Make Your Space Better with Smoke Damage Restoration in Rochester, MN

Smoke damage doesn’t just stain your walls—it seeps into every corner of your home, leaving behind harsh odors, discolored surfaces, and a constant reminder of what you’ve been through. The damage can be deceptive. What looks like surface-level soot may actually be embedded deep in porous materials, HVAC systems, furniture, and personal belongings.

Without proper restoration, those residues can continue to circulate harmful particles and odors long after the fire is out. That’s why smoke damage restoration requires more than just a wipe-down—it takes a methodical approach to fully reclaim your space and make it livable again.

At Cornerstone Builders and Restoration, we know that the aftermath of a fire can feel overwhelming. Between the visible destruction and the invisible toxins left behind, it’s difficult to know where to start.

Add in the stress of navigating insurance paperwork, and the situation quickly becomes emotionally draining. That’s exactly why we’ve built our services around doing more than just cleaning.

From the initial assessment to the final walk-through, we’re with you every step of the way—offering clear communication, reliable scheduling, and one dedicated team to handle the full scope of work. You won’t have to juggle multiple vendors or repeat your story over and over.

Located in Rochester, MN, our company brings over 38 years of combined restoration experience. Owner Steve Helgason has more than 25 years of framing and construction experience, which means our team understands both the surface restoration and the deeper structural concerns that come with smoke and fire damage.

Our IICRC-certified technicians are trained to approach each project with care—evaluating how far the damage extends and determining the best techniques for removal, odor neutralization, and repairs. From ceilings to floorboards, we take the time to do it right, never cutting corners.

We also go above and beyond to protect your home while we work. Clean areas remain clean thanks to protective runners, dust barriers, and careful planning. Every detail matters when you’re trying to move forward after a fire.

Whether it’s salvaging sentimental items or removing smoke stains from textured ceilings, we treat your property with the respect it deserves. And when it comes to materials that can’t be saved, we offer guidance on replacements that will restore function and comfort without compromising your home’s character.

When you work with us at Cornerstone Builders and Restoration, you’re not just hiring a cleanup crew. You’re partnering with a dedicated team that understands how personal this process is.

We take the burden off your shoulders by coordinating directly with your insurance company, handling the paperwork, and keeping your project moving from day one. Our goal is to restore more than your space—we’re here to help you reclaim the comfort, safety, and routine you’ve lost.

Restore Surfaces and Belongings After Fire Damage

Fires leave more than just charred wood behind—they fill your home with soot, odor, and residue that can be harmful if not properly addressed. Our soot cleaning services are designed to restore your walls, ceilings, and belongings to their pre-fire condition. We use industry-approved techniques to carefully remove smoke particles and residues that cling to porous and non-porous surfaces alike.

At Cornerstone Builders and Restoration, our process goes beyond surface cleaning. We offer smoke odor removal using advanced professional odor removal services, ensuring the air you breathe is clean and safe. Smoke damage cleaning is delicate work, and each item is handled with care to prevent further damage.

From fire damage cleanup to post-cleaning restoration, our team is trained to manage every detail with precision. Smoke-damaged materials like drywall, furniture, and fabrics are either cleaned or replaced based on their condition and safety.

Our services are trusted across Rochester, MN because we follow through—bringing your home not only back to life but making it livable again. With fire damage, timing is everything, and we respond quickly to minimize long-term effects. Trust our proven process to restore your home with minimal disruption!

Key Factors to Consider Before Hiring a Smoke & Soot Damage Restoration Contractor

When your home or business is affected by a fire, the aftermath can be overwhelming. The smoke, soot, and lingering odors can pose serious challenges to restoring your property. That’s why it’s essential to hire a qualified contractor to handle the smoke damage restoration process. Choosing the right contractor can make all the difference in how effectively and quickly your property is restored.

Here are some key factors to look out for when hiring a smoke and soot damage restoration contractor:

1. Certification and Experience

One of the first things to look for is the contractor’s experience and certification in smoke damage restoration. Fire damage is complex, and it’s important to ensure that the contractor is trained to handle not only soot cleaning services but also the more specialized tasks, such as smoke odor removal and smoke damage cleaning. A certified contractor will have the necessary knowledge and training to properly clean and restore your property.

Look for certifications from recognized organizations like the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC). With a certified contractor, you can be confident that the restoration work will be done professionally and in compliance with industry standards.

2. Reputation and References

A trustworthy contractor will have a strong reputation in the community. Before making a final decision, ask for references from previous clients. Reading reviews and testimonials can give you insight into their level of service and the results they deliver.

A reputable contractor will also be happy to provide references for fire damage cleanup and restoration jobs they’ve completed in the past. Take the time to contact these references and ask about the quality of work, professionalism, and overall satisfaction with the restoration process.

3. Extensive Services

Not all smoke and soot damage restoration contractors offer the same range of services. It’s important to find a contractor who can handle the full restoration process, from initial cleanup to long-term restoration. Ensure they offer soot cleaning services, smoke damage cleaning, and smoke odor removal.

An extensive restoration service will tackle all aspects of the damage, including cleaning walls, ceilings, furniture, and other belongings affected by soot and smoke. Additionally, check if they provide professional odor removal services to eliminate the lingering smoke smell, which can be difficult to get rid of without the right equipment and expertise.

4. Insurance and Licensing

Always verify that the contractor is fully licensed and insured. This protects you from potential liability if accidents occur during the restoration process. A licensed contractor demonstrates that they are qualified to perform the work, and insurance provides financial protection in case something goes wrong. Make sure the contractor has both liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage.

5. Prompt Response and Availability

Fires can cause extensive damage in a short amount of time, and the sooner you address the damage, the less long-term harm it will cause. Look for a contractor who offers prompt response times and can begin the restoration process quickly. Emergency services are crucial in these situations, so choose a contractor who is available 24/7 to respond to your needs.

6. Transparency in Pricing and Process

A reliable contractor will provide transparent pricing, with no hidden fees or surprise costs down the line. Before starting the restoration, they should give you a clear estimate of the costs, along with a timeline for when the work will be completed. Be cautious of contractors who don’t offer detailed estimates or who make unrealistic promises about the speed or extent of the restoration.

7. Use of Advanced Equipment

Effective smoke damage restoration requires specialized equipment. Make sure the contractor uses the latest technology and tools to handle soot cleaning services, smoke damage cleaning, and smoke odor removal. This could include air scrubbers, dehumidifiers, ozone generators, and other advanced restoration equipment. The right tools ensure a more thorough and efficient restoration process.

By considering these factors, you’ll be better equipped to choose the right smoke and soot damage restoration contractor for your needs. Remember, thorough research and careful selection can lead to a successful restoration and help you return to your home or business as quickly as possible.

Need Help with Smoke Damage? Let’s Get It Fixed Today

When your home has been affected by smoke damage, time and expertise make all the difference. At Cornerstone Builders and Restoration, we understand the urgency and stress that follows fire incidents. That’s why we respond quickly and begin the smoke damage restoration process without delay.

Whether it’s a small fire or widespread damage, our Rochester, MN team is prepared to restore what matters most. We start with containment and protection, then move into thorough smoke damage cleaning to ensure that every wall, ceiling, and personal item is properly addressed. Our commitment to quality means we don’t cut corners—we clean, restore, and rebuild using techniques backed by decades of experience.

You’ll never be left guessing what comes next. From navigating insurance paperwork to ensuring each step is completed with care, we’re your all-in-one solution for smoke damage restoration in Rochester, MN.

Your contractor choice is yours—don’t let the insurance company decide for you. Choose a team that’s rooted in your community and focused on your restoration. Let us help you breathe clean air again and feel confident in your home!