Storm Damage Remediation Options for your Home or Business

11/1/2023 (Permalink)

Workers repairing roof.

Water damage can cause significant damage to your property and your health if not promptly attended to by water restoration professionals.

When water penetrates your walls, it can result in structural damage to your home. Not only that, it causes mold to form around your property. After a flood, a leak, or a general plumbing failure, it is advisable to inspect your home for potential water damage. Spotting water damage in the wall is possible if you know what to look for. In most cases, the damage may not be visible immediately.

To avoid potential damage to your home, it is important to enlist the service of a water damage restoration professional with the skills and knowledge to identify water damage and recommend an appropriate fix.

Wall water damage that happens behind your wall can cause long-term damage both to your home and your health. However a timely intervention of a professional can help prevent these issues.

If you need a professional water damage restoration service for water removal in the South Louisiana area, look no further than SERVPRO!

The company has a dedicated team of water restoration specialists with experience in handling wall water damage, regardless of the size. They will come to your property to assess your water damage emergency and provide recommendations to fix the issue.

The deluge begins: Unleashing the relentless power of heavy rainfall.

11/1/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Van on the road

When the heavens open up and heavy rain pours down, it begins a deluge that unleashes the relentless power of nature. South Louisiana homes, usually safe and secure, become vulnerable to the onslaught of water. The sheer force and volume of the rainfall can quickly overwhelm drainage systems, saturating the ground and infiltrating every possible opening in your home.

As the rain intensifies, the risk of water damage increases exponentially. Roofs, windows, and doors become the front line, facing the unyielding assault. Even the smallest cracks or compromised seals can allow water to seep in, finding its way into your sanctuary. Unrelenting in its determination, the water creeps through walls, ceilings, and floors, wreaking havoc in its path.

The immediate consequences of heavy rainfall are evident: standing water accumulating in basements, flooded rooms, and dampened carpets. The impact is not limited to visible areas alone; hidden moisture pockets can develop within walls, inviting mold growth and compromising structural integrity. The longer the water remains stagnant, the greater the risk of extensive damage and costly repairs.

SERVPRO of South Louisiana is here to help you with all of your water and storm damage.  Contact the professionals today.

Weakening foundations: Unveiling the hidden structural damage beneath the surface.

11/1/2023 (Permalink)

Leaking roof damage.

While storms bring immediate visible damage to South Louisiana homes, one of the most concerning aspects is the hidden structural damage that can occur beneath the surface. Stormwater infiltration can weaken the foundation upon which your home stands, posing a significant risk to its stability and long-term integrity.

When excess water saturates the ground surrounding your home, it can seep into the foundation, causing soil erosion and compromising its structural support. Over time, this can lead to foundation settling, shifting, or even cracking, endangering the overall stability of the entire structure.

Furthermore, water-damaged foundations create an environment ripe for further deterioration. Moisture trapped within the foundation can contribute to the growth of mold and rot, further compromising its strength. The weakened foundation can affect the alignment of walls, floors, and even the roof, leading to a range of structural issues that require immediate attention.

At SERVPRO of New Orleans, we recognize the gravity of weakening foundations caused by water damage. Our skilled team conducts thorough inspections to assess the structural integrity of your home. We employ proven techniques to address foundation issues, such as drainage solutions, waterproofing strategies, and reinforcement methods. By addressing the hidden damage beneath the surface, we ensure that your home stands on a solid foundation, ready to weather future storms with resilience.

Being prepared on what to do after the storm.

11/28/2022 (Permalink)

Being prepared on what to do and expect after the storm has passed can be just as important as what you do before the storm gets here.  Here are a few important things to consider when making a storm plan.  Being prepared just post-storm is just as crucial as pre-storm.

When storms send floodwater into your home, you don't always know what to do. When is it safe to return to your house? Can you start the cleanup on your own? How you handle a flood will depend on the severity of the damage. It can be helpful to call about storm damage services right after the storm has left your area. You should also try to avoid doing the following:

1. Walking Into Standing Water

Did you know that 6 inches of moving water can cause you to lose your footing? Because even shallow waters can be dangerous, you should avoid walking into any standing water. Your flooded home may be full of stagnant water, but you should avoid going into it. If the electricity is on, the water could be charged. Stormwater could contain dangerous contaminants, too.

2. Waiting To Schedule a Cleanup

Do you want to try to tackle the water damage on your own? Unless you know how to effectively remove flooding and humidity from your house, you should turn to a professional. The sooner you can schedule your cleanup, the better it will be for your home. If you wait too long, you may have increased mold growth in your space.

3. Returning to Your Home Too Soon

While you want your life to return to normal, you need to make sure the flood water is completely gone before you return. Going home too soon can make it harder for the cleanup crew to properly remove excess humidity. The cleanup may require building materials to be replaced, which can leave your home dusty. If you wait until the entire process is finished, you can return to a more normal life right when you move back in.

Storm flood water may cause you to leave your home until the damage can be fixed. Taking the wrong steps after this type of flood can make the restoration process harder than it has to be, so remember what not to do.  You can find more detailed information from Ready.gov.

What is an ERP and How Can It Save Your Business?

10/25/2022 (Permalink)

6/27/2022

After a major disaster, businesses suffer a variety of interruptions like:

• financial and emotional stress
• production downtime
• sullied reputation
• a plethora of other strains.

In the time period following a trauma like a fire, flood, pipe break, or another form of disaster like a natural disaster, making the right decisions can be taxing and confusing. At SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview, we regularly see local companies go through this and want business owners to know we are here to help after a commercial disaster. Part of that help comes through an emergency readiness checklist and disaster plan.

Creating a disaster readiness plan for your business can save you thousands on your bottom line, and can save your business, entirely. And the planning process does not have to be overwhelming when placed on top of all other responsibilities. SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview is here to help take the weight off your shoulders by developing an Emergency Ready Profile for your company. Knowing you are, "Ready for whatever happens," will give you, your clients, and your employees confidence if or when your business is affected by a disaster.

We Generate A Plan For You

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate action plan. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize the severity of water and fire damage to your business.

Why An ERP?

• A no-cost assessment of your facility.
  This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.

• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
  
  It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects, but will save a lot of time if ever needed.

• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
  This helps minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.

• Professionals at SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview are established as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider!
  You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and is close by for emergency response.

• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
  This saves time so we can start cleaning up the damage, so you can reopen your business as soon as possible.

• Specific Facility Details of your business such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.
  You will have a quick reference of what to do, how to do it, and who to call in case of an emergency so that you are "Ready for whatever happens."

Contact SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City to get started on your SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile today.

What is an ERP and How Can It Save Your Business?

10/25/2022 (Permalink)

6/27/2022

After a major disaster, businesses suffer a variety of interruptions like:

• financial and emotional stress
• production downtime
• sullied reputation
• a plethora of other strains.

In the time period following a trauma like a fire, flood, pipe break, or another form of disaster like a natural disaster, making the right decisions can be taxing and confusing. At SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview, we regularly see local companies go through this and want business owners to know we are here to help after a commercial disaster. Part of that help comes through an emergency readiness checklist and disaster plan.

Creating a disaster readiness plan for your business can save you thousands on your bottom line, and can save your business, entirely. And the planning process does not have to be overwhelming when placed on top of all other responsibilities. SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview is here to help take the weight off your shoulders by developing an Emergency Ready Profile for your company. Knowing you are, "Ready for whatever happens," will give you, your clients, and your employees confidence if or when your business is affected by a disaster.

We Generate A Plan For You

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate action plan. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize the severity of water and fire damage to your business.

Why An ERP?

• A no-cost assessment of your facility.
  This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.

• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
  
  It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects, but will save a lot of time if ever needed.

• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
  This helps minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.

• Professionals at SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview are established as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider!
  You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and is close by for emergency response.

• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
  This saves time so we can start cleaning up the damage, so you can reopen your business as soon as possible.

• Specific Facility Details of your business such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.
  You will have a quick reference of what to do, how to do it, and who to call in case of an emergency so that you are "Ready for whatever happens."

Contact SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City to get started on your SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile today.

What To Do When You Return Home With Water Damage

9/21/2022 (Permalink)

When storms send floodwater into your home, you don't always know what to do. When is it safe to return to your house? Can you start the cleanup on your own? How you handle a flood will depend on the severity of the damage. It can be helpful to call about storm damage services right after the storm has left your area. You should also try to avoid doing the following:

1. Walking Into Standing Water

Did you know that 6 inches of moving water can cause you to lose your footing? Because even shallow waters can be dangerous, you should avoid walking into any standing water. Your flooded home may be full of stagnant water, but you should still avoid going into it. If the electricity is on, the water could be charged. Stormwater could contain dangerous contaminants, too.

2. Waiting To Schedule a Cleanup

Do you want to try to tackle the water damage on your own? Unless you know how to effectively remove flooding and humidity from your house, you should turn to a professional. The sooner you can schedule your cleanup, the better it will be for your home. If you wait too long, you may have increased mold growth in your space.

3. Returning to Your Home Too Soon

While you want your life to return to normal, you need to make sure the flood water is completely gone before you return. Going home too soon can make it harder for the cleanup crew to properly remove excess humidity. The cleanup may require building materials to be replaced, which can leave your home dusty. If you wait until the entire process is finished, you can return to a more normal life right when you move back in.

Storm flood water may cause you to leave your home until the damage can be fixed. Taking the wrong steps after this type of flood can make the restoration process harder than it has to be, so remember what not to do.  You can find more detailed information from Ready.gov.

Preparing for Hurricanes and Tropical Storms

8/29/2022 (Permalink)

We all know that hurricane season starts on June 1st, but here in South Louisiana, we also know that we have a little bit of time before the bigger storms start rolling in.  As always, August has snuck up on us and it’s time to get the kids back to school and out of their Summer routine.  It’s also time to make sure that you are as prepared as possible for any storms that head our way.  Let’s break out the FEMA hurricane checklist and see where you are.

Here are some things that you should have ready or be working on:

1. Create an evacuation plan
2. Assemble disaster supplies (food, water, medical supplies)
3. Get an insurance check-up and know who to contact
4. Prepare your home (clean yard, check shutters, secure valuables)
5. Keep your gas tank closer to F than E

We can’t stop a storm, but we can be as prepared as possible.  If you need any help after a storm, SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview is here to help.  Call us at (504) 468-3046.

Storm Damage Resources

8/19/2022 (Permalink)

We have all dealt with storm damage in the past, and since we live in an area affected by hurricanes, we will probably deal with them again in the future.  We all know what to do in order to prepare for a hurricane, but what do we do after the storm has passed?  It is just as important to have a post-storm plan, as one before.

Here are a few things to do immediately after the storm has passed and it is safe to do so.

1. Before you clean up, take pictures and videos of all of the damage, inside and out.
2. Start removing anything that is wet or holding water, followed by debris from your home.
3. Have your insurance policy and contact information ready to go so that you can contact them right away.  
4. Start making any repairs that you can in order to stop future damage.

Remember that if a storm does damage to your property, it probably did to many others as well.  Get in touch with your insurance company as quickly as possible to get the claim started.    We all remember events in the past where it took weeks to get someone out to look at the damage.  Having a plan for after the storm can help keep you on a track to getting back to normal as quickly as possible.  The team at SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview is here to help.  Give us a call at (504) 468-3046.

How To Be Hurricane Ready This Season

6/29/2022 (Permalink)

Get ready, Louisiana, hurricane season officially started June 1 and will run through November 30.

According to the NOAA, we will be looking at another above-average season. Whether you are a long-time resident of Louisiana or a brand new transplant it is always important to be reminded of the impacts of hurricanes and how you can prepare. 

Before the storm If you were here for last year's storm there's a good chance you already have a hurricane kit. If not, start gathering your supplies! Ensure that each person (pets included) has nonperishable food and water for at least seven days. Your kit should also include flashlights, a radio, cash, a first-aid kit, and medicine at a minimum. Due to large shortages at this point in time it is imperative you do not wait until the last minute to gather these supplies. 

You should also consider inspecting your shutters, roof, and fences in case repairs or replacements are needed and check that your policies are current and if you have sufficient coverage for hurricanes with your homeowner's insurance. Due to the constant construction in our area, it is also important to check for updated hurricane evacuation routes. 

While the storm is coming fuel up your car, charge your power banks, withdraw cash, and buy supplies you still need. Start prepping your home by bringing your patio furniture, pets, and potted plants inside. Tie down anything that could become airborne and if you have a boat, secure it properly. Start monitoring the local news for updates from the National Hurricane Center, your local National Weather Service office, and local officials on the storm’s track, what type of hazards to expect, and if there are any evacuation orders in effect. Get sandbags, find a safe place to park your car, put your shutters up, and don’t leave trash on the curb. If you don’t have shutters or hurricane-proof windows, board up your windows with 5/8-inch plywood. 

During the storm and after Stay away from windows and doors and don't leave the house. As tempting as it is to watch mother nature do her thing, do not go outside. Once officials have said it is safe to do so, report property damage and power outages.  Monitor for curfew and boil-water-order notices. If you want to use a generator, make sure to keep it at least 20 feet from a home, including your neighbors, to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. If you plan to go out be careful on the roads since there might be downed trees, fallen power lines, traffic lights that aren’t working, and debris. Some roads might also be flooded. Reminder, do not drive or walk through standing water.

If your home or business experiences water, wind, fire, or mold damage, give the professionals a call. We are your storm damage experts! 

How an ERP Can Save Your Business During a Storm

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

After a major disaster, businesses suffer a variety of interruptions like:

• financial and emotional stress
• production downtime
• sullied reputation
• a plethora of other strains.

In the time period following a trauma like a fire, flood, pipe break, or another form of disaster like a natural disaster, making the right decisions can be taxing and confusing. At SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview, we regularly see local companies go through this and want business owners to know we are here to help after a commercial disaster. Part of that help comes through an emergency readiness checklist and disaster plan.

Creating a disaster readiness plan for your business can save you thousands on your bottom line, and can save your business, entirely. And the planning process does not have to be overwhelming when placed on top of all other responsibilities. SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview is here to help take the weight off your shoulders by developing an Emergency Ready Profile for your company. Knowing you are, "Ready for whatever happens," will give you, your clients, and your employees confidence if or when your business is affected by a disaster.

We Generate A Plan For You

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate action plan. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize the severity of water and fire damage to your business.

Why An ERP?

• A no-cost assessment of your facility.
  This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.

• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
  
  It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects, but will save a lot of time if ever needed.

• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
  This helps minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.

• Professionals at SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview established as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider!
  You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and is close by for an emergency response.

• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
  This saves time so we can start cleaning up the damage, so you can reopen your business as soon as possible.

• Specific Facility Details of your business such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.
  You will have a quick reference of what to do, how to do it, and who to call in case of an emergency so that you are "Ready for whatever happens."

Contact SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview at (504) 468-3046 to get started on your SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile today.

We are here to be your total solutions provider during an emergency commercial disaster so you can do what’s important: taking care of your clients, employees, and other business needs. 

How To Clean Build-Up In Your Kenner Home's Gutters After a Storm

11/24/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview knows that we get our fair share of sunny days throughout the year, however, it also brings the occasional rainstorm. Our rainstorms are often accompanied by heavy wind and very strong rain. By dumping a high volume of water in a relatively short amount of time, it’s important to take precautionary measures to prevent building that can affect your drain pipes.
 
One measure you can take is cleaning out your home’s gutters and storm drains after a storm hits, and you can do it in three easy steps:
 
First, start by scooping out debris. Find a ladder and securely place it against your home so you are able to reach the gutters comfortably. Start at the end closest to the drain outlet and gradually work your way to the other end, removing loose debris as you go.
 
Second, use a hose to spray a steady stream of water through the gutters towards the drain outlet. This will help remove any stubborn dirt and debris that may still be holding on from when you were scooping.
 
Third, be sure to check your drain pipes for any blockage. In some instances, rainstorms can force material into the pipes, causing potentially severe damage. A good way to detect if your drain pipes are blocked is if you see a trickle of water rather than a flow coming from them. If this is the case, try using a hose at the top of the gutter and spray directly into the outlet to help clear any congestion.
 
Following these steps will help prevent your gutters and storm drains from taking on damage from blockage and build-up. If you experience any major damage like indoor flooding give SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview a call at (504) 468-3046 and our experts will be there to help you resolve and repair the issue!

Funky Smells In Your Home After Ida?

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

The water damage from Hurricane Ida in your North Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview home often comes with odors and mold growth that can be hard to find. If you suspect you have mold but don't see any growth, we recommend finding an industrial hygienist who can find out what mold may or may not be in your home. Other measures you can take to help with the funk are below:

Air It Out

Open all doors and windows to allow air to circulate in your residence.  This should help dissipate any lingering smells that remain and will also facilitate the drying of the affected areas. 

Dry the Wet Areas 

You may install dehumidifiers to speed up the drying process.  Removing moisture from porous and absorbent surfaces such as carpet and upholstery can greatly reduce the chance of foul aromas remaining after the flood and can mitigate the appearance of mold. 

Deodorize Your Home 

There are natural methods that you can utilize to expedite the deodorizing process in your house.  Baking soda sprinkled into carpets or other absorbent surfaces can be vacuumed up, greatly with getting rid of foul odors.  On less porous surfaces, vinegar applied liberally can aid in combating persistent smells. 

Keep an Eye Out for Mold 

As with any area that has had prolonged exposure to moisture, mold growth can be a threat that, if not addressed immediately can become a huge problem.  It is imperative that proper steps are taken to ensure that mold and spores do not have the opportunity to spread in your home. 

Sewage

Sewage loss can lead to your home being contaminated by sewage contents when floodwater finds its way past your threshold.  This can leave behind an overpowering smell even after the moisture has been removed due to the bacteria in the water. These horrendous smells often cannot be removed by household cleaners and require the services of a professional flood restoration company. 

Eliminating odors can be a tricky thing, so give us a call at (504) 468-3046 and leave the restoration to us!

Can Hardwood Floors Be Restored After North Kenner Water Damage?

8/25/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Delivers All Types of Wet Flooring Mitigation and Remediation Options

When your beautiful hardwood floors flood after a plumbing leak, appliance malfunction, or storm event in North Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview, you might fear that tear-out and replacement is the only solution. Our Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC)-trained managers and technicians have learned many strategies to remove water and dry the hardwood carefully, often resulting in a return to the previous condition over the whole or most of the floor.

What Procedures Do Professional Water Restorers Follow with Wet Hardwood?

Genuine hardwood flooring is more resilient than you might think. Its natural resistance to moisture makes it a great type of flooring to be able to be salvaged.

Our North Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview SERVPRO crews will:

• Assess for hazards
• Adjust the conditions to proceed safely
• Remove standing water with pumps and extractors, assisted by squeegees.
• Use negative pressure moisture suction methods such as floor mats to pull water from several layers.
• Consider removing some strips or planks to gain access for water removal and drying.
• Use moisture detectors and meters (both in the damaged area and in an affected space) to determine the damage’s extent and help set drying goals.
• Devise and implement a drying plan

We understand how stressful it is to have your home have water damage. Have the confidence that SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview can return your hardwood floors and home to its original condition. Call us at (504) 468-3046 any time of the day or night.

Your Local Storm Pros!

8/23/2021 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO® of North Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview Rapid Response Team Can Help You With Storm Damage In Your Property

Even though storm season is wrapping up rather quickly, a nearby road overflow can cause significant issues in the ground levels of your property. Heavy rainfall results in sewer systems backing up and overflowing with contaminated Black Water. Due to the potentially harmful effects of Black Water, it is essential to hire a professional, qualified technician to help repair and restore your property safely. Indeed, many of your possessions can be salvaged by using professional cleaning equipment promptly.

Where there is Flood Damage in SERVPRO® of North Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview homes, the likelihood of contaminants being spread around the home is high. In the circumstances, it is not uncommon for our technicians to wear Hazmat suits to protect themselves from pathogens during the cleanup operation. We may also have to remove sections of drywall to clean in and behind walls, floors, and fittings. Left behind debris is not only odorous but has the potential to be harmful if not dealt with thoroughly.

For owners who find themselves in this position, it is only natural to immediately assume the worst, especially where personal possessions are concerned. Here at SERVPRO®of North Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview we always work with a restore over replace mentality. Unlike other providers, our services are geared toward salvaging as much as possible. We enable our technicians to achieve this by providing them with state-of-the-art cleaning equipment and technology.

We can assess items immediately on-site to decide which possessions are salvageable and which need disposal. Generally speaking, porous materials absorb black water making them exceptionally difficult to clean; this could include your carpets or curtains. However, where they are valuable fabrics, we can send them to a specialized facility for mechanical cleaning using Esporta washing machines. This equipment is expensive because they are advanced. However, SERVPRO®of North Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview provides technicians with everything they need to restore items rather than replace them.

Floods are considerable emergencies which is why SERVPRO® of North Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview's training involves a rapid-response unit as well as a 24-hour emergency call line. Our skilled specialists are local to the area and can reach you fast to help mitigate loss and reduce the risk of permanent damage.

In an emergency, contact SERVPRO® of North Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview at (504) 468-3046 for immediate assistance.

Quick Tips for Storm Safety Anywhere You Go | SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview

6/24/2021 (Permalink)

Even in the winter in Louisiana, the weather is warm so it is a great time to enjoy the great outdoors. But when sudden storms pop up, staying safe is of paramount importance. Thunderstorms may come and go quickly, but while they are in the area, they can cause a concerning amount of damage.

While the safest place to be during a storm is at home, if a sudden storm pops up when you are away, here are some practical tips for safety.

Practical Tips for Staying Safe From Sudden Storms

Know your options for shelter. When you are made aware of a severe weather scenario and are safe at home, remaining there is the best thing you can do so you can wait out the storm. However, this is a luxury that will not always be present. If you are caught out in a storm, you can shelter in your car as long as you can pull over safely and cut off your engine.

Practice electrical safety. A lightning strike can hurt a structure in many ways, but the most common way is via a power surge. As the lightning travels through the home’s electrical system, the wires will become overwhelmed with charge and transfer that to anything plugged into an outlet. If you can, go through the area you are in and unplug everything before a storm. In general, it is best to also have surge protectors throughout your home and office.

Avoid direct contact with concrete. Concrete structures are so sturdy in part because of how they are built. As concrete is poured around the metal, it creates a great structure—but also causes concern if there is lightning nearby. The metal in concrete can disperse electricity if the building is struck by lightning, so avoid touching these surfaces directly if possible.

Stay indoors for at least 30 minutes. If you are out enjoying the day when a storm rolls in, make sure you are not rushing back out too soon and putting yourself in danger. Lightning strikes can travel tremendous distances, causing officials to urge people to stay inside for at least half an hour after the last clap of thunder.

If your home sustains damage due to a storm, you can count on us to help. Contact us at any hour to learn more about our storm restoration process.

When is it Safe for Employees to Return to Work After a Flood?

6/21/2021 (Permalink)

It's natural to want to return to work as soon as possible after your business suffers from a costly incident, such as a "black water" flood. After all, you have this big expense to pay off and you're losing money just by not being at the office. No matter how eager you are, you still have to consider your employees' personal safety. Keep the following safety considerations in mind before you send your employees back to your North Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview offices. 

1. Sweep Up Any Physical Debris. The physical damages should be the first task you address during flood cleanup. Strong floodwaters can introduce harmful objects into the office, such as stray nails and glass shards. Make sure to sweep the office floors thoroughly to ensure every hidden danger is taken care of. As a business owner, your employees' personal safety should be your number one priority. Taking the time and effort to thoroughly clean and disinfect your office building following a black waterflood is a non-negotiable task for you. Contact flood remediation experts for assistance during the cleanup process. 

2. Clear Out the Flood Water. Both black and gray water floods pose major safety concerns for your employees. Blackwater is characterized by the presence of harmful biohazards, such as human/animal fecal matter, raw sewage, and dangerous chemicals. You have to make sure you clear out all of the contaminated floodwaters and thoroughly disinfect every exposed surface before you allow your employees to return to the office. 
 

3.Check the Air Quality. It's very possible that the biohazards introduced with the floodwater are now in the air. Make sure to set up fans and other air filtration devices throughout your building to help eliminate harmful agents. As an additional safety measure, you may want to consider keeping these filtration devices running even after your employees come back. 

If your business is experiencing a flood, call the professionals at SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview today!

Flooding in Kenner, Who Should You Call?

11/25/2020 (Permalink)

Cities all across America experience flooding to some extent. According to the National Weather Service, common sources of floods include: 

• Flash Flooding
• River Flooding
• Storm Surge and Coastal Inundation from Tropical and Non-Tropical Systems
• Burn Scars/Debris Flows
• Ice/Debris Jams
• Snowmelt
• Dry Wash
• Dam Breaks/Levee Failure

Although North Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview is not known to experience heavy snow, residents often travel to where it does snow and should be wary of the potential flooding impacts. On the contrary, Louisiana residents do experience large amounts of rainfall, flash flooding, river flooding, and systems. 

After a flood, you should tune in to your local news for updates and pertinent information. Always avoid floodwater and any damage such as fallen trees. Be sure to contact loved ones that might have also been affected by the flood to make sure they are fine.

If your home or business experiences a flood, SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview can assist! We can get your back to your preloss condition in no time. We help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Why a Restoration-Focused Approach Matters | SERVPRO® of North Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview

10/16/2020 (Permalink)

Experiencing an event that causes damage to your home, such as a fire or severe storm, can be a quite frightening thing to endure. The emotional trauma associated with these events is serious and can impact your family severely and for a long period of time. While working to recover while dealing with these emotional impacts is not an easy process, but it will be extremely helpful to your healing.

Recovering quickly and being able to reclaim your home can go a long way toward the healing process, and choosing the right restoration company can help you do so. When you work with us, you can not only be certain we will respond quickly, but you can also be sure that we will restore everything we are able to and only suggest replacement as a last resort.

Why We Focus on Restoration Instead of Replacement of Items

We can help you save money on your insurance. Because of homeowners policies, many types of household damage will be covered if you file a claim—but these claims can be expensive. Because we focus on restoring clients’ items instead of replacing them, we can often reduce the cost of your claim with insurance and keep your premium lower.

We can protect your sentimental items. Safety is obviously the most important thing to prioritize after a traumatic event, but there is also value in the things inside your home that can’t be monetized. Objects such as family photos and heirlooms could never be replaced, which is why we equip ourselves with the most advanced restoration technology possible to salvage these items whenever we can.

We make sure your home feels like home again. Having to be away from your home due to damage is disheartening, but when you return home, there is nothing better. Because we will keep all your belongings in the home when possible, you can immediately feel like your house is your home again upon your return.

If you have damages and are feeling overwhelmed, we are here to help. You can call us as soon as you need to in order to begin the restoration process. Contact us today to learn more.

Ensure Your Home Does Not Have Hidden Water Damage | SERVPRO® of North Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview

9/23/2020 (Permalink)

Many things can cause issues for homeowners, but water damage brings a whole host of unique concerns when it occurs. The cosmetic issues can be frustrating, but they are not the worst part—serious structural issues can arise from water damage going untreated over time, hurting the overall integrity of your home.

An at-home moisture damage check is not a difficult thing to do and can easily be made part of your routine home maintenance to keep problems at bay. This will give you the benefit of catching any issues early, which can significantly reduce the headache and the insurance claim costs associated with water damage.

Make a Water Damage Check Part of Your Routine Maintenance

Inspect your walls and ceilings. Walls tend to hide leaks rather well, but if you look closely at your drywall, you can often find evidence that they are there. Small things like discolored areas, paint that is peeling or soft spots might be indicative of a hidden leak that you should have a professional check out ASAP.

Don’t forget to look down. It is not uncommon for water to pool at the lowest point of a room, and it can easily soak into your subfloor without you ever realizing it. If your floors become warped, wavy or buckled, it might indicate that there is a moisture issue with the subfloor underneath that you are not able to see.

Inspect your roof. Keeping your roof in good shape is one of the best preventative things you can do in regards to water damage. Checking out your roof with binoculars on a nice day will tell you quite a lot about its condition. Additionally, checking your gutters during the next rain shower is wise, as it will alert you quickly to any drainage issues that could be starting.

Pay close attention to the basement. Having a basement with moisture in it was once a given, but now we better understand just how detrimental letting moisture sit in the basement can be. If you notice any signs of water working its way in, such as staining of the concrete or the smell of mold, it is best to have it professionally assessed.

If you have water damage anywhere in your home, we are here to help. You can contact us at any hour to learn more about our services or to report damages. Get in touch today to speak with a water damage restoration expert.

Never Be Caught Off Guard by a Severe Thunderstorm | SERVPRO® of North Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview

8/24/2020 (Permalink)

Because the severity of thunderstorms can range from mild to extreme, it can be difficult to assess the threat level until the storm is actively occurring—which means it will be too late to take too many precautions.

That is why we advise people to be prepared across the board. Making sure you have done everything you can to prepare for severe weather will ensure you are as safe as possible during any storm, so your home and family can be protected.

Do Everything You Can to Prepare for Severe Weather

Prepare your home as much as possible. It can be difficult to anticipate all the types of damage that severe weather can cause, but a few options homeowners have are trimming back any errant branches from surrounding trees, securing patio furniture, and considering a generator install in case the power goes out.

Create a family communications plan. Because many families are often on the go, it might be rare that you are all home at one time—which is especially frightening during severe weather. Make sure you have a plan for how to get in touch with one another so you can check in and make sure everyone is safe regardless of where they are located, and be sure family members who are at home know to head to the designated shelter zone.

Make sure your emergency kit is stocked. Keeping an emergency kit stocked and ready is the first step of preparedness for any scenario, severe weather included. Be sure you pack it with everything you and your family members might need, both, while you are sheltering from an active storm and in the aftermath in case access to resources, becomes limited.

Consider getting a weather radio. Because of how the way we communicate and receive information has changed, many of us do not have solutions other than our phones to get alerts. However, if your phone battery dies and the power is out, it is important to still have a way to receive important updates about a storm. We recommend everyone have a weather radio that is powered manually or with replaceable batteries so you can stay informed.

If your home is damaged by a storm, you can depend on us to take care of any damages. Contact us at any hour to report damage and receive a rapid response.

Storm Damage in New Orleans

6/22/2020 (Permalink)

New Orleans, Louisiana is a city that is affected by many storms; some directly and at times by feeder bands. For storm damage cleanup, SERVPRO has been the number one name in water damage restoration for over a decade. SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview has been assisting with storm damage cleanup since the 1990's and strives to be the local business our patrons can call upon when a storm affects our area. 

During a storm, our area often experiences excessive rain and wind that cause damage to both residential and commercial structures. SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview is trained to handle storm damage cleanup in the New Orleans area. Our business has enough equipment to handle any size water damage that may occur from flooding or wind damage.  

If your business or residence experiences damage from a storm, please call SERVPRO of N Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview for a five star experience during your flood loss cleanup!

Affects of Flood Water in your Home

6/22/2020 (Permalink)

When a hurricane or tropical storm rolls upon our shores, we often times experience flooding in the New Orleans area. The storm damage is often accompanied with contaminated water from the flood and proper water damage restoration protocols should be followed. SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview understands the proper protocols and expectations of both our customers and insurance companies. Water damage cleanup starts with a phone call to SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview!

Flood water damage has many contaminates that are harmful to our homes or businesses. Chemicals, sewage, etc are moved by the flood water and deposited into your structure which causes the need for many materials to require removal. SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview will have qualified and experienced personnel remove all necessary baseboards, drywall, cabinets/vanities, etc due to their ability to absorb the contaminates. These materials are called porous and need to be removed based on IICRC standards. 

Flood water damage is a major concern for our New Orleans area and we at SERVPRO take this issue seriously. If you experience a flood water damage and need water cleanup services, please call SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview for a five star experience! 

A fast response helps prevent potential problems in the future

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

Trust the best with any of your storm and water needs!

For Water Removal, Rely on SERVPRO of N. Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview

Flooding can happen to anyone, but when it happens to you, you need to act fast. If possible, stop the flow of water and then make the call to professional services. If it's not feasible to shut off because the water is from an external source, it's vital to call for professional assistance immediately. Professionals know how to handle flood emergencies and the best methods of water removal. In situations of emergency such as this, it helps not to be emotionally attached to items, as this can cause problems with judgment, leading to mismanagement of the situation.

When your home is waterlogged, the professional water removal experts of SERVPRO of N. Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview can handle the situation quickly and get things back to "Like it never even happened." A fast response helps prevent potential problems in the future. SERVPRO Professionals are trained in all areas of natural disaster clean up, and water removal is one of these areas of expertise. Trying to battle flood damage yourself can not only cause you untold amounts of frustration and grief but also put your health and your home's structural integrity at risk. We will help you by packing up items, also, ensuring they do not suffer additional damage. These can be stored at a higher level in your home, or taken to our facility for safe keeping and any necessary cleaning.

Having the right equipment for every phase of the job is important, and so is knowing how and when to use such equipment. Reading the instruments that can detect moisture on the interior sides and also within the many different materials inside of your home is paramount to the entire drying process' outcome. If drying takes too long, more work may be required to restore your home to its preloss condition. We want to reduce the amount of damage your family suffers and realize a large portion of our efforts are also preventative - we aren't done when the pump truck is shut off.

Water removal includes drying your home and its furnishings to a pre-damage state. Our technicians are trained in the drying techniques' equipment and also in the use of the moisture detection meters. Your home won't just look dry; it will be dry, thoroughly. Your interior walls, furniture, flooring, and your personal belongings will all receive the expertise required to return them to like new condition. Water can damage your home even in minute amounts, and removing all traces of it ensures that pathogens are also removed, that mold will be mitigated from growing, and that your home will not suffer secondary water damage in the future.

If you have flooding or just spillage needing cleanup in your home, it's important you have experienced professionals get things right again with water removal being the first step. Call SERVPRO of N. Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview at (504)- 496-0193 and we will arrive as soon as possible. Every minute counts, and we can help you with every step of the process.

Trust Our Crew To Restore Your Home

10/17/2019 (Permalink)

You can't plan on the damage, but you can PREPARE for it!

Our SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview  Rapid Response Team Can Help You With Flood Damage In Your Property

Even though storm season is wrapping up, a nearby road overflow can cause significant issues in the ground levels of your property. Heavy rainfall results in sewer systems backing up and overflowing with contaminated Black Water. Due to the potentially harmful effects of Black Water, it is essential to hire a professional, qualified technician to help repair and restore your property safely. Indeed, many of your possessions can be salvaged by using professional cleaning equipment promptly.

Where the is Flood Damage in SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview  homes, the likelihood of contaminants being spread around the home is high. In the circumstances, it is not uncommon for our technicians to wear Hazmat suits to protect themselves from pathogens during the cleanup operation. We may also have to remove sections of drywall to clean in and behind walls, floors, and fittings. Left behind debris is not only odorous but have the potential to be harmful if not dealt with thoroughly.

For owners who find themselves in this position, it is only natural to immediately assume the worst, especially where personal possessions are concerned. Here at SERVPRO we always work with a restore over replace mentality. Unlike other providers, our services are geared toward salvaging as much as possible. We enable our technicians to achieve this by providing them with state-of-the-art cleaning equipment and technology.

We can assess items immediately on site to decide which possessions are salvageable and which need disposal. Generally speaking, porous materials absorb black water making them exceptionally difficult to clean; this could include your carpets or curtains. However, where they are valuable fabrics, we can send them to a specialized facility for mechanical cleaning using Esporta washing machines. These equipment are expensive because they are advanced. However, SERVPRO provides technicians with everything they need to restore items rather than replace them.

Floods are considerable emergencies which is why SERVPRO training involves a rapid-response unit as well as a 24-hour emergency call line. Our skilled specialists are local to the area and can reach you fast to help mitigate loss and reduce the risk of permanent damage.

In an emergency, contact SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview at (504) 496-0193 for immediate assistance.

Restoring Your Home As Quickly As Possible

9/27/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Offers Fast and Thorough Storm Damage Restoration Services

Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview homeowners are no stranger to severe weather systems passing through the area. While you cannot always account for when these strong storms are coming through the area, or adequately prepare for what they might entail, you should always be mindful of the damage that severe weather can do to your home.

Storm damage to your N. Kenner,  Harahan, & Lakeview home can happen very quickly and with minimal warning. Something as simple as a dead tree on your property could substantially damage your house and force its way through the structural shell of your residence when it falls over, or limbs are broken off. Worse still, in many cases where storm damage affects your home, the storm itself is far from over.

What this means for your house is the probability of compounding issues such as flooding or water damage. That is why you should contact our team of SERVPRO restoration specialists as soon as you can following a disastrous incident like this. The more of a chance that our technicians have of getting to the problem early, the less subsequent damage that could result from the openings of your home.

From the moment that our SERVPRO professionals arrive at your house, our primary concern is boarding up or tarping over the exposed and vulnerable points of your house. While this might not be the most exciting looking process, it protects your home from further damage from the storm that might still be passing through or other weather events that might follow closely behind.

An assessment of both the exterior issues of your home as well as the potential water damage is another preliminary step to the restoration process that helps our team determine what areas require the most immediate attention. For substantial damages, our technicians can utilize controlled demolition to prepare the area for reconstruction efforts to follow.

Storm damage can rear its ugly head in several different ways, but you can trust in the experience and professionalism of SERVPRO of N. Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview to help you through every step of the restoration process. In these situations, quick reactions can save your home from further damage and more costly repairs. You can call our emergency response team 24/7 at (504) 468-3046.

Drying Out Services are Needed Right Away When A Storm Hits Your Home

7/25/2019 (Permalink)

North Kenner Harahan, & Lakeview homeowners are no stranger to severe weather systems passing through the area. While you cannot always account for when these strong storms are coming through the area, or adequately prepare for what they might entail, you should always be mindful of the damage that severe weather can do to your home.

Storm damage to your North Kenner Harahan, & Lakeview home can happen very quickly and with minimal warning. Something as simple as a dead tree on your property could substantially damage your house and force its way through the structural shell of your residence.

What this means for your house is the probability of compounding issues such as flooding or water damage. That is why you should contact our team of SERVPRO of North Kenner Harahan, & Lakeview restoration specialists as soon as you can following a disastrous incident like this. The more of a chance that our technicians have of getting to the problem early, the less subsequent damage that could result from the openings of your home.

From the moment that our SERVPRO of North Kenner Harahan, & Lakeview professionals arrive at your house, our primary concern is boarding up or tarping over the exposed and vulnerable points of your house. While this might not be the most exciting looking process, it protects your home from further damage from the storm that might still be passing through or other weather events that might follow closely behind.

An assessment of both the exterior issues of your home as well as the potential water damage is another preliminary step to the restoration process that helps our team determine what areas require the most immediate attention. For substantial damages, our technicians can utilize controlled demolition to prepare the area for reconstruction efforts to follow.

Storm damage can rear its ugly head in several different ways, but you can trust in the experience and professionalism of SERVPRO of North Kenner Harahan, & Lakeview to help you through every step of the restoration process. In these situations, quick reactions can save your home from further damage and more costly repairs. You can call our emergency response team 24/7 at (504) 468-3046.

Call SERVPRO of N. Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview Today To Protect Your Business From The Next Storm

6/12/2019 (Permalink)

Is Your Business Prepared For The Next Storm?

When a disaster strikes the time to prepare has passed. Don’t be one of the 60% of businesses to not have a formal emergency response plan. Roughly 80% of businesses are likely to go out of business if they do not recover after a disaster within a months’ time, and 50% of businesses never reopen. The best way to protect your company is to have a solid game plan. Is your business prepared for a natural disaster to hit?

          Well you are in luck; SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview is here to help! We have been working with local business to ensure that they will not fall victim to these statistics.

          SERVPRO has an amazing program called the EMERGENCY READY PLAN. This program aids property managers and owners, both residential and commercial to be prepared for a disaster to hit. We will walk you step by step to help you put together an EMERGENCY READY PLAN. We will help you identify and label utility, water, and gas shut-off locations, identify in house personal contact information, and identify local emergency contact information such as fire, police, and hospital contacts.

          When and if a storm were to hit our highly trained technicians are ready around the clock to quickly and properly restore your home or business to pre-water damage condition. SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan, & Lakeview uses advanced inspection and extraction equipment to detect all of the water and remove it as quickly as possible. Our technicians will observe and document the drying process to ensure your property is dry.

For more information on protecting your business please contact us @ 504-468-3046

How Flood Waters Contaminate Your New Orleans Home

3/21/2019 (Permalink)

Floodwater brings bacteria and other contaminants into your home. Call SERVPRO Franchise professionals to safely remove the water.

Add a Professional Team to Your Flood Damage Emergency Plan in New Orleans

If there is something the people of New Orleans know well is the devastation of a natural disaster. Regardless of how safe we want to be and how much we prepare for the arrival of a storm, our homes continue to be vulnerable to the destruction left behind when streets flood and whole communities left without resources. As important as finding shelter, gas and stocking non-perishables and water is, homeowners must also focus on building a sketch of a plan post-disaster. By planning, you can save valuable resources and begin the restoration of your home as soon as possible.  

When it is likely that there is flood damage to your home in New Orleans, linking to SERVPRO ahead of time is your first step towards recovering your home. Our team is available 24/7 to answer your call and spring into action as soon as it is safe to do so. Aside from our technical training and on-the-job expertise, we rely on industry-specific equipment specially designed to help pump water out of your home and expedite the drying process.  

One of the main concerns when flood waters enter your home is the impurities contained within its flow. Debris, contamination and unwanted bacteria all enter your property as soon as black waters come inside and it needs removing as soon as possible. We must remove porous materials such as upholstery, curtains, and carpets following any contact with incoming water, and our SERVPRO team coordinates this removal as part of the remediation process.  

Aside from our actual work, our SERVPRO team is a resource for you when it comes to gathering facts to file an insurance claim. Because our site assessment process is rigorous and complete, we can provide information to support the extent of the damage which can help support your interactions with insurance.  

Natural disasters are complicated to navigate, but SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview is here to help. Reach out to (504) 468-3046 to make the best of a bad situation and let us return your home to its original condition.

Click here for more info about New Orleans.

Could You be Making a Mistake in New Orleans When Drying Out Your Hardwood Flooring After a Flood?

12/6/2018 (Permalink)

When flooding affects your hardwood flooring, knowing the right way to dry it can be the difference between success and replacement. Call SERVPRO.

How Flood Damage Affects Different Wood Floors in Homes Throughout New Orleans

Many of the homes in and around New Orleans contain beautiful hardwood floors. Some of these floors are original and can be several decades old. When homeowners have cared for them and maintained them well, they can significantly add to a home's value.
 
All of a homeowner's efforts to maintain a home's floors can wash down the drain when flood damage in New Orleans happens to a home. Because flooding may have occurred in the past, homeowners may have replaced their home's original hardwood flooring with other types of similar-looking flooring. These may cost less initially, but during a flood, the cost-effectiveness of these replacement floors diminishes rapidly.
 
Authentic hardwood floors may seem damaged at first, immediately after a flood. However, the cupping and crowning of correctly installed hardwood floors are often temporary or easily repaired situations compared to the damage wood laminate or engineered wood flooring exhibits after flooding.
 
Laminate flooring can show signs of damage from small spills, rain dripping from a leak in the roof, or a mop that held too much water. Real hardwood floors often recover with proper drying techniques. These floors are made of small bits of wood held together by glue with an imprinted image on them, which is then covered with a protective seal, which only protects the top of the piece, and not the bottom or sides. Water that comes into contact with the unprotected surfaces causes the piece to swell and expand. The protective seal can begin bubbling and peeling. The underside often disintegrates into mush. SERVPRO technicians shovel these off the surface to prepare it for new installation.
 
Engineered flooring can fare better than laminate flooring but still become damaged from flooding. Spills and other mishaps do not cause comparable damage to laminate flooring. Engineered flooring sustains damage because of the interlocking design that holds the boards together. Many times these floors merely float on the sub-floor without any fasteners except at the outside edges, which allows swelling from water to pop boards out from buckling. More commonly, though, these floors end up cracked and splintered from flood damage.
 
SERVPRO can help you recover your home's hardwood floors after suffering through your home's bout with flood damage. Slight sanding can eliminate any crowning that remains after drying brings the moisture levels down to reasonable amounts. Cupping often diminishes adequately enough when moisture content reverts to normal. Slow and steady drying of the floors with our Injectidry system means this occurs evenly.
 
SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview helps families in Elmwood, Jefferson, and River Ridge restore their homes after flood damage. Call us at (504) 468-3046, so we can begin mitigation work now.

Click here for more about New Orleans.

How We Help You Recover From A Flood Damage Emergency In New Orleans

10/17/2018 (Permalink)

People often think that flood damage and water problem are the same things, but they are different from each other.

Why Is Flood Damage In New Orleans Worse Than Any Ordinary Water issue?

Hurricane Katrina was the most devastating event in New Orleans. The flood has destroyed thousands of houses and property, but that has never stopped New Orleans from rising to the top. They know that flood damage is a catastrophe, but it does not have to ruin their lives. They spent countless days renovating the cities, but eventually, they had made it better than before. Even after experiencing some massive renovations, people are still confused about differentiating flood damage and water issues. People often think that flood damage and water problem are the same things, but they are different from each other.

Flood damage in New Orleans is ten times worse than regular water problems. Flood damage is usually related to weather issues like a storm, hurricane, or anything that mother nature can throw at us. A Water problem often originates from broken pipes, broken toilets, overflowing bathtub, or laundry problems. Luckily, these water are often clean and does not cause that much issues. Flood damage on the other hand usually come from the overflow of the inland, tidal waters, rapid accumulation of surface water, mud flow, or the collapse of the land along the lakeshore or other bodies of water. These water often contain contaminants and can cause extreme damages to your property.

If you ever experience flood damage in your residential area, then it is best to call the SERVPRO technician to come in for an inspection. When it comes to flood damage, time is of the essence, so you must act quickly. The SERVPRO technician can help get rid of all the belongings that were contaminated by the flood water. They have an advanced transportation system to help you get rid of a large number of damaged items, materials, or any belongings. That way, you do not have to waste time making multiple trips or carry heavy items on your own. Since safety is the most critical factor, the technicians can remove any dangerous or electrical appliances from the area. Then they can use state of the art mitigation process to extract water and disinfect the air with a powerful antimicrobial solution.

If you are ready to combat flood damage, then give SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview a call at (504) 468-3046 for a consultation with our skilled technician.

Click here for more about New Orleans.

Did You Know That Flooding can Quickly Affect Your New Orleans Home?

9/30/2018 (Permalink)

Storms can create conditions where flooding will affect your home. Contact SERVPRO should your home suffer storm damage and subsequent flooding.

Cleaning Up Flood Damage in New Orleans

For New Orleans residents, flooding is a familiar, but unwanted aspect of living in our beautiful city. Hundreds of homes are affected every year, regardless if the problem is a hurricane or just a sudden storm that caught people unaware.
 
Remediating flood damage to New Orleans homes means getting the water out quickly and taking steps to begin drying any affected property immediately. SERVPRO restoration teams train to draw water out of each home to put the residence and the residents back in a clean, safe environment.
 
Floodwater contains soil and whatever else was on the ground when it entered the home, so our technicians treat it as contaminated water. That means they start damage control efforts by spraying the surface of the water and nearby structural and personal property with an anti-bacterial agent to reduce the potential health risk to themselves and residents. Next, they don protective boots and coveralls to protect them as they begin removing the floodwater.
 
Now, technicians use pumps to draw water out of the home. Since this is contaminated water, they pump it either into a functioning sewer or a tank truck for delivery to a water treatment plant. SERVPRO personnel performs the same method using extraction wands to draw the last thin layer of water off floors and out of carpets.
 
Since the water is contaminated, our technicians do not attempt to clean the carpets. We cannot guarantee 100% that carpets are safe to keep in the home, so we remove them as quickly as possible. Team members spray the damp floors underneath with an anti-bacterial agent and then dry them using air movers and fans.
 
For personal property, our technicians lift furniture off floors or carpets and onto blocks or to another location. They clean fabrics and upholstered furniture with a shampoo that contains another anti-bacterial agent and wipes down wood and metal surfaces with the same agent and cloths. Once finished, they use fans to increase circulation and carefully dry the items without causing secondary damage.
 
At SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview, we want to restore every home to a clean, safe condition as quickly as we can do so. Every potential customer is also one of our neighbors, and we treat every residence with the care and respect it deserves. Call us today at (504) 468-3046 to get started.

Click here for more information on the city of New Orleans.

Helping Homeowners through Flood Damage Mitigation in New Orleans

7/25/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Cleans Up Your Storm Damaged Property in New Orleans

SERVPRO's Experts Use Advanced Equipment and Methods for Limiting Storm Damage to Properties

Residents in New Orleans know flooding happens all too easily. The damage left behind by muddy waters covering your neighborhood ruins everything it touches. The IICRC-certified professionals at SERVPRO can help undo the damage caused so your family can go back home again.
 
Homes in the lower-lying sections of New Orleans sustain flood damage much sooner, and for more extended periods, than do homes in higher areas. This longer time period can lead to additional damage that works its way throughout the entire home.
 
Hot and humid days help water trapped inside to evaporate and spread within. Opening windows can help minimize the amount of trapped water vapor, but homeowners should do this only if they can do so safely. Staying safe when it comes to flooding is always more important than any safeguarding of property. We recommend to allow us to check the RH inside the home and the exterior before opening windows to nullify an actual increase of airborne moisture to the interior. Secondary water and storm damage from water vapor often ruins previously untouched items and materials from the stormwater.
 
Professional mitigation experts from SERVPRO restore homes to preloss condition as quickly as possible. We know the disruption caused by disasters like flooding affects your entire family, as well as your work and your children's education. Removing the water from your home begins the process of restoring dry conditions again which can keep microbial infestations at bay.
 
To continue this extraction of invasive water, we also set up air movers and scrubbers. Our air movers push the air around and whisk moisture off surfaces as our scrubbers can remove spores, bacteria, and fine dust and debris from the air. We continually monitor the amount of moisture in both air and materials with different devices. SERVPRO technicians compare these readings to the amounts listed as normal on moisture content tables for the same or similar materials.
 
Removing any materials that the flood harmed helps make drying salvageable materials happen faster. Both carpeting and pad can hold, as well as hide below them, plenty of moisture and contaminants. Drywall and other materials making up your home's walls and ceilings also become so saturated with contaminated water that we also remove these from your home. "Flood cuts" can minimize the height of drywall demolition in severe circumstances.
 
Cleaning hard surfaces after a flood happens twice – first to remove the grime left and once more to sanitize the surfaces affected. Once our meters detect that everything is dry again, we can carry in the materials needed to complete the rebuilding of your house's interior.
 
SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview serves the communities of Lakeview, Elmwood, and Jefferson by helping mitigate flood damage and other disasters. Call us at (504) 468-3046 when your home suffers damage so we can help you protect your family from the stresses related to such crises.

Things to do in New Orleans, click

The Right Restoration Team For Flood Damages In Your New Orleans Home

6/8/2018 (Permalink)

New Orleans Often Gets Storm Damage Relief with the Help of SERVPRO

For New Orleans Properties, SERVPRO Can Mitigate Flood Effects with a Rapid Response

If there is one thing that homeowners in the New Orleans area can count on, it is the ever-present possibility of severe weather. With the often extreme conditions that come with some of the larger systems, circumstances can quickly lean towards conceding for natural disasters to occur. With that in mind, a homeowner should always have the right provisions in place to prevent these disasters from entering their home and creating damage of their own.

Unfortunately, most people do not realize that their New Orleans home is susceptible to flood damages until they have breached the exterior walls and found their way inside. If this occurs, your best bet is to contact SERVPRO immediately so that our rapid response team can get to your home quickly. Preventing damage that could otherwise get avoided is a priority of our team at this time.

Once our technicians arrive at your home, we survey the damage to see what equipment is necessary and the personnel that is a requirement to restore your home. In this process, areas that have allowed water to penetrate the exterior of your home get sealed up to prevent further penetration while the restoration is underway.

Another service provided by our SERVPRO professionals involves moving items, furniture and other contents of your home out of the affected areas to prevent irreparable damage. In many cases, these items must get removed from your home entirely until the restoration completes and the water and lingering moisture have gotten removed. The professionals would then move your contents back to the original positions inside your house, making it even more like the flooding never occurred in the first place. "Like it never even happened."

You cannot always prevent flood damages, even when all of the right steps get taken. Fortunately, this is not something that you have to face on your own. You can always count on the rapid response of our SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview water damage restoration specialists. You can reach us anytime you need us at (504) 468-3046.

Informational flood map by clicking.

Why You Need Professional Help When A Flood Damages Your New Orleans Home

5/15/2018 (Permalink)

If your home gets caught in a flood, count on SERVPRO for assistance.

Whether it is a small or large flooding event we are here to help restore your home

When water floods into your New Orleans house, you may be tempted to try to manage the problem yourself. Water issues are common in our area, and you might feel the problem requires just a wet vac and some time for the water to recede. The quantity of water involved, the speed needed to remove and dry, and the potential for secondary damage makes professional restoration services the best choice.

Flood damage needs immediate attention in your New Orleans home. Every hour that water remains in your dwelling increases the risk of permanent harm to the structural strength of the foundation, supporting walls, and every building material under your roof. Drywall begins to crumble, paneling and flooring warps and buckles, woodwork swells and pulls away from its fastenings, and ceilings sag. The number of vulnerabilities in the average home post-flooding overwhelms the ability of the property owner to manage them quickly enough to avoid irreparable damage. Our crews can attend to a variety of flood-related issues concurrently.

The amount of water inside your home can exceed hundreds to thousands of gallons. Our professional grade submersible pumps and high-efficiency water extractors are essential equipment for such a severe scenario. SERVPRO sends technicians to IICRC sanctioned courses to learn best industry practices when operating these powerful tools. As we remove the flood waters, we also use instruments to monitor moisture levels and ensure we find hidden pockets of water with infrared scanners. It is crucial to eradicate all standing water and begin the structural drying process fast to prevent further harm.

Within 24 to 48 hours, microbes including molds and pathogens found in tainted flood water proliferate if moisture levels remain high in the flood-affected areas. SERVPRO service vehicles carry multiple air movers and desiccant or refrigerator coil dehumidifiers to reduce airborne water vapor rapidly. As the ambient humidity drops, the air movers continue to blow across damp structures, encouraging building material saturation levels to lower because the moisture naturally moves from wet structures to the air as it becomes drier.

These processes continue until all the visible water is gone and the moisture levels fall to normal counts. Cleaning and sanitizing with EPA registered antimicrobials help bring the flooded spaces back to preloss condition. The SERVPRO team can work round the clock if necessary to achieve desired drying goals and apply disinfectants, switching out technicians to get the job completed. Homeowners eventually must take breaks from these crucial tasks and are also managing activities of daily living for themselves and their family.

SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview counts flood damage recovery as one of our core services, and offer assistance with insurance claims as a matter of course. Contact us at (504) 468-3046 for professional water removal and drying if your home experiences flooding from any cause.

Click here for information on New Orleans, LA

Restoring Flood Damaged Property in Elmwood

4/27/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO determines the restoration process after flood damage for each item in your home according to the IICRC guidelines.

SERVPRO Arrives Quickly to Save and Restore Flood Damaged Items in Your Home

Elmwood, like much of our part of Louisiana, is faced with hard choices after each hurricane or other, extreme weather event. Our history goes back many generations, so hanging on to keepsakes and valuable furniture is a matter of restoring or throwing out over a century worth of events and memories in just one rocking chair. That makes it much more than just cashing an insurance check and going to the furniture store.

Making these types of flood damage decisions for your Elmwood home is not easy, so SERVPRO is here to help. Our restoration company has extensive experience in analyzing wood and other furniture damage and can provide you with the best information to decide on keeping an item or throwing it out. Our inspectors also work closely with insurance companies to make sure both parties understand what is needed and that you get everything possible.

For us, the simplest way to make any needed determinations is to follow the guidelines laid out by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). These help our inspectors determine the extent of damage, which provides a solid estimate of what it costs to restore each item. Most insurance companies use these guidelines as well to make their determination to pay for replacement or restoration.

Take that rocking chair as an example. If the flood water only rose up the legs for a few hours, then the damage is minor. Our inspector immediately understands this and puts the restoration crew to work. They use air movers and dehumidifiers to draw out moisture from the wood and help circulate dry, warm air around the item. The procedure is a fairly small cost and most insurance companies sign off on the work immediately. The only replacement may be the need for a new coat of varnish.

If the rocking chair was soaked overnight, then there may be swelling and splitting of the wood. This level of damage requires more labor hours to monitor and repair. If the joints swelled enough to split both pieces of wood, then the repair cost may be more than the insurance company wishes to pay.

SERVPRO technicians may be able to repair this amount of damage, but our teams only do so after explaining the procedures and the cost. If there is major damage, our inspectors recommend the owner use a professional furniture repair service.

At SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview, we want to help you preserve as much of your property and history as possible. If you are dealing with flooding problems, call us at (504) 468-3046 today.

Click here for more information regarding the Elmwood area.

Dysfunctional Gutters Can Bring Storm Damages Into Your Kenner Home

3/30/2018 (Permalink)

Kenner Homeowners Call SERVPRO for Water Extraction After a Flood

SERVPRO Can Cleanup, Extract Water and Mitigate Damages After a Flooding

When you consider the kind of damage that a fierce storm system can do to your Kenner home, you might envision fallen trees or wind damage that rips off siding or roof shingles. While yes, all of these are indeed possibilities for a severe weather event moving through the area, it is only the tip of the proverbial iceberg. Strong enough storms can leave you with quite a mess to clean up and areas of your home to repair or restore, but fortunately, professional services are at your disposal.

 One of the overlooked aspects of storm damage to your Kenner home is the clogging or breaking of your gutter system surrounding your house. While in peak performance, this system works to divert water away from critical areas like your siding and foundation, when the system fails, that water instead goes exactly where you hoped it would avoid. This possibility poses some potential issues for your house both regarding structural integrity and compounding effects.
 
Perhaps one of the most significant concerns for this failure of your gutter system is the substantial amounts of water that now are passing either behind the siding of your home’s exterior, or pooling around the foundation. Both of these offer the same potential threat: flooding. Once water has an avenue into your home and can enter without resistance, high volumes can pool up and negatively affect areas very quickly in storms with significant rainfall.
 
Fortunately, our SERVPRO professionals can act quickly to combat the water pouring into the area from compromised foundation block or in between the walls. Sealing off these areas and preventing them creating further damage is a critical first step in keeping the damage from getting worse while later restoration efforts are underway.
 
Extraction is a logical first step in the restoration portion of the process, followed by our SERVPRO technicians drying the area thoroughly to both bring it back to preloss conditions and to remove the possibility of mold growth on top of the current damage. For water that entered through the walls of your home, our injectidry system uses multiple access points to move air through these damp spaces to remove all water and moisture trapped inside. This system can also expedite the drying of hardwood flooring when incorporating drying mats into the effort.
 
While this might be a short overview of the restoration process following storm damages, it goes to show the level of care and commitment you can expect from our SERVPRO of North Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview team. If you are battling storm damages that threaten flooding or other disasters to your home, give us a call today at (504) 468-3046.

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SERVPRO® of North Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview Assists with St. John the Baptist Parish Clean-Up after February Tornado

2/25/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of North Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview storm team on site at Place Debourg Senior Living Apartments

SERVPRO^® of North Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview crews responded in full force to help residents of St. John the Baptist Parish residents recover from the February 23, 2016 tornado damage.  Special attention was given to residents of Place Dubourg Senior Living Apartments after high winds damaged part of the roof of the five-story complex, exposing upper levels to heavy rain, debris and strong winds.  Place Debourg, part of the housing agency of the Archdiocese of New Orleans, provides apartment living for senior citizens and people with disabilities in need of accessible housing.  

Damage across St. John the Baptist Parish and surrounding areas was extensive.  With SERVPRO^® of North Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview’s extensive storm damage response experiences, our team went into a rapid reaction position to mitigate the damages, protect exposed areas and initiate the critical job of drying the impacted areas.  As a member of SERVPRO's elite Disaster Recovery Team, SERVPRO^® of North Kenner, Harahan & Lakeview has the experience and resources to manage any size disaster that strikes our area.

This is our home and the families impacted by the tornado damage are our neighbors.  We are here to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling (504) 468-3046.