Restoring Fire-Damaged Artwork and Family Heirlooms

How restorers can safely clean smoke-damaged keepsakes with care and expertise

Welcome back to another episode of Ask Annissa. This week, Annissa answers a question from a homeowner and artist whose California cottage was damaged by a fire, leaving her treasured artwork, photographs, books, and a handcrafted beadwork damaged by soot and smoke.

Annissa walks restorers through handling delicate, mixed-media items after a fire loss. She explains why aggressive cleaners like TSP can damage specialty materials and instead she recommends starting with careful dry-cleaning methods, including chem sponges and HEPA vacuuming. She also discusses when damp cleaning may be appropriate.

Annissa reminds restorers that fire-damaged items often hold more than monetary value. From original artwork to family photos, restorers play an important role in recovering meaningful parts of their customers’ lives. Her closing message encourages restorers to approach every project with expertise, empathy, and a servant’s heart.

If you have a question you'd like featured in a future episode, email Annissa at Annissa@FireHouseEducation.com with “Ask Annissa” in the subject line.

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Annissa Coy is a well-trained and highly skilled professional with more than two decades of experience in the cleaning and restoration industry and the co-creator of Firehouse Education and Mobile Cleaning Systems. She was also the winner of R&R’s inaugural Recognizing Women in Restoration award in 2017. Be sure to check out Annissa’s weekly videos on www.randrmagonline.com! Have a question for Annissa? E-mail her at Annissa@firehouseeducation.com.