Smoke Damage? Can't I Just Paint Over It?

Should I paint over smoke damage?

Smoke damage is a serious issue that needs to be addressed quickly. When the smoke from an unfortunate event like fire lingers, it can cause permanent staining of the walls and other surfaces in your Louisiana home or business--not just an uncomfortable smell! To get rid of soot residue fast as well as return property back its natural state before painting over any areas affected by this disaster consider these steps:

Homeowners who have been through a fire know that it is imperative to clean soot off of walls before proceeding with painting. A process called dry cleaning helps you neutralize the damage caused by smoke and includes getting rid of any loose dirt from around light fixtures or vent covers, which can cause unwanted marks on projects being done by an artistically-inclined friend/family member for their home renovation project. You'll also need special sponges designed specifically for this task—these are sold at most large retailers like Home Depot under "home ent." They're made out flat surfaces meant as replacement tools after scrubbing away some decades' worth general grime left behind inside your house's interior spaces following

1. Dry Cleaning

If you are going to paint any type of surface, it is essential that the walls have not only been cleaned but also neutralized by fire damage before painting begins! You need a special sponge made for this purpose and they can be found at your local hardware store. After getting all loose dirt on these surfaces off with one of these sponges, carefully wipe down each wall and ceiling thoroughly so there will be no residue left behind from previous fires. 

2. Wet Cleaning

For this next step, you should wear protective clothing and use an appropriate mask to prevent breathing any chemicals that may be used during the cleaning procedure. Mix together 2 parts water with 1 part phosphate-based heavy duty cleaner powder until it forms into liquid form then apply onto wall where necessary using brush/pad or spray bottle. Allow mixture dwell time for 20 minutes before wiping away excess moisture.

3. Primer

It is important to reliably cover all of the surfaces in your home with primer before painting. Smoke damaged walls require an altogether different approach than those that have not been exposed, so make sure there are no more stains on these particular types and apply accordingly for best results!

Smoke damage can leave behind a lot of residue from old smoke particles which will need special care when priming or else you'll just end up wasting paint by covering it instead. Take the time to do it right – or call the Louisiana Fire & Smoke Damage Experts, DryMax Restoration at 337-428-3932.