Soot Removal & Cleaning Services
Professional soot removal for all fire types using HEPA extraction, chemical sponge treatment, and specialist cleaning techniques. IICRC FSRT-certified technicians across Australia.
Our Soot Removal Process
Soot Type Identification
Our FSRT-certified technicians identify the type of soot present - dry, wet, protein, or fuel oil - as each requires a fundamentally different cleaning approach. Incorrect methods can permanently embed soot into surfaces, making this critical first step essential.
Dry Soot Removal
HEPA-filtered vacuums and chemical dry sponges remove loose soot particles without smearing or embedding them into surfaces. This crucial first-pass removal prevents cross-contamination and prepares surfaces for wet cleaning treatment.
Wet Cleaning & Treatment
Professional-grade cleaning solutions matched to the soot type are applied to all affected surfaces. Alkaline cleaners, solvent-based degreasers, or enzymatic treatments are selected based on the soot composition and surface material.
Surface Restoration
Final restoration includes sealing treated surfaces to prevent residual staining, repainting where necessary, and applying protective coatings. All treated areas are inspected under UV light to confirm complete soot removal.
Comprehensive Soot Removal Services
Dry Smoke Soot Cleaning
Powdery, fine-particle soot from fast, high-temperature fires. Removed with HEPA vacuuming and dry chemical sponges before any wet cleaning to prevent smearing and permanent surface staining.
Wet Smoke Soot Removal
Thick, sticky, tar-like soot from slow, smouldering fires. Requires solvent-based cleaners and specialised degreasing agents. This is the most challenging soot type due to its adhesive properties.
HEPA Vacuuming
Industrial HEPA-filtered vacuum extraction captures soot particles down to 0.3 microns. This critical first step removes loose particulate without disturbing settled soot or pushing it deeper into porous surfaces.
Chemical Sponge Treatment
Vulcanised rubber dry cleaning sponges lift soot from surfaces through chemical absorption without moisture. Essential for delicate surfaces like wallpaper, untreated timber, and plasterboard that cannot tolerate wet cleaning.
Hard Surface Restoration
Complete soot removal from tile, stone, glass, metal, timber, and painted surfaces using surface-appropriate cleaning agents. Acidic soot residue is neutralised to prevent ongoing corrosion and deterioration.
Porous Material Treatment
Specialist treatment of soot-affected carpet, upholstery, curtains, clothing, and other porous materials. Ultrasonic cleaning, ozone treatment, and professional laundering restore items where possible.
Soot Health Hazards
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I clean soot myself?
We strongly advise against DIY soot cleaning. Wiping soot with a cloth, paper towel, or household cleaner will smear it into surfaces, causing permanent staining. Soot also contains carcinogens and respiratory irritants requiring proper PPE. Professional HEPA vacuuming and type-specific chemical treatment is essential for proper removal.
What surfaces can be saved from soot damage?
Most hard surfaces including tile, glass, metal, stone, and sealed timber can be fully restored. Painted walls and ceilings can often be cleaned and resealed. Porous materials like carpet, upholstery, and untreated timber have variable outcomes depending on soot type and how quickly treatment begins. Our technicians assess each surface individually.
How quickly should soot be cleaned after a fire?
As soon as possible. Soot is acidic and begins corroding metals, electronics, and plumbing within hours. It bonds chemically with surfaces over time, making removal increasingly difficult. Within 24-48 hours, soot can permanently discolour plastics, fibreglass, and porous materials. Immediate professional intervention delivers the best restoration outcomes.
Does soot cause permanent damage?
If left untreated, yes. Soot residue is acidic and corrosive, permanently etching metals, discolouring plastics, and staining porous materials. However, with prompt professional treatment, the vast majority of soot damage can be fully reversed. The key factor is speed - the sooner treatment begins, the better the outcome.
What does professional soot removal cost?
Cost varies based on the extent of damage, soot type, affected surface area, and materials involved. A single room may cost $500-$2,000 while a full property can range from $5,000-$25,000 or more. Most home and business insurance policies cover professional soot removal. We provide detailed quotes and work directly with insurers.
Related Fire & Smoke Services
Need Professional Soot Removal?
Do not attempt DIY soot cleaning. Our FSRT-certified technicians are available 24/7.