will quickly find that trying to clean it using water and soap will only make the damage much worse. The soot will combine with the water to make a dark, mucky substance that will continue to smear rather than detach from your belongings. 

When a space is covered in ash and soot, it may be tempting to try wiping some of it off by yourself before restoration professionals are present or able to respond. As tempting as this is, the best hope of ensuring restoration of your belongings and property is to wait for trained technicians to survey the space and determine the best course of action. 

How does SERVPRO of Mercer County and Lawrence Counties handle soot damage?

Our trained professionals at SERVPRO have a variety of methods that can be used to properly remove soot from everything from walls and ceilings to personal soft contents (i.e. furniture, stuffed animals, etc.). 

Click here for information on our ESPORTA® Wash System, a revolutionary way to restore your soft contents and personal items.