Fire & Smoke Cleanup Guide
Kitchen fires are the most common type of residential fire in the United States. Whether caused by a grease fire, an appliance malfunction, or an unattended stove, kitchen fire damage requires specialized restoration because of the unique protein smoke residue it produces.
First-Hour Priorities
Step 1
If safe to do so, shut off gas at the main valve and flip the kitchen circuit breaker. Damaged gas lines and electrical connections pose explosion and electrocution risks. If unsure, call your utility company.
Step 2
Kitchen fires produce protein smoke—nearly invisible residue with an extremely strong odor. It discolors paints and finishes over time and requires enzyme-based professional cleaners. Household products will not work.
Step 3
All food in the kitchen—including sealed containers—should be discarded. Smoke particles penetrate packaging. Food in nearby rooms should be inspected. Document everything for insurance before disposing.
Step 4
If a fire extinguisher was used, the chemical residue needs professional cleanup. Dry chemical extinguisher powder is corrosive to electronics and metal surfaces if not removed quickly.
Field Visuals
These examples show the conditions and response patterns our teams evaluate during active fire damage restoration.
A grease fire that spread to upper cabinets. The protein smoke residue from this type of fire is nearly invisible but produces an extremely strong, pervasive odor.
Complete kitchen restoration brings the space back to pre-loss condition. New cabinetry, countertops, flooring, and appliances installed by our reconstruction team.
Technical Workflow
This sequence keeps decisions measurable, documented, and aligned with insurance requirements and safe reconstruction.
Protein smoke from kitchen fires is uniquely challenging—nearly invisible but extremely pungent. We use enzyme-based cleaners specifically formulated for organic combustion residue on all surfaces.
Each appliance is assessed for heat damage, electrical safety, and contamination. Some can be professionally cleaned; others must be replaced. We document everything for your insurance claim.
Depending on damage severity, cabinetry may be professionally cleaned, refinished, or replaced. We check behind cabinets for hidden structural damage and mold from firefighting water.
From new drywall and flooring to cabinet installation and countertop fitting, our reconstruction team handles the complete kitchen rebuild to pre-loss condition—or better.
South Florida
Kitchen fires are the #1 cause of residential fires in Florida. High humidity accelerates protein smoke damage on stainless steel and chrome fixtures. Quick response prevents permanent pitting.
Charlotte, NC
Holiday cooking fires spike during Thanksgiving and Christmas. Deep fryer fires (turkey frying) cause some of the most severe kitchen fire damage in the Charlotte area.
Insurance Note
Kitchen fires are well-covered by standard homeowner policies. Our team documents all damage and coordinates directly with your adjuster for appliance replacement, cabinetry, and structural repairs.
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