What is Soot Damage?

7/24/2021 (Permalink)

It’s not uncommon to have questions about the soot removal process. Call us today to answer all your questions at 732-349-9898.

What is soot?

Soot is a black carbonaceous substance produced during incomplete combustion of coal, wood, oil, etc., rising in fine particles that adhere to and blacken surfaces on contact., according to the Free Dictionary. 

This is messy irritant, soot, can damage materials it touches. Therefore, proper cleaning techniques need to be used, especially when cleaning soot off the ceilings and walls, or you could actually make the situation worse instead of better. 

Soot can spread much further than flames, staining many different surfaces throughout your home.  Porous materials like drywall, paint, wood, carpeting, and fabric are most susceptible to soot damage. Other non-porous materials like metal, stone, and glass, are more resistant to soot but they can still be damaged. Soot may also get into ductwork for your heating and air conditioning system, which could spread it even further.  

Why is soot produced?

Incomplete combustion produces soot. Keeping burners and pilots cleaned and properly adjusted can reduce the amount of soot produced. Uncontrolled combustion, such as wood burning in an open fireplace, candles, and cigarettes, produce higher amounts of soot, according to Iowa State University.

How is the soot problem solved?

Find and eliminate the source. Remove all traces of soot from all surfaces. 

What Happens if Soot Remains on Surfaces?

The longer the soot remains due to it's acidic nature, the more significant the damage to properties and structures if not properly cleaned in a timely manner. Metal will corrode if soot remains on the surface. Glass and mirrors can become etched. Plastic, vinyl, and fabric may become discolored. 

What is Soot vs Smoke?

Soot is seeable part on surfaces and smoke is the gaseous part that produces an odor. 

Can SERVPRO of Toms River remove all soot?

SERVPRO of Toms River understands that each soot damage presents unique issues and challenges. As experts in soot damage cleanup, our crew has seen, cleaned and restored it all.