How to Eliminate Lingering Smells After Water or Fire Damage

The Professional Odor-Removal Workflow

 

1) Inspection & Moisture Mapping

We trace odors back to moisture and residue using:

• Infrared cameras to locate hidden wet zones.
• Pin/pinless meters to confirm moisture content in drywall & wood.
• Borescopes for toe-kicks and cavities.

 

2) Source Removal

• Cut and remove unsalvageable porous materials (wet pad, saturated drywall/insulation).
• HEPA vacuum soot/particulates before any wet cleaning.
• Degrease/neutralize smoke films with alkaline detergents (prevents “setting” stains).

 

3) Cleaning & Disinfection

• Category 1/2 water: Detergent cleaning + EPA-registered antimicrobials as needed.
• Category 3 (sewage): Full containment, negative air, disinfection, and disposal of porous materials per code.

 

4) Drying & Humidity Control

• High-velocity air movers + LGR dehumidifiers to return materials to safe moisture (wood ~≤15%; drywall back to baseline).
• Continuous RH control (40–55%) to prevent odor rebound and microbial growth.

 

5) HVAC Decontamination

• Negative-pressure duct cleaning with rotating-brush agitation.
• Coil & pan sanitation; replace filters with appropriate MERV rating.
• Seal and clean supply/return boots where residues accumulate.

 

6) Deodorization Technologies (Targeted, Safe, Effective)

• Hydroxyl Generators: Produce reactive radicals that break down VOCs while spaces can remain occupied—ideal for smoke, mildew, and general post-mitigation odors.
• Thermal Fogging: Heats a deodorant to mimic smoke particle travel, pairing with and neutralizing odor molecules in pores and crevices.
• Ozone (Unoccupied Only): Powerful oxidizer for severe smoke/organic odors; used with strict safety protocols and post-treatment ventilation.

 

7) Verification

• White-glove surface check plus odor assessment at normal temp/RH.
• Moisture logs and final report for you (and your insurer).
• Where appropriate, post-treatment particle counts or third-party air sampling.

 

If you need help with any type of odor removal, call AllStates Restoration at 732-956-3900 and HireASR.com