What's That Smell?

9/1/2016 (Permalink)

Odor particles are small – they are tiny, microscopic objects measured in microns. Their small size allows easy penetration into porous surfaces. There are quite a few factors that help these particles to penetrate surfaces.

• Surface porosity - The more porous a material, the more likely it is to absorb odors.
• Heat - Heat from fire causes materials to expand, where the odor particles will then penetrate. Once the materials cool after the fire, they contract to trap the odors.
• Heavy concentrations of residues
• Long exposure time
• Humidity can also have an effect on odors:
  • High humidity dissolves odors and carries vapors to the nose.
  • Cleaning involves wetting surfaces – that moisture reactivates dormant odors such as pet urine.
  • Odors may appear to be neutralized, but come back months later in humid weather.

SERVPRO of Savannah specializes in several areas of cleanup and restoration, and this includes sanitation and deodorization of these terrible odors!