Odor & Smoke Sealing
We encapsulate stubborn odors at the source—studs, subfloors, drywall, and masonry—using proven odor‑blocking primers and encapsulants. Coordinated with your fire/water restoration or remodel.
Licensed & insured • Working seamlessly with restoration pros • Serving Seattle, Bellevue, Kirkland, Redmond & nearby areas around the Puget Sound
Seattle odor & Smoke sealing Services
After a fire—or years of nicotine, pets, or heavy cooking—odors can soak into building materials. We remove what can’t be cleaned, access the real source (sometimes down to studs or subfloors), and seal surfaces so fresh paint stays fresh.
Our odor and smoke sealing service successfully stops unwanted odors and toxic smoke from entering your area, guaranteeing a fresh and clean atmosphere.
Our Capabilities
-
Smoke Odor Sealing Post‑Fire
Part of multi‑trade restoration—cleaned, dried & sealed before build‑back.
-
Nicotine/Tobacco Odor Sealing Heavy Prep
Degrease & prep first, then block residues on walls, ceilings, cabinets, and trim.
-
Pet Urine Encapsulation Flooring Prep
Seal subfloors before new flooring; treat affected base/trim or drywall as needed.
-
Cooking/Grease Odor Control Degrease + Seal
After a deep clean, we seal kitchen ceilings, walls, and adjoining cavities.
-
Attic/Crawl/Concrete/Masonry Encapsulation Encapsulant
Substrate‑specific primers/encapsulants for framing, slab, block, or brick.
-
Prime & Paint Add‑On Add‑On
Finish coats after sealing for a one‑team, photo‑ready result.
Note: Testing/abatement for asbestos or lead and significant mold remediation are handled by licensed specialists before sealing.
Our 6‑Step Odor & Smoke Sealing Process
Swipe to see all 6 steps →
-
Assess & Plan
Review damage/odor sources, moisture readings, and scope from your adjuster or GC; confirm which areas need access/demolition.
-
Protect & Contain
Floor protection, mask/zip walls, and a ventilation plan for safe application and cure.
-
Remove & Clean
Targeted demo of saturated materials; degrease/soot‑clean remaining surfaces.
-
Seal & Encapsulate
Apply the right odor‑blocking primers/encapsulants to studs, subfloors, drywall, masonry, and trim.
-
Prime & Paint (Optional)
Finish coats for a clean, fresh space—one‑team handoff.
-
Verify & Handoff
Cure/air‑out, walkthrough, and care tips; coordinate the next trades.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM SHANCO
Stop Odors at the Source—Not Just Cover Them
Sealing is the final barrier after source removal and cleaning. It blocks re‑emission, so fresh paint stays fresh. We follow recognized restoration standards and provide clear documentation.
Low‑bid shortcuts lead to do‑overs, delays, ghosting, and surprise charges. Our trained, vetted, and insured crews deliver durable finishes on schedule—and keep you informed at every step.
Here’s what you get with a trained, insured crew.
Prep That Holds Up
After fire, tobacco/cannabis, heavy cooking, or pet urine has penetrated subfloors or framing. We remove finishes as needed to reach subfloor, studs, or masonry, then spray an odor‑blocking sealer—white for paint‑ready areas or clear on exposed beams/brick—to lock in residual odors.
Licensed & Accountable
We are WA licensed, insured, and bonded. Itemized estimates, easily accessible schedules, daily progress updates online, and a final walkthrough before we collect our final check—no surprises, no ghosting and a warranty to back up our work. Verify our license →
Meticulous Protection
Floors, fixtures, and landscaping fully protected; glass and hardware masked; controlled application. Paint goes where it’s supposed to—not where it’s not. Clean wrap-up daily; no drips, no overspray.
If We Break It, We Fix It
With us it's rare, but accidents happen, if our crew causes accidental damage during your project, we repair, replace, or reimburse—that's our cost, not yours.
Efficient & Multi-Skilled
You clean/deodorize; we demolish to expose the source + seal. We mobilize after your cleaning/HVAC and can handle drywall repairs & paint/build‑back to make your job easier and keep schedules moving.
Material Expertise
Whether shellac/solvent/oil-based/water‑based, all of the odor‑blocking systems are applied to spec; white for paint‑ready, clear for exposed wood or masonry. We verify compatibility and target coverage; PDS/SDS provided.
Transperancy
Photo logs, application rates, lot numbers, and ambient conditions recorded. COI/W‑9 on request; portal access for adjusters and GCs. No headaches for you.
Protection & Overspray Control
Adjacent finishes masked, controlled passes, and tidy staging. Sealer goes where it belongs—not where it doesn’t. If an accident occurs, we fix it or replace it.
Shopping Around? Here’s How to Ensure You’re Hiring Someone Good →
What Sealing Can—and Can’t Do
CAN DO
- Lock odors inside building materials—studs, subfloors, drywall, and masonry—after cleaning.
- Dramatically reduce residual smells from fire smoke, nicotine, pets, and heavy cooking.
- Create a clean slate for repainting and build‑back so fresh paint actually stays fresh.
CAN'T DO (BY ITSELF)
- Fix active moisture or microbial growth (leaks must be resolved; mold remediated).
- Neutralize odors in soft goods or ducts (carpet/pad, furniture, and HVAC require specialty cleaning).
- Neutralize odors in soft goods or ducts (carpet/pad, furniture, and HVAC require specialty cleaning).
PRE‑VISIT CHECKLIST Before We Arrive
Clear pathways & protect personal items
We’ll cover floors and isolate the work area. Please move or cover fragile/personal items nearby (photos, electronics, decor). We can help shift larger furnishings on site as needed.
Confirm access, parking, pets & any gate/alarm codes
Reserve a nearby parking spot for our truck/equipment and share entry instructions or codes. For everyone’s safety, keep pets and children out of active work zones.
Make sure leak sources are addressed
We can help identify likely sources, but any active leaks must be resolved and structural moisture in a safe range before sealing. This ensures odors don’t return and primers cure correctly.
Share insurance/restoration scopes (if applicable)
Send us your adjuster/GC scope so our work lines up with cleaning, demo, HVAC, and paint/build‑back. Clear sequencing reduces delays and change orders.
Expect stronger product odors during application
Odor‑blocking primers/encapsulants (shellac/alkyd/water‑borne) can have noticeable smell. We’ll set up containment and ventilation; plan for cure/air‑out time. Ask us about low‑odor options when appropriate.
Note: We focus on building surfaces. Asbestos/lead testing & abatement and significant mold remediation are performed by licensed specialists before sealing when required. We’re happy to coordinate and return after clearance.
The Shanco Difference
Our work is built on trust. We don’t just meet expectations—we strive to earn your confidence at every step.

You’ll never be left in the dark. We keep you informed every step of the way, so there are no surprises—just progress you can count on.

We protect flooring and belongings, isolate work zones, and ventilate appropriately—especially when using heavy‑duty odor blockers. Our process is designed for unoccupied homes and tight timelines with other trades.

Odor control fails when you paint over the problem. We identify likely sources, remove contaminated materials when needed, deep‑clean affected areas, then seal the remaining surfaces so the odor can’t re‑emit.
At Shanco Restoration, people come first—our clients and our crew.
Working With
The Shanco Team
We’re a close-knit team of skilled professionals who take pride in our work, prioritize safety, and never cut corners. Every job we take on reflects our shared commitment to craftsmanship and community. Whether we’re sealing after a fire or eliminating long‑standing odors before a remodel, we work alongside you—and your General Contractor if you have one—to keep your project moving smoothly.
The project behind every project is earning trust through
transparency, reliability, and results.
Craftsmanship That Stands the Test of Time
Our team is committed to delivering lasting results through expertise and careful project management.
-
Expertly-Trained Professionals
Every member of the Shanco team undergoes extensive training. We don’t just "get it done"— we do it right the first time, saving you time, money, and stress. -
Clear Communication, Zero Surprises
Transparency isn’t just our goal—it’s our standard. We proactively communicate progress, schedules, and costs so you're informed at every step, removing uncertainty and ensuring peace of mind. -
Careful, Damage-Free Site Preparation
We take extra precautions during every phase, protecting your property from unintended damage and minimizing disruption to your daily routine. -
Reliable Scheduling, Timely Completion
Time matters, and we respect yours. Thanks to strategic planning and efficient execution, we consistently deliver projects on schedule—and frequently ahead of it—giving you results sooner than expected.
FAQs
Are you licensed, insured, and bonded?
Absolutely—fully licensed, bonded, and insured in Washington State. Your peace of mind matters, so we proactively ensure you’re protected. Working with Shanco means your home, investment, and peace of mind are always safeguarded.
How do you ensure the quality of your work?
Quality is our cornerstone. Our technicians undergo comprehensive training, maintain continuous education, and follow strict quality-control guidelines. Every project is meticulously inspected, ensuring our work not only meets—but exceeds—your expectations.
Will sealing remove the odor completely?
In most cases, yes. Our goal is for the structure to be odor‑neutral after cleaning, selective demo, and sealing. If other sources remain (carpet/pad, duct dust, contents, active moisture), you may still notice residual odors until those items are addressed.
Is demolition always required?
Depends. When odors have penetrated padding, subfloors, or wall cavities, targeted demolition lets us seal the actual source.
What products do you use? Are they safe?
We select proven odor‑blocking primers/encapsulants—shellac, alkyd, or advanced water‑borne—based on your materials and severity. We isolate the area and ventilate during application; we’ll discuss sensitivities and choose the best option for your home.
Can you also paint when you’re done?
Absolutely. Many clients choose our Paint add‑on for a one‑team finish.
How do you handle unexpected problems or delays?
Proactively and transparently. We anticipate challenges through careful project planning and maintain constant communication if unforeseen issues arise. Our team is committed to solutions—not excuses—ensuring minimal disruption to your timeline and budget.
Can you provide references or examples of past projects?
Absolutely! Our work speaks for itself. We’re proud of the relationships we’ve built and would be delighted to connect you with previous clients. Additionally, we invite you to explore our portfolio of successful projects—real homes, real results, real satisfaction.
What steps do you take to keep the project site clean and safe?
We treat your space as carefully as you would. Before work begins, we implement protective measures, including dust barriers and surface protection. Daily site clean-ups are standard practice—your comfort, safety, and convenience are always prioritized
How will you keep me informed throughout the project?
Through proactive, clear, and consistent communication. Through our project portal, you will have access to all the important details you care about — such as your project schedule and daily logs to keep you in the loop. You’ll never have to wonder where things stand. With Shanco, you’ll always know exactly what’s happening—and why.
Will there be hidden fees or additional costs beyond the initial estimate?
Never. Transparency and honesty guide everything we do. We clearly outline project costs upfront, eliminating financial uncertainty. If unforeseen circumstances arise, you’ll be informed immediately—no surprises, no hidden fees, just total clarity and clearly documented for your reference. Barring unforeseen circumstances, if we underestimate materials or labor expenditures, that’s on us – we will not breach our agreement with you.
How do you train your employees to ensure professional results?
Continuous training is at the heart of our team’s expertise. Shanco technicians complete rigorous professional training and ongoing skill-enhancement programs. By investing in our people, we ensure superior workmanship and consistently excellent results for you.
Do you offer any warranties or guarantees on your work?
Absolutely—we stand proudly behind every project. Your satisfaction and confidence are critical to us. Every project is covered by clear workmanship warranties, reflecting our commitment to quality, responsibility, and your long-term peace of mind.
How quickly can I expect a response if I have questions during my project?
Prompt communication is our promise. Your project manager and our team remain accessible and responsive. Expect same-day responses to your questions or concerns, ensuring you feel secure, informed, and in control from start to finish.
Still have questions?
Our team is available to answer your questions about your next residential demolition project.
Shanco installed the drywall on a home I was building. The gentleman I worked with was concise, responsive and overall professional. It was a 3000sqft property and they completed their task in a timely manner. I will definitely be giving them a call again should I need some work done on a future development.
- Jim G
Fast, efficient, and fair pricing. Patrick was easy to work with and knowledgeable. The business I manage used Shanco for water damage restoration after two separate plumbing leaks. I will use them again if another leak occurs.
- Chris S
Patrick and team were absolutely amazing. They had great communication prior to work. Made me feel comfortable in the process. Price was highly competitive, they are not going to take advantage of anyone. Saving the best for last, the work was extremely high quality. I couldn’t had asked for a better experience.
- Mitchell P
Start Your Project
Contact us
Your project deserves the best.
Ready to bring your project to life with Seattle’s trusted experts in restoration, remodeling, and construction?
Get in touch now for your free, no-obligation consultation.
- Phone
- License No