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When thinking about fire and smoke damage, it’s common to lump them in the same group. Fire damage is actually broken down into six different categories, while there are five types of smoke damage. This blog will help you understand what sets different types of fire damage and smoke damage from each other. So if you ever have to deal with fire and smoke damage, this information will help you understand exactly what you’re dealing with.
Common Types of Fire Damage
The most common types of fire damage are classified as “Class A Fires” to “Class F Fires.” Below is how each of these types of fire damage differentiates themselves from each other:
1. Class A Fires: Solid Fires Damage
A Class A Fire is classified as a fire that is ignited by flammable objects such as wood, paper, fabric, trash, and light plastics that are located around the home. This type of fire is the most common type of house fire. Class A Fires can be extinguished by using water or a fire extinguisher, but if any fire damage persists, the fire damage restoration experts at weDRY Restoration should be contacted.
2. Class B Fires: Liquid Fires Damage
Class B Fires spark from flammable liquids like gas, paint, kerosene, and other cleaning solvents that are petroleum-based. Foam or power extinguishers are best used if a Class B Fire breaks out in your home, water isn’t as effective.
In need of fire damage restoration services, after a Class B Fire has taken place in your home? Stay safe; weDRY has got you covered.
3. Class C Fires: Gas Fires Damage
Class C Fires are generally caused by cooking gas located in the kitchen. Cooking gas is usually made up of highly flammable gasses like propane, butane, iso-propane, and sometimes a mix of them all. For these types of fires, it’s crucial to turn off the gas supply as soon as possible.
To extinguish the fire, a dry powder extinguisher is best. Reach out to weDRY if you need fire damage restoration services after a gas fire.
4. Class D Fires: Metallic Fires Damage
Class D Fires are ignited by metal materials like sodium. These types of fires are much more rare compared to others but these metals act as conductors that retain heat, spreading fire at a much faster rate. Water should never be used to extinguish metallic fires. In fact, water will actually increase the damage.
Don’t try to handle this yourself. Evacuate the area, call 9-1-1, and follow up with weDRY for restoration services.
5. Class E Fires: Electrical Fires Damage
Class E Fires, also known as electrical fires, can also be caused or sustained by fires of classes B, C, and D. Electrical fires commonly occur due to a spark from faulty electrical components. Places that are at higher risk of electrical fires include older homes with outdated electrical installation or homes with moldy walls.
Never use water to combat electrical fires, otherwise you run the risk of receiving an electric shock. Best case is using a CO2 extinguisher that uses non-conductive materials. Electrical fire damage can cover a wide range inside the home, weDRY is up to the task.
6. Class F Fires: Grease Fires or Cooking Fires Damage
Class F Fires are another type of fire that is commonly found in the kitchen of the home. Class F Fires occur when fire comes into contact with grease or cooking oils. The combustion of these elements can be startling, difficult to control, and can get pretty serious.
These types of fires are also known to spread quickly. The best way to curb these fires is by using a wet chemical extinguisher or a fire blanket.
Has a Class F fire grown out of control in your home and left a great deal of damage? Contact weDRY today for our fire damage restoration services.
Common Types of Smoke Damage
Not only can the fire cause damage to your home, but the ensuing smoke also has the potential to cause even more damage. This is called smoke damage, and these are the most common types of smoke damage to look out for:
1. Dry Smoke Damage
Dry smoke is the result of fast-burning flames and high temperatures caused by wood and paper. Dry smoke leaves a fine, powdery, and non-greasy residue that is relatively easy to clean. However, dry smoke easily seeps into materials and leaves lingering odors.
2. Wet Smoke Damage
Wet smoke results from slow-burning fires at low temperatures that were fueled by materials like rubber and plastics. Wet smoke leaves a residue that is thick, heavy, and sticky. Wet smoke damage is particularly challenging to clean because it stains and smears.
3. Protein Smoke Damage
This type of smoke stems from fires that involve food and kitchen grease. The residue left behind is hard to spot and is difficult to remove. Protein smoke damage is often identified by the foul odor it leaves behind.
4. Petroleum Smoke Damage
Petroleum smoke stems from fires that consist of petroleum-based materials. Petroleum smoke is black, has a strong odor, and it is known for easily penetrating surfaces.
5. Tenant Smoke
The cigarette and tobacco smoke from tenant use is simply categorized as “tenant smoke.” Smoke from tobacco products leaves a lingering odor that seeps into surfaces around the home and also affects the home’s air quality.
Call weDry Restoration for Fire Damage Needs in MI
Has your southeast Michigan home experienced a bad fire recently that left all sorts of fire and smoke damage? Call weDRY Restoration today at (248) 986-2503 for all of your fire and smoke damage restoration needs.
