Graflex.org

[mparrish]

Fire, smoke, ash & salt damage!!!

I have several Graflex and other collectible cameras. I also have a few newer large format cameras and lenses.

I had a fire and there was considerable smoke and ash deposit.

Worse yet, the fire extinguisher left a strong salt residue on (and in) evrything. I understand that this substance is HIGHLY corrosive and can damage even non-metalic items.

Is there any way to completely remove the smell and salt residue from the bellows', wood and leather coverings?

Should I have my insurance company replace these? Should I try to have them cleaned?

Thanks To Anyone Who Can Help!!!,

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mparrish

[Les]

I guess that depends on how good your insurance is

I would think a good dose of common sense, a dash of conservation knowledge and a lot of elbow grease would take of the ash and soot and clean up the salt. Now on to the smell.

One of the things that fire insurance contractors have in their truck is an ozonator or ozinator. These can also be rented from better rental supply houses. You don't want to hang around when these are on, but the idea is that you put it in the room that smells (along with the cameras) and go to a movie. When you come back the smell is gone from the sofa, the carpet and the cameras. At least that's what "America's Master Handyman" Glenn Haege says.

[mparrish]

What a quick reply. Thank you Les!!

My only remaining concern is that this salt residue is said to cause permanent damage sometime in the future, mostly on metal parts. The claims adjuster told me she has even seen this residue damage plastics, rubber and leather. From what I can tell, this stuff is really bad.

Any ideas on this?



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mparrish

[Dan Fromm]