Cigarette Smoke Cleaning

6/5/2018 (Permalink)

While not as many people smoke now days we get this call from time to time. After years of smoking in a home, walls and contents become blemished and develop bad odors. And when the time comes to remove the smoke residue and odors, it will be very difficult to successfully complete the task. Professional cleanup is often necessary. This can be one of the toughest jobs a we come across.   Learn more about smoke removal below.

"How does smoke affect properties?"

Tobacco smoke is a complex mixture of over 4,000 compounds. Smoke sticks to every surface of the smoking area, such as walls, windows, furniture, and in every nook and cranny. It leaves a yellowish-brown sticky substance that you can see, smell, and feel. Cigarette smoke residue can permanently alter the appearance of every surface it sticks to. What’s worse, the HVAC system in the building will carry the smoke residue and odor throughout the structure. This residue is extremely hard to remove, much harder than the soot left over from a fire.

"How do you remove tobacco smoke from homes?"

As tobacco residue is present throughout the entire affected area, removing it is often very time- consuming. There is no magic formula that just whisks away residues and smells. The only effective way to remove tobacco residue and smell is through very thorough cleaning and then sealing all structural surfaces. Restoration specialists start tobacco smoke removal by cleaning all surfaces, which always includes deodorizing agents to help eliminate the very tiny particles of tobacco smoke. The residue is also filled with nicotine which during the cleaning process can be absorbed through the skin and give a person nicotine poisoning. Proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is a must!

Once the technicians finish cleaning the visible surfaces, using specialized equipment is often necessary to remove the very last of the odors that are not accessible (such as inside walls or joints). This will often involve Chlorine dioxide gas or ozone generators – professional equipment that effectively destroys the smelly particles that penetrated hard-to-reach areas.

The next step consists of sealing the surfaces with a sealant. A product designed to seal smoke residues is required – these can lock in the very last of the stains and odors. Finally, the surfaces will be ready to paint, refinish, or to apply new coverings.

"What about the soft items?"

The soft things in a home such as upholstery, bedding, draperies, and clothes absorb odors so well and are often easily damaged. Because of this, they are very difficult to successfully restore and may require outside specialists. In many cases though, the decision is made to simply replace these materials and items.

If you find yourself dealing with a cigarette smoke odor we’d love to help, call us at 715-381-2266