How to clean smoke from fire, off walls

jerbark

Has anyone tired to clean smoke damage off of walls? The walls were previously painted with semi-gloss. We've tried just washing with water and a degreaser, but that's mostly just smearing the soot around.

Someone suggested trying a "dry sponge", so I researched dry sponges on the internet and there are lots to choose from...some with "chemicals" that can't be washed (you're supposed to just keep cutting the dirty part off), some natural "vulcanized" sponges that you can wash (wait to dry, then reuse) and some that just don't give all the specifics. Does anyone have a particular brand or product that really works?

Thanks, Jerolyn
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Bob Mariani

I clean with TSP then prime with Kilz. without priming with this sealer the smoke smell will never go away.

jerbark

That's initially what I was plannign to do, but I've also read that Kiltz doesn't do a very good job of hiding the odor. Have you heard of or tried something called Bin?

Gary in WA

In my opinion, Bin zinnzer is a way better product. I worked for a restoration company and it was all they used. Here:

http://www.zinsser.com/pdf/ShellacFi...estoration.pdf With flat paint, try chemical sponging. With gloss, spic and span.
You can also use citrus cleaner, start at bottom of wall, work up. You can try sudsy ammonia, also works. Be safe, G

Bob Mariani

Yes I also have used Zinsser's Bin.. very good for this work also.

jerbark

Thanks for the info - I will definitely use the Bin product.

Now, re the kitchen cabinets. Only the top cabinets were burned, so I'm pulling them out and replacing. The bottom cabinets are wood (inside and out, no particle board) and were previously painted. I'm trying to do this whole project as cheaply as possible, so I'd like to just re paint the bottom cabinets white and put new, white cabinets above. Should I just use the Bin product on the lower cabinets before painting? Will that seal out the smoke smell enough (it was a kitchen fire, so I'm assuming that the smell is more concentrated in the kitchen vs the back bedrooms etc) or should I plan to replace ALL the cabinets?

Thanks, Jerolyn

Gary in WA

Smoke goes everywhere. Paint goes on where you spray, brush, etc. Try one and see. Be safe, G