Advanced Smoke Remediation & Odor Elimination

Ozone treatment is extremely effective but requires the space to be unoccupied during treatment and for 2-4 hours afterward for clearance. All humans, pets, and plants must be removed. Most belongings can remain - ozone actually helps deodorize contents like furniture and clothing. However, we recommend removing or covering natural rubber items, certain plants, and artwork as ozone can cause oxidation damage to these materials. We'll provide specific guidance during assessment.

Yes, with the proper protocol. Tobacco smoke is challenging because nicotine and tar are sticky resins that trap other odor compounds. Our approach includes: (1) degreasing pre-treatment to break down tar, (2) ozone oxidation of embedded molecules, (3) thermal fogging for penetration matching, and (4) shellac-based sealing of porous surfaces. This combination achieves permanent elimination, not just masking. We guarantee our results for 30 days.

Both are oxidizing treatments but work differently. Ozone (O3) is more aggressive, achieving higher penetration and faster results, but requires evacuation during treatment. Hydroxyl radicals (OH) are gentler, safe for occupied spaces, but require longer treatment times (24-72 hours continuous). We often use hydroxyls for light contamination or contents restoration, and ozone for structural/severe cases. In complex jobs, we may use both sequentially.

Yes, we regularly work with insurance claims for fire and smoke damage restoration. We provide detailed documentation including pre- and post-treatment air quality measurements, photographic evidence, itemized treatment records, and standardized pricing that insurers recognize. We can bill insurance directly or provide documentation for your claim. Note that policy violation smoke damage (guest smoking in non-smoking property) is typically not covered, but we offer competitive self-pay rates.

This usually happens for one of three reasons: (1) Incomplete source removal - if soot particles or contaminated materials remain, they continue releasing odor molecules. (2) Single-method treatment - ozone alone may not penetrate where smoke has absorbed. (3) No sealing - porous materials like drywall can off-gas absorbed compounds for months without proper encapsulation. Our multi-modal approach addresses all three failure points.

For light odors, yes - hydroxyl generation and enzyme treatments are safe for occupied spaces. However, for moderate to severe smoke contamination requiring ozone treatment, the property must be vacant. We recommend scheduling remediation during natural booking gaps. For emergency situations, we can use hydroxyl treatment to make the space tolerable for a current guest, then schedule full ozone treatment between bookings.

HVAC systems are often overlooked but critical. Smoke particles settle in ductwork, on evaporator coils, and in filters. If not addressed, the HVAC system redistributes odor molecules every time it runs. Our protocol includes: filter replacement, coil cleaning with antimicrobial treatment, duct cleaning or fogging depending on severity, and running the system during ozone treatment to circulate the oxidizing agent through all ductwork.

We use professional-grade instruments including: VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) meters that measure total organic compound concentration in PPB (parts per billion), particle counters that measure PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations, and in some cases, lab analysis of air samples for specific compounds. Pre-treatment readings establish a baseline, and post-treatment verification confirms we've achieved normal indoor air quality levels (typically below 300 PPB total VOCs for residential).

Cannabis odor presents unique challenges due to terpene compounds (myrcene, limonene, etc.) which are highly volatile and distinctive. Our cannabis-specific protocol emphasizes: enzyme treatments that break down organic terpene compounds, extended thermal fogging with terpene-targeting counteractants, and hydroxyl treatment for residual molecules. Cannabis contamination typically requires 2-3 days for complete elimination due to the volatility and penetration characteristics of terpenes.