Everyone knows fire is dangerous and can cause devastating destruction if not properly managed. The slightest spark can lead to a raging inferno that can destroy anything. Your home is no exception, and if it is made from highly flammable materials, it can be especially vulnerable to the destructive power of fire. If it does happen, you have the added responsibility of cleaning, particularly soot tags.

What are Soot Tags?

Soot tags, also known as soot webs, are black, sticky deposits left after a fire. They result from ash and soot particles combined with moisture and surface condensing. This can make them especially hard to remove, as they are often difficult to reach and can be embedded deep in the material. If left untreated, these soot tags can cause adverse health effects, so one must take the necessary precautions to ensure they are correctly and safely removed. Few people know about soot tags, so we will discuss the details in this article.

How Do Soot Tags Form?

When a fire occurs inside a home, the air is filled with chemicals released by the burning objects. These chemicals stick to the walls and other surfaces, leaving a black residue known as soot. The most common sources of soot are burning wood, plastics, carpets, walls, and clothing. While kitchen fires are the most common cause of residential fires, soot can spread to any area of a home.

Soot tags are small webs of gray or black material that appear in the corners of your home and along the walls after a fire. They can also be found on furniture and clothing. These webs can cause permanent staining and damage your home and belongings if left unchecked. If the fire was put out with water, the webs might be accompanied by mold growth.

Where Do Soot Tags Form?

Soot marks may not only be found in dark corners or on walls but can also take up residence in other parts of your house, particularly in areas with little to no air circulation.

A good example would be inside your closets and cabinets, behind furniture, and in any other enclosed space. These areas are generally darker and contain little airflow, making them the perfect home for soot tags.

How to Clean Soot Tags

Removing soot from the aftermath of a fire is an intensive procedure. While you can try removing a soot tag on your own, we recommend hiring professional soot removal experts because they are equipped with the right tools, products, and techniques to get the job done.

However, you must consider certain factors before hiring them, such as:

Reputation and Experience - Soot tag cleaning is a specialized service, so companies that offer this service must have a good reputation and experience in the field. This is to ensure they are knowledgeable and experienced in the proper techniques and products needed to clean soot tags.
Tools and Equipment - Professional cleaners must have the proper tools and equipment to remove soot tags. This includes special vacuums, scrubbers, and other specialized cleaning products that can effectively remove soot tags.
License and Insurance - A reputable soot tag cleaning company should be appropriately licensed and insured for the safety of its customers. This is vital to ensure that the company is held responsible for any injuries or damages that may occur during the job.
Safety Procedures - The company should have safety procedures in place to ensure the safety of its customers and employees. This includes using the proper safety equipment, such as masks, gloves, and goggles.
Cost - Above all else, you must get your money’s worth when hiring a cleaning service to remove soot tags. Most services will charge a flat fee or an hourly rate. However, the cost may also vary depending on the job’s size.

The Importance of Professional Soot Tag Removal

Soot tags are unwanted and unsightly, but they can be removed with the help of a professional cleaning service. They will only appear after a fire, but you must remove them immediately to avoid permanent staining and adverse health effects. This way, you can get your home back to its original condition and maintain a healthy living environment.

DryZone provides top-quality services for post-fire soot cleanup. Our professional soot cleaning specialists will ensure your home is free from damage for affordable prices. Call us today at (239) 360-5207 or fill out our online contact form to book an appointment!