Smoke & Soot Removal
Before It Bonds Permanently

Smoke and soot removal is the process of cleaning, treating, and restoring surfaces and materials that have been contaminated by smoke residue after a fire. Even after the flames are out and structural damage has been addressed, smoke and soot can continue to damage a home. Soot is acidic and corrosive, and if left on surfaces it will permanently stain walls, discolor metals, degrade fabrics, and etch into glass and stone.

The type of residue left behind depends on what burned. Protein fires from cooking produce a nearly invisible residue that causes strong odors. Synthetic materials like plastics and electronics leave a thick, sticky, black soot that smears when wiped. Wood and paper fires produce dry, powdery residue that spreads easily through HVAC systems. Each type requires a different cleaning approach.

Five Star Restoration performs professional smoke and soot removal using specialized equipment and techniques matched to the type of residue present. Our crews clean and treat all affected surfaces including walls, ceilings, trim, fixtures, and cabinetry. We use HEPA filtration to capture airborne soot particles, apply chemical sponges and professional cleaning agents designed for fire residue, and seal surfaces where needed to prevent residual staining. All smoke and soot work follows IICRC fire and smoke damage restoration standards.