Fire Residue Types

7/16/2020 (Permalink)

No matter the size of your job, we are able to get the staff and equipment to help you get back to preloss conditions.

When cleaning up after a fire, SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell cleaning specialists have to pay close attention to what kind of residue they are cleaning. There are 3 main residue classifications and SERVPRO cleaning specialists are highly trained to handle each one. The 3 classifications are:

Protein Residue: Results from burning meat, fish or beans. This type of residue is very greasy and sticks to most surfaces. Water based solutions are used to clean this type of residue.

Natural Substance Residue: This type of residue results from burning paper or wood. These residues have a dry, powder-like texture. They are the easiest to clean and are removed with vacuums and other dry preconditioning techniques.

Synthetic Residue: This type results when the burned material is oil based. Ex: carpets, upholstery, window shades, furniture and toys. These materials produce a thick, heavy, black residue that is easily smeared. If the residue is untouched, it is easily vacuumed away. If the residue is touched, other steps have to be taken to effectively remove.

After a fire, it is best to vacate the building without touching anything and leave the clean up process to SERVPRO trained franchise professionals. We are "Here to Help" and will work to help get your property to preloss conditions.