While it is easy to imagine that after the fire has been extinguished, the harm has been done, this is not the case. When synthetic materials such as smoke and soot are burnt, corrosive byproducts are produced that persist long after the fire is stopped. Soot and smoke residue may degrade building materials, furniture, and other items, and the corrosive substances can cause irreversible harm. To assist in mitigating the damage, you should contact a professional immediately following the extinguishment of the fire to begin the restoration process on your home.