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Odor in homes and buildings arises from many sources that may include animal urine, disaster contamination, moisture problems or just plain soil. Odor in carpet and hidden areas can be especially problematic. [Note: Ad or content links featured on this page are not necessarily affiliated with IICRC (The cleantrust) and should not be considered a recommendation or endorsement by IICRC (The cleantrust)].
Q: Cleaning often automatically removes the sources of general soiling odors. But what kinds of cleaning?
According to the IICRC's Executive Administrator Tom Hill:
"The cleaning needed varies with the type of odor. In most cases, the source can be removed via a deep, thorough wash followed by a rinse. For carpet, the most common method is hot water extraction (HWE). Topical - or more superficial - 'appearance cleaning' systems are less effective for odor source removal."
"If the odor is from a fire, there may be soot particles that will first require thorough vacuuming with an efficiently-filtered vacuum before any wet system is used."
Q: Pet urine decontamination normally requires more specialized deodorizing techniques.What should consumers do?
"The key is prompt discovery and cleanup, but if the contamination has been allowed to 'soak in' a professional may be needed. In some cases it may be necessary to not only clean and deodorize the carpet but also replace a section of the under cushion and, in extreme situations, even seal the subfloor to prevent the odor from wicking up and returning after cleaning."
To remove musty odor associated with moisture, ultimately it's important to identify and correct the moisture (high humidity) intrusion problem. What does this involve?
"Moisture intrusion detection for consumers is often limited to noticing wet or damp areas. Sometimes a musty smell is detected prompting the need for investigation. Eliminating water leaks and other moisture sources is vital."
"Professionals have a range of systems for moisture detection including various probes and non intrusive meters that can register the presence of moisture behind or below a surface such as dry wall. Thermal or heat sensing imaging cameras are also used in many cases to locate otherwise invisible pockets of water; due to evaporative cooling, these areas have a lower temperature."
Certified professionals are trained and experienced in dealing with odor. They have the detection tools, the specialized agents, the equipment and the experience necessary to deal with odors of all types and kinds.
Q: Odor associated with disaster contaminates (smoke, trauma events) requires highly specialized procedures and techniques. What are they?
"In addition to those already mentioned, professionals have access to potent, nontoxic deodorizing and decontamination chemistry, odor-eliminating equipment, powerful drying fans, truck mounted extraction equipment, and much more. But most of all, a properly equipped and certified professional has the training and knowledge to assess the situation and apply the right techniques and procedures to correct it."
Locate a cleantrust-Certified firm at www.certifiedcleaners.org.
