Soot and Smoke Damage – Furnace Puff Backs
Of course, when there’s fire, there’s usually soot. But there is another culprit that can spread soot throughout your home or business. It’s called a puff back. A puff back is a misfire in the furnace that, at its worst, can send soot throughout your home, requiring professional cleaning and restoration in addition to repairs on your heating system. While rare, the consequences are severe enough to learn what a puff back is and how you might prevent it.
Other Types of Soot Include:

Dry Smoke Residues – Result from fast burning fires at high temperatures. Residues are often dry, powdery, small, non-smeary smoke particles.
Protein Residues – Virtually invisible residues that discolor paints and varnishes. Has an extremely pungent odor.
Fuel Oil Soot – Furnace puff backs distribute fuel oil and soot.
Other Types of Residues – Tear gas, fingerprint powder, and fire extinguisher residues also need cleanup.
