Fire Damage & Soot Testing in Texas

Identify Contamination Before Restoration Begins!
Accurate testing reveals the true extent of damage, helping you plan safe, effective restoration the first time.

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A man wearing safety goggles, a face mask, and gloves inspects a wall with a trowel while working on fire damage restoration.

Fire Damage and Soot Testing

Why Soot Testing Matters

  • Identifies hidden contamination:

    Soot particles are often microscopic and can penetrate deeply into walls, carpets, furniture, and HVAC systems, causing ongoing health risks even after the visible fire is gone. 

  • Ensures effective cleaning:

    Different types of soot require different cleaning methods; testing helps identify the specific type of soot, ensuring professionals use the right techniques to clean it completely. 

  • Prevents spreading soot:

    Cleaning without proper testing can spread microscopic soot and ash to clean areas, potentially making the contamination worse. 

  • Documents the extent of the damage:

    Testing provides a baseline assessment that helps your contractor and insurance company understand the full scope of the damage, which is crucial for a proper cleanup plan and insurance claims. 

  • Protects your health:

    Soot from burning plastics and synthetics can contain toxic chemicals and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that are harmful to your health if inhaled or absorbed through the skin. 

  • Prevents future damage:

    The acidic nature of soot can cause corrosion and staining on metal, glass, and other surfaces, which will continue to worsen over time if the soot is not removed properly. 

Have a recent leak? See Water Damage Restoration

Battling odors, too? See Odor Removal (BioSweep®)

Our Testing Process

(Step by Step)

Initial Assessment

Our certified technicians inspect the affected areas, identify visible and hidden damage, and determine where samples should be taken.

Sample Collection

We use industry-standard methods (tape lift, wipe, or bulk) to collect surface samples safely and accurately.

Laboratory Analysis

Each sample undergoes microscopic and chemical analysis to identify soot composition, origin, and spread.

Detailed Reporting

You’ll receive a clear, documented report showing:

  • Type of soot identified

  • Level of contamination

  • Visual documentation and sampling map

  • Recommended next steps

Who We Serve

Soot Testing Services for…

  • Insurance Adjusters & Claims Managers
    For accurate, defensible evidence of fire-related contamination.

  • Restoration Contractors
    To guide safe cleaning methods and avoid recontamination.

  • Property Managers & Realtors
    To ensure properties are safe and ready for re-occupancy.

    *Consultation & Support*

    We review results with you and your team, helping adjusters and contractors make informed restoration decisions backed by evidence.

💬 We’ve helped clients verify claim scope, avoid costly errors, and streamline restoration planning.

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Why Choose RESTORE ME

  • A scientist in a mask and gloves using a microscope in a laboratory with test tubes and slides.

    Certified Testing and Results

    Independent Lab Analysis Using Industry Standards

  • Simple black clock showing 10:08 with motion lines on either side indicating speed or movement.

    Quick Turnaround Time

    Lab Results - Summary Report in a timely matter.

  • Fire analysis report on paper with charred wood of house behind, indicating a recent fire.

    Evidence-Based Reporting

    Formatted for Insurance and project documentation.

  • Three people engaged in a conversation standing indoors, with a man wearing a blue shirt in the center and a logo that says 'Restore Me,' talking to a man in a tan cap and shirt on the left, and a woman in a beige sweater on the right.

    Professional Guidance

    Experienced Fire Loss Inspector and Testing

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Service Areas - Texas

Greater Houston Area

  • Katy

  • Sugar Land

  • The Woodlands and nearby

  • League City

  • Friendswood

  • Pasadena

  • Spring

  • Kingwood

  • Cypress

  • Magnolia

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Greater San Antonio Area

  • Bulverde

  • Boerne

  • Helotes

  • Leon Valley

  • Timberwood Park

  • Alamo Heights

  • Converse

  • New Braunfels

  • San Marcos

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Greater Austin Area

  • Round Rock

  • Cedar Park

  • Leander

  • Pflugerville

  • Georgetown and nearby

  • Lakeway

  • Spicewood

  • Kyle

  • Buda

  • Manor

Greater Dallas / Fort Worth Area

  • Waxahachie

  • Mesquite

  • Garland

  • Richardson

  • Grapevine

  • Arlington

  • Irving

  • Mansfield

Proven Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

  • To confirm that cleanup efforts will be effective and to ensure all harmful particles are removed. Testing identifies invisible contamination that can be a health hazard, prevents spreading soot during cleaning, and determines the correct cleaning methods needed. It also provides documentation for insurance companies and helps prevent damage from acidic soot that can etch surfaces and corrode materials over time.  

  • Ideally within the first week after the incident to prevent cross-contamination and gather the most accurate results.

  • Our testing will

  • The results usually take 3 days. Then we turnaround and get a report out within 2 days, so you can move forward with guidance.

  • Absolutely. We’ll share findings and consult with your contractor, so they can proceed with work based on clear results and guidance.

Get clear answers—and a plan you can trust.

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