The short answer
Safety First Before Any Cleaning
Before you touch anything, ensure the roof structure is completely safe. Have an electrician check for any wiring damage, and a roofer confirm the deck is stable and won't collapse. Soot can be toxic, so wear a proper respirator, goggles, and protective clothing. Avoid spreading ash inside your home by sealing off the attic access point. It's wise to act quickly before soot settles and becomes a greasy, permanent stain that is far more difficult to remove.
Initial Dry Soot Removal Steps
Start by vacuuming loose soot with a HEPA-filter vacuum to prevent it from becoming a wet, greasy mess. Never use a standard household vacuum, as it will blow fine particles into the air and throughout your home. Gently brush stubborn areas with a dry chemical sponge, which lifts soot without grinding it in. Work from the top down to keep falling debris contained. For a large area, you may need to work in manageable sections to ensure no spots are missed before moving on to the washing stage.
Washing and Degreasing the Surface
After dry cleaning, apply a trisodium phosphate or heavy-duty degreaser solution with a pump sprayer. Let it dwell for several minutes to break down greasy smoke residues, but do not let it dry on the surface. Scrub gently with a soft-bristle brush to avoid damaging the wood grain or composite material. Rinse thoroughly with clean water from a garden hose, directing runoff away from your siding and foundation. You may need to repeat the wash and rinse cycle for areas with heavy, oily soot deposits to achieve a clean result.
When to Call Professional Cleaners
For extensive damage, thick oily soot, or lingering odors, local water damage pros are equipped for the job. They use industrial air scrubbers, thermal foggers, and specialized detergents you cannot rent. They can also check for hidden embers or heat damage within the decking and structure. This professional assessment and cleaning prevents future problems like rot or persistent smells and ensures the job is thorough from the start.
- Thick, oily soot from a hot fire.
- Persistent smoky odor after your cleaning attempt.
- Concerns about structural stability or hidden embers.
- Large affected area making DIY impractical.
- Soot has penetrated insulation or attic contents.
- You have health concerns like asthma or allergies.
Preventing Future Problems and Odors
After cleaning, promote airflow with fans and a dehumidifier in the attic space to prevent mold from the moisture used in washing. Consider applying a sealant to the cleaned wood to lock in any residual odors and protect the surface. Inspect the roof for any remaining leaks or damaged shingles that could cause water damage later. Keep the attic well-ventilated to help dissipate any last traces of smell over the following days. Regularly check the area over the next few weeks for any signs of returning odor, moisture, or new stains that may indicate incomplete cleaning.
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Call Now (208) 537-2633Frequently asked questions
Can I pressure wash my roof deck?
Using a pressure washer is not recommended. The high pressure can force water under shingles, damage wood fibers, and drive soot deeper into the material. A gentle rinse from a garden hose is much safer and more effective for this delicate cleaning task.
Will my homeowners insurance cover this cleaning?
Coverage depends on the cause of the fire. A claim might cover cleaning if the smoke damage is from a covered peril like a lightning strike. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Review your policy and document the damage thoroughly before cleaning.
How long does the smoky smell last?
If cleaning is incomplete, odors can linger for months, especially in porous wood and insulation. Professional deodorization techniques like thermal fogging are often needed to neutralize odor molecules. Proper drying after washing is also crucial to prevent musty smells from developing.