Fire & Smoke Damage

Types of Smoke Residue We Clean

Not all smoke damage looks the same—or acts the same. Different types of fires produce different kinds of smoke, each with its own challenges. At MSI, we identify the type of residue to ensure we use the proper cleaning agents and techniques for a full restoration. Here's what we commonly encounter:

• Dry Smoke

Produced by high-temperature, fast-burning fires, dry smoke leaves behind a fine, powdery residue. While it may seem easier to clean, it can settle deep into cracks and porous surfaces, and if not handled correctly, it can smear and cause permanent staining.

• Wet Smoke

Slow, smoldering fires—often fueled by plastic or rubber—create thick, sticky wet smoke. This residue clings to surfaces, spreads easily, and carries a heavy odor. It requires specialized solvents to remove without further damage to walls, ceilings, and contents.

• Protein Residue

Protein fires, like those caused by burnt food, don’t leave visible soot—but they produce a nearly invisible film that coats surfaces and carries an incredibly strong, unpleasant odor. This type of smoke is often missed by untrained cleaners.

• Fuel or Oil Smoke (Puff Backs)

When furnaces or heating systems malfunction, they can release oily soot through the home. This greasy residue is hard to clean and can embed into carpeting, furniture, and vents. We use degreasing agents and filtration systems to safely remove it.

Knowing the difference between these smoke types is critical. MSI’s fire damage team uses this information to tailor every job, ensuring complete odor removal and surface restoration from top to bottom.

Health Risks of Soot Exposure

Even after the fire is out, your home may still contain invisible dangers. Soot and smoke particles can linger in the air and settle deep into carpets, furniture, HVAC systems, and building materials. Without proper cleanup, these microscopic particles can continue to circulate and be inhaled long after the flames are gone—often without any visible signs.

Soot exposure has been linked to a range of health issues, especially in children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory conditions. Common symptoms include:

• Breathing Difficulties — including coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath

• Headaches, Fatigue, & Dizziness — often due to poor air quality

• Eye & Sinus Irritation — burning, redness, or pressure

• Allergic Reactions — sneezing, skin irritation, or congestion

• Long-Term Cardiovascular Effects — due to ultrafine particle exposure

• Worsening of Asthma or Chronic Bronchitis — especially in sensitive groups

These particles are often smaller than 2.5 microns (PM2.5), making them easy to inhale and difficult to remove without proper filtration.

At MSI, we don’t just wipe surfaces. We use HEPA filtration, air scrubbing, and complete decontamination to eliminate both visible and invisible threats. Your safety and indoor air quality come first.

Fire Damage Insurance Help & Documentation Support

Filing a fire damage claim is never simple — but MSI makes it easier. Our team has decades of experience working with insurance carriers, agents, and adjusters to ensure that no detail is missed and no damage goes undocumented.

From the moment we arrive, we begin documenting the damage with photos, moisture and soot readings, and itemized reports. We provide your adjuster with everything they need to process your claim quickly and accurately — reducing disputes, delays, and denials.

We’ll also walk you through the claims process, help you understand your coverage, and make sure you aren’t left guessing about what’s covered or what happens next. Whether you’ve already filed or haven’t contacted your carrier yet, MSI is here to advocate for you from start to finish.