Start with the most important question for each material
Work through each material in each room. If the answer is unclear, mark it for a second opinion.
- IfIt is charred, structurally weakened or unsafeThenRemove it. Keep a sample if it is original and will need to be matched.
- IfIt has surface soot only and the finish is intactThenClean in place. Test spot first on any original finish.
- IfIt is sound but in the way of necessary repairsThenRemove carefully, label, store dry and reinstall later.
- IfIt is wet but not charredThenDry first and decide later. Many wet materials recover.
- IfIt may contain asbestos or lead and will be disturbedThenTest before any removal or sanding, or treat as hazardous and use proper procedures.
- IfOdor persists after cleaningThenLook for a hidden source behind or beneath it before deciding the material itself is the problem.
Common materials and their usual outcome
| Material | Tends to be kept when | Tends to be removed when |
|---|---|---|
| Plaster walls and ceilings | Sound, attached, soot on the surface | Charred, detached, soaked and crumbling |
| Clear-finished trim | Finish protected the wood | Charred or finish blistered past refinishing |
| Hardwood floors | Dry back to normal, scorch is shallow | Charred, deeply stained or structurally compromised |
| Ceramic tile | Glaze intact, grout cleanable | Cracked from heat or loose from water |
| Wood windows | Sash sound, glass replaceable | Frames charred or rotted |
| Insulation | Rarely kept after smoke exposure | Smoke-laden, wet or vermiculite |
| Carpet and pad | Rarely kept after heavy smoke | Smoke-laden or soaked |
How to use this guide with a contractor
Bring your sorted list to the walkthrough with the restoration contractor and the adjuster. Ask them to explain any items where their recommendation differs from yours. Sometimes there is a good reason: hidden charring, a hazardous material, or a cost that makes salvage impractical. Sometimes the recommendation is habit.
Keep in mind that mitigation contractors are often working quickly to stop further damage, and their first scope may be broad. A written list of materials you want kept, agreed before demolition, prevents misunderstandings. Ask for photos of anything removed that was on your keep list, along with the reason.
General information for Park Hill, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.