A lingering threat: The insidious dangers that persist long after the storm subsides.

11/1/2023 (Permalink)

Mold damage to wall and ceiling.

Even after the storm clouds disperse and the rainfall ceases, New Orleans area homes grapple with a lingering threat that extends far beyond the immediate impact. The insidious dangers of water damage persist, quietly wreaking havoc on your property long after the storm subsides.

One of the primary concerns is the hidden presence of moisture. While the visible signs of water damage may fade, residual moisture can linger within walls, beneath flooring, and in hard-to-reach spaces. This hidden moisture becomes a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can rapidly increase and pose risks to both the structural integrity of your home and your health.

If left unchecked, mold growth can lead to various health issues, including allergies, respiratory problems, and even worsening conditions. Additionally, prolonged exposure to moisture can weaken building materials, compromising the stability and safety of your home over time.

Another lingering threat is the potential for long-term water damage effects, such as warped or weakened surfaces, stained walls, and deteriorated finishes. These issues not only detract from the aesthetic appeal of your home but also decrease its value. If left unaddressed, water damage can spread further and affect adjacent areas, exacerbating the scope of restoration required.

Telltale Signs That Water Has Entered Your Walls.

11/1/2023 (Permalink)

Faster to any disaster.

Most times, it is easy to tell when you are dealing with water damage that has managed to spill into your wall. Some of the identifiable signs of wall water damage include:

Wallpaper or paint starts peeling

One of the most obvious signs that there is water behind your wall is you notice that your wallpaper or paints have started peeling. This often happens when your sheetrock has absorbed too much water. Other related signs pointing to wall water damage are flaking paints or the opening of a wallpaper at the seams.

Mold growth

Mold typically grows in areas that have excess moisture such as bathrooms, kitchens, or basements. But if you notice mold growing on walls, especially in areas distant from plumbing fixtures, there are chances there is moisture trapped behind your walls.

But unlike peeling or flaking of wallpapers and paint which may take days to show, mold growth takes between 24 and 48 hours to grow on your wall if there is too much moisture.

Warping

Have you noticed warping around your house? It may be time to look around the house for possible water damage to your wall. Oftentimes, warping occurs when there is too much water trapped in the sheetrock behind your walls. That said, warping on the wall is a strong indicator that there is water penetration somewhere in the house.

Musty smell

When excess water or moisture is trapped in materials such as drywall, wood, or plasterboard, it can cause moldy and musty odor. As mentioned earlier, wall cavities with trapped moisture are a breeding ground for mold, which comes with an unpleasant smell.

Therefore, if you perceive a strong odor coming from your walls, that could be a sign that water has penetrated your wall.

Visible stains around the wall

Another prominent sign of water accumulating in the drywall is noticeable staining around the wall. If the stains continue to expand, it is an indicator that there is a hidden plumbing failure in your home. 

If you suspect that you have water damage in your home, call the professionals at SERVPRO today!

Storm Season doesn't end when Hurricane season does.

11/28/2022 (Permalink)

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 New Orleans & Mid-City 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 New Orleans & Mid-City,  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 New Orleans & Mid-City 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 the SERVPRO professionals right away!

Storm Damage Remediation Options for your Home or Business

10/27/2022 (Permalink)

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 who has 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 health. But 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 New Orleans area, look no further than SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown and Mid-City.

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.

Telltale Signs That Water Has Entered Your Walls

Most times, it is easy to tell when you are dealing with water damage that has managed to spill into your wall. Some of the identifiable signs of wall water damage include:

Wallpaper or paint starts peeling

One of the most obvious signs that there is water behind your wall is you notice that your wallpaper or paints have started peeling. This often happens when your sheetrock has absorbed too much water. Other related signs pointing to wall water damage are flaking paints or the opening of a wallpaper at the seams.

Mold growth

Mold typically grows in areas that have excess moisture such as bathrooms, kitchens, or basements. But if you notice mold growing on walls, especially in areas distant from plumbing fixtures, there are chances there is moisture trapped behind your walls.

But unlike peeling or flaking of wallpapers and paint which may take days to show, mold growth takes between 24 and 48 hours to grow on your wall if there is too much moisture.

Warping

Have you noticed warping around your house? It may be time to look around the house for possible water damage to your wall. Oftentimes, warping occurs when there is too much water trapped in the sheetrock behind your walls. That said, warping on the wall is a strong indicator that there is water penetration somewhere in the house.

Musty smell

When excess water or moisture is trapped in materials such as drywall, wood, or plasterboard, it can cause moldy and musty odor. As mentioned earlier, wall cavities with trapped moisture are a breeding ground for mold, which comes with an unpleasant smell.

Therefore, if you perceive a strong odor coming from your walls, that could be a sign that water has penetrated your wall.

Visible stains around the wall

Another prominent sign of water accumulating in the drywall is noticeable staining around the wall. If the stains continue to expand, it is an indicator that there is a hidden plumbing failure in your home. 

What You Can Do If You Find Mold In Your New Orleans Home or Business!

10/27/2022 (Permalink)

Our New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City team is trained and certified to restore mold outbreaks by the Institute for Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) in El Paso, TX. We have the training, equipment, and experience to restore areas compromised by mold quickly and efficiently. Here are some mold damage emergency tips from our website for things you can do and should not do while waiting for help to arrive:

What to Do

• Stay out of affected areas
• Turn off the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system and fans
• Contact our Southeast El Paso office for mold remediation services

What Not to Do

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold

Call Us!

When you discover a mold problem in your New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City commercial business, our team is available to help! We’ll clean and restore the mold damage “Like it never even happened.” Contact us today.

What Happens to Your Roof After a Severe Storm or Weather Condition?

10/27/2022 (Permalink)

The thunderstorms in the Gulf South are on another level compared to many areas of the United States. After a thunderstorm, you might be concerned about damage to your home and especially your roof. After a storm, here are some tips for inspecting your roof for water damage so you can get it fixed before the next storm.

Check Your Roof

If you don't see any internal damage, you should try to get up on your roof and check for any missing shingles, cracks, or other damages. Carefully go over each section to find any kind of wind or water damage. Make sure any seals around grates, vents, or windows are intact and have not been weathered.

Check For Leaks

The obvious way to know if you have roof damage is if there is water leaking into your home. Look along the seams where the wall meets the ceiling, corners of rooms, and in the attic for any kind of moisture or dampness. If you find any, you will know where to make repairs and can help to mitigate to prevent further damage.

How To Use Your Garden Hose To Check

The most thorough test you can do for your roof to ensure there are no leaks is to test it out by simulating heavy rain conditions. With someone inside watching for leaks, pour water from the garden hose over sections of your roof to look for leaks. You can also do this to make sure your gutters are properly draining. This test will give you a firsthand look at how water is draining off your roof and let you know of any repairs that need to be made.

If you find any damage to your home or roof, immediately contact your home insurance provider and document any damage with pictures so that you can get a claim submitted for repair costs. Our New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City team is on standby 24/7 to help mitigate any issues. We also have a phenomenal construction team that can help with roof repairs!

How Can Mold Damage Your Business?

10/25/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO understands how mold can affect your business and the importance of stopping and preventing it.  Mold is a type of fungi (it’s not a mushroom) that is found outside as well as indoors.  Mold can be found in multiple colors, but the most common are black and green.

How does mold get in?  It gets in very easily.  It can float through the air right through a door or window, as well as attach itself to clothing or other things that are traveling around.  Once the mold is established, it will continue to release spores into the air so that it can spread (insert horror movie music here) all through the building.

Depending on the type of business that the mold finds itself in, it will always find something to do.  The best case scenario, if you have mold, is that it might put off a “musty” (you’ll know it when it happens) odor that spreads throughout the building.  On the other end is allowing the mold to get to the point where it starts damaging the structure.  Imagine the inside of your office walls covered with so much mold that they can’t be repaired and have to be destroyed entirely.  If you are in the food production business, mold can be your worst nightmare.  It can contaminate the food in your coolers and dry storage, not to mention the list of boxes that the Health Department just checked off on your business (not a good thing).

Let the professionals at SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City help with your mold remediation.

Keeping the Air Ducts at Work Clean!

10/6/2022 (Permalink)

Air duct cleaning is an important cleaning service for homeowners. Air duct cleaning means having all your duct systems, including the supply, intake, and return vents cleaned using professional air duct cleaning equipment. In addition, air duct cleaning may also include cleaning the registers, grilles, fans, the HVAC unit, and cleaning the furnace if you have one.

If not properly installed, maintained, and operated, these components may become contaminated with particles of dust, pollen, or other debris. 

Ventilation systems are often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality. Make it a priority to inspect the ductwork of your business.

If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating one or more of the following:

• Dust
• Pollen
• Odors
• Dirt and debris

The benefits of servicing your HVAC unit include:

• Helps to restore peak energy efficiency.
• It May help to eliminate offensive odors.
• Helps reduce the potential for mold growth.

For more information on HVAC and air duct cleaning, call us today!

Our SERVPRO Rapid Response Team Can Help You With Storm Damage In Your Property

10/6/2022 (Permalink)

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 Greater New Orleans area 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.

Did You Know That SERVPRO Offers Mold Remediation Services in New Orleans and Surrounding Areas?

9/21/2022 (Permalink)

Mold growth in your home can cause cause health effects; here are the effective ways to solve your mold problem.

Finding mold in your shower, basement, or kitchen can be alarming. A small amount of mold may not cause health effects, but knowing to get rid of it on time can keep it from becoming a bigger issue. When left untouched, mold can spread quickly to a larger area and cause health effects.

SERVPRO of New Orleans, a professional mold removal company serving the New Orleans and surrounding areas, shares five effective tips for removing mold from homes. 

1. Applying Hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is an antibacterial and antifungal solution. It is effective for mold removal. You can use it safely on a wide range of surfaces like kitchen appliances, bathroom fixtures, hard flooring, and wall surfaces.

Pour the concentration into a spray bottle. You can begin by testing areas or surfaces that are not conspicuous to prevent discoloration or damage. Once you are satisfied with the result, spray the moldy surfaces and leave them for 15 minutes. After that, scrub the area to remove black mold and stains.

2. Using vinegar for mold removal

White vinegar is a nontoxic acidic product used to clean, deodorize and disinfect. Vinegar can kill more than 80 percent of mold species, including black mold. You can use this solution safely on a wide range of surfaces.

Pour undiluted vinegar into a spray bottle, and spray onto the moldy surfaces. Leave it for about an hour. Finally, wipe the area with water and allow the surface to dry.

3. Using baking soda to remove black mold

Baking soda is not only effective for removing odors in the fridge, but it can also help to get rid of black mold. Baking soda not only kills mold but also absorbs and encourages mold growth. The best part is that it is safe for your family and pets.

Pour a tablespoon of baking soda into a spray bottle filled with water and shake until it dissolves. Spray the moldy area and scrub the surface using a scrub brush. After that, rinse the surface with water to remove any residual mold stains and the baking soda itself.

4. Removing black mold with essential oils

For centuries, millions of people have used essential oils in aromatherapy. But very few people know that some essential oils, such as tea tree oil are effective insect repellents and deodorizers. It is a natural fungicide that removes mold quickly and ensures mold spores do not come back.

Mix tree oil with a cup of water in a spray bottle and shake vigorously to achieve a fine blend. Spray the moldy area, leave it for 45 minutes, and then wipe away with a dry towel. Essential oils can cause health effects in some people, so ensure you wear protective gloves when applying them.

5. Curbing mold growth with lemons

Lemons are a natural antiseptic, bleach, and stain remover. Additionally, it is one of the most effective ways to remove black mold in the house. The high concentration of acid in lemons helps break down mold spores, leaving you with a clean and disinfected surface.

Juice three to five lemons into a cup and pour over the affected area. Wait for 10 minutes, and then wipe the surface with a damp towel. You can also scrub the surface to get rid of tough mold stains.

Get Professional Mold Removal Services In Lakewood, New Orleans

The team of mold removal specialists at SERVPRO of New Orleans has years of experience and is well equipped with the latest tools and technology to restore your home to a safer and healthier condition. They are available for emergency mold removal service 24/7. 

Storm Damage Resources

9/20/2022 (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 New Orleans & MidCity is here to help.

Tips On How To Prevent Home/Office Fires

9/6/2022 (Permalink)

Nobody wants to think about their home or office catching on fire.  Sometimes these things happen and they are totally out of our control, but there are a lot of things that we can do to help prevent them.

FEMA’s records show that just over half (50.2%) of residential fires are caused by cooking-related accidents.  The next three biggest reasons are Heating (9.3%), Electrical Malfunction (6.8%), and Intentional (4.5%). 

Here are a few things that you can do to help prevent a house fire and protect your family.

Pay attention when cooking.  If you need to step out of the room, ask someone to watch the food until you get back, or turn off the stove and stop cooking.

Test your smoke alarms regularly. 

Check the dryers’ airflow.  Pull the lint trap and clean it every time you dry a load of clothes.

Be careful with power cords and strips.  Attaching too many appliances to one power strip can draw more power than the cord is able to handle.  This can cause it to heat up and potentially catch on fire.

Store flammable products away from heat sources.

Place fire extinguishers in key locations around your house.  Make sure that everyone in the home knows how to properly use them.

If you need help after a fire, SERVPRO is here to help.  We can replace the damaged areas, check your electrical system for any potential issues, and can even help you get that smoke smell out of your home.  

Preventative Fire Damage with your SERVPRO of New Orleans & Mid-City team!

8/24/2022 (Permalink)

Dealing with fire damage can be one of the most difficult things that a family or business goes through.  There will be a loss of structure, valuables, and sometimes even life.  There are some things that cause fire damage that we can’t control (mostly lightning), but there are several things that we can do to help prevent fires from happening at our homes or businesses. 

Cooking - If you have something on the stove top or in the oven, don’t leave the room without asking someone to keep an eye on it.  Kitchen fires are one of the leading causes of home fires.

Power Strips - Did you know that power strips and extension cords are only designed to handle so much electricity?  Did you also know that they are color coded for a reason?  Make sure that you don’t plug too many things into one strip or that you run an electrical cord too far.  Overpowering them can cause them to heat up, melt and potentially start a fire.

Smoke Alarms - Don’t wait for them to start beeping to remind you to replace the battery.  They should be replaced yearly and tested as well.  How old are your smoke detectors?  Are they the same ones that were there when the house was built?  It would a good idea to look into it and update them.

In less than 30 seconds a small flame can turn into a major fire.  Check out what FEMA has to say about fire safety.  If you experience any fire or smoke damage to your home or business, the team at SERVPRO of New Orleans & Mid-City is always here to help!  Give us a call at (5040 468-3047.

The Different Types of Fire Damage!

8/19/2022 (Permalink)

Dealing with the damage from a fire can be a long process.  The fire could have been small, but the smoke from it did the majority of the damage.  On the other side, most of the damage could have been from the fire itself.  Lastly, there could have been another layer of damage caused when the fire was extinguished.  Here are the main types of fire damage that are commonly dealt with.

Flame Damage - This could be from an electrical outlet that caused damage, all the way to a full-blown kitchen fire.

Smoke Damage - Smoke is literally in the air and can (and will) get into everything.  Even after the rebuild is completed, there can still be a lingering smell of smoke to the property unless it is dealt with correctly.

3rd Party Damage - This type of damage comes from any in-house sprinkler system used to put the fire out or from the Fire Department themselves when they get to the scene.

Heat Damage - Even though a part of the structure might have not actually caught fire, it was probably severely heated up.  This can cause structural damage and possible swelling that you might not notice right away.

After a fire, you could be dealing with flame, smoke, water and heat damage at the same time.  FEMA has some great information on what to do after the fire.  The best way to make sure that this is taken care of promptly and properly is to contact the team at SERVPRO of New Orleans & Mid-City at (504) 468-3047 to get on the job!

Dealing With Smoke Damage

8/11/2022 (Permalink)

Dealing with a fire at your home or office is always going to be time-consuming.  There are so many things that have to be dealt with immediately to protect your family or business.  Once the fire has been extinguished, the cleaning can begin.  Here are a few things that FEMA suggests for you to do to start the cleanup process

1. Call your insurance agent as soon as possible to file a claim.
2. Consider your personal safety when entering a structure damaged by fire.
3. Check for structural damage before re-entering the building.
4. Wear protective clothing (gloves, face masks, eye protection) when going in the damaged area.
5. Never attempt to salvage belongings at the expense of your own safety.
6. Be aware of hazardous chemicals that were in the home (laundry, garage, kitchen areas).
7. Take photographs of damaged items for insurance purposes. 

You can always call the professionals at SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City at (504) 468-3047 if your residential or commercial property has had any smoke or fire damage.  We have multiple ways of helping mitigate the smoke damage, including the use of an ozonizer and thermal foggers.  The smoke can get into everything.  We will do whatever it takes to get it back out!

Keep SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City as your Emergency Contact!

7/21/2022 (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, making the right decisions can be taxing and confusing. At SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City, 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 New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City 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 employee's 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 Metairie 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 New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City at ((504) 468-3047 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 Do Experts Clean Up Sewer Damage?

5/5/2022 (Permalink)

How Do Professionals Repair Sewer Damage?

Water leaks in a commercial property can be either uncontaminated, such as a leak that originates from a broken supply line, or contaminated from flooded toilets or a sewer backup.

Sewer cleanup involves contaminated water that may contain potentially dangerous substances such as chemicals or microbes and should be performed by certified professionals. Cleanup and restoration experts will follow several steps in commercial properties that have recently experienced a leak involving contaminated water.

As soon as a commercial property experiences a sewage leak, you should call a plumber and address the source of the problem. Once the leak has stopped, contact a company that specializes in cleaning up sewer damage in commercial properties.

1. Contain the leak and remove water and sewage: Cleanup experts will remove excess water and any traces of solid waste from the affected area to prevent water and sewage damage from spreading or worsening.

2. Clean and disinfect the affected area: Professionals use industrial-grade sewer cleanup equipment and may depend on pump sprayers or foggers to eliminate the presence of dangerous bacteria.

3. Dispose of ruined contents: Any materials that cannot be cleaned and decontaminated should be removed as soon as possible and replaced.

4. Drying and decontamination: Experts will thoroughly dry the affected area and decontaminate items that are capable of being salvaged.

5. Restore the area and contents: Restore the cleaned, disinfected, and dried area and contents to pre-damage conditions.

You can depend on the expertise of a certified sewer cleanup service to ensure that your facility is cleaned, disinfected, and dried in compliance with health and safety standards. If you are dealing with a sewage leak in a commercial property located in New Orleans, LA a sewer damage restoration company can help you ensure that your commercial structure is clean, dry, free of mold, and safe for tenants and visitors.

Preventing Springtime Water Damage in New Orleans

4/28/2022 (Permalink)

We all know the old saying, "April showers bring May flowers." With springtime comes heavy downpours, which can bring unwanted surprises to light on your property like roof leaks or water that comes through your home's foundation. Soggy carpets and dripping ceilings often lead to water damage. Have no fear! Taking the following steps can help prevent water damage in the spring.

Tips to Prevent Springtime Water Damage

• Groom your gutters. Keep the flow flowing! By cleaning your gutters and keeping them damage-free, water will be directed away from your house with downspout extensions.
• Cover up! Using plastic covers around window wells can keep rain from seeping in.
• Show your roof some love. Give your roof some much-needed TLC by replacing missing singles, any damage from storms or weather, and keep flashing sealed. We promise it's worth the effort!
• Be an Einstein landscaper. When putting decoration or landscaping around your home, make sure to slope the ground away from your foundation. This will help prevent water from pooling and causing future water damage issues.
• It's all about the foundation. By repairing cracks and holes in your home's foundation as soon as they are found, you can keep the water away and minimize your odds of water damage!

Here at SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City, we know that water damage can be a hassle. If you follow the above tips, you might just save yourself from seeing our bright green vans. Whether you use our tips or not, water damage can still happen. That's where we come in!

Give us a call at (504) 468-3047 at any hour of the day! We've got technicians at the ready to help you in your time of need.

Removing Tobacco Odor From Your NOLA Home

4/12/2022 (Permalink)

After years of smoking in a home, walls and contents become blemished and develop bad odors, and professional cigarette smoke odor removal is often necessary. Cigarette smoke also penetrates more odor-absorbing objects, such as carpets, upholstery, bedding, clothes, and many more.  

Additionally, the HVAC system of a building carries the smoke odor and chemicals throughout the structure. The affected surfaces will become unpleasant to look at and the odors may disturb many people.  

Ultimately, tobacco residue is extremely hard to remove and requires professional equipment and services. But, if you want to DIY, here are a few tips for cigarette smoke odor removal.  

DIY Cigarette Smoke Odor Removal from Homes  

To eliminate cigarette smoke odor, you must thoroughly clean the tobacco smoke residue from every surface and corner in the home:  

• First, open all windows and doors to let as much fresh air in as possible.  
• Clean or replace the air filters, furnace filters, and AC filters.  
• Clean walls and ceilings using products with ammonia and glycol — two ingredients that neutralize bad odors. Let the walls dry and check if the odor persists.  

• If you can still smell cigarette odor after cleaning, repaint the walls and ceilings with latex paint. Use a sealant designed to lock in odors before painting.  
• Clean everything in the home: floors, windows, carpets, furniture, upholstery, draperies, blinds, and other household surfaces, fixtures, and items.  

Short-term, less expensive, cigarette odor removal solutions  

• Use an air purifier in your home.  
• Sprinkle baking soda on the carpets, leave it overnight to absorb bad smells, and vacuum it the next day.  

• Place saucers of white vinegar/ coffee/ activated charcoal/ citrus peels around the house and leave them overnight to neutralize the smell.  
• Get indoor plants which can absorb up to 87% of indoor pollutants.  
• Use scented or non-scented candles.  

Completely removing cigarette smoke odor from a home is a very time-consuming and complicated process. If the situation is severe, call a professional smoke remediation specialist, such as SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City, to remove the odor. We provide complete smoke cleaning and sanitation, professional deodorization, as well as duct cleaning services. 

Addressing the Smoke Smell in Your Home After a Fire

1/27/2022 (Permalink)

When you experience a house fire, the damage can be devastating. Beyond the charred materials from flames is the lingering smell of smoke. Smoke damage can often be one of the most widespread effects to contend within your home after a fire. While there are other concerns to address after a fire that often take precedent for restorations and mitigation, restoring damage to your property should include addressing the smoke to get your home back to normal.

Much of the cleanup and restoration after a fire in your New Orleans home focuses on cleaning and smoke odor removal. Indoor air quality is also a primary focus for our SERVPRO® professionals once the first responders have left. We work quickly to establish our purification equipment such as air scrubbers and hydroxyl generators to run the available air through HEPA filters overtime to begin pulling smoke particles and soot from the environment and reducing hazards or risks of exposure without respirators.

How we address smoke damage

Smoke damage often depends on the type of smoke that impacted your home during the fire. Dry smoke results from high heat but is also a residue that is much easier for technicians to clean with dry and wet sponges on the coated surfaces. Wet smoke leaves a thick residue on surfaces and contents, which often requires specialized equipment to clean and deodorize fully. This kind of smoke damage is definitely best left to the experts! The heat generated by a fire impacts the actual penetration of soot particles into porous materials like drywall and fabrics.

Getting rid of the lingering smell of smoke

Improving the odors in your home after a fire is also a concern for our team, but these steps often follow reconstruction and other restoration efforts. Waiting for deodorization allows our technicians to leave your home completely cleaned and odor-free. Our thermal foggers can often do the greatest amount of deodorization, as these machines are suitable to use in open areas, fabrics, soft materials, and work to remove odors from surfaces as well. 

If you experience a fire, our team can arrive quickly to help lessen the damage and prolonged impact of a fire emergency, and work to eliminate the presence of smoke damage. Give us a call!

3 Things To Avoid After a Flood

1/26/2022 (Permalink)

How To Handle Flood Damage

When storms send floodwater into your New Orleans 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.

How House Fires Start | SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City

1/26/2022 (Permalink)

No one wants to see their home caught in a blazing, unpredictable fire. We all try every day to make wise decisions to help prevent this from happening.

However, despite increased awareness of fire safety, more than a quarter of all reported fires still occur in the home.

Let’s work together in getting that number down by recognizing and staying aware of the top causes of house fires.

Cooking. Cooking is the leading cause of house fires and injuries, with unattended cooking primarily to blame. The best thing you can do to help prevent a fire is to stay in the kitchen while preparing food.

Heating equipment. Heating implements like portable space heaters are another main culprit in helping cause house fires. There can be a combination of things that can cause this, including mishaps and malfunctions. Placing heaters too close to something flammable is also a leading culprit in fires.

Electrical fires. Faulty wiring or a higher usage of electricity (especially in older homes) can also contribute to house fires. Something as simple as placing a higher wattage bulb into a lamp that requires low wattage or having frayed wiring can increase the risk of a house fire.

Intentional fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association, arson is the leading cause of fire property damage in the United States.That means someone purposefully set a fire intent on destruction, rather than a fire set for other reasons that simply got out of hand.

Smoking materials. This particular risk is only responsible for 5% of house fire occurrences, but it’s the leading cause of civilian fire deaths. These fires are particularly deadly because they often occur when someone who is smoking falls asleep.

Regardless of the cause, SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City is here for you if your home is affected by fire. Contact your local team today to see how we can help.

How SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City Can Help With Mold Damage

1/21/2022 (Permalink)

It is not uncommon for a home that has sustained water damage to also develop black mold. If you discover mold in your home, you will likely need the services of mold remediation experts. These certified technicians take care of your mold problem and get your home back to normal, and they use the following five steps to do so.

1. Protection

Before they begin the mold cleanup process, technicians use protective gear to cover their eyes, nose, mouth, and skin. This keeps the increased number of spores in the air out of their airways and sensitive membranes.

2. Containment

To take control of the black mold problem, the specialists must make sure it doesn't contaminate other areas of the house. They restrict airflow from the damaged section and seal it off with thick plastic sheets.

3. Demolition

If mold has attacked a wall or other porous surface, the area will have to be replaced, but first, it must be torn out. Clearing out the parts that have mold damage is essential to fixing the problem.

4. Sanitation

The remaining structures must be sanitized before it's safe for family members and pets to reenter the home. Technicians may use anti-microbial chemicals to neutralize any germs that are present. They may also use gamma irradiation to sanitize documents or books.

5. Dehydration

This term is bad news when applied to a person, but when applied to a house, particularly one that has prior mold issues, it can be a godsend. A dry environment is less likely to be hospitable to mold.

A black mold problem in your home is best handled by certified professionals who specialize in mold remediation. They have the knowledge and the tools to work through the steps of the process efficiently. They can quickly assess the situation, answer any questions you have, and decrease the chances of mold growth returning.

Give us a ring if you are experiencing mold damage. 

Commercial Duct Cleaning | SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

The heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system in a commercial building serves an important function. The HVAC system brings in heating and cooling throughout your facility. As any employer knows, it’s important to keep your employees comfortable and happy. Regular cleaning of your HVAC ducts is an important maintenance measure in your building. Here’s why:

Having your air ducts cleaned decreases the number of airborne particles in your building. As air passes through the HVAC system, contaminants such as dust and pollen accumulate in the ducts. An excessive amount of these substances can cause allergies for some.

Frequent changing of filters helps control this problem, but some particles get past the filters. Duct cleaning reduces the amount of these fine particulates in the system, leaving you with healthier air. We use specialized tools to agitate the dust from the duct walls, and a HEPA-filtered vacuum unit to collect it from your system.

Air Duct Cleaning Conserves Energy

A clean HVAC system simply works more efficiently than a dirty one. If properly and thoroughly cleaned, it can reduce the costs of running your HVAC system. It can also increase the useful life of your air conditioner and furnace. Performing routine commercial air duct cleaning can help improve airflow, help your system to work more effectively, and use less energy.

SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City specializes in cleaning commercial and industrial air ducts. Call our office today to set up your free estimate at (504) 468-3047.

Do's and Don'ts of Fire Damage Clean Up in Your New Orleans Home

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

When a fire happens in your home, it’s a scary moment. After your home has been released, and you are allowed to re-enter it, seeing the damage for the first time can be shocking. Your first instinct is to start touching damaged items and attempting to clean them. But we advise highly against that, as it can cause more damage by doing so. There is a lot to know when it comes to a fire clean-up. 

Do:

• Wear gloves before touching anything. Oils in your hands can permanently set soot.
• Limit movement in the house to prevent particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.
• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas.
• If the electricity is off, empty freezers and refrigerator completely. Prop doors open to help prevent odor.
• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim, and appliances. Then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.
• If heat is off during the winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks, and tubs to avoid pipe and fixture freezing.
• Wash both sides of your house plant leaves.
• Change the HVAC filter. Leave the system off until trained professional checks the system out.
• Tape a double layer of cheesecloth over air registers. This stops particles of soot from getting into the HVAC system.

Don’t:

• Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces until you talk to a SERVPRO professional.
• Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without consulting with a SERVPRO professional.
• Attempt to clean any electrical appliances. They may have been close to the fire, heat, or water source.
• Consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to a fire or heat source.
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet. The wires may be wet or damaged and it could cause electrical shock. Air movement may cause secondary damage.
• Attempt to clean smoke-damaged laundry. If sending garments to a dry cleaner, make sure they specialize in fire/smoke-damaged materials.

SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City is here for you, to help you during your difficult time. We are trained and certified to assess and restore your loss. Call us at (504) 468-3047 for your free evaluation.

Why Is Drywall Removed After a Water Loss?

1/13/2022 (Permalink)

Why does drywall need to be removed and not dried after a water loss?

In most cases, drywall can be dried within 3 to 5 days when drying equipment is placed by a restoration company.  However, in some cases, the drywall will require removal due to certain circumstances during water damage.  

• If drywall is affected by "grey or black water" that carries contaminates- The drywall will have to be removed and replaced. Examples of this type of water can be found here.
• If drywall has wet insulation in the wall cavities, the drywall and insulation will have to be removed and replaced.  
• If drywall has double layers, the Drywall's layers will have to be removed and replaced.
• If drywall was not professionally dried and secondary damages occurred- The drywall will have to be removed and replaced.

Suffering from a water loss is never easy, but we are here to help minimize the impact it has on your family. Give us a call 24/7 to see how we can help mitigate any water damage your home or business may experience!

Fozen Pipe Prevention and Tips | SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City

1/12/2022 (Permalink)

Although it doesn't typically get below freezing in New Orleans, over the past few winters there have been a few very cold days. The best thing you can do is know how to keep your pipes from freezing before those below freezing temperatures hit. Frozen pipes can be preventable.  

Here are some ways to prevent your pipes from freezing.

1. Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing, especially if your sinks are on an exterior wall. (If you have small children, be sure to remove any harmful cleaners and household chemicals.)
2. Keep garage doors closed, especially if there are water supply lines in the garage.
3. Let the cold water drip from a faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe—even at a trickle—helps prevent pipes from freezing.
4. Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature day and night. During a cold snap, it is not the time to set back the thermostat at night.
5. Seal cracks and openings around windows, doors, and at sill plates, where the house rests on its foundation.
6. If you plan to be away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.

My Pipes Froze. Now What?

If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, you may well have a frozen pipe. Turn off the water at the main shutoff valve, which is usually at the water meter or where the main line enters the house. If the water is still running and no pipes have burst, you can take the following steps. 

1. Turn on the faucet. As you heat the frozen pipe and the ice plug begins to melt, you want the water to be able to flow through. Running water through the pipe, as cold as it is, will help melt ice in the pipe.
2. Apply heat to the section of pipe using an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, an electric hair dryer, or by wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water. As tempting as it may be, do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, a charcoal stove, or any device with an open flame; the high heat can damage the pipes or even start a fire.
3. Apply heat until the full water pressure is restored. Check all other faucets in your home to see whether you have additional frozen pipes. If one pipe freezes, others may freeze, too.

If you have had damage from frozen pipes or have questions call SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City anytime at 504-496-0193 and we can answer your questions!

Winter Heating Tips To Prevent Fire

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

It is common knowledge that the older homes in New Orleans do not have adequate heating or insulation. When the temperature drops in New Orleans, some people may be tempted to use alternative heating methods. We are here to offer these heating safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

• Never use your oven to heat your home
• Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters, or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional
• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed
• Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel-burning space heaters
• Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home.
• Install wood-burning stoves following the manufacturer’s instructions or have a professional do the installation. All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside to avoid carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.
• Install and maintain CO alarms to avoid the risk of CO poisoning. If you smell gas in your gas heater, do not light the appliance. Leave home immediately and call your local fire department or gas company.

Call Us!

If your home or business experiences a fire damage emergency, SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City highly trained technicians can help. We’ll clean and restore your fire damage in Logan Heights, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at (504) 732-9597.

Why Your Shower May Be Leaking | SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

Due to the large amounts of water running through bathrooms every day, it makes sense that there are often leaks in the bathroom appliances. If you notice excess water pooling or are concerned that there might be water damage or mold in your bathroom, you could be dealing with a shower or bathtub leak. 

No matter the reason, it’s important to quickly clean up the water and restore anything that suffered water damage. If left unnoticed, the damage can increase and might eventually form mold.

1. Check the showerhead
Over time, your shower head assembly can wear down and become faulty. If the leaking water is coming from the faucet of your showerhead, try replacing it. 

2. Broken Liner Seal
If you are dealing with a shower pan leak, try checking the liner that fits around the pan. Sometimes, these seals are improperly installed and do not protect your floor. If there is a cut or crack in your seal, water can drip into your subfloor and damage your home.

3. Faulty Drain
Often, the drain is responsible for a shower or bathtub leak. Sometimes the pipes beneath the drain can’t drain all the water without leaking. This might require a plumber. Another reason why your drain might leak is that of a faulty seal around the drain. You can remove the drain and apply the plumber’s putty all around the area to prevent further damage.

Our team is available 24/7 to help you and your family with any water loss you may experience. 

Why Is My Toilet Leaking? Here Are 8 Possibilities!

1/6/2022 (Permalink)

Water leaking around your toilet can soak into the floor and beyond. It is important to take action if you see a puddle of water around the toilet bowl or even hear a slow drip somewhere behind the wall. 

1. Tank is Cracked

While tanks and the bowls are pretty durable, they can get cracks. These often start with a small, hairline crack, but can get bigger. Toilets may get shifted or jarred and can get cracked in the back where you won’t notice them. 

2. Worn Washers

There are two large bolts that keep the tank attached to the bowl, and two more that keep the toilet bolted to the floor. If the bolts or washers get stripped, rusted out, break, or wear out, they won’t be able to hold it all together.

3. Pipe Corrosion

There could be corrosion in your pipes because of age, impurities in the water, or heavy metals in your water. Rust will develop in the metallic portions of the toilet because of this corrosion.

Pipe corrosion can often cause a lot of damage because you often don’t know it is even there. 

4. Float

The float is the hollow ball that floats on the surface of the water in your toilet tank. It can become unhooked, cracked, or it isn’t lined up properly, the fill valve may run too much, causing a leak. The chain may come off, or if it gets a crack, it can take on water and not work properly.

5. Faulty Supply Line

If there is any kind of damage to supply lines, it can put a major strain on your toilet. Sometimes, if the joints in a supply line come undone and break down, water starts to drip out. The rubber lining in a supply line can also start to leak after several years.

6. Worn-Out Fill Valve

The fill valve on the toilet can also wear down over time. This is often due to mineral deposits, but they can also rust. If enough builds up to warp the fill valve, it can stop working properly, preventing your toilet from shutting off and causing leakage.

7. Stuck or Worn-out Flapper

The flapper is that plug in the bottom of your tank. It releases the water when you flush. If it gets stuck, either open or closed, you have a problem. This can also happen if your handle is stuck.

If the flapper is stuck open, the fill valve will not shut off, so it will just keep running. If the flapper wears out, no longer fits properly, or gets a tear, then it will not be able to regulate the water in the tank.

8. Broken Connections

Your toilet has many different connectors that prevent water leaks. If any of these connections lose their seal, water may end up on your bathroom floor. You can check your toilet’s connections to see if there are any problems before they turn into leaks.

If you find you are dealing with a water loss from any of the above issues, call a plumber to address the leak. Once the leak is fixed SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City is here to help! We can make sure the area is dry and help prevent further issues like microbial growth! 

Preventing Water Damage In Your New Orleans Business

1/5/2022 (Permalink)

A water-related event can be financially devastating to your New Orleans business. A burst pipe can cause your business to close and the lost revenue and the cost of repairs could be devastating.   

If your commercial business or non-profit experiences water damage, contact SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City to quickly mitigate the damage.  While insurance plays a crucial role in lessening the financial impact, it is best to prevent the disaster from happening at all. The following tips will help protect your business from water disasters.

1. Insulate exposed pipes

Properly insulating pipes is the best way to prevent frozen pipes. Dropping temperatures and wind can freeze water inside pipes causing the pipe to burst. 

2. Seal cracks and gaps

Keeping cold air out and warm air in helps to make your home or commercial building more energy-efficient and reduces the risk of frozen pipes.  Use caulk, sealants, and weather stripping to seal cracks, gaps, and holes in your building's exterior and foundation.

3. Keep heat at sufficient levels

Keeping the thermostat above 50 degrees, even if the building is vacant is crucial. Nighttime temperatures can be significantly colder than daytime temperatures. These differences in temperature increase the risk of freezing pipes.  

4. Inspect gutters and drainage

Leaves and debris can cause water damage to the exterior and interior walls of your home or business. Having a professional clean the gutters will help ensure water drains properly and away from your home or business.

SERVPRO of  New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City should be your first choice for any residential or commercial restoration.  Our team of professionals is trained to assess the damage, identify potential threats, respond quickly to extract the water, and restore your property to preloss condition.  SERVPRO of  New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City is available 24/7 by calling (504) 732-9597.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning In Your Home

1/4/2022 (Permalink)

Carbon monoxide, considered “the silent killer,” is a gas you cannot see, taste, or smell. It can be created when fuels, such as kerosene, gasoline, coal, natural gas, propane, methane, or wood, do not burn properly.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, around 150 people die every year from accidental carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. Often, it is the result of faulty, improperly used, or vented consumer products like furnaces, ranges, water heaters, room heaters, and engine-powered equipment, such as portable generators.

Check out our tips to prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisioning:

• Check or change the batteries in your CO detector every six months. If you don’t have a battery-powered or battery back-up CO detector, buy one soon.
• Have your heating system, water heater and any other gas, oil, or coal burning appliances serviced by a qualified technician every year.
• Keep vents and flues free of debris. Debris can block ventilation lines.
• Never leave the motor running in a vehicle parked in an enclosed or partially enclosed space, such as a garage.
• Never run a motor vehicle, generator, pressure washer, or any gasoline-powered engine less than 20 feet from an open window, door, or vent where exhaust can vent into an enclosed area.
• Never use a charcoal grill, hibachi, lantern, or portable camping stove inside a home, tent, or camper.
• Never run a generator, pressure washer, or any gasoline-powered engine inside a basement, garage, or other enclosed structure, even if the doors or windows are open.
• If you suspect CO poisoning, call 911 or a health care professional right away.

Understanding the Cost of Mold Removal and Remediation

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

Discovering mold growth in your New Orleans, LA home is never a fun experience. If the infestation is over 10 square feet, calling in a mold damage and remediation specialist for mold removal is essential. Along with cleaning the visual damage, we have the tools and techniques to ensure microscopic spores don’t spread into other areas. Although the budget is always a concern, immediate action can eliminate higher costs down the road.

Cost Factors
A number of factors play into how much the remediation and restoration costs. On average, basic remediation services can be anywhere from $500-$6,000. If extensive restoration is required, the cost could be significantly more. Factors that play into pricing include: age of the problem, size of the problem, location of the problem, and the type of material affected.

Other Considerations
Dealing with a mold issue often means hidden issues or other considerations that should be accounted for. For instance, testing generally isn’t necessary if mold is visible, and black mold removal requires additional safety requirements.
Mold left to its own devices can begin to eat through drywall, siding, lumber, and subfloor. The cleanup process may require only a few days for small damage or weeks if rebuilding is necessary. An air test should be conducted after remediation to verify safe levels of mold spores. Homeowners should also understand that insurance may not cover the cost if the cause is flooding or neglect. Luckily, we will work with your insurance and help get you on the right track ASAP!

Should You Inspect Your Roof After a Thunderstorm?

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

The thunderstorms down south are on another level compared to many areas of the United States. After a thunderstorm, you might be concerned about damage to your home and especially your roof. After a storm, here are some tips for inspecting your roof for water damage so you can get it fixed before the next storm.

Check For Leaks

The obvious way to know if you have roof damage is if there is water leaking into your home. Look along the seams where the wall meets the ceiling, corners of rooms, and in the attic for any kind of moisture or dampness. If you find any, you will know where to make repairs and can help to mitigate to prevent further damage.

Check Your Roof

If you don't see any internal damage, you should try to get up on your roof and check for any missing shingles, cracks, or other damages. Carefully go over each section to find any kind of wind or water damage. Make sure any seals around grates, vents, or windows are intact and have not weathered.

How To Use Your Garden Hose To Check

The most thorough test you can do for your roof to ensure there are no leaks is to test it out by simulating heavy rain conditions. With someone inside watching for leaks, pour water from the garden hose over sections of your roof to look for leaks. You can also do this to make sure your gutters are properly draining. This test will give you a firsthand look at how water is draining off your roof and let you know of any repairs that need to be made.

If you do find any damage to your home or roof, immediately contact your home insurance provider and make sure to document any damage with pictures so that you can get a claim submitted for repair costs. Our team is on standby 24/7 to help mitigate any issues. We also have a phenomenal construction team that can help with roof repairs! 

How To Maximize Recovery After a Partial Loss

10/31/2021 (Permalink)

A commercial fire can be devastating, both financially and structurally, as it often results in the triple threat of fire, water, and smoke damage. Not only is the area where the fire most likely damaged, but so can other areas of the building due to traveling smoke and soot through the vents. Try following the next steps in order to maximize your recovery and get your business back up and running. 

• Call in New Orleans fire restoration team to perform a thorough inspection and document damage.
• Document everything that was damaged or destroyed, even if you're not sure it's worth documenting.
• To the best of your ability, check for mold, smoke, soot, and other irritants. Our team can handle anywhere that is too difficult for you to handle.

Most insurance adjusters won't accept a fire loss claim without the findings of a thorough inspection.  You must call in a licensed contractor who can walk through your building and inspect the roof, structure, siding, windows, insulation and plumbing, and HVAC systems. The contractor can provide an official report that itemizes damages and losses. This is called an adjusters report.

Most insurance companies are required to cover mold, smoke, or soot restoration, so long as the damage was from the recent disaster. Have your inspector check for any irritants so that you can request remediation.

In the event some things are not covered you are able to claim unreimbursed losses on your tax returns. 

It is important to have a professional mitigation team on speed dial to handle any disasters your business may face.

Commercial Mold Removal

10/31/2021 (Permalink)

Finding mold in your NOLA business is frustrating and can be scary for many. Understanding the mold removal process and getting the right help are keys to a faster recovery.

When it comes to mold growth, every situation is different. In most cases, the remediation process takes three to seven days. Depending on the location and extent of damage, it may require moving operations off-site during the cleanup. Once an inspection and assessment are completed, you can have the following expectations for mold removal:

• Technicians will be outfitted with safety gear, including a face mask, goggles, gloves, and protective suit (PPE).
• The affected area will be sealed off with a containment barrier, ensuring spores don’t spread to unaffected areas.
• Unsalvageable materials will be removed, such as portions of drywall, insulation, and baseboards.
• Surface areas are treated to kill the mold.
• After physical removal, high-tech air scrubbers or other tools are used to clean the air of any potential spores.
• A sealer or encapsulant may be used to increase resistance to black mold and water damage, as well as control odors.

Knowing that mold may easily return if not properly taken care of, finding the right help is essential. If the damage is extensive, it's best to find a certified remediation and restoration company. That ensures they are up to date on the latest standards and processes. It is also important to verify that their technicians are also certified. Contact us and we can help you through any mold-related issues you are having.

Are You Experiencing a Funky Smell After a Storm?

10/27/2021 (Permalink)

The water damage from a natural disaster in your 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) 468-3047 and leave the restoration to us!

Generator Tips During a Storm | SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City

10/15/2021 (Permalink)

With the crazy weather patterns in NOLA the past year, it is important to be prepared in the event of another disaster. We recommend having a generator handy in the event the storm impacts last days on end. In order to ensure your generator is functioning properly take these maintenance tips into consideration. 

The typical life expectancy for a generator is between 20,000 and 30,000 hours, serving a crucial role while waiting for a storm restoration company to come to your business. 

Weekly
You are going to need to perform small maintenance tasks every week. These include:

• Running the engine
• Checking for alarms or warnings
• Ensuring adequate fuel levels for an emergency
• Setting the engine to auto mode
• Checking that the circuit breaker is closed
• Ensuring there are no leaks

Monthly
On a monthly basis, you will need to spend more time checking fluid levels, such as the coolant and oil. You should also check the battery to ensure you are ready for a disaster.

Bi-Annual
You are going to want to check the thermal protection levels every six months. At the same time, inspect the drive belts to ensure they have the proper tension and are in good condition.

Annual
A certified technician will need to come out every year and perform crucial tasks, such as changing the engine oil, fuel filter, air filter, and spark plugs. If any extra maintenance is needed, like a coolant system flush, your technician will perform these items at your annual service. 

Taking precautions like this can have many benefits for your home or business. The primary one is that you put off replacing your equipment longer. If you are looking to push the maximum number of hours and avoid generator problems, you need to consider required preventative maintenance.

For any storm-related damage, call the storm professionals at (504) 468-3047.

Commercial Fire Drill Tips

10/7/2021 (Permalink)

Most companies require yearly fire drills in order to ensure safety and follow fire department guidelines. Many employees and managers dislike fire drills due to the interruption during the day. However, these drills could save lives at some point. 

Here are some tips to follow to help with fire drill seriousness. 

Always take them seriously. Leading by example is a great way to get employees on board. Also having drills without warning will allow for employees to take them more seriously. 

Prepare your team ahead of time. Before there ever is an actual drill, make sure employees know what the fire plan is. Especially if you work in a high-rise building, making sure employees know where exits and emergency starewells are is important. 

For employees that could be dealing with customers during a fire drill, provide them with a few bullet points they can use during their conversation.For example, due to a local emergency, the call must be disconnected and we will return your call once we are back.

If your business experiences a fire, we have the resources in order to mitigate both fire-damaged items and smoke-damaged items. We can get your employees back into the office in no time. 

Steps to Take Immediately After the Power Goes Out

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

Power outages are especially common in the New Orleans Area, especially after Hurricane Ida. It is important to understand what to do during a power outage.

Turn On Your Emergency Lights:

Make sure your emergency lights are somewhere accessible in case you have to find them in the dark.  Ideally, keep a flashlight in each room of your home.

In general, it is better to use battery-operated lights instead of candles because of the fire risk.

See If Your Neighbors Have Power:

If your neighbors still have electricity, then the problem is likely inside your home.  Start by checking the main fuses or circuit breakers to see if they have blown.

Check the Extent of the Problem:

If your neighbors also don’t have electricity, you’ll want to see how widespread the problem is.  You can do this by calling your power supplier, Entergy.

Contact Family Members:

During large power outages, stoplights and streetlights can go out too – making it unsafe to drive.

If your family members aren’t at home, get in contact with them

Unplug Appliances:

When the power comes back on, it can cause a huge power surge which may damage electronics.

Unplug all your expensive electronics from the wall so they don’t get damaged when the power comes back on.

See if Water is Safe to Drink:

When the power goes out, call your local authorities to see if the water is safe to drink.

Keep Fridge and Freezer Closed:

Food kept in an unopened refrigerator will stay cold for about 4 hours.

A full freezer will keep its temperature for about 48 hours.

Save Your Phone’s Battery:

Turn off any power-consuming apps on your phone to save its battery. 

Stay Cool (Summer Power Outages):

If the power outage occurs during a heatwave and you have health conditions, then you might need to evacuate your home to a cooler location, such as a shopping mall or church.

Stay Warm (Winter Power Outages):

If the power outage occurs during winter, now is the time to start using your emergency heating method. 

Be cautious about using generators, camp stoves, or grills for heating as they can cause carbon monoxide poisoning.

Commercial Relationships Are Important To Us

10/1/2021 (Permalink)

While we deal with Hurricane Ida's aftermath we are reminded of the importance of customer relationships. During the year our Sales team likes to make sure our customers are informed about who we are, and what services we perform. 

More often than not we receive calls from previous customers or customers who found out about us after learning about our services from a friend or family member. We always make sure to have a quick response time but calling on our sales team directly often expedites services. 

On top of that, clients who have an ERP, are often able to have mitigation services done ASAP. Because the ERP lets us know points of contact, and information about the building, we are able to perform services quickly. This saves our clients time and money!

If you’re responsible for the upkeep of a business or building, give us a call and allow us to help develop an Emergency Ready Plan to keep you one step ahead!

Hurricane Ida Clean-up Continues

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mic-City office staff, project managers, franchise owners, and technicians have been working around the clock to help aid our community from Hurricane Ida's damages.

To get on our waitlist for any storm-related damages please call our office at (504) 468-3047. 

Storm tips post-hurricane: 

Cean-up

Clean up safely – wear protective clothing and gear, use a mask and ask for help moving heavy debris. Make sure to document ALL losses and any demolition work you perform yourself. 

Beware of Scammers

Unfortunately, after a disaster, there are often many rumors and scams. Protect yourself by always checking sources of information and learning how to spot scams.

Do not trust anyone who offers financial help and then asks for money or personal information.

Other Assistance

FEMA is here to help. Apply for assistance at DisasterAssistance.gov.

About SERVPRO
Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO franchise system is a national leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO's professional services network of more than 1,500 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss situations. Providing coverage in 48 states, the SERVPRO System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners. All SERVPRO franchises are independently owned and operated.

The SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team can provide help whether you're dealing with a tornado, hurricane, blizzard or flood. The SERVPRO System has a network of strategically positioned storm teams on standby should a disaster strike near you. Available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are prepared for the unpredictable.

With the ability to mobilize local command centers, along with the resources of more than 1,700 Franchises nationwide, no disaster is too big. Recent mobilizations of the Catastrophic Storm Response Teams include:

• 2017 California wildfires
• 2017 Hurricane Irma
• 2017 Hurricane Harvey
• 2016 Hurricane Matthew
• 2015 Carolina floods
• 2014 Polar Vortex
• 2012 Sandy
• 2010 Nashville floods
• 2008 Ike
• 2007 Chicago floods
• 2007 Ohio floods
• 2007 California wildfires
• 2005 Katrina/Wilma/Rita

Our Commitment to 5-Star Service!

9/16/2021 (Permalink)

Our customers are the reason for SERVPRO^® New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City's continued success. We have established great professional relationships in NOLA, and many jobs come from referrals from previous customers! Here are a few of the 5-star Google reviews that we have recently received. 

"Working with Sean, Jordan and Chino was a pleasure. I as a Property Manager felt it was one of the best teams I have ever worked with. They were professional, with great courtesy and delivered with great work as expected.
I highly recommend their services." - G Diaz

"Tristan White/crew were extremely helpful- did a great job! They showed up on time, worked hard, cleaned up and completed the project quickly and as scheduled. We would definitely recommend to anyone." -Brianna M.

"I was so impressed with the service that SERVPRO provided. I felt horrible with all the fire and smoke damage I had on my house, but they made me feel comfortable and confident that they could help get my house back in order. I would highly recommend them!" - CG

Call Us Today!

SERVPRO^® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City has a team of highly trained technicians on-call 24-hours a day to respond to residential and commercial property damage emergencies in NOLA. Call us today at (504) 468-3047. We’ll restore your property damage, “Like it never even happened.”

Don't Fall Victim to Fire Damage | SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City

8/25/2021 (Permalink)

"A person who fails to plan, plans to fail."

Even when taking safety precautions, you can fall victim to a house fire at a moment's notice. In order to be prepared for a devastating event such as a house fire, it is important to have a plan in place and make sure all family members know what to do during a fire.

A fire damage cleanup plan for your New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City home should include:

• Install the right number of smoke alarms. Test them once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year.
• Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one.
• Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home.
• Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure that all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.
• Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year.
• Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.
• Teach household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire.
• Plans for where you and your family will stay after a fire.
• The details of your insurance company.
• A file of important information about your family and pets, including medical needs.
• Emergency contact details such as your doctor, vet, and a fire damage cleanup company.

Never enter your home until you have clearance from the fire department. Many homes are not structurally sound after a fire. The next step is to call SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City. We can take care of every aspect of fire damage cleanup, from removing soot stains and smells to overseeing redecorating and structural repairs.

If you need a fire damage cleanup company, you can trust, call SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City (504) 468-3047.

New Orleans Home Cleaning and Fire Safety

8/23/2021 (Permalink)

Spring is in full swing and if you haven’t started your spring cleaning, now is the time! Not only will it get your house in tip-top shape, but you can also look for any areas that can cause fire damage in your New Orleans home.

Replace batteries in your home.

Batteries can die in items even if you aren't using them often. Start with replacing the batteries in your smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and flashlights. Other batteries that may need to be changed are security cameras, alarm systems, and smart locks on your home.

Dryer Vents

Other than routinely cleaning your lint filter out before and after loads, you should also be making sure that the outdoor dryer flaps are not blocked by build-up or animal nests. This can be a DIY project or you can hire a professional. 

Check on any extension cords.

Check to make sure that extension cords are not overloaded, frayed, or cracked. Replace where needed and try to move electronics if too many are in one extension. 

Propane/charcoal grills should remain outside.

Your propane/charcoal grill should be stored and used outside only. Make sure that the grill is routinely cleaned and someone is always tending to the grill when in use. 

Clean outside debris

Make sure to clean up dead leaves and trash from around your house. These items may be dangerous if exposed to heat, and in the event, there is a fire it will exacerbate it. 

SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City is here to help with any preventative cleaning needs or fire needs. If emergency services are needed due to a fire or any other disaster give us a call 24 hours a day at (504) 468-3047.

New Orleans Cleaning Experts

8/10/2021 (Permalink)

We are Cleaning Experts

SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City is here to help during this uptick in COVID-19 cases. This is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

According to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, our team members are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff performs daily.

The CDC encourages the cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

The CDC recommends the usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call us today!

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City- (504) 468-3047

New Orleans' Water Removal Team Discusses Equipment And Drying Procedures

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Technicians Are Highly Skilled in the Water Removal and Drying Processes to Protect New Orleans Properties

Whenever water enters your home in New Orleans, many of your possessions and structural materials are at risk of undergoing extensive damage. Excessive moisture can ruin the carpet and weaken the structural strength of wooden materials. Wet organic materials like paper and wood are food sources for mold and can be affected if given enough time and the right temperature.
 
When preventing microbial growth resulting from a broken pipe or malfunctioning appliance, moisture levels must return to preloss conditions within 48 hours. The water removal process in New Orleans first involves extraction, then rapid structural drying. Using specialized equipment, our SERVPRO technicians utilize the two methods and drop moisture levels quicker than conventional companies can do.
 
The most drenched areas of the building get worked on first, after the source of the water has been fixed. If there is two inches or more of standing water inside the house, then a submersible pump sucks up the water and pumps it into a sewage drain. Next, depending on the type of affected material, our SERVPRO technicians use different extraction tools.
 
Some extraction wands are designed to remove water from flat non-porous surfaces like wood floors. For cleaning saturated carpet and pad, a weighted extraction tool can be used to compress the carpet and increase the effectiveness of the extraction process. We can also provide a Rover, a mobile SERVPRO technician-driven device. The equipment uses the weight of the operator standing on top of it to squeeze the soft fibers in the carpet to pull out as much moisture as possible. For cleaning pieces of furniture and other items containing upholstery, a smaller handheld wand can be implemented.
 
After extraction is complete, the drying stage begins. During the dry-out step, we use equipment to create an environment that speeds up evaporation. Air movers get placed around the wet region and are positioned so that they hit wet surfaces at a 45-degree angle and push air in a counterclockwise motion. Dehumidification systems are then placed in the room to pull moisture out of the air and exhaust hot air out for the air movers to use. These steps of the water damage and restoration service may take many days, depending on the severity of the water intrusion, time left untreated, temperature, and the structure involved.
 
Moisture levels get monitored each day the equipment is set up. We utilize infrared cameras, thermal hygrometers, and regular moisture meters to know when we have achieved our baselines needed for correct moisture content levels. Once the levels reach what they were before the loss, we remove our equipment. If you ever need assistance with water-related issues, contact SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City at (504) 468-3047 24/7.

Welcome to the Garden District of New Orleans, click right here.

The A to Z's of Summer Safety | SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City

7/7/2021 (Permalink)

A is for Aloe: Buy an aloe vera plant and use gel from leaves, or use a product containing aloe vera skin gel specifically for mild sunburns.

B is for Beach: Always remember to bring proper sun protection (a hat, umbrella, sunscreen, water, and towel or blanket).

C is for Careful Around Water: Drowning is always a risk when babies and children are near water. Do not leave any child alone near pools, the ocean, or lakes.

D is for Driving Comfortably: Use a shade to protect seats (and baby seats) from overheating in the hot sun. Never leave a baby, child, or pet in your car alone — especially in the summer, which can be deadly!

E is for Eyes: Help protect your child’s eyes with UV-blocking lenses that have a strap to keep them on. 

F is for Food Safety: When the weather gets warmer, the risk of food spoilage increases. Pack food in an insulated cooler with plenty of ice packs and keep it closed.

G is for Grilling: When you grill, use one plate for raw foods and another for cooked. 

H is for Hat: Avoid sunburns by dressing your baby in protective clothing, including a brimmed hat and protective lightweight clothing to cover exposed skin.

I is for Independence Day: July 4 is one of the highest days of the year for injuries from fireworks. 

J is for Jellyfish: If you or a family member is stung by a jellyfish, carefully remove the tentacle and walk to the nearest lifeguard station for proper first aid.

K is for Know the Signs of Heat Exhaustion: Nausea, headache, muscle cramps, and heavy sweating — all signs of heat exhaustion. Getting to a cool place to bring the body’s temperature down, drinking water, and resting can help.

L is for Life Jacket: Children should wear life jackets in and around any body of water.

M is for Medication Safety: It takes only a minute for kids to get into something when they are out of sight. Put away medications; store them up and out of sight and reach.

N is for Nighttime: Consider attending a New Orleans Park with children. Be sure to bring a flashlight for the walk back to the car. Visit the website to learn more.

O is for Ocean: Check ocean water quality before going for a swim, especially after a storm. For updates on water quality, check here.

P is for Pesticide Safety: Avoid all pesticide use around pregnant women and children. 

Q is for Quality Control when eating outdoors: Be sure to follow food safety and sanitation standards for cooking and storing perishable food, while picnicking or barbecuing.

R is for Relaxing: When the temperatures rise, slowing down and taking breaks can help protect your family from heat-related health issues.

S is for Sunscreen: While the sun can supply lots of beneficial vitamin D, avoid sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., and protect skin.

T is for Tides: Check the tide schedule before taking a trip to the beach. 

U is for UV Rays: UV rays from the sun are strongest between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Use a good amount of sunscreen, find shade or cover up with light-blocking clothing.

V is for Vacation: If you’re planning a weekend getaway, create a checklist for you and your family to stay safe on the go. 

W is for Water: On hot summer days, it’s important to hydrate with plain water. Soda and sugary drinks can make you feel thirstier. 

X is for eXcluding Mosquitoes: Mosquitoes can carry West Nile Virus, which can result in serious illness. Use tight-fitting screens in windows and close doors to keep them out.

Y is for Yellow Jackets and Other Pests: Yellowjackets, wasps and other flying pests can become a nuisance during picnics and other times outdoors. Keep them away by mixing 2 ounces of mint extract with 10 ounces rubbing alcohol, and pour ingredients into spray bottle. Spray down picnic and play areas. 

Z is for Zinc Oxide: Zinc oxide is a powerful sunscreen, and many types for children change color to let you know when to reapply. 

What to Pack in Your Emergency Kit | SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City

6/21/2021 (Permalink)

Hurricanes are not a rare event in NOLA. It is important to have “Stay” and “Go” Kits for your entire family. Gather essential items and store them in a safe area with easy access. Each family's kit may look different based on each family's needs. Make special allowances for pets, babies, and the elderly and update them as your family grows. 

“Stay” Kit: Place in a waterproof bin-

• Food; Rotate non-perishable food
• Manual can opener  
• Water; one gallon per person, per day, for three days
• First Aid Kit
• Flashlight and Extra Batteries
• Shelter(Plastic sheeting, duct-tape, Tent, Sleeping bag/ Blanket)
• Phone Chargers
• Emergency Weather Radio
• Matches 
• Fans that don't need electricity 
• Entertainment that doesn't need electricity 

“Go” Kit: Place in Duffle bag or backpack

Walking or Driving? Make a Car Kit.

• Food, Three-day supply
• Manual can opener
• Mess kit
• Matches in plastic slide-lock bag
• Water; one gallon per person, per day for three days
• First Aid Kit
• Sewing Kit
• Swiss Army knife or folding pocket tools
• Work gloves/Tools
• Flashlight and Extra Batteries
• Shelter (Plastic sheeting, duct-tape, tent, sleeping bag/ blanket)
• Phone Chargers
• Emergency Weather Radio
• Maps, sealed in slide-lock plastic bags
• Masks, gloves, hand sanitizer for the whole family

SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City is a 24/7 365 disaster mitigation company. If your home or business suffers damage ranging from minor to severe we can be on-site within hours to help. Call us today for more information! 

Equipment Spotlight: Using Air Scrubbers to Restore the Indoor Air Quality of Homes and Businesses in New Orleans

6/9/2021 (Permalink)

What sets SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City apart from the rest of the diaster migration companies is our equipment. We strive to offer the best service to our customers through our equipment. Today's equipment spotlight is our air scrubbers. The air scrubber is very industry-specific and today we will teach you about what we use it for.

Whether your home or business is dealing with a loss of water, fire, sewage, or mold damages, there are contaminants left behind in the air. While our team of professionals is working to remove and restore the damage on material pieces of a home or business that you can see with your eyes, we can not forget about restoring the air as well. Consequently, we will place an air scrubber. This piece of equipment works by passing the air inside a room through three filters to remove contaminants and small particles.

By doing this any sort of movement or disturbance can kick up particles into the air. We use these air scrubbers to make sure that as we are cleaning the surfaces, the air isn’t retaining any particulates that could leave behind germs or odors.

Overall, an air scrubber assists in the restoration process and provides a cleaner, healthier environment in an area affected by a disaster. If you suspect you have mold or are suffering a fire or water loss call the local pros at (504) 468-3047. We are open 24/7 365 for the convenience of our customers. 

Selling Your House But Have Mold? SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City Can Help!

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

With the housing market right now, you may want to sell your New Orleans home this Spring, but how can you sell your home with mold? For most home buyers, discovering mold is a deal-breaker but It doesn’t have to be.

Mold is everywhere:

• It takes roughly 24 to 48 hours to start growing after water damage.
• Mold needs a moisture source to grow.
• Mold feeds on any organic material such as wood, paper, drywall, carpet, clothes, 

Step 1: Fix the Leak/Source of moisture

• SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City is not a leak detection or plumbing company so you will need to hire a plumber for this part.

Step 2: If anyone in the house is experiencing health effects, we refer the customer to an Industrial Hygienist, who can:

• Do a full site visual inspection.
• Collect and test cultured air and surface samples.
• Measure the home moisture levels.
• Include their findings and recommendations in a report called a protocol, which is given to the customer.
• Customer sends the protocol to us, SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City

Step 3: Once the source of moisture has been fixed, SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City

• can do an assessment and give a price range to you or your insurance company.
• Start the mold remediation process

Springtime in Louisiana is wet and humid, so just know we get a lot of these calls and you are not alone.

For more information about our Mold Remediation Process, click here.

For more information about Industrial Hygienists, click here.

For a really cool EPA Interactive “Mold House Tour” click here.

Have water damage and mold? Call SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City. We’re “Here to Help” with our 24/7 Emergency Service.

Key Steps of the Mold Containment Process

5/10/2021 (Permalink)

Assessment and Inspection Once you contact the remediation professionals, they should show up at your property for a mold damage assessment. In as little as 48 hours a small mold issue could spread like wildfire. It is important to contact the professionals at the first sign of mold. Upon arrival, our team will use different technologies to detect hidden mold growth.
 

Containment Experts should similarly utilize the latest techniques to limit mold contamination. For instance, negative air chambers can isolate the affected area. The mold cleanup professionals may even have HEPA vacuums and air scrubbers that prevent the spores from spreading through the air. The pros may also use more traditional techniques such as putting up physical barriers and turning off HVAC systems. 
 

Removal Depending on the extent of the contamination, some mold-infested items may have to be thrown away or removed from your property. This may include porous assets such as carpet or drywall. 
 

Cleaning The cleanup professionals will then turn their attention to materials that can be restored, such as curtains and furniture. They will sanitize these items and use fogging equipment to eliminate odors.
 

Restoration Finally, the experts will restore your building to the way it was before the infestation. Our construction team will gladly help replace any items such as carpet or drywall that were removed. 

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

5/4/2021 (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 New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City office. 

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. Black water 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 New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City today!
 

The Different Types of Flood Water We Work With In New Orleans

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

Category 1: Clean water from a broken pipe or rainwater that has not mixed with contaminants. Saving a carpet damaged by Category 1 water is possible if the carpet has been wet for less than 24-48 hours. Otherwise, the water may “degrade” into Category 2. Professionals can restore both padding and carpet through proper sanitation and remediation procedures. 

Category 2: Greywater which is contaminated and can cause sickness if swallowed or if it touches the body. This includes overflow from washing machines or dishwashers, toilet overflows with no solid matter, broken aquariums, sump pump failures, etc. With this type of loss, the padding needs to be replaced, but the carpet can be salvaged. Not treating a Category 2 loss within 24-48 hours will turn into a Category 3. 

Category 3: Blackwater that’s highly contaminated with pathogens or other harmful agents and materials. Examples include sewage, toilet backflows, flooding from seawater, rivers, streams, and water from hurricanes, storms, or other weather-related events. Cleaning your flooded carpet is nearly impossible if Category 3 water saturated it. 

Every water damage situation is different. So, you cannot know for sure if or when your carpet and pad can be salvaged until you have a professional restoration company inspect the carpeting. 

Also, the faster you report the disaster, the lower the costs will be. If you’re dealing with a flooded carpet problem, contact us today!

Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Your New Orleans Home

4/13/2021 (Permalink)

Carbon Monoxide is an odorless, tasteless, and colorless gas. It can cause severe health problems and even death to unsuspecting people in their homes. This deadly gas exists in combustion fumes that result from burning fuel (gas, wood, propane, etc.) in various appliances and machines. Those include stoves, fireplaces, gas ranges, lawnmowers, electric generators, cars, and more. Here are some tips to prevent CO poisoning in your New Orleans home.

• Have your heating system, water heater, and any other gas, oil, or coal-burning appliances inspected and/or serviced at least once a year by a certified professional. 
• Never use gas ranges or ovens to heat your home. Also, don’t use gas camp stoves or charcoal grills indoors. Using these can cause a buildup of CO inside your home, cabin, or camper. 
• Don’t use portable flameless chemical heaters (catalytic) indoors. Although these heaters don’t have a flame, they burn gas and can cause CO to build up in your home. 
• Be careful when using gas-powered electric generators. Never use them in your home, basement, or garage, and keep them at least 20 feet from windows, vents, or doors. 
• When buying gas equipment, be sure to check for the seal of a national testing agency like Underwriter’s Laboratories. 

• Make sure to vent gas appliances properly: 

• Indoor vent pipes should go up slightly as they go toward the outdoors. Doing this will help prevent CO or other gases from leaking if the joints or pipes are not adequately tightened or affixed. 
• Never patch a vent pipe with tape, gum, or anything else. This kind of patch can make CO build up in your home. 
• Keep the vents for the stove, fireplace, dryer, and furnace clear of snow during and after a snowstorm. 

• Have your chimney checked for soot, debris, and corrosion at least once a year. Hire a chimney sweep to clean your chimney annually. 

• When the fireplace is in use, open the flues. Close your fireplace or damper only when the fire is completely out. 
• Never idle your vehicle inside a garage that’s attached to the house or living space, even if you leave the door open. Have a mechanic inspect your vehicle’s exhaust system once a year to prevent CO build-up. 
• If you drive a vehicle with a tailgate — when opening the tailgate, open vents or windows to make sure the air is moving through your car. If only the tailgate is open, CO from the exhaust will pull into the car. 
• Install CO alarms in your home. 

Does Your New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City Home Need a Dehumidifier?

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

When cleaning up water damage, commercial-grade dehumidifiers are excellent for sucking excess moisture from the air, helping to dry out the area and prevent further damage. While extraction of the standing water takes first priority, dehumidification prevents a variety of further problems such as improving air quality and reducing mold growth. If you don’t already have a dehumidifier, here are some benefits of why you should get one.

1. Overly moist air is susceptible to catching a variety of airborne particles, contaminating your air. This could include dust, dead skin cells, and mold spores. Dehumidification reduces the number of particles in the air, making it easier and better for breathing.
2. Reducing moisture and maintain cleaner air is one of the best ways to prevent mold growth in your home. Mold grows by finding a damp, wet environment and then releases spores into the air which spread throughout your home until they find another surface to grow on. One of the reasons we at SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City dehumidify areas that have been affected by water loss is to reduce the chance of mold growth.
3. A less humid environment in your home means clothing will dry faster, pieces of bread and cereals will remain fresh longer without getting stale, and you won’t find signs of rust or corrosion on things like computer equipment, electronics, and tools.
4. A dehumidifier also lowers energy costs because it helps your air conditioner run more efficiently. When the air in your home is more humid, the A/C must do the function of cooling the air and removing moisture, which means it has to work harder. This also causes your A/C to wear out sooner, which means you will need to replace and repair it more often.

Leaky Windows? | SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

What to Do if There Is a Water Leak Around a Window

The natural elements can wear down the integrity of a home. Over time, the homeowner may notice leakage around a window, which can possibly result in wood rot, mold and water damage. The longer the leak is left unaddressed, the more the repairs will cost.

Locate the Problem

Even a slow drip can mean that more water is sitting inside of the wall. Once a homeowner notices moisture trickling from a window when it rains, the first step is to carefully look at the wall around the area to find the source of the leak. However, thanks to gravity, appearances can be deceiving; liquid may pool in one place, but that place is not always the leak's origin.

Two common problem areas are the edge and the rubber seal. The gap between the edge and the surrounding wall is usually sealed with caulk. Eventually, the caulk dries out and begins to peel and chip. Like caulk, the rubber seal situated between the panes and frame can ultimately dry out, creating rips in the rubber.

Gauge the Severity of Damage

Depending on the severity of the damage, the window may need to be replaced. A replacement is usually warranted when decaying or softness is found on nearby surfaces. However, even if the surrounding surfaces seem to be structurally sound, the homeowner should not just re-caulk the gaps without getting an expert's opinion on the full extent of the damage.

SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City Can Help!

A specialist at SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City can determine whether any ceiling tiles or drywall have sustained damage. After he assesses the situation, the restoration technician will give the homeowner the best remediation option to make the damage disappear. By acting quickly, the homeowner can prevent expensive repairs in the future. SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City is always ready to help the residents of New Orleans and the city's surrounding communities solve their water damage problems.

Experience a Fire? Call Us SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City

1/28/2021 (Permalink)

When it comes to restoring or replacing your home’s contents after a fire, the first 48 hours are extremely crucial. SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City understands this timeframe is important and will show up to help with fire, smoke, soot, and any contents remediation your home may need.

The restoration process cannot begin until you call us. Our representatives will ask questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources. 

Once on the scene, our technicians will inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action. Because so much water is used to put out the fire, we must begin to dry the property with our dehumidifiers and air movers. We then can use our equipment to remove smoke and soot from all areas of the home. We are also able to remove the contents of your home and keep it safe at our facility while the mitigation is in process. To maintain security and protect against further damage, our team will board up any missing windows and place tarps over damaged roofs. 

Once the home is free of debris, water, and smoke we can start to clean up and sanitize the property. For items that can be restored, we can remove odor and bring it back to pre-fire condition. After these steps, the restoration process can begin and you can get your home and life back to normal. We will walk through your home to make sure everything is up to your standards and you are completely satisfied. 

Quick Tips for Storm Safety Anywhere You Go

1/27/2021 (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.

Sneaky Places Mold Can Hide in Your Home | SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

Some places in your home are unassuming for mold growth, but due to the moisture leftover that we don’t even realize most times, mold can easily grow.  This growth can upset your health, your home's value if it spreads, and it is an eyesore to look at.

Potted Plants

Many of us have become plant parents during quarantine, but did you know that potted plants are a breeding ground for growth? When you overwater your plants and the water sits where the sun doesn't shine, microbial growth can form.

Your Appliances

Your washing machine and dishwasher are susceptible to mold growth due to leftover moisture. You should check your appliances monthly for any new growth. This includes under any rubber seals, and behind the units as well.

Your Toothbrush Holder

While we replace our toothbrush every couple of months, your toothbrush holder is often neglected. Water that drips down your toothbrush along with the moisture from your shower and the germs from your mouth makes it a perfect location for mold growth. Make sure to wash your toothbrush holder with soap and water every few months (or more)!

Outdoor Rugs and Floormats

Underneath floor mats it is dark, and constantly wet from rain, mud, and tracking dirt onto the mat. You should consider hosing down your outdoor mats every so often and allowing them to completely dry to avoid any mold buildup. Any buildup can be tracked into your home and quickly spread.

Call us for any suspected growth, and we will walk you through the remediation process!

Make Sure You Are Prepared for the Aftermath of a Fire

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

Making sure that you are prepared for a fire (and its aftermath) is a great way to gain peace of mind and keep your household safer. First, you should prioritize a plan for evacuating to safety in case a fire breaks out.

After this is settled, move on to planning for the aftermath of a house fire—assessing the damage, filing an insurance claim and getting a restoration company are all much easier when you know exactly what to expect from the process.

Planning for the Aftermath of a House Fire

Prepare yourself for what to expect. There is no way to predict the damage your home will contain after a fire, but knowing general fire damage patterns can help you prepare. You will generally see spots of charring around where the flames broke out and anywhere they traveled to, but it is also important to note that smoke and soot can travel much farther throughout the home.

Wait to enter your home. Always listen to officials regarding when it is safe to re-enter your home. Ceiling supports, walls and floors can all be damaged by fires and cause structural concerns, so going back in prematurely can cause unnecessary damage both to you and to your home.

Contact your insurance company. Starting the claims process quickly is recommended, and your insurance company will work with you on what this looks like. Every claims process is different based on your provider, so conferring with them directly will help you know what to expect.

Document the damages. Having thorough documentation of the damages is a great way to stay organized and on top of everything as you work to recover. A list is a helpful way to itemize your belongings, and pictures of the damages can come in handy both for you and for your insurance claim.

Contact your restoration company. Prioritizing your emotional and mental well-being after a house fire is important to the healing process, and when you do not have to worry about restoration, that is much easier to do. Work with a company that you can put your faith into so you can gain peace of mind that your home is being restored well.

If your home is damaged in a house fire, you can count on us to help you. Get in touch at any hour for a quick response!

How to Minimize Flooding in Your Yard | SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

With the unpredictable weather in NOLA, by the time lunch rolls around after you have left for the day, your New Orleans home can be flooded in a moment’s notice. Switching up the landscaping outside of your home can help reduce flooding outside of your home that could potentially cause indoor flooding. Below are four tips to help plan ahead if a neighbor’s pool floods into your yard or there is a storm surge.

1. Add Heavier Mulch - Lighter mulch can easily be picked up by water and clog your drains causing a backup of water. Heavier mulch can absorb more water as well as stay in place. Don’t forget to place mulch six inches from the siding of your home so it does not rot your home’s exterior. 
2. Grow a Garden - Planting native plants and plants with high moisture tolerance will help prevent soil erosion and allow water to drain better. 
3. Grade your Yard - Sloping the ground around your home will allow water to flow away from your home’s foundation.  
4. Use Rain Barrels - Rain barrels collect rainwater from downspouts to redirect moisture away from your home. SERVPRO® of West El Paso Tip - use the collected water for both indoor and outdoor plants, or make a birdbath!

After taking measures to help reduce flooding in your yard always double-check your work. Excessive rain or dry spells can cause your landscaping to naturally change and consequently reverting your work. After extreme weather check to see how your drainage methods are doing and adjust accordingly. In the event your home does flood, SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City is available 24/7 to help minimize damage and salvage the contents of your home.

Our Advanced Technology and Techniques for Water Damage

1/22/2021 (Permalink)

What sets SERVPRO of SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City apart is our advanced technology and techniques that allow us to be pioneers in the restoration industry. The technology and best practices we use allows SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City to get your home or business back to its preloss condition in no time!

When we first get to a job we need to measure the water damage using infrared cameras and moisture detection and measurement devices. The infrared camera allows us to see what the naked eye cannot see. 

Our powerful extraction equipment speeds the drying process by removing the water from your home or business. SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City uses both Truck-mounted and portable extraction units to perform efficient water removal.

Our drying equipment includes Industrial-grade dehumidifiers that help prevent secondary water damage like swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture and High-speed air movers create airflow across walls, carpets, pads, and furniture, which accelerates the evaporation of moisture.

Our professionals will use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers to dry your home or business. We’ll carefully monitor the progress using moisture meters until the materials return to acceptable drying goals.

If you are experiencing water damage in your New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City home or business call us today!

Say Goodbye To Funky Smells In Your Restaurant!

1/21/2021 (Permalink)

Does your New Orleans restaurant smell like a bad recipe? Do you have customers come into your place and wrinkle their nose? Or they walk in and then leave without ordering anything. You know you’re in need of odor removal when customers suddenly lose their appetite when entering your restaurant. We know it’s not a pleasant topic, but it’s one we, at SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City, have experience correcting! So, how can we help you with your odor problems? 

Here are some ways SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City will get your restaurant sweet-smelling once again:

Deep Cleaning

Sometimes you need a bit more than the everyday cleaning job your staff does. Just like we do deep cleaning a couple of times a year in our homes, it is essential to have this done in our restaurants as well. Restaurants enjoy a thorough cleaning of the floors, drapes, blinds, carpeting, and upholstery. Food smells can become trapped El Paso has specialty cleaning services to ensure your restaurant gets deep cleaned.

Deodorization

Not only does your NOLA restaurant need deep cleaning, but it needs an odor removal process using deodorization. Our staff is trained to discover what is causing the odors. This is an important first step in eliminating odors. Once our staff knows where the smell is emanating from, then we can use the proper formula to remove it. We have several different deodorizing formulas created to get to the source of the bad smells. Odor removal is not just about hiding or covering up offending smells, but it’s essential to go to the root of the problem and neutralize it.

Inspect for mold

Mold is one thing that not only leaves a musty odor, but it has a negative impact on your health. That’s why it’s so important to determine if mold is the culprit and, if so, to begin action right away to combat it. We have tools and equipment that help us determine if there is a mold problem. It doesn’t take much for mold to develop and then spread. If you suspect mold, we will discover the source and work to isolate it, then eliminate it.

At SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City, we make cleaning and restoration our expertise. We train and educate our staff to combat stinky smells wherever they may be. 

Stopping Household Fires with SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City

1/18/2021 (Permalink)

A house fire is never a pleasant experience, but did you know there are ways to lessen the chances that one will occur? Prevention is the best strategy for dealing with house fires because of how rapidly they can spread through the home and how destructive they can be once they start.

Ensuring that you are doing all you can to protect your home can go a long way in making sure you never have to go through the house fire experience. You can keep your family much safer and have the peace of mind that you are doing all you can to not have to experience a fire at all.

Doing What You Can to Reduce Your Fire Risk at Home

Check your smoke detectors. Smoke detectors are always the first step in improving your household fire safety, as they will be the thing that notifies you if a fire has started. Be sure to do a monthly test to make sure they are operational, and keep track of when they were installed so you know when to replace the unit altogether.

Create a fire escape plan. A fire escape plan is an important component of safety, as your family should know what to do if the smoke alarm sounds. It should take under two minutes to escape, which is why it is so important to formulate a solid plan and practice it regularly as a family.

Limit your fire risks. Your daily habits can go a long way in reducing the chances that a fire will ever occur. Small tasks, like cleaning your dryer’s lint tray with every load, avoiding placing towels next to your stove and not leaving your cooking unattended, can cut down on some of the most major fire risks that there are.

Keep a fire extinguisher handy. While fire extinguishers should only be used if it is absolutely safe to do so, they can prevent a small mistake from turning into a household disaster. Any time there is an open flame present, it is good to have an operational fire extinguisher nearby and be sure you know how to use it just in case things get out of hand.

If your home is damaged by a house fire, we are here to help. Our expert fire restoration technicians are here ²⁴⁄₇ to spring into action as soon as you call. Contact us at any hour to report your damage and receive a quick response.

Fire Risks At Your NOLA Business

1/15/2021 (Permalink)

Offices across the United States suffer from fires more often than you think. A fire in the workplace is devastating to not only employees but also the business owner. Depending on how large the fire is, if you are not prepared, the likelihood of recovering can lower. Educating your New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City employees on common fire risks and ensuring they follow protocol can help minimize fires.

Damaged Power Cords

Because offices are jampacked with computers, phones, printers, kitchen appliances, and more, over time the electrical system can become overwhelmed. This can cause electrical shock which can result in a spark or fire starting. To avoid this from happening, check on your electrical panels regularly and make sure no wires are corroded. 

Dust

If your office is not regularly being cleaned, dust is accumulating. When dust builds up on wood, metal, and plastic it can become a fire hazard. Items that heat up such as computers, microwaves, and wires should always be kept dust-free.

Combustible Materials

Offices often have many papers, boxes, furnishing, and packaging lying around. All of these items can cause a fire to spread quicker than normal. Although many items are important to the daily functions of the office, try to keep it as tidy and minimal as possible. Fireproof furniture and desks should also be considered for the purposes of limiting what gets damaged and how fast the fire spreads.

Computers

Most offices have one computer per employee. Depending on how many employees you have, those can all be fire hazards. Employees should ensure they are not letting their computers overheat, or leaving laptops on materials that can catch fire if the laptop heats up too much. All employees should shut down their computers daily, and especially on the weekend.

After learning of all the fire hazards present in offices, it is important to have a plan. SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City offers an Emergency Ready Profile which allows for us to start mitigation sooner to get you back into your building quicker. Call us today to get one up!

When It Rains, It Pours...

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

When most people think about water damage they think of record-breaking floods, washer machines, and pipes busting in their homes. What they don’t think of is ONE inch of rain. Yes, I said it correctly ONE INCH. One inch of rainfall doesn’t sound like it can do much harm, but when one inch of rain falls on a roof without gutters it allows nearly 2000 gallons of water to soak into the ground around your home's foundation. Gutters are the key to help protect your home against water damage. Gutters collect the rain rolling down your roof and divert it away from your home, and prevent flooding from happening. Another reason gutters benefit your home is by protecting your soil from eroding. When you have faulty gutters it causes the water to wash away the soil and leave the foundation of your home vulnerable and unprotected.

Things to Keep a Close Eye On:

• Debris Build Up: This can lead to pools of water forming on your roof and eventually leaking through your ceiling and into your home. Use a pressure washer or leaf blower to clean them out quarterly
• Storm Damage: After a rain, wind, or hail storm it is important to inspect your gutters for cracks or breaks. If damage has been caused, you can fill the holes with gutter caulk.
• Old Gutters: Older gutters are more susceptible to damage or contain open seams. Make quarterly routine checks for repairs.

For any water damage repairs needed, call the professionals at SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City!

Act Fast When Water Damage Strikes!

1/13/2021 (Permalink)

Water Damage is extremely serious and needs to be addressed immediately in your New Orleans home. Within minutes, water can spread through your property and saturate everything. This includes walls, floors, upholstery, books, documents, and pictures.

Within 1 to 24 hours your drywall will begin to swell and break down, a musty odor will appear, and metal surfaces will tarnish. Between 48 hours to 1 week, mold will grow and spread, the paint will blister, metal will corrode, and doors will begin to warp. After one week the damage will be so serious that the cost and time to restore your home will be astronomical, and the structural safety of the home will pose risks to those who live there.

Because water damage is not uncommon in the New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City area it is important to familiarize yourself with the below steps on how to mitigate water damage in your home. 

1. Turn off the electricity to prevent electrical problems. 
2. Address the source of the water and stop it from flooding your home.
3. Remove standing water with specialized pumps or vacuums, but you can also do this manually. 
4. Dry out the remaining water with fans and dehumidifiers to speed the drying process. 
5. Sanitize affected items based on what type of water it came into contact with. 
6. Restore items that can be salvaged and replace damaged items to prevent contamination and mold growth.

If the damage is too large for you to handle on your own, know that your local SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City is available 24/7 to restore your home, personal belongings, and give you back your peace of mind. 

Cooking Safety with SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City

1/12/2021 (Permalink)

Fire prevention is very important, and that is why SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City wants to share our top cooking tips to prevent household fires and injury. Cooking can be a way to come together as a family, but did you know most house fires are caused in the kitchen from the stovetop?

Stovetop fires are normally caused when food is left unattended. Always be sure to pay attention to what you are cooking, especially if cooking with oil or at high temperatures. Be sure to remove food packaging, dish towels, paper towels, wooden utensils, and oven mitts away from the stovetop that can easily be burned or catch onto an open flame.

Make sure all appliances are in working order and unplugged when not in use. Crumb trays should be emptied, and fallen food should be cleaned from the oven and microwave when cooled. Be sure to never use metal in the microwave as it can easily spark and cause a fire. 

When cooking, it is best to wear tight-fitting clothing and tie long hair back. Baggy clothes, long hair, and dangling sleeves can easily catch the hot burner or open flame. If your clothes or hair catches on fire, be sure to STOP - DROP -  and ROLL to smother the flame. It is also best to keep your cooking zone “child-free” so children do not touch hot appliances, or get burned by hot liquids or flames. 

If you’d like to learn more about protecting yourself from a house fire and how our restoration services can help you recover, get in touch today to learn more.

Water Damage in Your Vehicle

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

After a long day on the road, one of your employees or yourself may leave the sunroof or window open. Depending on what weather is outside there is a chance your New Orleans business’s commercial vehicle may actually have water damage! Especially in the South, mildew and mold can happen when it's hot and muggy outside and the inside of the commercial vehicle is wet.

SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City has dealt with maybe water damage claims inside the home, commercial buildings, and commercial vehicles. We always ensure proper deodorization, drying, and getting rid of staining.

Also, don’t forget we offer COVID-19 cleanings for your commercial vehicle as well. Kill two birds with one stone and call us today at (504) 468-3047 for any water damage or COVID-19 cleanings you may need.

We Are Here For You & Your Water Damage!

1/7/2021 (Permalink)

When you choose SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City as your choice for restoration, you are choosing a company and team that is compassionate, dedicated, honest, reliable, and trustworthy! 

So many residential and commercial users choose SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City is because..

24/7/365 Holidays, weekends, before 8 AM, After 5 PM, we are always answering the phone. What makes SERVPRO special is that even when our office is "closed" we have an answering service to dispatch to our on-call managers. When we are in the office one of our Job File Coordinators, will guide you through the process of what needs to be done to get our team over to your property.

With the 24/7 on-call responsibilities it takes a special type of person. Working with insurance, adjusters, environmental hygienists, local fire/police, and the home or business owners is no easy task! Our team truly is something special, and we are so thankful for them. 

Honestly is our policy SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City is always honest. We understand how frustrating it is to deal with water, fire, mold, or storm problems. We want to make all our customers feel comfortable before we even enter the home or business. We will always be upfront with what the damage/costs will look like and provide you with options when we can.

When you have a need for mitigation or restoration, give us a shout. As we said, 24/7/365 we are here for YOU. (504) 468-3047 There is truly no one better than SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City.

Commercial Mold Containment with SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

When your New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City business faces mold contamination, our professionals are here to help! We have a very specific process to contain the mold from spreading to other areas of your business to protect it. Here are some things you might want to know about our containment! 

Containment is important because mold can very easily spread. When there is mold present often times we need to remove drywall and flooring, and the mold spores can travel through the air. The containment will keep any rogue spores in the area that is already affected.

Containment prevents further mold contamination, by creating a barrier between the affected area and the rest of your home. In most cases, this is achieved by the use of plastic sheeting which should block the space from the rest of the home and sealing off air vents., Our team will also set up a fan that exhausts outside the home to create a negative pressure zone which should prevent mold from becoming airborne. 

While working in the contained area, our professionals will wear protective safety gear to help prevent tracking spores outside of containment. This may include clothing and shoe covered where are only worn in the workspace and then are removed before going anywhere else.

If you suspect you have a mold problem, give SERVPRO of New Orleans a call!

Why SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City Should Clean Your Carpets

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

Carpet is a type of flooring that is extremely hard to keep clean and once it is dirty it is even harder to bring back to its original condition. That is why we, SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City is here to help. We offer many types of carpet cleaning. Some benefits to using SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City for your carpet cleaning include:

Odor Control If you have pets or children, chances are there is a larger amount of dirt and debris on the floor that can cause odor. Accidents happen and spot cleaning sometimes is not enough. Carpet tends to trap odors and sometimes homeowners can become nose blind to them. Here are SERVPRO, we can remove the toughest stains and odors from your carpet.

Health Benefits Carpets trap dust particles, bacteria, and allergens found in the home, which have been linked to nose, sinus, and breathing problems such as asthma. If these contaminants are not removed from the carpet, they can potentially cause health issues for you or your family. Vacuuming alone cannot eliminate such contaminants. They can only be removed through professional-grade products used to clean and sanitize your home, which SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City has!

Prevention Professional carpet cleaning can help prevent not only the build-up of dirt and debris but the longevity of your carpet. It clears out infestations of dust mites. Dust mites may cause asthma and allergy exacerbations, and professionals have the products essential to eliminate such infestations. Also, carpets easily develop mold, especially in areas with high humidity levels. When moisture, such as rain is being tracked in the house, it gets driven into the carpet fibers and can cause mold to grow. Routine professional carpet cleaning can help prevent the growth of mold in your carpet.

Call us today to schedule a carpet cleaning! (504) 468-3047

Our Cleaning Agents

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Because SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City is backed by the SERVPRO Corporation, we have access to a large amount of cleaning agents that any other restoration company would not have. We have chemists working daily to ensure all the products that we offer are high quality and safe for you and your family or business.

Not only do we offer the typical types of cleaning, but we also offer biohazard cleanings. This sets us apart because not many companies want to deal with trauma and crime scenes or hoarding situations- but that's where you can count on us!

Some of our cleaning agents range from urine odor and stain remover, graffiti remover, leather cleaner, floor sealers, wall and surface cleaner, tile and grout cleaner, and gum remover. Plus, our newest cleaner is a hospital-grade disinfectant that we use during our COVID-19 cleanings. To learn more about our COVID-19 cleanings click here.

Because we are backed by the SERVPRO brand you can trust that any product we use in your home or business will be high quality, and exactly what is needed to get the job done. 

SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City, a restoration company, has been serving the greater New Orleans area for many years and many years to come! Call us 24/7 365 for any type of cleaning job you may need to be done. As you can see just from the products listed above we can complete just about any job you may need! Call us today at (504) 468-3047.

SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City Meets Son of a Saint

12/7/2020 (Permalink)

Son of a Saint is a local New Orleans organization that supports young boys starting at age 10 whose fathers are incarcerated or have passed away. Son of a Saint’s mission is to help shape self-sufficient, independent thinkers who are leaders and give back to their community.

These young boys are provided with a secure and consistent environment and given mentors who provide amazing examples for them to follow.

SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City owners, Will, Jim, and Taylor had the honor to meet with some of the mentees and learn about their experience with Son of a Saint! Giving back to the community who supports SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City means so much to us!

To learn more about Son of a Saint and all that they do click here. 

Combating Flood Damage in Your NOLA Home

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Many people do not stop to consider how prepared their home actually is for an event like flooding until it is too late to change the course of what is to come. With the way severe weather can appear quickly and affect a broad area throughout the region, this is a consideration that many New Orleans homeowners should make before their home falls victim to a natural disaster like flooding.
 
In many cases, flood damages to your NOLA home can at least get softened by precautionary measures and regular inspections of areas like your foundation. These areas are typically the line of defense against flooding outside of your home, and what can allow that same water inside when these defenses fail. Unfortunately, many people do not consider the structural integrity of their foundation and blockwork until water is pouring into the lower level of their home.
 
Fortunately, SERVPRO is always available to help you through traumatic experiences like this and works quickly to help prevent significant damages to your home that could require remodeling or reconstruction. From the moment that our experienced technicians arrive at your home, even in the midst of the flooding, we can begin our work in restoring the present damage and helping to prevent things from getting any worse. Minor repairs to your foundation can get achieved through the application of hydraulic cement, which can prevent more water from penetrating these vulnerable areas of your foundation's blockwork.
 
Extraction and drying are both vital components of the restoration process. Removing the water from the area utilizes pumps and wet-vacs, but it ultimately gets completed with the use of air movers and dehumidifiers. Once all of the moisture gets removed from the affected area, our experienced professionals can assess if specific portions of material are too severely damaged to get restored. This discovery requires the replacement of these materials before restoration can successfully get accomplished.
 
Flood damage can present itself differently from house to house, but undoubtedly needs the professional expertise of SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City to get successfully restored. If your home has gotten affected by flood damages, give us a call today at (504) 468-3047.

Recover & Reopen Your Business After a Disaster | SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

Building up your own business is an extremely rewarding thing, but when it comes to the possibility of a natural disaster, the future is never certain. Many businesses are permanently derailed by disasters annually due to the difficult task of recovery—but thankfully, risks can be significantly mitigated by planning in advance for how you will recover.

Safety is always the top concern when it comes to preparing your business for the worst, but once your safety plans are in place, you can begin thinking about the physical recovery process. Handling insurance, restoration, communications, and applying for disaster assistance can all work together to get your doors reopened faster so you can get back to business.

Get Your Doors Reopened Faster After a Disaster Strikes Your Business

Check in with your insurance and restoration providers. There are many things that might be covered on your commercial policy, but because each one differs, it is best to check with your provider to know for sure. Once you do this, it is time for the restoration to begin—contact your commercial restoration provider quickly so they can begin formulating a response for you.

Make customers aware of the recovery plan. It is smart to get in touch with your customers right away after a disaster so they are aware of what to expect. Social media can provide a simple way to reach people quickly, and can give you the chance to promote any ways that customers can support you during the closure, such as buying gift cards or pre-purchasing items online to help your revenue during a difficult time.

See what disaster assistance you qualify for. After an official disaster event is declared, there will be many resources available to business owners such as disaster recovery loans from the Small Business Administration. These loans tend to be easy to qualify for, carry low-interest rates, and can be used for many different expenses that a business owner may incur throughout the recovery process.

If your business has been damaged due to a disaster, we’re here to help. Contact us at any hour to report your damage or to learn more about our commercial restoration services.

If The Levee Breaks You Need The Team At SERVPRO To Help Save Your New Orleans Department Store!

10/28/2020 (Permalink)

One of the most severe situations that New Orleans residents can face is the sheer force of hurricanes and their destructive nature on the structures and communities throughout our service area. As our residents saw with Hurricane Katrina, these same destructive forces can cause devastation to multiple properties simultaneously when the force and power of the storm break through levees. These levee breaks can quickly affect miles of properties, including your department store near the French Quarter.

With levee breaks, so many properties get affected all at once by storm and flood damages in New Orleans. Your department store has a substantial investment at risk by the rising and rushing waters, and you need a crew that can arrive quickly to help you protect this investment. Our SERVPRO Contents Department has the experience to remove at-risk items from flooded or flooding properties to protect them until it is safe to return them after restoration completes.

Often with substantial catastrophes like what our area saw with Katrina and the breaking of levees, there is no stopping the water flooding the area from infiltrating your business and affecting construction materials and the remaining contents. Most often, business owners must wait until the water settles enough for extraction and drying efforts to be effective. Our SERVPRO professionals can work quickly at this time with truck-mounted extraction pumps, offering a powerful 300 psi removal.

Our franchise offers comprehensive restoration services in the event of flooding throughout our area. With so much of the city and its surrounding communities well below sea level, many properties ultimately get affected by levee breaks. Our licensed contracting division can help with the demolition of unsalvageable construction and efficient rebuilding services to return your building to its former condition.

While you cannot always expect levees to break and flood the city, knowing what to do and whom to call in such a disaster is critical to protecting the investment you have made in your store. Give our SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City rapid response team a call anytime disaster strikes at 504.468.3047

Click here for more about New Orleans.

Be Prepared No Matter When a Severe Storm Happens

10/27/2020 (Permalink)

The impact a storm will have on an area is widely unpredictable. While some storms will come through and cause little to no damages, others will present major issues for everyone affected.

Because severe storms can be so unpredictable, we highly recommend that people approach storm safety with a preparedness mindset. This way, no matter when a storm moves through an area, you will know you have done everything you can to protect your family and your home.

Prepare in Advance for Severe Weather

Prepare your home as much as possible. Though the nature of storm damage might seem erratic, by doing some preparation work in advance to protect your property, you can ensure you are taking the right steps to mitigate any possible damages. Trimming back any dead or overhanging trees is a great start, as is securing any objects that could possibly become loose during a storm. Many homeowners also have whole-home generators installed, allowing for utility usage if your power is out.

Create a family communications plan. If your family is often spread out across many locations, it is important to have a plan for checking in during severe weather to make sure everyone is safe. Be sure everyone knows the protocol for both being at home and being away from home, including where to take shelter in the house, how to check in with one another, and when to stay put or head home if severe weather is forecasted.

Make sure your emergency kit is stocked. Creating a household emergency kit is the first step for disaster preparedness in any regard, including for severe storms. An emergency kit should have sealed water, shelf-stable food, and any other necessities your family members may need both while a storm is raging and in the event, the power is out in the aftermath.

Consider getting a weather radio. Few things have changed our communications process more than cell phones, but they do not want to be the only thing you have to rely on during severe weather. Having a weather radio will come in handy in case cell networks go down or the power goes out and your battery dies, ensuring you are not at risk of missing out on any pertinent updates or weather emergency alerts.

If your home is damaged by a storm, you can depend on us to take care of any damages. Contact us 24/7 to report damage and receive a rapid response.

COVID-19 Proofing your NOLA Business

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

Not every business gets the luxury of working from home during the COVID-19 Pandemic, especially if your business thrives on customers. Routine cleaning of your business is essential to limiting guests, and employees to exposure. Follow these tips to sanitize your space!

Start by educating workers, and developing policies for worker protection. This can include enforcing masks, and having a policy if workers start to feel ill. When cleaning your establishment, wear disposable gloves and start with plain soap and water and then use a disinfectant. Soap and water will reduce the number of germs and following with disinfectant will kill germs. Make sure to focus on high touch surfaces. These include but are not limited to: 

• Tables
• Doorknobs
• Light switches 
• Countertops
• Handles
• Desks
• Phones
• Keyboards
• Toilets
• Faucets
• Sinks

If an employee or customer has tested positive for COVID-19 it is best to let the professionals take care of the sanitizing. SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City offers a defensive pathogen cleaning program, that goes way beyond standard janitorial cleaning practices. We will tailor the program based on the need of your facility and use an EPA- Approved Hospital-Grade solution to decontaminate. Once completed you can be sure your business is Certified: SERVPRO® Cleaned. You will get a Certified: SERVPRO® Cleaned shield to place in your front window to let employees and customers know your business is committed to keeping everyone safe and comfortable.

If you are interested in our commercial cleaning services or want to learn more about our CDC complement Certified: SERVPRO® Cleaned program, contact us!  

Carpet Cleaning for Your Commercial Business

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

Although most commercial carpets are made for durability, dirt and debris will still build up over time in them because of all the foot-traffic. Maintaining regular cleaning will be beneficial to your carpet because once a carpet gets too soiled, it may never be restored to its original appearance. 

Preventative maintenance actions include: 

• Regular vacuuming
• Spot removal
• Pilating the carpet to prevent matting
• Moving furniture to change traffic patterns
• Using walk-off mats to limit the amount of soil tracked onto the carpet

Even when you follow preventive maintenance actions, carpets will still have dirt trapped below the surface that you cannot see with the eye, especially in dark carpets. Carpets act as a filter trapping gasses, hair, dirt, and dust. Did you know that 79% of soil in carpets is dry soil? To reduce that percentage, a good rule of thumb to maintain your carpet’s original state is to get it professionally cleaned once a year. Protect your businesses investment by having it cleaned by SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City. 

Because each carpet can slightly vary, we offer a number of options to keep your carpet and upholstery brand new. Here is our range of specialized cleaning methods:

• Bonnet Cleaning: A less aggressive method for short piled carpets.
• Hot Water Extraction: A deeper cleaning method for all carpet types.
• Deluxe Precondition and Rinse: Helps restore deeply soiled areas.
• Showcase Premier Cleaning: The most thorough cleaning method in the industry.
• Dry Cleaning: When color-fastness is an issue.

For a cleaning backed by state-of-the-art equipment, over 40 years of experience, and Professionals trained to the highest standards, call SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City today to schedule an appointment. 

Disabilities and Disasters

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

Many storm surges, earthquakes, fires, and other disasters can happen at a moment’s notice. Keeping your family safe during stressful disasters is a priority and every family should have a plan in place. Mobility, hearing, learning, or seeing disabilities can cause certain families to create extra precautions. Families, individuals with disabilities, and caregivers can all benefit from the below tips on how to stay safe during a New Orleans storm.

Stay Informed

Identifying common disasters in your area and learning how medical, physical, and cognitive needs may affect you or your family member’s ability to respond to each is the first step to disaster preparedness. Take time to learn about your community’s plans for dealing with disasters and sign up for warning and alerts to remain notified at all times.

Preparing

The main factors you or your family should be aware of is who you can count on, where you can go, and what to bring. By creating a personal network of people who are able to help you during a disaster and ways to contact them if communication becomes disrupted can put you at ease.

If evacuation is needed be sure there is a safe space you can go to, and how you can get there if you need specialized transportation. By putting all prescriptions and important documents in an easily accessible place makes grabbing and going more efficient in case of an evacuation. If you have medical equipment make sure where you plan to go you can bring the equipment with you. If not, where can you keep this equipment in the interim so it does not get damaged?

Besides your prescriptions, documents, and equipment, other items to keep in your emergency kit can be: 

• Flashlight
• Radio
• Water
• First aid kit
• Non-perishable foods
• Cash
• Batteries

If you have a service animal make a separate kit for them including: 

• Minimum 72-hour supply of bottled water and pet food
• Portable water and food bowls
• Paper towels 
• Medications and veterinarian info
• Medical records 
• Leash and collar
• Blanket and toy
• Plastic bags
• Bandages
• Up-to-date ID tag and recent photo 
• Copy of the pet’s license

Last but not least, practice your emergency plan. Make sure you know exactly what to do and where to go in the event of an emergency. As always, SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City is here to assist with any emergency needs in your home 24/7/365.

How to Use Technology During a Storm

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

Technology can cause stress and sometimes is more of a burden than helpful. However, in the case of emergencies such as natural disasters, it can be extremely helpful for keeping you updated and letting friends and family know where you are. You more than likely already have the technology in your home to keep you and your family safe during a disaster, so follow these tips to use it effectively!

Remember, always be sure to keep portable charges ready in your emergency kit so you can always access your technology when you need it most.

Social Media for News

Using social media is a great way to get up-to-date news straight to your smartphone. Almost all local and national government has social media pages that are updated regularly, especially during a natural disaster. 

Mark Yourself Safe

Another way to use social media is to mark yourself safe. Facebook offers a feature called Safety Check that allows you to mark yourself safe if you are in the area of a dangerous situation. Marking yourself safe lets friends and family know that although you are in the area of disaster, you are safe. The Red Cross offers a similar feature called Safe & Well which is both an app and website where you can mark yourself as safe for friends and family. 

Use Online Storage

Services like Google Drive and DropBox are a great way to store personal information online in a safe manner. Keeping copies of identification cards, passports, insurance policies, medical records, and pet information is important if your documents get lost in a disaster or you forget them when you are evacuating. You can also access DropBox and Google drive on any computer or phone, just make sure you remember your password!

Create an Emergency READY Profile

SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City offers an Emergency Ready Profile or ERP for free. Creating an ERP will help prepare your property or business in the event of a disaster.  Creating this profile will help prevent interruption by having an immediate plan of action and setting SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City as your main point of contact in the case of an emergency. We will have all the information on file needed to make sure mitigation and restoration go smoothly. 

SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City should be your first choice for any residential or commercial restoration due to our experience and 24/7/365 service. Contact us today if you are interested in signing up for an ERP or have questions or concerns about a recent property disaster. 

How to Check for Water Damage Around Your Home | SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City

9/23/2020 (Permalink)

Do you have any water damage to your home? Contact SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City, we are your local water restoration experts.

The issues that can arise for homeowners can range from mild to serious, but often people underestimate where water damage can lie on the spectrum. While the cosmetic issues from water damage are generally on the mild side, the structural issues it can cause are quite serious, and are the reason that water damage should always be treated quickly.

Checking for water damage throughout the home is a fairly simple DIY maintenance task that can save you tremendously in the long run. You can reduce your overall insurance claim by catching issues early and having a professional restoration team come in quickly.

Make Water Damage Checks Part of Your Home Maintenance

Inspect your walls and ceilings. It is easy for moisture to hang out unnoticed behind drywall, but if you look carefully, you can often find signs of issues on your walls and ceilings. Small spots, bubbles in the paint or areas that are soft to the touch are all indicators that water might be lurking somewhere beneath the surface..

Don’t forget to look down. If water damage is present, it can gradually work its way down and get into the floor of your home, soaking into the subfloor and causing problems. If you notice any soft spots or buckling of your floor, it might be a sign that the subfloor has become saturated with moisture.

Inspect your roof. Often, water damage arises from issues with the roof—but many roof problems can be caught early on with a bit of know-how. Check regularly for missing or loose shingles from the ground with a pair of binoculars to catch any potential problems. It is also wise to go out when it is raining to be certain your gutters are adequately draining water away from the foundation, too.

Pay close attention to the basement. Basements often get the reputation for being generally damp and musty places, but it does not need to be this way. Untreated water in your basement can give rise to structural issues and harmful mold growth, so if you notice signs of flooding, it is best to have a professional check it out.

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.

An Easier Way to Communicate With Us!

9/16/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City is excited to announce that we are now able to text with our future and current customers!

If you are experiencing any issues from water, fire, mold, and everything in between, send us a message!

We are able to open new jobs, as well as answer any questions about existing jobs through our new messaging service.

What you can expect from this service: 

• Lightning-fast response time to questions or claims.
• Improved customer service.
• Updates on when technicians will be arriving at your home or business.
• An easier way to leave reviews after our service is done.
• If you are a self-pay customer, an easier way to pay right through your phone.

Text us today at 504.468.3047

How You Can Reduce Your Household Fire Risk | SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City

9/13/2020 (Permalink)

If you experience any property damage due to a fire, we are here to help. Contact SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City to learn more.

We would all like to say that we never want to experience a fire in our home, but how many of us are actively working to prevent one? A house fire can start and begin to spread in under a minute, leading to devastation that is often quite sudden and unexpected.

However, by working to lower your fire risk, you can significantly improve the overall safety of your home. Preparing your household and your family members, paired with practicing good fire safety habits, can go a long way in making sure you never have to deal with the complicated aftermath of a house fire.

Avoid Dealing With the Aftermath of a House Fire

Check your smoke detectors. Any time households are hoping to increase their fire safety, installing adequate numbers of smoke detectors is the very first step. Smoke detectors are key for alerting your family if a fire has begun, ensuring you will never be caught by surprise and can execute a swift escape when they sound.

Create a fire escape plan. Making sure that your family members feel comfortable escaping your home quickly in case of a fire is so important. Fire escapes should be done in under two minutes to avoid dangerous smoke inhalation. By drafting a solid plan and practicing it often, you can be certain that everyone will know exactly what to do.

Limit your fire risks. Your daily habits have a lot to do with the overall fire risk in your household, too. By being vigilant about things like not overloading electrical outlets, replacing frayed cords and avoiding leaving cooking food unattended, you can cut down significantly on your overall household risk.

Keep a fire extinguisher handy. Having a fire extinguisher nearby is a must any time you will be dealing with an open flame, such as when you are cooking, grilling or using your fireplace. If it is safe to use one, knowing how to and acting swiftly can stop a fire in its tracks, turning a potential household disaster into a near-miss, instead.

If your home is damaged by a house fire, we are here to help. Our expert fire restoration technicians are here ²⁴⁄₇ to spring into action as soon as you call. Contact us at any hour to report your damage and receive a quick response.

A Few Grill Fire Safety Tips That Go a Long Way | SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City

8/24/2020 (Permalink)

You truly can’t beat a meal that has been cooked on your grill on a summer evening. Cooking outside is a great way to take advantage of your outdoor space and keep the kitchen clean, but as with anything involving an open flame, using caution is key to keeping the activity fun and safe.

Grill fires occur the most in the summer months, but by simply being careful, you can significantly reduce the chances of having one occur.

Reports from the U.S. Fire Administration have found that over 5,000 grill fires happen yearly, making them a more common occurrence than many realize. Remembering fire safety basics when you fire up the grill can go a long way in keeping a disaster from occurring.

Fire Safety Basics for Firing Up the Grill

Create a safe zone around your grill. You are probably used to seeing grills placed on decks up against homes, but this is actually not the recommended solution. A three-foot buffer is the advised amount to have around your grill. This way, if a flare-up occurs, fire is less likely to spread to your deck, railing, or home and cause further damage.

Clean your grill grates often. When grease and food particles get stuck on your grates, you may find the temperature of your grill becomes less consistent—and that you have an increased chance of a fire on your hands. These particles can ignite if the temperature gets too high, but using a scraper tool to clean your grates after each use can prevent this.

Never leave the grill unattended. As with any open flame, grills should never be left unattended, even if the lid is closed. If a flare-up occurs, you can quickly douse it with a fire extinguisher before it becomes an emergency scenario if you are nearby. That is why it is never advised to leave your grill unattended, even for just a moment.

Inspect the grill regularly. Every time you use your grill, do a simple visual inspection to ensure everything appears to be in good shape. With propane-powered grills, there is always a potential that a gas leak could develop, which can be disastrous if an open flame is introduced. Doing your due diligence to check these things is a smart way to be fire safe.

If you have a grill fire that does damage to your home, we are here to help. You can call us any time, day or night, to have a quick response from our restoration experts.

Factors to Consider When Deciding on a Storm Restoration Company | SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City

8/11/2020 (Permalink)

Choosing the right restoration company is crucial to returning to normal. Call SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City to set up an appointment.

Storms that move through the area can be frightening due to lightning and high winds, but if they cause damage, the aftermath can be absolutely devastating. Storm damage continues to increase every year, and with storm season in full swing, it is best to know what to do if you have damage to your home or office.

As with any service, choosing the right service provider for storm restoration is so important. Not only is the company you trust in charge of handling your property, but they are also doing it in what is likely a stressful time—meaning doing your due diligence to choose someone you can count on is definitely worth your time.

Choosing the Right Service Provider for Storm Restoration

Consider what their past work says. Doing your research is always important when you are investing in your home or commercial space, especially when it comes to restoration. The rate of scams after a storm tends to be high, as companies move in and try to take advantage of those who are vulnerable. That is why we are so proud of our reputation as leaders in the community and in the restoration industry on a national level, so you can count on us for incredible service.

Determine what their plan is for high demand periods. Storms are unique in the restoration world due to the fact that they cause large areas to sustain damage in such a short amount of time. For companies without ample resources, it can be overwhelming, but for us, we are equipped to handle disasters of any size thanks to our national SERVPRO® partnerships we can call upon for backup.

Consider how they handle after-hours emergencies. A quick response is not just something that is a “nice to have”—when it comes to storm damage, it is essential to making sure further damages are not allowed to occur. Make sure your company has something like our 24-hour emergency line in place. No matter when you call us, we will begin dispatching a response team right away to handle your damage as quickly as possible.

When you have damage from a storm to your home or commercial building, you can always depend on us to handle it. Contact us at any hour to see our exceptional service in action.

Clueless After A Fire Loss?

1/17/2020 (Permalink)

If you are in need of fire assistance call SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown and Mid-city 504-468-3047

Don't Know What To Do After A Commercial Fire Loss? It's Okay We've Got You Covered!

In your lifetime, you must have heard about, seen, or experienced a fire tragedy. Fire is usually accidental, apart from a few instances of arson, but once it hits a building, the outcome is enormous grief. When a fire hits a business premise, among the first persons you see are local firefighters. A firefighter responds quickly to the scene and he/she arrives with colleagues in a fire truck that contains the necessary equipment such as a fire hose to carry out the fire suppression.

Commercial fire damage can pull your business steps behind, and in order to avoid that, you need to call fire restoration experts as soon as possible. Commercial fire damage mostly results from electrical fires and with it; comes soot damage and smoke damage. The firefighters in their fire suppression efforts also cause water damage. The water comes from the fire hose, a long flexible tube that is part of the fire truck. The fire hose utilizes high pressure pumping to put out the fire.

As a result, the ordinary tools commonly used for janitorial services cannot handle a commercial fire damage. You need to call a fire restoration company to mitigate the fire damage. A professional fire restoration company has qualified and experienced personnel with the right equipment to handle any commercial fire damage incidence. These experts should be called not long after a fire suppression has been carried out to avoid further damage to your business premises.

Fire damage resulting from electrical fire can be very hectic to deal with especially if it is a utility room fire. Therefore, it is imperative for the fire restoration process to be handled appropriately. The firefighters are also adequately trained to carry out fire suppression processes in any setting regardless of whether it is a utility room fire or an electrical fire. The firefighters use fire trucks fitted with the appropriate equipment to put out any fire in a commercial property.

Apart from fire damage, the restoration company you call also has the capacity to trace the hidden damages such as smoke damage and soot damage. Failure to handle smoke and soot damage can shift the damages from primary to secondary. Once the smoke damages have reached a secondary level, they may result to the closure of your business.

The fire restoration experts advice those who own commercial properties to install a fire sprinkler system in their buildings. The fire sprinkler system can be quite effective especially if it’s a utility room fire. Just like a fire hose, the fire sprinkler system releases water under pressure to put off the fire within a room in the building. Therefore, the fire sprinkler system could save you from huge losses especially when a utility room fire strikes because most of the things stored in a utility room are of value to your business.

Fire damage incidences are caused by a number of factors, the most common being electrical fires. Regardless of the cause, the restoration company experts follow the same process to rid your premises of fire, soot, and smoke damage. This process entails six steps, and they are as follows.
• Emergency Contact: The first step involves you calling the professional experts to remedy the damages.
• Assessing the damages: The skilled experts inspect your commercial property to determine the extent of fire, smoke, and soot damage
• Boarding up and roof tarp service: When fire strikes your commercial property, the roof, walls, and windows are damaged. The professionals put in tarpaulin to prevent more damage.
• Removing and drying the water: In their fire suppression efforts, firefighters leave water from the fire truck that could cause further damage if not removed.
• Removal of smoke and soot: Fire tragedies leave behind soot and smoke damage and it is vital to remove the smoke and soot from all the surfaces.

Safety First!

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid- City at 504-468-3047

Be Safe with Water-Damaged Electronics & Appliances

Water damage can occur for many different reasons. Sometimes, it happens as the result of a flood due to heavy rains. Other times, it may be due to an inside flood, such as when a pipe or a water heater bursts. Whatever the case may be, if you are dealing with water damage or water-damaged electronics, appliances, or other devices, you need to proceed with extreme caution. The best thing you can do, after water damage has occurred, is to call SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown& Mid-City professionals who are familiar with dealing with such damage. In the meantime, make sure you practice some good safety tips with the water damaged devices.

First things first, before you start thinking about possible water damage restoration, you need to make sure that you are not in immediate danger and that the devices that you own are not going to cause a fire or another serious incident.

After water damage has occurred, check your home to see if you have any damaged devices plugged in. If you find that you do, shut off the electricity at the breaker level. This will keep damaged devices from being able to start a fire. You should not touch, go near, or inspect any devices that are plugged in until you are certain that the electricity is off. Following this important tip will help you to avoid electric shock.

Believe it or not, it is not only plugged in water damaged electronics that pose a risk. Any device that contains a battery can also pose a serious risk. Thus, it's best to let our pros at SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City handle any such devices if you think they may have been damaged. At the very least, before touching any battery operated device, ensure that it is not giving off heat or smoke, bulging, melting, or making strange sounds. All these types of things are major warning signs that something serious and potentially dangerous is wrong with the battery!

As you can see, you're not always in the clear once the water subsides! To keep safe, contact the experts at SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City before you do anything!

Leaky Windows?

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

Leaky window? Call SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City to help!

What to Do if There Is a Water Leak Around a Window

The natural elements can wear down the integrity of a home. Over time, the homeowner may notice leakage around a window, which can possibly result in wood rot, mold and water damage. The longer the leak is left unaddressed, the more the repairs will cost.

Locate the Problem

Even a slow drip can mean that more water is sitting inside of the wall. Once a homeowner notices moisture trickling from a window when it rains, the first step is to carefully look at the wall around the area to find the source of the leak. However, thanks to gravity, appearances can be deceiving; liquid may pool in one place, but that place is not always the leak's origin.

Two common problem areas are the edge and the rubber seal. The gap between the edge and the surrounding wall is usually sealed with caulk. Eventually, the caulk dries out and begins to peel and chip. Like caulk, the rubber seal situated between the panes and frame can ultimately dry out, creating rips in the rubber.

Gauge the Severity of Damage

Depending on the severity of the damage, the window may need to be replaced. A replacement is usually warranted when decaying or softness is found on nearby surfaces. However, even if the surrounding surfaces seem to be structurally sound, the homeowner should not just re-caulk the gaps without getting an expert's opinion on the full extent of the damage.

SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City Can Help

A specialist at SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City can determine whether any ceiling tiles or drywall have sustained damage. After he assesses the situation, the restoration technician will give the homeowner the best remediation option to make the damage disappear. By acting quickly, the homeowner can prevent expensive repairs in the future. SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City is always ready to help the residents of New Orleans and the city's surrounding communities solve their water damage problems.

Allow The Heroes of SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City to Help You!

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

Trust the heroes of SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City! Call us at 504-468-3047

Are you a factory owner whose inspection is coming up after damage to your workplace? Or maybe your office is overdue for a professional cleaning? SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City can help in both situations!

You have probably seen our SERVPRO trucks throughout the greater New Orleans area. That's because we are the premier residential and commercial cleaning and restoration service.

We specialize in the following residential and commercial services:

• Building services
• Cleaning services
• Fire damage restoration
• Mold remediation
• Storm damage restoration
• Water damage restoration

While many of you know us for our disaster clean-ups and damage restoration, we excel at far more!

We have experience cleaning:

• Apartment buildings
• Government
• High-rise residential
• Hotel/Motels
• Large office/high-rise office buildings
• Large retail/big-box stores
• Restaurants
• Small office buildings  
• Small retail stores

We also provide the best in commercial cleaning for your Nashville business. Whether you need a preventative maintenance system, electronics restoration or document drying, you can trust SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity.

Our other professional cleaning services include the following:

• Air Ducts and HVAC
• Bio-hazard and sewage
• Carpet and upholstery cleaning
• Ceilings, walls, and hard floors
• Drapes and blinds
• Odor removal and deodorization
• Crime scene cleanup
• Vandalism

SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City is faster to any size disaster in the Nashville community area because we are locally owned and operated. If you need us anytime, contact us because we have 24-hour/7 days a week emergency service.

Our highly-trained and certified technicians are specialists in using technologically advanced products. We use OSHA-approved cleaning agents, and innovative techniques to restore your home or business to a preloss condition.

You can trust SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City to keep your property’s appearance safe and healthy for your family, staff, and clients. Do you need help with your insurance claims, we provide a stress-free claims process by helping to manage the insurance paperwork process. 

Out With The Old & In With The Clean!

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City 504-468-3047!

Turn Your Vacancies Into Filled Rooms Faster With Our Cleaning Services!

Time can go by in the blink of an eye, particularly when it comes to preparing a recently rented space for the next tenant.

Apartment building managers: your days of desperate calls and getting on your own hands and knees to scrub the crevices of vacated apartments are over. SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City is ready for your next moment of need.

SERVPRO® is well known for our large-scale services, including repair and restoration of property damaged by fire, water, mold, and natural disasters. We're also New Orleans’  top choice in professional cleaning for office spaces and commercial facilities. However, we're about more than large-scale services. Our services are just as useful for the single bedroom apartment as they are for the big box warehouse.

No matter the state the former tenant has left the apartment, we've got the supplies and services needed to get the job done. For carpet and upholstery, SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City can remove unwanted dirt and dust that hide far below the surface using state-of-the-art equipment. When it comes to making an apartment like new, deodorization is key. We have the experience and knowledge to identify the source of unwanted odors and use the proper, fast-acting products that will eliminate them fast! We also get to those hard-to-reach places, like air ducts with dirt buildup. We can clean and restore your air ducts and HVAC systems to improve indoor air quality and ensure that heating and cooling systems function properly.

As a locally owned and operated business, we have the customer service and experience needed to make an apartment space like new. We also have the equipment, network, and training to do the job faster than any other cleaning service in New Orleans and surrounding areas. At SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City, we are faster to any disaster.

Did a recent tenant leave one of your apartments in poor condition? Or simply expecting a resident to move soon? SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City  offers the fast service and experience you need to get the job done. Not sure where to start? Call us with your questions at 504-468-3047

Water Damage Strikes Fast, But So Do We!

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City makes removing standing water first priority when beginning the water damage restoration process.

SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City Suggests to Contact Us Immediately Upon Discovering a Water Leak for Fast Mitigation

Sometimes water emergencies are splashy affairs, with dramatic breaks in water mains or flooding from appliances in your  home. More frequently seemingly minor leaks or loose connections in plumbing slowly create severe water damage scenarios. The skilled water damage technicians on our crews know how to mitigate the loss no matter what the cause.

When plumbing fails in a residence, the resulting water damage can be a build up of days, weeks, or years of obscured drips or seepage. The compromised pipes and fixtures and the resultant damage may remain hidden for a time, but eventually, the harm done makes itself known. Drywall crumbles, flooring warps or buckles, and microbial growth can become evident. Our highly-qualified water damage restoration experts employ effective strategies mastered in IICRC courses to reverse and resolve the problems.
 
Assessment of the damage is the first task undertaken. Water can take unexpected paths, and SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown and Mid-City  crews investigate the evidence observable thoroughly so that we address all the aspects of the incursions. If necessary, we remove sections of drywall or pull off the kick plates beneath cabinets to expose the damage. Our employees employ moisture meters and infrared scanning devices to scope out the area, including locating hidden caches of water that collected between walls, under floors, and above ceilings.
 
We operate powerful wet vacuums to extract the water puddled or soaked into porous furnishings like carpeting or upholstery. Then we use the moisture baselines measure by electronic meters to determine drying goals aimed at reducing moisture to normal levels in structural components and fixtures. SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown and Mid-City crew members position air movers and dehumidifiers to achieve the drying goals, adding heat to create the balance needed to move moisture out of saturated items.
 
Throughout the water damage mitigation process SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown and Mid-City  technicians are on the lookout for secondary issues such as microbial growth. Water intrusions that exist more than 24 to 48 hours provide mold spores the fuel needed to grow and multiply into full-blown colonies, often hidden with the slow leaks.
 
Of course, we also arrange for repair or replacement of the plumbing fittings that were the source of the water damage. SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown and Mid-City recommends inspection of pipes on a regular basis to ensure no further water damage in your home.
 
SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown and Mid-City  offers full-service water damage mitigation, including water removal and structural drying. Call us at: (504)-496-0193 as soon as the water incursion is noted for an experienced production team member to conduct an assessment.

Call SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City Immediately After A Water Loss

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City for any help you may need. Our service line is always available day or night! 504-468-3047

Water Damage in New Orleans Homes and Apartments Means Higher Humidity Levels

When a broken pipe happens inside your home, water coming out in a steady stream floods the area rapidly. Lost water like this can evaporate fast enough to cause other problems inside your home in New Orleans. High amounts of water vapor can lead to a range of issues, from microbial infestations to loosened wall coverings.

We help property owners stabilize their home's humidity levels, which can prevent water damage in New Orleans from developing. We use thermal imaging equipment to locate water leaks, trapped water, and areas with higher-than-normal amounts of moisture content. Our drying equipment includes pumps of different sizes, air movers, desiccant machines, and dehumidifiers. Air scrubbers also play a role in making your home secure again, "Like it never even happened."

Water damage that occurs after water loss events can happen anywhere inside the house. Water does not stay confined to only the area where the pipe broke. This is why we use thermal imaging equipment in looking for damaged areas that might remain undetected otherwise. Peeling paint on ceilings is more evident than mold hidden inside wall spaces and under cabinet bottoms. However, both need mitigation and cleanup work to keep your home healthy.

When homeowners call us immediately after an incident, we can extract the water and completely prevent water damage from spreading to other areas of the home. This process may seem highly intensive, but we must ensure that we extract the water as it spreads. Water travels to drier locations steadily, but extraction efforts can significantly slow this down.

Extracting water is only part of the work, and we set up the other machinery to ensure that water cannot settle in any location. Trapping it as either a liquid or as vapor in the air re-establishes dry conditions again. When a slow leak and not a broken pipe with sudden water loss caused the problem, we use similar methods. Either way, we restore dry conditions that protect your home from the effects of water damage.

SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City performs both preventative work against water damage and mitigation where current damage exists. Contact us for more information by calling (504) 468-3047.

Do You Have a Funky Smell In Your Condo?

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

Get rid of those funky smells and call SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City! 504-468-3047

Do you have a new tenant moving in, but can't get rid of a funky smell? Well have no fear SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City is here! 

You may be dealing with some unpleasant odors in your condo. Funky smells from pets, foods, cigarette smoke or just plain old grime can make life in a small-sized living space truly unbearable. As renovation and home repair experts, here at SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City we have a lot of experience in handling interior odor situations. Today, we would like to list some tips for you that can help you when deodorizing your condominium. 

• Clean every surface, including behind your refrigerator and stove, and consider replacing your shower liner, bed linens, and mattress pad, too. Pantries and vanities can often hold old food and products that emit smells due to their age, so purging these items can really help. 
• Make sure you clean fabrics like drapes, throw pillows, and zippered upholstery according to their cleaning instructions. Any rugs or carpeting should be professionally cleaned for a fresh start. SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City employs all the necessary equipment for deep carpet-cleaning. 
• A fresh coat of paint can also go a long way toward making your condominium smell and feel like new. Clean and flat neutral colors will make your condo seem larger, as well.
• Pet odor has become the most common problem stinking up people’s homes, and has actually surpassed cigarette smoke! People smoke in their homes less often these days because they don’t want their furniture to soak in the smell. Smoke-free condominiums have a premium over smokers’ units, so your property manager will really appreciate your choice to smoke outside, too. When it comes to your pets, make sure they are using the proper facilities for their needs, and make sure to empty the litter box daily to help deodorize your condominium. 

In a smoker’s residence, there can be instances where the smell becomes so entrenched that the sheetrock of walls has to be redone to avoid the home being completely devalued. If that is a possibility in your case, SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City can help you to deodorize your condominium. We specialize in carpet cleaning and large scale cleanups.

Fire Prevention Safety Tips

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

For more fire prevention tips, or if a fire does occur in your home call SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City 504-468-3047.

As the temperature drops throughout New Orleans, we find ourselves staying bundled up and inside  warm and cozy in our homes. However, this is also the time of year when people start to bring out extra sources of heat to warm their home. The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) gives us a list of other heat sources available, as well as how to stay safe this winter while using them.

• Space heater
  • Keep anything that can burn or catch fire at least three feet away at all times.
  • Buy a space heater that has an automatic power-off, especially for if the heater tips over accidentally.
  • Do not keep the heater on when unattended or while sleeping.
  • Plug the heater directly into an outlet instead of using an extension cord or power strip.
• Fireplace
  • Do not burn paper in your fireplace. This can cause small, burning particles to fly into the living area.
  • Keep a screen in front of your fireplace to prevent embers from flying out into the living space.
  • Never leave a fire unattended while sleeping or when out of the house.
  • When cleaning out the ashes from the fireplace, make sure to dispose of them in a metal can with a lid that’s at least three feet away from your Nashville home.
• Wood-burning stove
  • The wood-burning stove is treated much like a fireplace with the same rules that apply, but with a wood-burning stove, there is also the chimney that comes into play.
  • Have your chimney inspected and cleaned at least once a year by a professional.

Don't Let The Soot Settle In Your Home!

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City for any of your soot removal needs! 504-468-3047

The time to act on fire damage restoration is unfortunately right after the disaster happens. At the time of the devastating incident, many people are not in the right state of mind to act quickly and get the area cleaned up and restored. This is where companies, such as SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City, come into play and help take care of the damage that has been done. According to the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, delays in fire damage clean up can have serious consequences. Acidic soot residue can cause permanent damage to areas of the household over time.

Within minutes of the fire being extinguished: The residue can cause a discoloration to materials such as, plastic, marble and alabaster.

Within hours: The acidic soot residue can cause permanent discoloration or yellowing of furniture in the household, such as bath fixtures, countertops and unpolished metals.

Within days: Walls and flooring can start to be affected. The soot will cause discoloration of walls and corrosion of metals throughout the home. Flooring that is made out of vinyl or wood must be replaced or refinished and any clothing or upholstery will most likely be permanently stained.

Within weeks: Carpet can become unsalvageable and objects such as silver-plated fixtures, glass, crystal or china will become etched due to the long exposure to the residue.

Although the restoration process can be done with extensive vacuuming and cleanup, it is a process that sometimes requires the proper equipment and time to get the job done. Restoration companies have the equipment to help save you hundreds of dollars in valuables and time to get the job done effectively and efficiently. With the proper tools, there is more chance for the removal of stains, damage and odor removal to take, leaving you with less of a headache and salvaged items.

We Handle Storms Like Pros

1/7/2020 (Permalink)

Let us make your storm damage "Like it never even happened."

Our SERVPRO® New Orleans Up-town and Mid-City  Rapid Response Team Can Help You With Storm 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 there is Flood Damage in SERVPRO® of New Orleans Up-town and Mid-City 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®of New Orleans Up-town and Mid-City 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®of New Orleans Up-town and Mid-City provides technicians with everything they need to restore items rather than replace them.

Floods are considerable emergencies which is why SERVPRO®of New Orleans Up-town and Mid-City 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 New Orleans Up-town and Mid-City at (504) 496-0193 for immediate assistance.

Helping Make Water Damage "Like it never even happened."

1/7/2020 (Permalink)

Don't panic! SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City can help! Call us at 504-468-3047

Louisiana is known for Mardi Gras, Crawfish, Alligators, jazz music, great food and an even better time. However, the first thing most people think of when they hear Louisiana is Hurricane Katrina and the flooding that accompanied her. Flooding is a fear many of our residents worry about constantly, but SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City is here to put our residents' mind at ease. We are here to help and serve our community that we are proud to be a part of. SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City is on-call, prepared to assist in any of your water damage needs 24/7. Our highly trained technicians are ready around the clock to quickly and properly restore your home or business. We use innovative 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 back “Like it never even happened.”

WHAT TO DO AFTER FLOODING:

• Remove items off of furniture such as lamps, and tabletop décor, and wipe off excess water.
• Mop up excess water on the floor.
• Prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Open any doors and windows that you can to encourage air flow and help to prevent mold growth.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.

WHAT NOT TO DO AFTER A FLOOD:

• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.

Even though you may have removed all of the water, there may be moisture lurking within your floors, carpet and baseboards that you cannot see, and that’s where SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City can help! Please call us at 504-468-3047

Tips and Tricks to Cleaning a Small Kitchen Fire

1/7/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown and Mid-City for any of your fire cleaning needs.

Do you like to cook? If so, you probably know the risks involved when in the kitchen preparing a tasty meal. Sometimes, we can get distracted and leave a hot pot on the stove or item in the oven. These little mistakes don't typically cause problems unless forgotten about. Especially so, if there is grease involved.

It is recommended to stay alert while cooking. Also, make sure your smoke detector is up to date. Unfortunately, fires still occur and must immediately be put out.

If you live in an apartment, there might be a sprinkler system. If at home, you may have pulled out the fire extinguisher before the fire department arrived. Regardless, there was probably even more damage done when the fire was put out. So, that's why we have put together a check list of what to clean after a small kitchen fire has been put out.

1. Walls and ceilings likely have smoke or water damage. They will need to be wiped/dried thoroughly.

2. Dishes near or involved in the fire may need to be thrown away.

3. Furniture and floors depending on how large the fire was will need a deep scrubbing.

4. If the fire got out of hand, there may be a need for remodeling or replacing of appliances and more.

5. Lastly, there may be hidden places where water is standing. Grab a fan to make sure the area gets completely dry to prevent mold from growing.

While these things may take a few days to clean, they will save you from more damage in the future. If you need any help call us at 504-468-3047

Does Your House Need a Breathing Treatment

1/7/2020 (Permalink)

Home lungs need care too!

Owning a home is a wonderful experience that comes with huge responsibilities. The list of what needs to be checked is a lengthy one that can honestly seem overwhelming at times – so let us handle a few of them for you! Keeping your house properly maintained ensures you will have a place you love to call home for years.

One area that many homeowners neglect is properly maintaining the air ducts. If you think about what the air ducts do for your home, it is very similar to what lungs do for your body. With that in mind, the industry standard for residential properties is to have the air ducts cleaned every two - five years. This process improves indoor air quality by moving debris within the duct work. It will increase the lifespan of your AC system and make it more efficient.

You may be thinking, “What could they possibly find in these units?” Well I am glad you asked!

We have removed things as crazy as a toy car, to the more serious discoveries of mold that people never knew existed. Fortunately, not only do we remove debris, we also treat it with an antimicrobial agent to eliminate mold and bacteria. This is a preventive measure that absolutely helps keep your system free of nasty airborne agents.

Do the smart thing and let us keep your house lungs clean. We will ensure your duct work, air handler and system are free of old toy cars and mold. We are equipped to handle any size unit whether you have a residential home that needs care or a building as large as a hospital. If we do find damaged duct-work or maybe the air duct was never connected, we can complete minor repairs such as reattaching them to the vent.

Call us today and let us help you breathe easier!

Say Goodbye to Funky Smells in Your Restaurant!

1/3/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City to fight those odors! 504-496-0193

Does your New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City restaurant smell like a bad recipe? Do you have customers come into your place and wrinkle their nose? Or they walk in and then leave without ordering anything. You know you’re in need of odor removal when customers suddenly lose their appetite when entering your restaurant. We know it’s not a pleasant topic, but it’s one we, at SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City, have experience correcting! So, how can we help you with your odor problems? 

Here are some ways SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City will get your restaurant sweet-smelling once again:

Deep Cleaning

Sometimes you need a bit more than the everyday cleaning job your staff does. Just like we do deep cleaning a couple times a year in our homes, it is essential to have this done in our restaurants as well. Restaurants enjoy a thorough cleaning of the floors, drapes, blinds, carpeting, and upholstery. Food smells can become trapped in fabrics leaving a sour or greasy smell. SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City  has specialty cleaning services to ensure your restaurant gets deep cleaned.

Deodorization

Not only does your Metairie restaurant need a deep cleaning, but it needs an odor removal process using deodorization. Our staff is trained to discover what is causing the odors. This is an important first step in eliminating the odors. Once our staff knows where the smell is emanating from, then we can use the proper formula to remove it. We have several different deodorizing formulas created to get to the source of the bad smells. Odor removal is not just about hiding or covering up offending smells, but it’s essential to go to the root of the problem and neutralize it.

Inspect for mold

Mold is one thing that not only leaves a musty odor, but it has a negative impact on your health. That’s why it’s so important to determine if mold is the culprit and, if so, to begin action right away to combat it. We have tools and equipment that help us determine if there is a mold problem. It doesn’t take much for mold to develop and then spread. If you suspect mold, we will discover the source and work to isolate, then eliminate it.

At SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City , we make cleaning and restoration our expertise. We train and educate our staff to combat stinky smells wherever they may be. 

Got Mold?

1/3/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City to solve any of your Mold issues! 504-496-0193

Are you wondering if you really have to worry if you can get mold in the winter?

Turning up the heater in the colder months will keep you cozy and warm. However, did you know that this very warmth also creates the perfect environment for a colony of mold? These infestations are both unsightly and unhealthy and can cause health effects for those who have allergies to these organisms. A mold colony can also spread quickly and secretly within your walls, compromising their strength and making your home or business unsafe. Mold and mildew, have recognizable differences. Mildew has a flat surface and will appear powdery. It begins growing with white coloration and will become yellow, brown, or black over time, while mold can be a wide range of colors and will have a fluffy appearance. The spores for both are everywhere, even in the air we breathe, and their risk increases when winter arrives since mold and mildew would much rather be where it’s warm when it’s cold outside (just like us).

Here are some tips for mold prevention this winter:

• Mold and mildew feed on any organic material. Old food, the rug on your kitchen floor, or wooden cupboards - it’s all fair game for these organisms. Make sure surfaces are kept clean and dry and don’t allow food to sit out and become moist and warm.
• Moisture condenses when it comes into contact with a colder area, so you will most likely see mold or mildew on tile grout, windowsills, and baseboards during the colder months. Taking care of leaks and areas that collect water right away will be a big help in keeping mold from becoming part of the family.
• Once a colony establishes itself you can’t ever get rid of it completely. Once the moisture, warmth, and food it needs are reintroduced it will simply start to grow again.
• Windows, exterior doorways, skylights, and indoor plumbing that are not properly sealed will produce conditions that are attractive to mold colonies. 
• Keeping the air dry in kitchens, laundries, and bathrooms will be a big help when it comes to preventing mold this winter. Running these fans during times when the air is moist will do wonders. You can also use dehumidifiers in your home to prevent mold from establishing itself; follow the established recommendations for keeping your home at the proper level of humidity for this purpose. 

Rest assured you actually don’t have to worry about mold in the winter, if you take the proper steps to prevent it from colonizing.

If you have any concerns or suspect mold growth call SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City, and allow us to put your mind to ease and solve your issue. 

Let SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City Help You Keep Your Pipes from Bursting

1/3/2020 (Permalink)

Don't let this be you! Tips and Tricks form SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City to prevent frozen pipes.

Tips and Tricks to Prevent Your Pipes from Bursting

As we continue to list safety ideas for you to consider this winter, we have one today that carries a little more potential for costly damage due to the nature of when and where the disaster can occur. Frozen water pipes in your home can be a costly and damaging incident that can be prevented with some vigilance and preventative measures. Yes, even southern Louisiana winters carry the potential to wreak havoc in homes and commercial properties with frozen or burst pipes. So, let’s make sure you are as safe as possible this season by informing you of some well-known tips and tricks to keep your water flowing and your pipes safe and sound.

First, let’s talk about the what, how, and why of frozen pipes. As many of you know, when water freezes it expands. In cases of extreme cold, ice can expand to the point of breaking through or bursting your pipes that have water sitting in them.

Crawl spaces, attics, garages and similar places that are more exposed to the outside temperature without insulation are the most likely areas where pipe breakage will occur. So for these areas, it is important to drain the supply lines or remove the hoses that are commonly left in the cold. Swimming pools and water hoses are easy areas to begin the process. Speak to plumber about having insulation, or perhaps a pipe-sleeve, added to trouble areas. Keep the garage door closed if water supply lines are inside.

If you suspect a pipe is frozen but not broken, it is possible to thaw the pipe and resume regular use. An indicator that a pipe is frozen is water trickling from a faucet when it would normally flow fast and free. If you locate a section you believe to be frozen, apply a heating pad or hair dryer while keeping the faucet open. If the water begins to run after some time warming, you found the area!  If you can’t never try something you are not comfortable with. Call a plumber and have an expert do the work. You can also ask for quotes on proper insulation for your pipes so they don’t freeze again in the future.

If need any assistance, call SERVPRO of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City at 504-469-0193

Is Your Business Properly Prepared?

1/3/2020 (Permalink)

Get SERVPRO® ready and protect your business the smart way!

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 New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City 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 PROFILE. 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 PROFILE. We will help you identify and label utility shut-off locations, identify local utility contact information, identify local emergency contact information such as fire, police, and hospital contacts, and establish main internal contacts for purposes of employee safety and emergency work authorization.

For more information please contact SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City 504-468-3047

We provide 24-hour emergency service and have the training and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs. "Like it never even happened."

Trust the Professionals of SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City With Your Fire Damage

1/3/2020 (Permalink)

Trust the professionals of SERVPRO of N. Kenner, Harahan,& Lakeview to restore your home!

SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City Can Help Make the Fire Damage Restoration Process Easier on You

Fires are not entirely uncommon to New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City homes, but each one presents a unique look at the same kinds of effects for professional restorers. Finding a way to overcome the specific issues that make comfortable living a challenge in your home is a hurdle for any restorer to overcome, and much of that comes with going the extra mile for the customers and clients. One way of doing this is keeping an open dialogue with the homeowner to ensure that needs and milestones are getting met throughout the restoration process.

While you might not ever get prepared for fire damages to your  residence, SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City is always here to help you through every piece of restoring the house back to preloss conditions. As was mentioned above, our team works hard to keep an open dialogue with every customer and client we serve to ensure that things are getting done to their specific specs and expectations, addressing the most pressing and property damaging elements before other restoration tasks occur.

Another step forward towards making your life a little more comfortable through this challenging time is our ability to work directly with insurance adjusters for your home to coordinate the work needing to get completed with the claim getting filed. Ultimately, our goal is to make this process as streamlined as possible for you, as this time in your life is trying enough as it is. It is also beneficial to have experts in the restoration field negotiate this battle for you in getting your claim pushed through because we have a credible reputation as a leading company in this niche of business.

While fire damages might occur in different ways from house to house in the area, fighting their effects and getting the fire damage restoration process does not have to be a drawn out and involved ordeal. Trust the experienced technicians we have at SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City to help you clean up the mess and get your house back to the way it should be. We can be reached anytime at 504-468-3047

Count On SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City If Your Home Gets Caught In A Flood

1/3/2020 (Permalink)

If you are dealing with water intrusion in your home, contact SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City 504-468-3047

Put Your Mind At Ease and Call The Professionals at SERVPRO® of New Orleans Uptown & Mid-City

New Orleans floods, a lot. It is almost a normal part of our lives here, so cleaning up from water in our homes is a regular occurrence for residents and restoration services. 

Performing a water cleanup in New Orleans takes much than just a large Water-Vac and a push broom, however. SERVPRO® teams have to identify the category of water that floods a home to determine the cleaning method and what precautions they need to take to keep our technicians and the homeowner safe. 
 
Category One is Clean Water. It does not contain waste products. Burst pipes, leaking faucets, and some failing appliances are the usual sources of clean water. Natural disasters can damage roofs and expose homes to rain and snow. This category presents minimal health risks during removal and requires no special requirements for cleanup. If the water flowed over the soil before entering the home, however, it is not considered clean water. As a caveat, if rainwater intruding through the attic soaks through insulation and items, it is not clean water. 
 
Category Two is Gray Water. It is water that was used but does not contain human waste. This category includes water from an overflowing washer that drops detergent-filled water on the floor. An overflowing toilet with no solid waste also is included in this category. Gray water is not a vector for spreading disease, but people can become sick by touching it, drinking it, or walking through it without protective footwear. Carpet soaked in gray water needs thorough cleaning for restoration and furniture needs to be sprayed or wiped down with an anti-bacterial cleaner. 
 
Category Three is Black Water. This unsanitary water often contains human waste and presents a health threat to anyone who comes in contact with it. SERVPRO® technicians wear protective gear while removing it from each home. Before starting removal, our teams also spray the surfaces with anti-bacterial and anti-fungal cleaners to reduce the risk. They treat all floodwater as black water since it is impossible to know what it traveled through before it entered a home. Team leaders dispose of carpets soaked in Black Water and only recommend attempting to clean high-value rugs since technicians can lift them from the floor and soaked them in a biocide solution that kills all living organisms. 

If you have any concerns or experience water damage yourself call us at 504-468-3047