The residues of a disastrous fire can cause smoke damage, leaving behind lingering smells and damaging your loved one’s health. As the fast-spreading Los Angeles fires continue to damage hundreds of acres, risking the lives of millions, learning the dangers of fire and smoke damage becomes essential. 

The pollutants, soot, and ultrafine particulates in smoke can invade your living or working space, compromising your building’s structure and well-being. Here are three devastating effects of unaddressed smoke damage:

Causes Structural Damage

The aftermath of a fire can weaken building materials, triggering the erosion of drywall and seeping into electrical or HVAC systems. In addition, smoke and soot can cause discoloration, affecting your home’s beauty.

However, you can cut your repair costs in half by getting indoor air quality testing to determine the extent of smoke damage. 

Corrodes and Stains Surfaces

The acrid nature of smoke can activate corrosion on your windows, doors, tabletops, and other items. If left unchecked, the residue can damage the structural integrity and discoloration of metallic surfaces, polymers, and textiles. 

Additionally, the smoke may settle into porous materials, resulting in a persistent and unpleasant smell.

Affects Your Well-Being

Smoke damage can threaten you and your family’s well-being. The residual soot can enter into the body and result in skin irritation and respiratory issues.

Besides this, smoke exposure can exacerbate allergies, dryness, and eye irritation and cause chronic cardiovascular or neurological illnesses. 

The Bottom Line: Leave the Smoke Cleanup to the Pros

The fire damage from the Los Angeles wildfires can impact the safety of your living space and well-being. If you notice soot or persistent smells, it’s vital to consult an experienced fire and smoke damage cleaning service provider.

With expert knowledge and advanced tools, smoke damage removal experts can help identify and eliminate all traces of smoke.