Choosing the right restoration cleaning products depends on the material composition, surface texture, the nature of residue and the severity of soot contamination.
Traditionally, wet cleanable surfaces include most woodwork, doors and door frames, and semi-gloss and gloss painted surfaces. The coating components of acoustical textured ("popcorn" type) ceilings will deteriorate when cleaned with aggressive cleaning techniques.
Two structural areas where the restorer will find the most washable surfaces are in the kitchen and bathrooms. Prior to cleaning smoke damaged surfaces, secure breakables from furniture, and remove draperies, wall decorations and framed articles to prevent damage.
Regardless of which cleaning method is chosen, almost all cleaning should:
- Begin at the ceiling,
- Shift to the upper structural surfaces,
- Progress to middle and lower structural surfaces, and
- Finish on floor areas.
The one exception to this “top to bottom” approach is walls. Usually, the best direction for washing painted walls by hand is to wash from bottom to top. This will help to reduce streaking.