The smoke from tobacco clouds the air and sticks to every surface of the area. It is not only seen in the air; people can also see, smell, and feel a yellowish-brown, sticky substance that is left on all surfaces and furniture in areas where smoking has taken place. This extremely hard-to-remove residue discolors painted surfaces and plastics. It can permanently change the appearance of wallpaper, blinds, paint, and many other items in the area. The smoke can penetrate into furniture, carpets, walls, windows, and every other nook and cranny in the area. And the building’s HVAC system will carry the smoke odor and the residues throughout the structure. The contaminants are not only unsightly but can off-gas odors that many people simply find unbearable.

The end result of long term smoking in enclosed areas is much the same as that of an actual fire. Unfortunately, one difference is that the smoke from a fire is sometimes much easier to remove from walls or other surfaces than tobacco smoke. Removing tobacco residues can be a real challenge. It is very time consuming, as residues are present throughout the entire home, business, or other affected area.

Restoration professionals, insurance professionals and property owners should be aware, at the beginning of a tobacco-smoke cleanup project, that there is no magic bullet that just whisks away residues and smells. Though it would be nice to be able to plug in a “magic” machine or spray some “miracle” liquid to eliminate tobacco smoke problems, such products simply do not exist. The only effective way to remove tobacco residue and smell is through very thorough cleaning and then sealing all structural surfaces.

Even though residues may appear to be concentrated in only one area, once cleaning starts it will normally be found that all areas are contaminated, and cleaning all surfaces will be necessary to remove contaminants and odors. The very tiny particles of tobacco smoke find their way into all areas. The cleaning process will always include deodorizing agents to help with that process. Even after thorough and successful cleaning, it is usually necessary to seal surfaces with a sealant designed to lock in the very last of the stains and odors. It is important to recognize that a normal “primer” is not sufficient, and a product designed to seal smoke residues is required. Finally, the surfaces will be ready to paint, refinish, or to apply new coverings.