We learn pretty early on that fire is dangerous. We know that so well, in fact, we sometimes forget all about smoke. Did you know that smoke is significantly more problematic for both people and structures compared to fire? It’s true. Smoke is the leading cause of deaths related to fire – three times over the flames themselves. Breathing in smoke is terrible for your respiratory system, but it’s also really bad for your property as well. But how does smoke affect homes and building materials?
How Does Smoke Affect Homes and Building Materials?
Ceiling
Typically, the ceiling directly above a fire is going to have the highest concentration of smoke residue. Assuming there weren’t any strong air currents to disrupt the smoke, it would continue to rise and collect straight upwards.
Walls
Since hot air rises and cold air sinks, this provides the opportunity for smoke to be pushed to the exterior walls of a room as well, this means further damage to higher points of exterior windows and walls.
Enclosed Spaces
Dressers, closets, furniture, behind drapes or blinds – these don’t seem like places that something like smoke would infiltrate, but it happens. As air cools down, particles floating on the wind stream fall down onto nearby surfaces, this means that heat may have carried debris into some seemingly enclosed spaces and deposited debris there.
Ductwork
Even though your HVAC system may not have been on, you’ll probably still find some soot and smoke damage within the ducts. Just like liquid, smoke will take the path of least resistance. This means as it billows into the ceiling and runs out of space in a room, it’ll be pulled into the vents and come to rest in the cooler ductwork of your home.
Synthetic Materials
Aside from your standard smoke, you’ve got to consider just how much synthetic materials exist in homes these days. This adds a whole new level of complexity as to the danger you face when breathing in the already dangerous smoke and soot leftover after a fire. These types of chemicals can cause all sorts of short- and long-term health issues down the road.
General Property Damage
Health issues notwithstanding, the property itself has received substantial damage as well. You will find that fabrics and upholstery like carpet, rugs, curtains, and clothing have become discolored. Furniture will likely be damaged at the very least, if not warped or completely destroyed. Walls and ceilings will be stained and warped, and windows will likely be discolored. Plants and potting can become contaminated with toxins, and concrete may crack from the sudden dehydration and high heat exposure. Wood will obviously be damaged, if not seriously discolored and in need of restoration. Highly acidic soot can potentially corrode exposed metal as well.
Call RestoPros for Smoke Damage Services
Smoke damage within a home can cause short- and long-term health issues, destroy or alter almost any interior surface, breach any non-airtight locations and reduce the value of homes significantly. So, don’t underestimate the damage smoke can do! Call RestoPros at 855-587-3786 today!