What Is Soda Blasting in Fire and Mold Restoration?

A soda blasting machine uses compressed air to propel sodium bicarbonate, or baking soda, at a surface. The particles act like a fine, dry sandblast, impacting and lifting away contaminants upon contact. The soda then falls away as a fine powder, which is collected for disposal. This creates a scrubbing action that cleans without scratching or etching the underlying material.

This technique is valued for being non-toxic and non-flammable. It does not introduce moisture, which prevents secondary water damage or warping. The process generates minimal dust compared to traditional sandblasting. For these reasons, it is often chosen for cleaning historical items, electronics, or sensitive substrates after a fire or mold event.

For mold, soda blasting can remove visible surface growth from non-porous materials like concrete, cinder block, or treated wood. The force of the soda dislodges the mold spores and mycotoxins, allowing them to be vacuumed away. It is a dry method, so it does not add the moisture that mold needs to regrow. This makes it a useful step in certain remediation protocols.

However, it is not a complete solution for porous materials like drywall or untreated wood, where mold roots deeply. In those cases, removal and replacement are typically necessary. Soda blasting is best for cleaning structural elements after the main moldy materials have been discarded. Always consult with a qualified mold professional to assess the right approach for your specific situation.

• Cleans surface mold from concrete foundations and walls.
• Removes mold stains from brick, stone, or stucco exteriors.
• Can clean salvageable wooden structural members like beams or joists.
• Helps decontaminate metal ductwork or shelving affected by mold.
• Often used in crawl spaces or on subflooring before new installation.
• The dry process helps prevent spreading mold.

If soda blasting is recommended, local water damage and fire restoration pros will prepare the area first. They seal off the work zone with plastic sheeting to contain dust and debris. Industrial vacuums with HEPA filters are used to capture the spent soda and contaminants. This setup protects the rest of your home from cross-contamination during the cleaning work.

After blasting, the pros will conduct a thorough cleanup to remove all residual powder. Surfaces may then be treated with antimicrobials or sealants, depending on the job. A final inspection ensures the cleaning meets the project's goals. For questions about insurance coverage for such specialized cleaning, review your policy. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.