Serving Baton Rouge's Biohazard Cleaning Needs: Our Expertise and Procedures

11/16/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Experts on a biohazard job

In Baton Rouge, Louisiana, safety and cleanliness are paramount, not only for homes but also for businesses and public spaces. When biohazardous incidents occur, such as accidents, crime scenes, or infectious disease outbreaks, the need for thorough and professional cleaning becomes evident. At SERVPRO, we understand the importance of maintaining a safe and healthy environment in Baton Rouge, and we are proud to offer our expertise in biohazard cleaning to meet the unique needs of our community.

Why SERVPRO Stands Out in Biohazard Cleaning in Baton Rouge:

1. Local Expertise: As a locally owned and operated SERVPRO franchise, we are deeply connected to the Baton Rouge community. We understand the unique biohazard cleaning challenges our city faces and tailor our services to address those specific needs.

2. Compliance and Certification: Our team is trained and certified in biohazard cleanup and decontamination, ensuring that we adhere to strict industry standards and guidelines. We stay up-to-date with the latest cleaning procedures and safety protocols to protect both our technicians and our Baton Rouge clients.

3. Rapid Response: Biohazard situations often require an immediate response to prevent further contamination and minimize risks. SERVPRO of Baton Rouge operates 24/7, ensuring that we can be on the scene promptly when needed.

4. Thorough Cleaning and Disinfection: Our team is equipped with the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) and specialized cleaning agents to effectively clean and disinfect biohazardous areas. We leave no stone unturned, ensuring that every surface is thoroughly decontaminated.

5. Compassion and Sensitivity: We understand that biohazard incidents can be emotionally challenging for those involved. Our technicians approach each situation with empathy, respect, and discretion, working to alleviate the burden on affected individuals and property owners.

6. Safe Disposal: Proper disposal of biohazardous waste is critical to preventing further contamination. We follow strict protocols for the safe removal and disposal of biohazardous materials in accordance with local and federal regulations.

7. Documented Procedures: We maintain detailed records of our biohazard cleaning procedures, which can be essential for legal and insurance purposes. Our thorough documentation ensures transparency and accountability throughout the cleanup process.

Success Stories in Baton Rouge:

Over the years, we have had the privilege of assisting the Baton Rouge community with various biohazard cleaning needs. Our commitment to providing professional and compassionate services has helped individuals, businesses, and public spaces recover from challenging situations. You can find examples of our successful biohazard cleaning projects on our website, where we share stories of how we have made a difference in the Baton Rouge area.

Conclusion:

At SERVPRO, we take pride in being Baton Rouge's trusted partner for biohazard cleaning. Our dedication to maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our community is unwavering. Whether it's a biohazard cleanup in a residence, a commercial property, or a public space, we have the expertise, resources, and commitment to get the job done efficiently and thoroughly.

If you are in Baton Rouge and require professional biohazard cleaning services, please don't hesitate to contact SERVPRO. We are here to ensure the safety and well-being of our Baton Rouge community, providing expert biohazard cleaning solutions to keep our city clean and secure.

Discover the Advantages of SERVPRO's Duct Cleaning Services in Baton Rouge, LA

11/8/2023 (Permalink)

Dirty AC vent

If you're like many Baton Rouge, Louisiana residents and business owners, you understand the importance of maintaining a clean and comfortable indoor space. However, the quality of the air you breathe is often overlooked. That's where SERVPRO comes in, offering top-notch duct cleaning services tailored to the unique needs of Baton Rouge.

Our Baton Rouge Connection:

• We're not just a nationwide brand; we're your neighbors in Baton Rouge. We understand the city's distinct climate and challenges. Whether you reside in a historic home or manage a thriving business, our duct cleaning services are designed to meet your specific requirements.

Hidden Dangers of Dirty Ducts:

• Over time, dust, allergens, mold, and debris can accumulate in your HVAC ducts. This not only impacts indoor air quality but also hinders the efficiency of your HVAC system. Dirty ducts can even contribute to health issues, particularly for those with allergies or respiratory conditions.

Improved Air Quality:

• Opting for SERVPRO's duct cleaning services in Baton Rouge means investing in cleaner, fresher air. Our meticulous cleaning process eliminates dust, pollen, and other pollutants, making your indoor environment healthier for both residents and employees.

Enhanced Energy Efficiency:

• Clean ducts translate to a more efficient HVAC system. Clogged ducts force your system to work harder to maintain your desired temperature. With our services, you can anticipate reduced energy bills and a decreased environmental impact.

Extended Equipment Lifespan:

• A well-maintained HVAC system has a longer life span. By keeping your ducts clean, you ensure that your equipment functions optimally, reducing the need for expensive repairs or replacements.

Skilled Technicians:

• Our proficient professionals in Baton Rouge are well-equipped to deliver top-notch service. We employ the latest technology and techniques to comprehensively clean your ducts, ensuring no nook or cranny is left untouched.

Comprehensive Cleaning:

• Our duct cleaning services in Baton Rouge go beyond surface-level cleaning. We don't just clean the ducts; we also address the HVAC unit itself. You'll be left with an entire system that's in peak condition.

Breathe Easier with SERVPRO:

• With our duct cleaning services, you'll notice a significant enhancement in your indoor air quality. This results in reduced allergens and pollutants circulating through your home or business, allowing you to breathe more easily and enjoy a healthier environment.

Tailored Solutions:

• We understand that every property in Baton Rouge is unique. We provide customized solutions that tackle your specific concerns and needs. Whether it's a residential space or a commercial property, we've got you covered.

A Safer, Healtheir Baton Rouge:

• Baton Rouge is a city we take pride in, and that's why we're committed to making it a safer and healthier place for all. SERVPRO's duct cleaning services are a crucial step toward achieving this goal.

Contact SERVPRO in Baton Rouge Today:

• Don't wait to breathe easier and experience the benefits of clean air. Contact SERVPRO of Baton Rouge today for a consultation and witness the difference our duct cleaning services can make in your Baton Rouge home or business. We're more than just a service provider; we're your partners in creating a healthier, more comfortable environment for you, your family, and your customers in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

Restoring Baton Rouge's Rich Legacy: SERVPRO's Water Damage Expertise in the Red Stick City

11/7/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Expert finding all the moisture in the walls

In the heart of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where the Mississippi River flows and the echoes of history resonate, water damage can be a homeowner's unexpected challenge. Whether it's a sudden downpour, a plumbing mishap, or a roof leak, the impact of water damage can be truly disheartening. Fortunately, Baton Rouge has a dedicated team ready to help, no matter the size of the job – SERVPRO®.

Local Insight and Expertise:

• In Baton Rouge, local insight is invaluable. Our SERVPRO team knows the city like the back of our hands. We understand the local climate, common sources of water damage, and the most effective strategies to address them. We're not just a restoration team; we're your neighbors who appreciate Baton Rouge's rich heritage.

Skilled Professionals Rooted in Baton Rouge:

• Baton Rouge's dynamic blend of history and modernity requires specialized expertise. Our team consists of skilled professionals who call Baton Rouge home. They're trained and certified to serve our city effectively, ensuring that we can handle any size job with precision and care.

Advanced Equipment for Every Baton Rouge Challenge:

• Baton Rouge's diverse weather patterns demand adaptability. We're equipped with state-of-the-art tools, including advanced moisture meters and powerful dehumidifiers, to address water damage effectively, regardless of the challenge.

Initial Assessment for Tailored Solutions:

• Understanding Baton Rouge's unique climate and potential sources of water damage, we begin with a comprehensive assessment. We evaluate the extent of the damage, whether it's caused by local storms, flooding, or internal issues.

Safety as a Community Priority:

• Safety is paramount in our city. Whether we're tackling a small residential issue or a significant job, we immediately shut off electricity and gas to protect our team and our neighbors.

Efficient Water Extraction for Baton Rouge Residents:

• Baton Rouge residents can trust us to swiftly remove standing water. We understand the importance of quick action, especially during stormy seasons, no matter the size of the water intrusion.

Thorough Moisture Detection:

• Baton Rouge's humid climate can create hidden moisture pockets. We employ advanced moisture detection equipment to ensure every corner is covered, regardless of the job's size.

Respect for Your Belongings in Baton Rouge:

• We treat furniture, cherished items, and valuables with care, regardless of the size of the job. Baton Rouge's rich cultural tapestry deserves nothing less.

Community-Based Mold Prevention:

• Baton Rouge's warm and humid climate makes mold prevention vital. We take all necessary steps to control humidity and ensure thorough drying, no matter the scale of the water damage.

Dehumidification and Structural Drying in Baton Rouge:

• In a city that values its history and modernity, we use dehumidifiers and specialized drying equipment to reduce moisture levels and restore building materials, regardless of the challenge.

Cleanliness and Sanitization in Baton Rouge: - Baton Rouge residents can count on our commitment to cleanliness. Whether it's a small residential issue or a larger commercial challenge, we disinfect all affected areas, preventing mold and bacteria growth and maintaining a healthy living environment.

Preservation and Restoration in Baton Rouge: - Baton Rouge's rich history and architectural heritage deserve preservation. Whether it's a small residential issue or a significant commercial crisis, our restoration process ensures damaged structures and materials are repaired or replaced, preserving the city's unique character.

A Focus on Community in Baton Rouge: - In Baton Rouge, we're not just a service provider; we're your neighbors. Our commitment to our vibrant community means we maintain open lines of communication with property owners, ensuring that clients are informed about our progress, any adjustments, and what to expect, regardless of the job's size.

Final Inspection in the Spirit of Baton Rouge: - We complete our work with a final inspection to ensure that all water damage has been addressed, and our community is safe and habitable, no matter the size of the challenge.

Serving Baton Rouge, we understand the unique spirit of the city. Whether it's a minor residential issue or a significant community crisis, our SERVPRO team feels deeply connected to Baton Rouge and is committed to preserving its rich history and vibrant life. We're not just a restoration team; we're part of your community, your friends, and your support system. In Baton Rouge, we're here to ensure that the city's legacy remains vibrant and welcoming to all who call it home.

Navigating the Waters: SERVPRO's Expert Water Damage Restoration in Ascension Parish

10/25/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO experts place, and monitor, water damage in local home.

Ascension Parish, with its rich culture and close-knit communities, is a gem in the heart of Louisiana. Like any area, it is not immune to the challenges posed by water damage. When homes and businesses find themselves in the grip of water's destructive power, SERVPRO® of Ascension Parish is the beacon of restoration and recovery that residents trust.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Ascension Parish?

1. Local Dedication, National Strength: As a part of the Ascension Parish community, we understand the unique water damage challenges of this region. We bring a personal touch, backed by the resources of SERVPRO’s nationwide network.

2. 24/7 Emergency Service: Water damage doesn't adhere to a 9-to-5 schedule, and neither do we. Our team is ready to respond at a moment's notice, day or night, ensuring that help is on the way when you need it most.

3. Advanced Technology and Techniques: We are equipped with the most innovative water extraction, drying, and restoration technology, ensuring effective and efficient recovery from water damage.

4. Full-Spectrum Restoration Services: From the initial assessment to the final touches of restoration, SERVPRO of Ascension Parish manages the entire process, providing a seamless and stress-free experience for our clients.

Our Water Damage Restoration Journey

1. Immediate Response: When you reach out to SERVPRO of Ascension Parish, you initiate a rapid response. We are on call 24/7, ready to dispatch a team to your location.

2. Thorough Inspection and Damage Assessment: Upon arrival, our trained technicians conduct a comprehensive inspection to gauge the extent of the water damage and devise a customized restoration plan.

3. Efficient Water Removal: Using state-of-the-art pumps and vacuums, we swiftly remove the majority of the water from your property, mitigating further damage.

4. Drying and Dehumidification: Even after the visible water is gone, moisture lingers. Our advanced drying equipment targets these hidden pockets of moisture, ensuring a thorough dry-out.

5. Cleaning, Sanitizing, and Odor Removal: Water damage can leave behind odors and potential contaminants. Our team meticulously cleans, sanitizes, and deodorizes your property and belongings.

6. Restoration and Repair: From minor repairs like replacing carpeting to major reconstruction work, we are committed to bringing your property back to its pre-water damage condition.

Water damage can be a daunting challenge, but with SERVPRO of Ascension Parish, you have a dedicated partner in restoration. We are committed to providing swift, effective, and compassionate service, ensuring that when water damage strikes, we are ready to make it "Like it never even happened." Trust in SERVPRO of Ascension Parish to restore not just your property, but also your peace of mind.

Flood Damages Can Be Reduced When You Understand The Top Causes Of It.

10/9/2023 (Permalink)

After a home in Ascension Parish was flooded, our water damage experts came in to dry and restore the property.

Flooding is very common in Louisiana, but water damage can come from many different places and is not just a problem for people living on the coast. While the damage from a flood is pretty apparent, there are many ways water damage can happen to your home when you don’t even realize it.

Here are some common causes of water damage and how you can spot the warning signs.

Weather is a common cause of water damage. Rains cause flooding that can get into your home from the outside.

Even if it isn’t raining there is still moisture in the air. Damp air can lead to condensation and water damage to your walls. This is especially true of bathrooms and other damp areas of your home that don’t get much airflow.

Appliances like your washing machine, garbage disposal, water heater, toilet, and air conditioner can all contribute to water damage if they leak or stop draining properly.

Water from our pipes and plumbing systems can also cause water damage. Leaks and drips can go on for months, or even years, raising your water bill and doing unseen damage to your home.

So if these are all the ways water can sneak into your home, what are the signs of water damage?

Here are a few warning signs that you have a water damage problem in your home.

Standing water – This may sound pretty obvious, but if you notice water pooling in your house you have a water problem that needs to be taken care of immediately.

Bad smells – While water doesn’t normally have much of a smell, the mold and bacteria that grow in damp environments can give off a distinct musty, wet odor. If you smell mold or mildew you might have a water issue.

Stains and spots – Stains on the ceilings or walls can be a sign of water damage. You might have a leaky pipe or roof. Our experts come in to determine the cause of the problem and to clean up the damage before it becomes a serious mold problem.

Peeling paint – Paint damaged by water will start to peel, bubble, or flake off.

Uneven surfaces – Water damage can cause floors, ceilings, walls, and other surfaces to warp and feel uneven.

Cracks – Water is always seeking the path of least resistance out of your home. Water can enter through cracks and once water finds it’s way in, the crack will expand allowing even more to get into your home. Make sure you seal all visible cracks on your property.

If you notice your home has water damage call the experts at today!

Get to Know Your Total Solutions Restoration Company- SERVPRO of Ascension Parish

8/22/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Owner, Darren Burychka, on site of commercial water damage in local church.

SERVPRO of Ascension provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Ascension Parish. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us at 225-663-8877

Whether your Ascension Parish home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. 

Residential Cleaning and Restoration Services

• Water Removal and Dehumidification
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation
• Smoke and Soot Cleanup
• Move Outs and Contents Restoration
• Contents Claim Inventory Service
• Odor Identification and Deodorization
• Catastrophic Storm Response
• Air Ducts and HVAC Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

The professionals at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish are committed to providing fire and water clean up and restoration services, as well as top-quality professional cleaning services for your entire home. 

About SERVPRO of Ascension Parish

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Have questions? Call us at 225-663-8877

The Do’s and Don’ts of Fire Damage From Your Local SERVPRO Experts

8/22/2023 (Permalink)

Resident endures fire damage on home, and calls in SERVPRO experts for restoration.

Putting You Back In Control

As a leader in fire and water cleanup and restoration, our number one goal is returning damage to its preloss condition, doing all we can to make it “Like It Never Even Happened.” Every SERVPRO® Franchise Professional who steps onto a job site has this goal in mind. It is about total restoration of the damage and about the life of the customer being helped.

Fire and Smoke Damage Tips

Do’s:

• Limit movement of people in the structure to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets
• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place dry, colorfast towels on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely, and prop doors open to help prevent odors.
• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances. Then protect with a light coating of lubricant.
• Pour RV antifreeze into sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs if heat is off during freezing season.
• Gently wash both sides of leaves on indoor plants.
• Change HVAC filter, but leave system off until checked by trained professional.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.

Don'ts:

• Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your SERVPRO® Franchise Professional.
• Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional.
• Attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service person.
• Consume any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water. (They may be contaminated.)
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock.
• Send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

For more information give us a call at (225)-753-3434

Water Damage and the HOA....who is responsible?

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

HOA and water damage at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish

With so many HOA's now it can sometimes be difficult in sorting out who is responsible for the damage when it comes to water damage in an HOA controlled property so lets look at some of the facts and help you figure out where you stand on the issue. 

How do we allot responsibilty in the event of a water damage? 

When it comes to condominiums and apartments the common practice is that the tenant is responsible for the interior of the home or "...from the paint inward." and the HOA is responsible for the exterior "...from the paint outward". The questions begin to arise when a water damage started from the exterior and then permeated inward to the interior as a result of a building failure in the exterior...who holds blame here is the common questions. 

Often times the water damage can get extensively worse do to the time taken by the HOA and unit owner to discuss, bicker and point fingers neither willing to take responsibility. In this crucial time the damage expands exponentially and could potentially cause microbial growth and extensive secondary damage. 

Step 1.) Read the Contract 

When you originally got into the agreement there was a large amount of paperwork that was signed and agreed upon by both parties. Often times the answers to these disputes lie in the paperwork and responsible parties are clearly labeled and defined based on type and severity of damage. Typically the responsibility will fall on the party responsible for the exterior, especially if negligence in plumbing and roofing maitenance can be proved. 

Step 2.) Identify the Problem 

Often times in these situations the answer may come down to a technicality or a bylaw so it is imperative that you discover the source of the water damage as quickly as possible and then document it with both picture and possibly video evidence. Regardless of who is at fault it is much easier to identify the source of the damage earlier rather than later. The sooner there is an identified source and an action plan to resolve that issue is in place the better for all parties. It shows the insurance company that regardless of fault every effort was made to minimize and mitigate the level of damage. 

3.) Let Your HOA Know ASAP 

In situations like this it is imperative that the HOA is told about the problem quickly and clearly. It is the responsibility of the unit owner to inform and communicate as soon as possible so that the HOA has enough time to respond and mobilize for the water damage. You can never assume how they will respond so it is always in the best interest of all involved if communication is swift and clear and make sure to document that comunication as well. 

4.) File an Insurance Claim 

regardless of who is at fault, once the source is found and once responsibility is given to either party an insurance claim needs to be filed immediately. Insurance companies frown heavily on late claim reports. Let the insurance company know and invite them to send an adjuster ASAP so that all due diligence is handled quickly and effectively. 

If you have any further questions please feel free to contact SERVPRO of Ascension Parish at (225)753-3434 so that we can help you anytime 24/7/365

2022 Hurricane Forecast looks bleak....SERVPRO has your back!

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish

The National Hurricane Center has called for record number of storms this 2022 Hurricane season and has also called for a record number of active hurricanes. The one constant during Hurricane Season and at the site of its biggest damage points has always been SERVPRO Green. 

SERVPRO has a fleet of experienced Commercial Drying Specialists, Residential Water Technicians and Project Managers spread throughout the country who respond on a moments notice and drive headlong into the fray to help customers, hospitals, schools, universities, government buildings and companies battle the storms and its affects in the aftermath of great disasters. 

Our teams spend weeks and months on the road helping others clean up and build back the lives they lost in major weather storms. The 2022 seasons seams to be no different with the Best and Brightest as SERVPRO preparing, training, inventorying and planning to respond to the needs of those impacted. 

While SERVPRO Professionals ,like Doctors, does not pray for bad things to happen but rather prays for the opportunity to respond safely and efficiently to those in need with our skills and abilities to minimize the affects of the damage on their homes, businesses and families. 

If you or yours need assistance during this 2022 Hurricane Season please give SERVPRO of Ascension Parish a call at (225)753-3434 for more information. 

SERVPRO has Big Company Resources with a Small Company Attitude!

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

A bird's-eye view of SERVPRO of Ascension Parish's operational tent.

SERVPRO has been around since 1967 and started out as a Carpet Cleaning company and then became a residential restoration company that focused primarily on the needs of residential customers who found themselves in major disasters from Hot Water Heaters, Storm Damage or the occasional house fire. SERVPRO has always been quick to respond the needs of our customers with a plan to help and a smile while doing so. 

Over the years SERVPRO has expanded to over 2000 franchises with Green Trucks and a can do attitude in many different neighborhoods all across the United States. Over the years we have learned a thing or two about Water Damage, Fire Damage, Storm Response, Trauma Clean-up and Mold Clean-up. Our equipment, custom made products and well trained technicians are second to none in the industry at responding to water damage and getting our customer's property back "Like it never happened" quickly and professionally. 

Throughout the years we have seen a number of changes in the market including a large focus on commercial restoration and the same services that we have always offered our residential customers but now for major businesses, plants, hospitals and larger buildings. SERVPRO has stayed in the homes of our customers helping them fight the elements and keeping their homes safe and sound in moments of disaster while at the same time expanding into the Commercial market at the behest of our clients to bring our expertise to corporate America. 

SERVPRO's LLRT (Large Loss Response Teams) have become a shinning example of what Professional Commercial Restoration should look like in the industry. LLRT teams respond quickly to the call of our corporate team to help some of the biggest companies in America get back to business when disaster strikes. 

SERVPRO is one of the largest restoration companies in US but our teams still respond to disasters of every size and magnitude with the same can do it attitude and a smile. 

If you have any needs or questions please give us a call at (225)753-3434 for more info or the have one of our SERVPRO Professionals come visit your business today for a complimentary ERP (Emergency Readiness Plan). 

SERVPRO Employees are Second to None!

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

Tom Winnfield has dedicated 20 years of his career to SERVPRO East Baton Rouge / Ascension Parish.

SERVPRO has been hiring the best and the brightest since 1967 and that has never changed. Our Technicians must be able to show up at a water or fire loss in a moments notice and sometimes in the very middle of the night. 

SERVPRO has employed Tom Winnfield for 20 years in the East Baton Rouge and Ascension area. Tom started as a basic water and fire technician under Jim Burychka back in 2002. Tom worked for months through Hurricane Katrina and every other storm that has hit the Gulf Coast since then. Tom Winnfield is a US Army Veteran and seen action in Operation Desert Storm. He brings a relentless level of knowledge and professionalism to the team and to the company. 

Today Tom Winnfield has risen through the ranks of the company to be the Production Manager and has built quite a reputation for himself in the East Baton Rouge and Ascension parish market with numerous customers calling Tom on his phone to respond to thousands of disasters every year. Tom still works on call many weekends and customers are delighted with his quick wit, big smile and focus on customer service above all else. 

At SERVPRO, we are blessed beyond measure to have someone like Tim Winnfield leading and teaching the next generation of technicians with his incredible knowledge and attitude. Twenty years of greatness in the field has made Tom Winnfield a legend in Louisiana restoration and we are proud to have him on board for another 20. 

If you have any water, fire or mold needs in the Ascension area please feel free to give us a call anytime at (225) 753-3434, you never know, you might get lucky enough to have Tom come knock on your door! 

Why SERVPRO....Professionalism!

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

Clients bring us treats because we are the Best!

People choose SERVPRO of Ascension Parish due to Professionalism. Our teams strive to not only provide the most elite level of Emergency Management for our clients but we do it in the most professional manner possible and with a smile. We know that we cannot build a business from one job but we can build a business by showing up and giving our best effort to each and every loss that comes into our system. Very often we are giving incredible treats and thank you's from our clients due to our efforts and dedication on the job. Check out these 3 reasons Why SERVPRO of Ascension Parish stands above the crowd when it comes to restoration and helping you family in emergency situations. 

The first reason that SERVPRO stands above our competitors is that we promise that if we don't answer the phone when you call, we will give you a call back in less than one hour. That's right less than one hour. Our technicians and team or standing by to respond to your needs in less than 1 hour. 

The second reason that SERVPRO stands above the competition is that we have a firm commitment to respond to your home or business within 4 hours of talking to you. We will get whatever equipment is needed to mitigate your emergency and we will have techs onsite working for you in less that 4 hours to solve your emergency related problems. 

The final reason that SERVPRO stands above the competition is that we will provide a full Initial Loss Report to you the client detailing the problem and the solutions we have decided upon in less than 8 hours from the time of the call. This means we will make sure that you as a client understand the big picture problem and our strategy to solve it for you and your business in less than 8 hours. 

The SERVPRO 1-4-8 Service Response Guideline is our standard of doing business and realistically we beat those numbers 99% of the time because we are dedicated to you and to our work. That is one of the main reasons so many people trust the SERVPRO name when it comes to emergency services that they need handled for their family or business. It is also probably why clients give us so many cookies and gifts as well! 

If your in need give us a call at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish at (225)753-3434

Why SERVPRO...Community Involvement!

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

Drake Serving the Community of Baton Rouge

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is synonymous with the word community. We work with local schools, universities, churches and government bodies to have a positive and lasting effect on the local Baton Rouge community. Recently SERVPRO of Ascension Parish utilized its box trucks to drive around the city of Baton Rouge and collect large boxes of donated non-perishable food items for the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank. A couple times per week Drake and another person would pick up all of the supplies from local stops like schools and libraries and then drop them off at the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank for distribution throughout the community. 

These donations were used within our community to help those less fortunate during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays to have a wonderful meal. As a company we are here to also use our time and resources to help those in the community that we believe need an extra hand, especially during times like the holidays. During the pickups and deliveries our teams met many different wonderful people who were donating to the community and we spoke with them about the holidays and the spirit of giving. 

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish has always been a partner in the Baton Rouge community for those less fortunate. The owner of SERVPRO of Ascension Parish  , Darren and Tiffinie Burychka, have always had a heart for the community of Baton Rouge and have used their business as a tool to give back through various charitable practices including food drives, school drives, support for the local food banks and donations to various organization within the community that lend themselves to supporting the community. 

The employees at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish have always been eager to held with any of the various opportunities to serve that have presented themselves. For more information please give SERVPRO of Ascension Parish a call at (225)753-3434

Why SERVPRO....Team!

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Baton Rouge attends a Saint Game for some R&R!

Last year in 2021 the state of Louisiana was hit very hard by Hurricane Ida and many other storms and the team at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish was pushed to the absolute max. Some of team members were on the road for storm work away from their family for up to 8 weeks. During that time those individuals were working 7 days per week and up 16 hours per day to restore a number of very devastated properties throughout the New Orleans, Houma and Thibodeaux region. Our company saw record numbers of people affected by these water losses and we as team came together to give our everything to help restore all of our clients families and homes back to their pre-storm condition. 

Louisiana as a whole took a major hit. SERVPRO of Ascension Parish was called upon by the State of Louisiana to mitigate and restore many different state run properties that were significantly affected during the Hurricane season. Our team was trusted to get the job done in some very dire circumstances and SERVPRO of Ascension Parish not only pulled through with shining colors. Our teams mitigated huge losses like all 8 campuses of Delgado Community College, NOCCA (New Orleans Center for Creative Arts), Chabert Hospital, LUMCON (Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium) and many more as well. Our teams completed the jobs with rave reviews and we saved hundreds of thousands of dollars for these properties and the state of Louisiana. 

After the dust settled and we all had a chance to catch our breath the Burychka's took everyone to a much needed New Orleans Saints game to rest, relax and fellowship with one another. These moments are what create such a special team of people who are willing to go head long into the storm and find a way to help people. We are SERVPRO of Ascension Parish and we are a TEAM!

Why SERVPRO....Veterans!

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

The VA Hospital in Baton Rouge, LA

SERVPRO as a company has always been a huge supporter of the US Military and Veterans. SERVPRO corporate has a cooperative effort and program in place to hire veterans as Restoration Technicians and Crew Chiefs throughout the company when they get our of the service. Ex military personal make great employees due to their attention to detail, their focus on job related tasks and their discipline to get any job done that they encounter. 

As SERVPRO of Ascension Parish we have plenty of ex-military on staff including Production Manager Tom Winnfield, Job File coordinator Jayla Richardson and Large Loss Manager Tim Credeur. All of those individuals bring a level of professionalism and work ethic to the team that is rarely matched. 

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish was recently contacted to do some mitigation and reconstruction work at the local Baton Rouge Veteran Affairs Hospital and jumped at the chance to help a facility that offers so much care and concern to our US veterans. The building needed some waterproofing and some water damage mitigation that was handled pretty quickly by our water loss professionals. Our teams removed some water damaged walls and other various building materials and cleaned all of the remaining studs and spaces until the reconstruction came onsite and got everything looking and smelling as good as new. 

The tram did such a good job that the owners of the facility asked us back to handle some light reconstruction and expansion projects for them in various wings of the hospital. Whether it is a residential project, commercial project or government project SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is always on board to offer its services, but especially to our Veterans and the facilities that need for care and comfort. SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is proud to partner and work with the VA Hospital in Baton Rouge to restore services and see our hero's treated as the hero's they are. 

If you have any questions or needs please feel free to contact us at anytime at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish by giving us a call at (225)753-3434.

6 Signs That Indicate Water Damage

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

Ascension Parish Water Damage Signs

When it comes to most expensive disasters to a home or business Water Damage can absolutely be one of the highest on that list. Water damage untreated and undetected can lead to microbial growth, mold spore development, major structural damage and eventually severe health effects for the inhabitants of that property. Today in this blog we are going to talk about 6 different signs that may indicate the presence of water damage in the walls and the need for remediation or restoration on the property.

Many homeowners in South Louisiana have been through many major storms and major hurricanes over the years and they have a good idea of how to spot water damage and early trouble before it becomes a major problem. On the other hand many people may have no idea about water damage and the problems that it can cause.

The 6 Signs That Indicate Water Damage In Your Walls

When it comes to water damage inside your property there are usually a number of clues that indicate as much pretty early on in the water intrusion, in this blog we are going to discuss 6 of them that should send up red flags to a homeowners or property manager that there is moisture inside the walls and something going on that needs to be addressed fairly quickly. Many of these signs may be very noticeable to the common person unless you know what to look for and specifically what you are looking at. Some of the more common things that can pop up and indicate a problem are thing like cracks in the grout, drywall softness or cracking, nail pops, obvious structural damage, buckled cailings, buckled floors and very distinct moldy smells are all very common signals that there is an absolute moisture issue somewhere on the property. The secret is to know exactly what to look for so that you can get to work on addressing the small things which may lead to bigger things in the walls behind, the floors below or the ceilings above and with these discoveries the opportunity to hopefully nop it in the bud and mitigate any further damage.

• Bubbles in the paint on the wall.

The first major sign that moisture has found its way into your walls and into your home is the presence of bubbling under or around various patches of affected paint or peeling paint areas. When paint begins to bubble it is usually a sign of water buildup behind that paint in the drywall that forces the paint to expand and grow and in turn bubble. When the water collects in these spaces and crevices it pushes the paint outward and begins the bubbling process due to water collection. You never know how much water is actually behind these bubbles so we do not condone you popping these bubbles until a professional is onsite who can clean up the water safely and effectively.

• Walls and Door Casings Warping

When doors, door casings and walls begin to warp inside a property it usually an indicator of excessive moisture somewhere. Warping tends to occur when water gets inside the wood, wood frames and walls and begins expanding. When drywall gets wet it begins expanding and this excessive pressure can in turn warp and ruin the doors and door frames making it hard to open and close the doors. This problem can often lead to more extensive structural damage as time goes on.

• Softened, Cracked and Warped Drywall

Softened drywall is an often-overlooked indicator of more serious problems. Moisture and water that get behind the wall cause the backside of the drywall to soften and even become mushy. Look for soft spots or wet spots in the drywall and gently press into them. If the drywall depresses, there is most likely water damage.

• The Presence of Microbials, Mildew and Mold on your walls

Mold growth can form quickly when moisture is consistently present in the air. It’s not always easily detected, but if visible, mold can present itself in many different colors, including black, green, or blue. When mold is present, you might also see condensation or water stains that are darker than the rest of the wall. This could mean the water damage is worse than you think.

• Wet, Musty or Mildewed Odors

A musty smell is an easy alert that something is amiss. The distinct smell can let you know about hidden water damage that your eyes cannot see. Follow your nose to locate the affected wall and look for any water leakage around the area. If you are unable to locate the water damage yourself, that doesn’t mean it’s not there.

• Higher than Normal Water Bills

If all else fails – follow the money. An unexpected increase in a home water bill can be a big red flag that a hidden leak may be wreaking havoc on your home. Pay attention to your water bills each month, so you notice any discrepancies. A water bill increasing unexpectedly could mean hidden water damage in walls.

Water Damage in Walls Can Lead to Very Serious Structural Damage if Left Untreated

Water damage isn’t a one-size-fits-all situation. The damage can occur in numerous ways, including heavy rain, leaking or burst pipes, etc. And the water damage cleanup is also unique to each house and its structural problems. How long the water leak goes undetected can have an effect on how much water damage you’ll have to deal with and what kind of repair costs you might expect.

Each situation involving water damage can be different, but the signs aren’t as unique and, unfortunately, are often missed. If left unaddressed, the problem will only worsen, and cost more money and time with repair work.

What Do You Do If You Detect Water/Moisture In Your Walls?

Knowing what to look for is the first step, but what do you do when you suspect or even find water damage in your walls? You should reach out to professionals immediately to help with water mitigation and any serious damage. Putting it off or trying to handle the water damage yourself can lead to bigger problems. It doesn’t take long for a small leak to become a more serious problem.

At SERVPRO of Ascension Parish our professional technicians are on call 24/7 to help with any water damage needs. Our experts work efficiently and effectively to find the source and address the problem. Don’t hesitate, contact us today at (225) 753-3434

Sewage Backup Can Shut Down Your Business FAST!!!

10/29/2021 (Permalink)

Ascension Parish Sewage Backup

A sewage backup at your business or residence is no laughing matter and can be a very serious health and safety situation as well for everyone on the property. Of all the different types of water damage out there a sewage leak is one of the most difficult, dangerous and hazardous to all involved. According to the CDC (Center for Disease Control) raw sewage can pose some very serious health effects to people due to the presence of such things as Giardia, Legionella and many other toxic compounds that can pose potential serious health effects.

Anyone experiencing a sewage backup in their home, business or facility should call a professional cleaning and restoration company like SERVPRO of Ascension Parish. When it comes to a water loss involving sewage we recommend that ONLY professionals try to clean it up due to the inherent risk of health and safety due to the nature of the water loss.

Sewage is classified as what category of water loss?

All sweage backups, sewage leaks and sewage spills are considered to be category 3 water damage, category 3 water is considered black water due to the danger of the contaminates found inside the water and the risk they propose to anyone in the general vicinity of the loss. Category 3 water or black water is widely considered to be the most dangerous and most harmful category of water and the one that presents the most inherent risk to the techs and clients onsite.

How can you catch Sewage Backup early?

When it comes to sewage backup the first sign of problems is actually not visual in nature. The first sign of a sewage backup is actually the smell that is emitted from the plumbing system. The gases within the sewage well up and expand and begin releasing fumes that are a tell tale sign that sewage backup is on the way. Once the backup becomes visual with black water it can look very different depending on the situation. Most sewage back up will come out in the form of dark murky water with a very unpleasant odor. This black water is very dangerous and can impose severe health effects if contact is made and can even cause some health effects from breathing the fumes in at the site.

The Where, Why and How of Sewage Backups

Sewage backups mainly occur in areas that have a high number and proximity to sewage lines like bathrooms, basements, kitchens and laundry rooms. These locations have the highest probability of a black water backup due to the presence of the lines in their spaces. There are a variety of different reasons for sewage backups including blockage in the cities main sanitary line, old sewer pipes, tree roots.

Category 3 / Sewage Cleanup Services

If you are someone you know is experiencing a black water or sewage back-up please call the professionals to clean it up. These things can be dangerous and can cause severe health effects. SERVPRO of East Baton Rouge can handle all of your Emergency Services when it comes to category 3 water cleanup scenarios. Give us a call at (225)753-3434.

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish, your Storm Damage Experts!

10/28/2021 (Permalink)

Strom Damage in Ascension Parish

Storm damage and severe weather damage in south Louisiana can cause irrevocable problems for homes, business, facilities and properties in the south. At SERVPRO we understand that as someone affected by these untimely events you are looking for a company that can get the you repair’s, clean-up, water damage mitigation and reconstruction back to preloss conditions with as little headache as possible.

SERVPRO has been providing our service for well over 50 years throughout the United States to people, companies and municipalities alike with the highest of integrity and quality of service. SERVPRO gets boots on the ground to provide specialized emergency cleanup, water restoration services and storm damage mitigation to get your property back up and running in the least amount of time possible. Our company works closely with your insurance company and adjusters on losses of all types and sizes to provide exactly what is needed and covered by your insurance policy. We are the professionals when it comes to storm damage losses in the south.

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish offers the following services:

Emergency Readiness Plan

Priority Service Agreements

24/7 emergency storm response services

Emergency Roof Tarping and Board Up Services

Storm damage estimates

Water damage Mitigation

Wind damage repair

Tree and brush Removal

Structural Assessments and Stabilization

Complete Reconstruction services

Insurance claim assistance with all providers

We cannot predict the weather but we can provide you with an accurate breakdown of your building and property with an Emergency Readiness Plan which outlines all of the significant factors of the facility including water main, electrical man, gas shutoff, safety concerns, emergency contact persons, insurance policy, insurance contact and all other significant information so that SERVPRO can remediate emergencies as quickly and as efficiently as possible. For more information about our company and our services or to schedule an ERP for your facility please give us a call at (225)753-3434.

I have Storm Damage! What is the Process?

10/28/2021 (Permalink)

East Baton Rouge Storm Damage

In south Louisiana terrible weather which causes Storm damage is a pretty common occurrence whether it's Hurricane season or not and this storm damage can wreak havoc on properties, homes, buildings and vegetation. With storm damage comes high winds which in turn cause wind damage that can loosen or blow of roofing shingles and massively affect the health of your roof. The roof is a key element of any structure and when it gets compromised then moisture can penetrate the structure causing wood and other building materials to be affected. These affects are rotting, swelling, warping and destruction of these building materials. When these things start to happen the ceiling will become compromised and then a whole litany of problems can follow this problem. Storm Damage brings high winds, hail, rain and lightening and these things can exasperate the problem. For these reasons SERVPRO offers Storm Damage remediation 24, 7, 365 and we come in when nobody else will answer the phone and we get you back to your where you were before the storm, "Like it never even happened."

The storm damage restoration process is pretty simple and usually follows these specific key stages of the process.

Step 1: Initial Inspection

It does not matter if it’s a business, residential or facility property the initial inspection is one of the most important aspects of the process. SERVPRO will send its storm damage experts to do a thorough examination of the interior, exterior, roofing and grounds of the property. This extensive inspection will help the SERVPRO professional discover and identify the extent of the damage, the source of the water intrusion and any other safety elements or important notes that need to be documented for the client and the insurance provider. When the initial inspection is completed the SERVPRO storm technicians will be able to create an initial scope of work for the project that will be discussed with the point of contact and the insurance adjuster on the claim.

Step 2: The Work Begins

Once the scope of work needed to remediate the issues on the property have been agreed upon by the clint, the adjuster and SERVPRO it is now time for the work to begin. The type and level of work will vary with each project sometimes requiring pumps & water extractors. Then there are times when the visible and standing water have already left the building and some light demo is necessary before placing dehumidifiers, fans and air scrubbers into the space. For larger loss projects things like desiccants, DX units and generators may be necessary. Regardless of the situation needed by the client at hand SERVPRO can handle any job large or small when it comes to storm damage or water damage.

Step 3: The Work is Completed

Once the team has remediated all of the affected areas, removed all of the water and cleaned all of the affected areas professionally the technicians will remove all of the equipment from the property and make it like nothing ever happened. SERVPRO will create a report full of pictures, explanations, videos, daily reports, equipment logs, drying logs and a time line to submit to the insurance company for approval.

As you can see, when anyone suffers from storm damage due to natural disasters, the storm damage restoration process is something the SERVPRO experts can handle quickly and easily.

If you've recently suffered from storm damage and are looking for storm damage repair or water damage cleanup, contact the specialists at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish today to help restore your home, (225)753-3434

Think Like the Pro’s when it comes to Fire Damage

10/27/2021 (Permalink)

Fire before and after from SERVPRO of Ascension Parish

Fire Damage is an absolute catastrophe for everyone involved in the fire. When its your home your left looking at a heap of black and charred rubble. Its unimaginable. You cannot comprehend the devastation. You want to start looking through everything to see what you can save and what you can salvage from this horrible experience. Your trying to find something to help you stay positive in this.

Fire damage Pro’s see the exact same loss but they see it through very different eyes.

All you see is the damage, fire pro’s see the potential restoration. You see your home before but they see the potential afterward.

When a person observes the burnt pieces of their homes they are seeing what they have lost. They see the burnt window panes, the charred appliances, the blackened walls and the smoot soaked mattress.

Just for a second try and see it like the pro’s see it. The professional fire damage restoration teams see the proteins, the synthetic materials and the natural materials.

As a pro, we see soot, we see protein and we see what and how we can fix it.

Whereas you see the burned-up parts of your stove, SERVPRO’s fire damage pros are looking at proteins. We’re looking for a greasy, yellowish, brownish substance that’s hard to see to the naked eye but puts off a strong smell. It looks like it’s sticky if you can see it. That’s protein residue. Protein burns slowly, which gives more time for the smell to penetrate your cabinets, floor boards, and duct work. It can also damage your paints and varnish.

You’ll be tempted to clean it; but PLEASE don’t. You don’t have the right chemicals for the job. If you don’t clean it correctly it can absolutely cause secondary damage or worse it can cause things that may be salvageable to be rendered non-salvageable.

SERVPRO fire damage pros have far more tools at their disposal so that they can clean the fire related chemicals in a way that removes the potentiality of secondary damage from incurring.

Fire Damage: You See Black; We See Natural Substances

When you’re looking at what’s left over from the fire, you’ll see a big heap with a few random objects peppered in that oddly survived. Maybe you’ll see your dining room table, an antique dresser or remnants of your favorite book. You’ll feel weird, like you can’t make sense of what happened.

SERVPRO’s fire damage pros don’t see it that way. They’re looking for natural substances. When you burn paper or wood, one of the byproducts is residue and odor. When natural substances like paper or wood burn they grey and black and feels like powder. Individual smoke particles are about the size of .004 microns. To put that in perspective it’s far smaller than a speck of glitter.

Every tiny particle can produce an odor and because they’re so tiny, when they’re trapped in the tiny cavities in your dining room table or your antique dresser, you’ll be able to smell it. But smoke damage doesn’t only happen where you can see it. Smoke can seep past the drywall and stick to the frame of your home.

You’ll be tempted to jump in and start cleaning, but don’t. You’ll want to grab a sponge and start scrubbing. Don’t. Instead, let a SERVPRO fire damage pro handle the problem. If you start cleaning and you don’t do it correctly, you won’t fix the problem, you’ll make it worse.

Why? When you have soot and fire damage, you’re dealing with a chemical reaction. A SERVPRO fire damage pro will first do an emergency pre-cleaning to halt the damage. Then, SERVPRO fire damage pros may clean up the odor with ozone. Ozone, an olfactory desensitizer, works by generating the molecule ozone. That’s 03. This molecule is reactive, and in a process called oxidation, the extra oxygen atom attached itself to other molecules and the pungent smell is eliminated.

You see devastation; SERVPRO’s fire damage pros see chemistry.

Fire Damage: You See Melted Computers; We See Synthetics

When you’re looking at the damage, you’re seeing all the memories you had like, perhaps, the first computer you built or an old DVD that mysteriously survived the blaze.

SERVPRO’s fire damage pros see synthetics.

When oil based materials burn—like your carpet, draperies, or the first computer you built—they’ll leave behind a thick, black residue. It will smear when you touch it. The problem with synthetic damage is that when it burns it starts a chain of chemical reactions. This means you need the right chemicals to solve the problem and it needs to be immediately addressed. If you don’t know what you’re doing, and you don’t have the proper chemicals to clean it, you’re going to make your problem worse.

In the end, when you’re looking at your fire damage, you’ll see so many things: you’ll see memories that burned with property, you’ll see melted bits of plastic that once housed your family photos and you’ll see devastation.

But when you call a fire damage professional, it’s our desire that you see something far more. Yes, we want you to see the synthetics, the natural materials and the proteins. But we also want you to see something far greater than that: hope.

Fire Damage: SERVPRO Restores Your Property and Your Life

Ultimately, when you’re dealing with fire damage it’s critical to call an experienced fire damage professional as soon as possible. You can’t do this alone. But we can help you restore your property and your life.

Get 24/7 Fire Damage Help with SERVPRO at (225)753-3434

It's not Spiderman it's Soot Webs!!!

10/27/2021 (Permalink)

Ascension Parish Spiderman Visit

Soot and smoke from all types of fires can cause significant and profound damage to your home, office or property. Smoke and soot damage is a real challenge to clean up and remediate from all of the various nooks and crannies that those little black spiderwebs can hide in. The phenomenon of Soot webs looks like maybe a Fire Spiderman came through your house and shot some crazy webs but in reality those soot webs are from an accumulation of heavy smoke that can gradually cause these unique spiderweb looking soot webs in the corners and far reaches of your property.

What in the world are these Black Spiderwebs otherwise know as soot webs?

Well in all reality it is not a Spiderman character shooting those webs but instead it is caused when the fire consumes oxygen and then the particles in the air from soot cling to that oxygen and make long smoke/soot strands that float around the room through the air until the are blown into the corners of the room and make what looks like spiderwebs. These crazy soot webs actually rise due to the heat and the HVAC systems will push them to joists, corners, and different places in small spots. These are not burned spiderwebs and they are not dangerous but they do require someone well trained to clean them up properly so they don’t cause any secondary damage by spreading chemicals and soot throughout the area.

                How to get Soot Webs, Smoke and Fire Cleaned Up

Many people suffer from fires throughout the year or their neighbor suffers from fire and the smoke from their event can even transition into your home or property and it can be crucial to find a professional fire damage expert to clean it up. When building materials like wood, plastic, drywall, metal nails and personal objects burn they release smoke, soot and odor throughout the property and those things travel through the air and can land on anything and the chemical reaction from that soot and smoke can damage areas of the property that were not even near the fire. It is crucial to not try and wipe anything off without calling a professional to clean the smoke and soot up properly.

Call SERVPRO of Ascension Parish for Fire, Smoke and Soot Cleanup

The process of cleaning your home, property of business after a major fire or smoke event can be very difficult for an untrained person and can almost feel like your never going to figure it out. SERVPRO has been in business for over 50 years cleaning fire damaged properties. If your in the need for a Fire Clean up please give us a call at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish at (225)753-3434

What do the words “Standard of Care” mean when it comes Commercial Water Damage Restoration?

10/26/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial Restoration in Ascension Parish

Commercial Restoration can be a very specific and detail oriented business. All commercial projects com loaded with many different shifting and complicated variables like source of water, Affected building materials, date of water intrusion, water category and class as well as the type of business that you are dealing with.  Following the guidelines for the proper industry Standard of Care provides a project template key metrics for an optimal outcome for our commercial water damage restoration customers. SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is committed to following and documenting the proper Standard of Care throughout the entire commercial water damage restoration project. At SERVPRO of Ascension Parish we will get your property back in order "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Standard for “Standard of Care”

The standard of care in the Commercial Restoration industry is pretty easy to find through the IICRC. The Standard of Care in Commercial Water Damage (S550) is a procedural industry standard for performing water damage restoration in commercial, industrial institutional, and complex residential structures, systems and furniture, fixtures and equipment. The Standard of Care is determined and updated by the restoration industry governing body, the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning Restoration Certification)

Why is Water Damage Restoration Standard of Care Important?

Following the Standard of Care matters on commercial water damage restoration projects because SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is committed to providing the industry’s optimal efficiency and outcome for every customer in every circumstance. Choosing SERVPRO of Ascension Parish as your restoration contractor ensures that your loss will be mitigated according to the highest industry standards, saving you time and money against recurring or secondary loss such as structural instability or microbial growth. Following the Standard of Care for commercial water damage restoration gets you back in business and protects your structure, customers, employees, and reputation.

Furthermore, should the loss be an insurance claim, the carrier will expect and require adherence to the Standard of Care in order to consider the claim.  Accurate documentation includes detailed photographs of the loss and the progress, the Advanced Record of Drying Conditions Report, Inspection Report (updated daily during the drying period).

Standard of Care  – a professional company will provide documentation and proof of work.

As a valued commercial ERP (Emergency Response Program) customer, you are presented with your Standard of Care Packet following the successful mitigation of the loss. Your representative will review this packet with you in a debriefing conversation. The document is for your records in case a question arises or should you decide to sell the property. The Standard of Care Restoration Packet includes photographs of the loss, the drying documents, the work authorization, and any other documents specific to your loss and industry.

Standard of Care – Your Goal is Our Goal

The Standard of Care in commercial water damage restoration is sophisticated and can be complicated to execute successfully, but choosing SERVPRO of Ascension Parish for your commercial water loss makes it easy for you. You call us… we take care of the details for you.

For more information on our Commercial Water Damage services please contact SERVPRO of Ascension Parish at 225-753-3434  or contact us to get started on an Emergency Response Plan for your business.

Commercial Water Damage….your first call is always SERVPRO

10/26/2021 (Permalink)

Large Loss of Ascension Parish

As a Property Manager, Facility Manager or Director of Large Properties when a large water loss strikes it can be daunting as to who to call first. Y9u may feel overwhelmed and confused during these situations especially as you watch the water flow into your property without any idea how to stop it or how to fix it. These types of emergencies can be dramatic and emotional for any manager. Watching your facility flood can be heart wrenching as the walls, furniture and desks become saturated. Business operations will cease and when you and your staff can get everything back to normal is a complete mystery.

What do you do? Who do you call? Who is going to help you? These are all pertinent questions but let’s start with the first step….Shut Off The Water at the water main. This will save hundreds and thousands of gallons of water from flooding your facility. It is literally one of the most important things you can do at this point. Essentially, stop the bleeding. Next step, take all the pictures and videos that you can stomach. When it comes to these claim’s documentation is your best friend so document, document, document.

What next? Who can you call? Can they handle a job of this magnitude? Will they be able to get there immediately so as to avoid any secondary damage to the property in question. Most Restoration companies won’t be able to come out until the next day and then much more damage will have already occurred. It is essential that any facility manager or property manager have a Commercial Restoration contact to call when this happens who can get out there ASAP and help get things under control. SERVPRO offers access to this service to all of our Emergency Ready Plan customers.

Lets Break It Down:

Within the first hour water will find the path of least resistance and saturate everything in its path. Stains and finishes will release from furniture and could cause long term and permanent damage to flooring and carpets. All paper goods will become unsalvageable due to saturation. From one to 24 Hours drywall begins to swell and tear apart, metal surfaces begin to tarnish due to moisture, all laminated furniture begins to split or swell and then crack apart.

Between 48 hours and a week mold, mildew and other contaminants will begin to grow on all surfaces and spread throughout the property. Metal begins to rust, corrode and pit mark due to the moisture in the air. All wet furniture will begin to warp and sway and then show signs of mold on the surface. Paint throughout the facility will begin to blister and peel away from the structure. Windows, doors, casings, and studs begin to swell and warp. Wood flooring begins to swell, warp, or buckle. Persons with respiratory concerns or compromised immune systems could experience distress or a heightened sensitivity to allergens from microbial growth.

After one week of water damage and saturation all claim costs and reconstruction time and cost increases due to more extensive restoration. Structural safety and health concerns may pose serious hazards to occupants

The fact of the matter is that SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is Your First Call for Commercial Water Damage Restoration

At SERVPRO of Ascension Parish we’re here to help you 24/7/365. Your phone call will be answered by a live person who will connect you to a commercial project manager in minutes. It’s a good feeling to speak to a restoration professional who will dispatch an emergency water mitigation crew to help right away. The crew is onsite with a guaranteed arrival time of 2 hours (it’s usually within the hour). The emergency crew responds with water mitigation response trucks and trailers loaded with equipment and also brings years of commercial restoration experience to stop the water damage by extracting water, moving and protecting your contents from harm, and placing water mitigation equipment such as commercial air handlers and dehumidifiers. You may need large loss restoration equipment such as the SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss trailer which is a water removal system that can handle large drying spaces and has a custom setup unique to your space.

Along with the water mitigation crew, your commercial restoration project manager will arrive to assess the loss and to help you develop your emergency business continuity plan so that vital operations remain intact during the loss and reconstruction. Your project manager also serves as your liaison with your insurance company, should you need to file a claim. When your building is dry, your project manager will lead the reconstruction team to perform any needed repairs, all while keeping you and your team apprised of timelines and details.

All of these measures are available and deployed simply by making SERVPRO of East Baton Rouge your first call for commercial water damage restoration…(225)753-3434.

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish comes to the Aid of Delgado Community College

10/18/2021 (Permalink)

Project Coordinator Tim Credeur and Delgado Baseball Coach Joe Scheuermann

On August 29^th 2021 many people in Southern Louisiana were dramatically affected by Hurricane Ida and the devastation it left in its path throughout the state of Louisiana and the Gulf Coast region. Thousand of homes, businesses, institutions and state properties were severely affected by the rain fall, wind damage and hurricane force storm surge that swept throughout the state and local principalities. One of the major institutions that was affected by Hurricane Ida was the 100 year old institution of Delgado Community College which has 8 separate campuses around the New Orleans and south Louisiana region.

Delgado Community College is one of the largest technical and trade colleges in the south and is responsible for putting more young people into the workforce than almost any other institution in South Louisiana. The project coordinator Tim Credeur was dedicated to get the campuses back up and running as soon as possible due to the needs of the kids enrolled and the incredible work that the teachers and faculty are doing building the Louisiana economy with the workforce of the future.

The Main Campus sustained some water damage to its main building due to roof failures. This building was originally donated to the University by Isaac Delgado in 1921. Isaac Delgado was a businessman and sugar dealer who migrated to New Orleans from Jamaica in the late nineteenth century. He was a very successful businessman and through these efforts became a charitable philanthropist who became a significant benefactor in the areas of the arts, medicine and education throughout the Greater New Orleans Metropolitan area.

The SERVPRO of Ascension Parish Storm Team work to remediate multiple buildings on all 8 campuses including the baseball field. Our teams worked tirelessly to get the college back up and running and get those students back in their classrooms. The faculty and students were blown away with the professionalism and sped that the team worked in getting the campus back up and operational in weeks. For any questions or concerns please give us a call at (225)753-3434

Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium calls on SERVPRO following Hurricane IDA

10/18/2021 (Permalink)

LUMCON calls in SERVPRO of Ascension Parish following Hurricane Ida

On August 29^th much of the coastal regions of south Louisiana took major damage but the area known as Cocodrie, LA took some of the worst damage in the state’s history by taking the category 4 hurricane straight on. In Cocodrie, La there is a place called the Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium and it looks like a real live space station on earth. LUMCON as it is known is actually a research laboratory that uses education and outreach to enable the next generation of marine scientists and ocean literate citizens. LUMCON also builds and expands collaborations among marine scientists across Louisiana by removing barriers and providing tools that bolster scientific investigation. LUMCON is a Louisiana state treasure to say the very least and at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish we were honored and privileged to get the call from them to help them restore their facility after such a devastating loss.

          I turned out that LUMCON had very formidable structures and engineering to minimize the affect of major hurricanes and storms but one of those preventative measure failed and that was the storm shudders. During Hurricane Ida the storm shudders in front of many of the windows failed to prevent the wind and water from entering the building through various seams in the building. The result was a large intrusion of water in various spots throughout the facility which caused major water damage to the dorm rooms, living areas and laboratory facilities as well.

          Project Manger Louis Bergeron was brought in to identify and interpret the damage and then help build a scope of work to remediate all non-salvageable building materials and then dry the remainder of the building. Mr. Bergeron worked with a labor staff of 85 individuals to not only get out all of the damaged materials but clean and dry-out out the remaining portions of the facility to IICRC standards. The project was one for the record books and was completed in record time and with the highest level of professionalism and craftsmanship. LUMCON will be back good as new after the reconstruction process is completed in early 2022. If you have any questions, comments or concerns please let us know at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish (225)753-3434.

Does My Flood Insurance Cover This????

10/18/2021 (Permalink)

Ascension Parish Flood Coverage

We often here statements very similar to this after many storms and major hurricanes and it is important to know the details of your policy long before you are dealing with the damage from a storm. Flood insurance coverage is absolutely one of the most misunderstood claims in the insurance industry, hands down. It really comes down to two simple questions for the customer:

• What actually defines a Flood?
• What defines my coverage?

Know your Flood Limits and Know What Is Not Covered?

When it comes to groundwater in the basement of home you are almost never covered, at least not in most general policies. The Insurance companies claim that it is not covered because if it were it would dramatically raise the premiums on everybody and insurance would not be able to be offered. Makes sure your rain spouts are in good working order and use sandbags because you can never go wrong doing your best to protect your property.

Flood coverage almost never even begins until it reaches the first floor of your residence. Flooded basements are almost never covered and if they are the policy is very expensive. I many cases FEMA flood coverage will come through as a supplemental form of coverage in the form of a government assistance program and this can help customer out a lot with damage and restoration charges but before this can happen a geographical disaster must first be declared by the state or region.

If water enters the home from a basement surface drain or a sump pump failure you must have a specific insurance that covers those failures otherwise it will not be covered. If you have these coverages they are often in the $5,000 - $10,000 range and if you have a large area affected this may not cover much of the damage.

If there is a leak in the form of a leaky faucet, toilet or leaking shower your insurance often times will not cover these losses. The insurance companies claim these losses as event which fall under the terms “sudden and incidental.” In the eyes of the insurance company many of these losses are related to maintenance issues and were easily preventable by the owner. If you have any other questions or concerns please give us a call at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish at (225)753-3434

When Fire Strikes…How do you Find a Restoration Company You Can Trust?

10/15/2021 (Permalink)

Fire Damage in Donaldsonville

When faced with recovering from a house fire it can sometimes feeling your staring up at Mount Everest. The tasks can feel daunting and the even sometime hopeless. The process of getting you and yours back to your normal life can feel like its taking a lifetime if you choose the wrong restoration company.

When looking for a good Fire Restoration company it is imperative that you find a company that wants to work with your insurance provider to get you taken care of quickly and easily. The truth of these situations is that anyone worth their salt wants to get the job done as quickly as possible because as we all know…time is money. Your insurance provider wants nothing more than to get the job done ASAP because they are interested in your needs as their provider and they don’t want to lose you as a client. A top level restoration company is also very motivated to get your house restored because they want the insurance provider happy as well and good professional service is what makes them look good to insurance adjusters.

The client is the one who is FREE to choose the Fire Restoration company of their choice. This can sometimes be difficult because maybe you got a recommendation from a friend or saw an Ad or maybe were referred by your insurance adjuster. The task of making a selection can sometimes be daunting when this is an industry that most people do not understand until its too late. If you don’t know where to turn when it comes to finding a good fire restoration company, I will give you a few easy tips and tricks.

Tip #1.) Ask your Insurance Provider for their Top 3 Fire Restoration Company recommendations. Insurance providers will sometimes give you their top company that they like to work with but that may not be the company you prefer. Ask for a top 3 and then from there you can go and do you due diligence in researching the companies that they provided for you and make a decision yourself.

Tip #2.) Ask Friends and Family for their recommendations. Unfortunately fire damage happens all too often in America and the chances are that one of your friends have been through a major loss from Fire, Water, Mold or Storm Damage. Ask around and see what companies they used and how it worked out. If you get a bad review from a friend you can cross them off but if you get a good review keep note of that company.

Tip #3.) Call the Restoration Companies themselves and ask them about their process with Fire Restoration. Fire damage is much more than removing some wallpaper and clean up a little bit of soot. Fire damage includes ridding the property of the Fire / Smoke Smell and doing inspections to see if there is any structural damage present. Another key factor is water damage, most people don’t realize but a lot of damage is done to the property by the firemen who put the fire out. That must also be cleaned and remediated as well as the fire. If two of more companies give you similar steps for restoring your property and you are happy with their options you can choose which you prefer.

I hope these tips were helpful for you if you are ever in the need for Fire Restoration in your home. If you have any questions or concerns please give us a call at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish at (225)753-3434.

What Is Fire Damage & How Does It Happen?

10/15/2021 (Permalink)

Fire Damage in Baton Rouge

Fire damage happens much more in America than most people realize. America averages about 1.3 Million fires, 4000 deaths, 17,000 injuries and over 15 Million in damages per year. Fire damage in America is much more common than people realize and in this blog I am going to explain some of the main causes of fires in America and hopefully this knowledge can help you prevent some of those with proper education.

What Causes Fires in America?

          In America there is a Fire every 24 seconds and they sweep through homes, apartment buildings, commercial buildings and businesses with very little warning and no care for property or human life. The most common causes of fire are sometimes unknown to people but the knowledge of these things can absolutely minimize the chances of them occurring. Knowledge is power and the when it comes to fire most of them are preventable with a little planning and understanding.

• Fire Accidents in the Kitchen

Most fires in America happen in the kitchen and spread from the kitchen to the rest of the house or business. The main reason that fire mostly originates in the kitchen is because the kitchen is the primary location for all heat sources in the home or business. These sources can range from many different items including Air Fryers, Ovens, Toasters, Microwaves and a variety of other kitchen appliances and apparatuses.

• Electrical Malfunctions

Electrical malfunctions are more and more prominent in America as our homes and businesses are becoming more and more filled with various electronics, computers, entertainment systems and household appliances. Faulty wiring in the home near a fuel source or faulty wiring in an appliance or piece of equipment can cause a variety of flare ups that can end in a major fire.

• Open Flames

One major cause of fires in homes and businesses that people forget about is open flames. These can happen when people make bonfires, camping fires, yardwork/debris fires or that just flare up from a heat source in the yard. Another often misunderstood example of open flame fires is from candles or incense. You can reduce this from happening by severely limiting all open flames and using flameless candles instead.

• Major Heat Producers

Major heat producers in our homes that can sometimes be overlooked are fireplaces and space heaters. These items can become increasingly more dangersous if they are ever kept near rapid fuel sources in the home like kerosene, gas or lighter fluid. There are other fuel sources that are less rapid yet just as deadly like rugs, curtains or old clothing. Make sure you are checking your home regularly to limit these type of potential hazards.

• Smoking

While there are many smokers in America who enjoy the practice of smoking outdoors some people prefer to smoke indoors in their favorite chair or on their favorite couch. The main danger happens here when those smokers fall asleep and create a dangerous scenario. The ash from a cigarette can ignite quickly and cause a major fire before the sleeping home owners can even realize what has happened.

Many of these various forms of fire can be prevented by taking inventory of your home and understanding how important it is to remove fuel sources, check all wiring, minimize open flames, inspect heat producers and minimize indoor smoking. If you have any other questions or concerns please feel free to give us a call at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish at (225)753-3434

What are the various types of Fires?

10/15/2021 (Permalink)

Baton Rouge Fire Classifications

Fire Damage happens all over the county to various homes and businesses and causes massive damage to buildings, property and even to people. Fire damage is much more complicated than people may think because fire has many different types of classifications based on what the fuel source is and what type of fire it is. In this latest Blog we will review all of the different types of fires and some details about each.

• Class A Fire

A Class A Fire is a widespread occurrence throughout the US and is attributed to the type of fire that is started from common household items like wood, rubber, cloth or plastic. Prevent Class A fires by keeping working areas free of trash, place oily rags in covered containers, control smoking areas, limit all sources of possible ignition and keep passages and fire doors clear at all times.

• Class B Fire

Fire created from flammable liquids like gasoline, petrol, waxes, paint and oil are classified as Class B fires. Class B fires can be highly prevented if you use nonflammable substitutes for cleaners, ensure solvent tanks have fusible links on covers, keep all refuel equipment in well ventilated areas, properly store flammable liquids, ensure storage drums are properly grounded and restrict welding and cutting to authorized areas only.

• Class C Fire

Most experts in the Fire community consider fires that originate from flammable gases like natural gas, butane, propane and hydrogen are considered Class C fires. Most Class C fires originate in kitchens due to most flammable gasses generally existing in kitchen spaces. Fire specialist advise homeowners to thoroughly inspect their gas ovens, gas stoves and gas burners to ensure there are no leaks before turning their appliances on.

• Class D Fire

One of the absolute worst classification of fires is Class D fires which originate from combustible metals like sodium, magnesium, and potassium. We find class D fires often originate inside of very technical environments like labs or industrial businesses and generally require a professional commercial fire restoration representative to remediate it. To limit and control Class D fires work to control dust and turnings, follow established control procedures to minimize these type of fires from starting. Never use water or wet sand to try and extinguish these fires because the moisture releases oxygen which can be used to fuel the fire. Metal fires are the hottest burning fires and can reach temperatures of up to 5000 degrees. Class D fires can be one of the most difficult to extinguish.

• Class K Fire

The last and final classification of Fire is Class K fires which originate from fat and cooking oils in frying pans that are left unattended or become uncontrollable and ignite on their own. These fires happen regularly in restaurants, hotel and homes and are mostly focused on kitchen areas so most firefighters call these kitchen fires. These types of fires are often overlooked but actually account for most of the fire damage that consumes homes and food-based businesses. They are difficult to put out because they combine electrical elements and flammable liquids as well.

If you have any further questions or comments please feel free to contact us at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish at (225)753-3434 for more information on Fire restoration.

The 4 Key Factors in Commercial Restoration

10/15/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial Restoration in Gonzales

Residential restoration and commercial restoration are very different types of projects. Residential is very emotional for the customer and family that resides in the home and also be very personal due to the contents within the home having very sentimental attachments. Commercial restoration can also be emotional for the clients but due to their being more stakeholders involved in the loss things can get much more complex. In commercial restoration we have business interruption, customer impact, Inventory issues and contents maintenance. For the commercial restoration process to go smoothly the 4 key factors are: safety, stability, continuity and communication.

Factor 1: Safety

Safety is the paramount concern when it comes to commercial restoration projects because nothing is more important than the people. There are a variety of safety issues when on a commercial restoration project including mold exposure, hazardous materials, structural weaknesses, utility hazards including gas and electrical and construction related safety hazards. With all of these factors together the risk is just too great for secondary damage and additional loss if safety is not at the forefront of the project. Safety must not only be the first step in commercial restoration but must also be a key factor in every stage of the project.

Factor 2: Stability

          Stabilizing the loss is the first priority so that we can limit any secondary damage to the building or property. This included stopping the source of the water intrusion, putting out the fire and tarping up the roof and areas of the house that are exposed to the elements. As soon as the disaster is contained the team can begin the process of pre-cleaning, water extraction, dehumidification, salvaging contents and setting up various level of containment around the property area is all part of the emergency services phase.

Factor 3: Communication

          The most important thing on any job big or small is always going to be communication. As a restoration company your communication should be on point with all of the parties involved including the client, adjusters, clerks, agents and all other POI’s. Commercial restoration can be a very fluid and moving science with scope changes, directive changes and client requests so the restoration company must have good communication. The company must be able to make split second decisions and communicate that to their crew instantly with good follow up and leadership from the technicians. Solid communication will allow everyone to prepare, plan and adapt to the changing needs of a large project.

Factor 4: Business Continuity

          Buinesses need some assurances that they will be back up and running as a company very soon following a loss. As a company SERVPRO of Ascension Parish will do everything in their power to make sure that our commercial clients are back up and running their business in some capacity as soon as possible. Clients who don’t feel that their restoration project managers are making these efforts for business continuity will replace those companies quickly. Expediting the restoration and the reconstruction needs of a commercial client ensure that they can get back to normal operations sooner rather than later

I hope this little blog has given you a little tid-bit of what the actuality of what commercial restoration can be like and its differences from residential restoration. If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to call us at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish at (225)753-3434

Post Storm Checklist for Homeowners & Business Owners

10/14/2021 (Permalink)

Louisiana Storm Damage

Severe storms can come out of nowhere and cause a lot of damage really quickly, especially if you live in South Louisiana. Whether the damage be from hail, water, tornadoes, hurricanes or flying debris it can be a real inconvenience in a home or business quickly. When it comes to Storm Damage or Roof Damage it can sometimes be a little more difficult to find and identify especially if there is no visibly leaking or water inside the home or building.....YET! To help you deal with these situations we have put together a simple checklist for homeowners and business owners alike to work through after the storm ends. 

POST STORM CHECKLIST 

• Safety is the #1 Priority : make sure that you and those that are living in your home or working in your business is safe and protected. Walk through all of the yard outisde the property and ensure all spaces have been checked and cleared. 
• Visual Inspection of Property : Walk the building and property to inspect for any obvious signs of damage or dangerous situations outside. Take pictures of everything that you see no matter how small. 
• Secure and Tarp in the Roof : makes sure that you have some tarps handy before the storm and some 1x2's as well. If you observe damage get up on the room and tarp the damaged area to prevent any secondary damage.
• Interior Inspection of the Property : Walk all of the interior rooms and hide spaces to ensure to document and report and damage or finding that are of concern. Make sure you are looking for wet spot and water stains. 
• Get a Roof Inspection Scheduled ASAP : The longer you wait to do this the harder it will be to get someone out to your property after a major storm. Do this as soon as possible and make sure to walk the property and the roof with the inspector and take more pictures. 
• File an Insurance Claim : Make sure that you call your Insurance Agency and let them know that you are filing a claim on your roof for damage incurred during the storm. 
• Implement Repairs : After you get a roof inspection and contact your insurance company to file a claim you can get them started on the work to repair your roof.
• Schedule Regular Maintenance : Your roof should be inspected and have yearly maintenance so that you can prevent damage in the future. 

I hope this checklist has helped you understand a little bit more about the process of what to do with Storm Damage to your roof after a major weather event. If you have any questions or concerns please contact us SERVPRO of Ascension Parish at (225)753-3434

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish Shines After Hurricane Ida

10/13/2021 (Permalink)

Hurricane Ida

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is quickly becoming one of the Premier Commercial Large Loss Restoration Companies in the US.

2020 was a major year for SERVPRO of Ascension Parish

After exemplary performances in 2020 during Hurricane Laura & Hurricane Sally 2021 started off with a bang. The freeze / flood in Dallas, Houston, Shreveport areas saw SERVPRO of East Baton Rouge on major projects for many months and just shortly following the team did multiple large loss projects in Baton Rouge after some major flooding hit various areas of the city. All in all the SERVPRO of Ascension Parish Storm team has responded to and successfully restored a number a very large commercial losses with a high quality of professionalism and efficiency. 

Hurricane IDA makes Landfall August 29th 

On August 29th of 2021 Hurricane IDA, a category 4 Hurricane, swept across the south central area of South Louisiana and destroyed everything in its path. Immediately after the hurricane the SERVPRO of Ascension Parish Technicians were on the ground following up on various calls and leads and landed at Chabert Medical Hospital in Houma, LA. The hospital, which is am Oschners owned location, had sustained major damage to their roof which allowed for multiple water incursions throughout the 5 floors of the building. SERVPRO responded quickly and decisively to get all of the water extracted, the wet materials removed and the building dried out safely and quickly. The team immediately transitioned to Hammond, La to work on the severely affected Southeastern University campus along with SERVPRO of Birmingham. After remediating multiple building and drying the campus the team moved on to Delgado Community College in New Orleans, LA. Delgado offered a major challenge for our team due to the college having 8 separate and affected campuses spread through out the greater New Orleans area. The Delgado project was completed with flying colors and accolades from the staff and the other parties onsite. The team also restored NOCCA (New Orelans Center of Creative Arts) and LUMCOM (Louisiana Universities Maritime Consortium). All in all the team remediated many major projects for the State of Louisiana and for the community of Louisiana. As we look forward to the rest of year we are confident in our abilities to handle any Commercial Large Loss project with integrity, speed and professionalism. The future is bright for the SERVPRO of Ascension Parish Commercial Large Loss Team. 

How a Good Property Manager Handles Water Damage Disasters Effectively

10/12/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Technicians utilizing the Injectidry System to dry wood floors in Ascension Parish

All great property managers know that a water damage is going to happen on their properties eventually and often times more than once and managing the restoration process can sometimes be a nightmare. When you have tenants that get displaced or your property has a large loss of revenue those can definitely be big problems but a much bigger problem is when you have a water loss that is handled improperly and the effects of that failure cause secondary damage, structural damage or even in some cases mold and microbial growth that scares away potential clients. A good property managers main job is to maintain the value and reputation of their properties and the only way to do that effectively is to consistently win the small battles with water intrusions, storm damage, customer expectations and busted pipes. 

Handling a Water Damage when it Happens

 When a major water damage occurs on a commercial property, property managers are immediately thrown into a washing machine of choices, estimates, promises and expectations that can be overwhelming for anyone. Managing tenants expectations, reporting the various losses to the insurance companies, meeting with adjusters, securing a reliable restoration company and assessing and fixing the original source of the damage are some of the many tasks facing them at break neck speeds. Flooring can be one of the many difficult things for them to solve in these scenarios based upon the fact that finding new flooring can be time consuming and costly to replace with labor prices, building materials and lost revenue.  The Secret Sauce in Drying Hardwood Floors  When a restoration company utilizes specialized equipment to extract the standing water from the floors of the individual apartments the job is not finished. Just because the floor seams dry it is not, there is still water trapped in the wood fibers of those floors and unless a professional removes that water properly those floors will bow and ruin over the next couple of day. Drying hardwood floors properly without causing secondary damage takes skill and patience. If the restoration process is delayed the result will be what we call crowning and cupping of the wood floors. The floors can eventually start warping and have a wave like appearance due to the presence of water in the fibers for too long. The opposite can happen if there is too much drying including splinting and cracking of the wood floors. How do you get it right? Call SERVPRO of Ascension Parish at (225)753-4343. Our firm maintains tools in our arsenal like Injectidry systems that can measure exactly where the water is on the wood and remove it quickly and efficiently using the system as a "water vacuum" to remove the right amount of water from the right areas and then stopping when it is dried to the drying standard.  Why is this System the Best Thing to Use For Wood Floors  The major advantage of the Injectidry System is its portability. All of the SERVPRO Crew Chiefs have one of these systems inside their vehicles and are ready to deploy them instantly if the need arises. The Injectidry System is designed with a variety of modular and flexible pieces so that the system can be customized to the shape of any room or any floor and dried to the exact specifications of the drying standard. The capacity for the system is unlimited when it comes to drying wood floors in residential or commercial properties. Technicians also have the ability to utilize small format dehumidifiers and various designs of Air Movers to be placed beneath subfloors if possible to create a more drying specific matrix to ensure standards over a 3-5 day drying time. SERVPRO helps Property Managers Save the Day Property Managers who have worked with SERVPRO of Ascension Parish in the past know that our teams are ready, willing and waiting to get the job done in a quick and professional manner by utilizing equipment that is precise and customizable for the job, even on tough to dry wood floors. If you have any questions about our services please feel to give SERVPRO of Ascension Parish a call at (225)753-3434

When a Storm is coming...who you gonna call? SERVPRO of Ascension Parish

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO of Ascension Parish Storm Team for the 2021 Hurricane Season

Any water or flood damage can be a scary event but post Hurricane restoration can be even more difficult. But you never have to worry about those kind of issues with SERVPRO of Ascension Parish. For more than 25  years, SERVPRO of Ascension Parish  has been fighting Hurricane damage and floods to help our customers recover their home or business as quickly as possible. You can rely on our highly trained staff for help with water or fire damage, mold removal, storm damage cleanup and more 24/7. We also offer free estimates and respond immediately to your emergency. We are proud to serve East Baton Rouge, Ascension Parish and Downtown Baton Rouge areas.

After experiencing a hurricane, storm, flood or water damage, you want someone who has the experience and expertise to restore your property properly.   When it comes to flood management, there is no job too big or too small for our team at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish. The business of restoring your life after flooding, water damage or storm damage has never been more important. Our key services include: Structural Drying and Dehumidification to reduce residual moisture; Mold Control to reduce the risk of secondary mold; Odor Control using natural and synthetic based products; Removal and Disposal of Acid-Forming Materials such as: drywall, carpet and other porous building materials; and Cleaning and Sanitization to restore sanitary and aesthetic conditions. We also perform complete re-construction services including creative repair, replacement and reconstruction.

Tough, no non-sense water and flood restoration services for homes, business and local institutions. SERVPRO of Ascension Parish offers "all in one solutions" for all damages caused by water and storms such as gutting the affected areas, drying out areas with air movers to prevent mold growth and then cleaning everything before restoration begins. If you have any questions, concerns or needs please give us a call at (225)753-3434 and we will get someone out to visit you and help you in your time of need today!

What is Category 3 Water and how does it affect my home?

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

Category 3 Water in East Baton Rouge

What is CAT 3 Water? This is a very common questions that we hear from our customers and clients especially following a major flood, storm or hurricane. The word CAT is short for category and there are 3 different types when it comes to water inside of a home, business or structure that we focus on. Category 1 water is originated from a sanitary or potable water source and does not pose a substantial risk if humans are exposed to it, otherwise known as clean water. Examples of category 1 water is water from water supply lines, melting snow or ice, rainwater, toilet tanks and toilet bowls without contaminants. In the case of a category 1 water damage a restoration company can realistically salvage and dry any of the affected materials including carpet, drywall, carpet padding, hard wood flooring and other porous building materials.

Category 2 water contains a significant amount of contamination and may actually cause illness or infection if exposed to it. Category 2 water can potentially contain unsafe levels of various bacteria, viruses or mold and nutrients for the microorganism and other contaminants, otherwise known as grey water. Examples of Category 2 water are washing machine / dishwasher overflow, aquariums, damaged water beds, urine filled toilet bowls and hydrostatic pressure seepage from foundation slabs. Most building materials that are affected by category 2 water should be removed and the open spaces should be HEPA-VAC’ed and cleaned with anti-microbial solutions to disinfect the affected materials.

Category 3 water is widely referred to as black water. The IICRC defines Category 3 water damage as water that is “grossly contaminated and can contain pathogenic, toxigenic, or other harmful agents that can cause significant adverse reactions to humans if contacted or consumed”.  Some examples of Category 3 water are sewage of any type, seawater, waste line back flows that originate beyond the trap, rising waters from river or streams and wind driven rain from hurricanes / tropical storms. All affected building materials including insulation, carpet, carpet padding, cushions, hard wood floors and laminate flooring from a category 3 water intrusion should be removed from the property due to contamination.

I hope this blog helped you understand the difference between the major categories of water and most importantly the dangers inherent in the classification of Category 3 water. Category 3 water is potentially harmful for you and your family and should only be handled and remediated by restoration professionals. If you have any questions or needs for our remediation services please contact SERVPRO of East Baton Rouge at (225)753-3434.

How to Clean Surface Mold and Mildew in your Home

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

Bathroom Mold and Mildew in Ascension Parish

If you live in South Louisiana you definitely know a thing or two about mold and mildew. The subtropical climate of south Louisiana has a very high humidity level and lots of rain, storms and hurricanes. Due to these and other factors many of our homes and businesses can be victim to various levels of water intrusion through failed roofing, flood waters, wind driven rain and a many other factors. These water intrusions create moisture and wetness inside of our homes and this can often result in different types of mold/mildew that we find in our homes. I am going to teach you how to clean light surface mold, anything other than light surface mold or mildew should be handled by a professional. There are very dangerous mold spores and those should not be handled or dealt with by anyone other than a licensed mold specialist. If you need a higher level of service for this issue please call us at SERVPRO of East Baton Rouge at (225)753-3434.

We are going to discuss light surface mold that can be found in grout lines, behind cabinets or even on AC vents. If you are from South Louisiana you have seen this type of growth and discoloration many times in your life and it can be both scary and daunting to figure out how to clean and remove it. The first thing you should do when you identify these types of surface mold is turn off the HVAC system so that it doesn’t spread mold spores throughout the property. Then you should wear an N95 Mask and gloves before proceeding with the cleaning and removal process. Once you have donned you safety equipment you can create a mixture of 1 Quart of Water, ½ cup of Bleach and a small amount of detergent. When it comes to mold remediation the bleach is used to kill the mold and the detergent is used to lift the mold or mildew off of the surface so that you can clean and remove it properly from the affected areas. If the mold or mildew does not disappear after spray down and clean then reapply the solution and utilize light scrubbing / agitation to remove the mold or mildew from the affected area.

When you are finished clean up the entire area with the solution and throw away any rags or paper towels used in the cleanup process. Make sure when you throw these items away that they are placed in an individual trash bag and sealed or tied so as not to allow the affected materials to be removed from the bags. If you observe a more serious mold or a larger quantity of mold other than light surface mold/mildew please make sure that you contact a professional immediately and seal off the area until the arrive. Any large mold areas or dark mold areas should be handled by licensed professionals.

When it comes to those bigger jobs let the professionals remove mold and mildew from your home or business. At SERVPRO of East Baton Rouge our industry-leading training, certifications and experience allow us to offer a guarantee for our cleanup services. We use the highest level of mold removal training to help you get back in your home - fast. Callus today at (225)753-3434 if you have any further questions.

Prepare your Business for Future Storms…NOW!

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

A Commercial Large Loss from a Major Flood event in East Baton Rouge Louisiana

It never fails that after all major hurricanes and storms our phone lines are inundated with thousands of calls. Business owners are frantic for us to get out to their locations IMMEDIATELY to help them remove the water and remediate the damage as soon as possible. While this is completely understandable the reality of the situation is that we often times receive in excess of 60,000 calls for service post a major event and we cannot and do not have the resources or capabilities to handle all of the losses that those in our communities have endured. These businesses often times are forced to settle for another company who is in town to make good off of the unfortunate circumstances of others and have a terrible experience that ends up costing them months of wasted time and hundreds of thousands of dollars. I hope this can help you and your business prepare for the future reality of storms, hurricanes and catastrophic events with a little more planning and a few new friends.

The SERVPRO ERP (Emergency Readiness Plan)

The first thing you should do is download the SERVPRO Ready Plan APP on your smart phone or tablet. This FREE APP is built and designed by SERVPRO to give business owners and facility managers an easy to access piece of software with everything that any business would need in a major catastrophic event. In the APP you can program names, phone numbers, emails and emergency contact details for all of the people of interest inside that company including outside contacts like Insurance Agents, Restoration Contacts (like SERVPRO), Plumbers, Roofers, Electricians and Risk Managers. The APP also allows for pictures and descriptions of Water Shut Off Locations, Electrical Mains and Key Information that may be specific to each business. It allows emergency personal to know where are the important areas of the buildings including IT Rooms, Emergency Exits, Safety Hazards and Important Document storage locations. This APP is a one stop shop to make sure IF something happens your SERVPRO Professional knows exactly who to call, where to go and what to do to limit any secondary damage to your business as quickly as possible. If you would like a Commercial SERVPRO Specialist to come to your business and help you and your team build out your custom ERP and APP just give us a call at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish (225)753-3434

Becoming a Premium Service Partner with SERVPRO

The second thing you should do is speak to your Commercial SERVPRO Rep about becoming one of our Premium Service Partners. Our Premium Service Partners are businesses in our local market that have signed our Premium Service Agreement and have allowed our technicians to build out their Emergency Readiness Plan and set up their SERVPRO Ready Plan APP. We work with our Premium Service Partners to remediate their water, fire, mold and cleaning needs throughout the year as their preferred restoration provider and in the case of any catastrophic events in the area those limited Premium Service Partners are our #1 priority. We make it a point to get to them before anyone else and provide them with the highest level of service that we are capable of. If you have any questions about becoming a Premium Service Partner with SERVPRO of Ascension Parish please give us a call at (225)753-3434 and request for one of our Commercial Sales Specialist to come meet with you and your team.

Fire Damage Emergency Tips

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

Emergency Tips for anyone with a Fire Damaged home in East Baton Rouge.

Fires of any kind can be especially devastating to your home or business. After the fire trucks leave, your property will likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage, but also widespread water damage and flooding from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO of East Baton Rouge Professionals have specialized in fire and water damage restoration training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your home to pre-fire condition. SERVPRO professionals can also remove the pervasive smoke odor and deep-clean soot from upholstery, carpet and other surfaces.  Check out these great TODO's and NOT TODO's for Fire Damaged properties after the Firemen leave.

What To Do After A Fire

• Limit how much you walk around the home or business to prevent smoke particles and soot from being embedded into various materials and surfaces.
• Keep hands clean to prevent secondary contamination to other non-affected surfaces especially walls and wood work surfaces.
• Lay out clean towels or clean linens on rugs, upholstery and carpeted high traffic areas.
• If electricity if Off in the property empty all refrigerators and freezers and prop open the doors for proper air flow.
• Coat all chrome surfaces with a light coating of vaseline / petroleum jelly for protection.
• Wash all houseplants on both sides of leaves for soot.
• Clean your HVAC Filter housing and change the filter.
• Use masking tape to cover all air registers with double layered cheese cloth.

What NOT To Do After A Fire

• Do not attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or clean carpets or upholstery without first contacting your SERVPRO professional technicians.

• Do not clean any appliances that were near the fire epicenter, heat or water with consulting with an authorized repair service professional.

• Do not use any canned/packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.

• Do not turn on any ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet due to the potential for overheard wiring to be damaged.

• Do not send garments to the dry cleaners or laundry because improper cleaning may set the smoke odor.

Signs of Water Damage

4/23/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage can be very detrimental to your home or business

The longer you wait after having water damage the more damage you are causing to your home or business. When you have water damage the best thing to do is shut off the water source that is causing the damage. If the damage is coming from something you are unable to cut off, you may need to contact a plumber in your area. Once this is completed, you will want to call the professional here at SERVPRO® of Ascension Parish. No matter how big or small, we will be able to help get it under control. Water damage can be difficult to spot but some signs you can look for in your home and business:

• Water rings on your ceiling or walls
• Soft or sagging on your ceiling or walls
• Wet or soggy carpets
• Warping in your wood flooring

The best thing to do is call an expert right away before the problem gets worse. Our highly trained technicians are waiting for your call. We have our specialized equipment ready to use to get to your emergency mitigated as soon as possible. Don’t wait until the problem gets worse, call our highly trained team at SERVPRO® of Ascension Parish.

Common Plumbing Issues In Older Apartment Complexes

4/23/2021 (Permalink)

4 Common Plumbing Repairs Needed in Older Apartment Complexes

Older apartment complexes are sometimes notorious for the complexity and obsolescence of their plumbing systems. It's just a fact of life for landlords. Therefore, it takes a bit of ingenuity to manage some of these antiquated systems. For example, units constructed in the time period of the 1970s to the 1990s sometimes still contain polybutylene piping, a material that has grown so out of favor in the plumbing industry that it is no longer recognized in building codes. Here are four common plumbing issues landlords of older rental units may need to face.

1. Clogged Drains. Since this can result in water backing up and flowing onto the floor, it should be addressed fairly quickly. Options for clearing a clogged drain include using a drain snake, employing a plunger, cleaning out the drain trap, and using a chemical cleaner.

2. Blocked Toilets. The methods for clearing a clogged toilet are similar for those fixing a clogged drain. However, since this could involve the overflow of contaminated water, the services of a reputable water remediation company should be considered if raw sewage spills out onto the floor.

3. Poor Plumbing Designs. This often involves the use of improper materials for pipes, such as polybutylene. If not replaced, this type of piping can result in burst pipes and extensive water damage. Poor design can also refer to the actual physical configuration of the pipes and might include an excessive number of twists and turns and elbow joints that impede water flow.

4. Damaged Discharge Lines. This refers to the lines that lead away from the property and join the municipal water lines. Over time, these lines not only age and weaken, but they also are vulnerable to damage from tree roots and other obstructions.
Some plumbing issues in older units are easier to fix, while others, such as the presence of polybutylene pipes, require major renovations. The services of a water restoration company can be a big help with water damage.

Storm Response

4/16/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish Restoration of a High School in Lake Charles, LA damaged by Hurricane Laura.

2020 was a very busy (and crazy) year for our Ascension Parish Franchise. We responded in full force to assist our community with COVID-19 response. In the last several months of 2020, several named storms: Hurricane Laura in the and Hurricane Sally kept our staff busy assisting with the cleanup along the Gulf Coast.

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish responded by assisting several large high schools, vacation condo facilities, businesses and more in the time after these storms. Our storm travel team was on the road assisting with mitigation and rebuild of these facilities for several months.

Being on the ground immediately following a storm allows SERVPRO of Ascension Parish to quickly gauge damage, prevent further damage by securing facilities, provide temporary power, begin the drying out process, and removing any debris on site. Once mitigation is completed, we can begin the rebuild process.

We worked hand in hand with insurance companies, adjusters, consultants and the clients to accomplish one goal: opening each businesses as soon as possible. 

A special "Thanks" goes out to our SERVPRO of Ascension Parish family for their commitment and dedication to assisting those in need after a storm. This includes our production crews who have spent a month or more away from families, our office staff who are working overtime to support our storm team and ownership who is making sure we are prepared to get the job done. 

The 2021 Hurricane Season is not to far off, beginning in June. We will be ready to respond if any community needs our assistance again. 

SERVPRO: One Team

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

When the south-central region of the United States endured below-freezing temperatures for multiple consecutive days last month, thousands of Business Owners and Homeowners turned to one brand to help restore their homes and businesses that were affected by burst pipes and water damage: SERVPRO.

As the temperatures dropped, the number of customers affected by flooding caused burst pipes to quickly increase. By the end of the week, tens of thousands of home and business owners were calling SERVPRO to mitigate the damage. 

There’s a reason why during the most historic cold snap in 70 years, residents of the south-central and southwestern part of the United States called SERVPRO. In fact, there are about 1700. These 1700 reasons show up in the form of franchises and crews that have left their home states, some for extended periods of time, to travel with their equipment and assist local franchises in the restoration of these homes and businesses that suffered water damage. 

The amazing thing about choosing SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is that our customers don’t just get access to one restoration company, but they partner with a trusted name in the restoration industry that has access to a network of franchises that are willing to come and assist in historic events such as the one we as a region experienced in February of 2021.

So no matter if it’s hurricanes or freezes, SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is always ready to unite forces to help a region restore its communities, living true to the tagline: One Team.

Is Your Business Prepared for a Fire Emergency?

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish working on a Commercial Building Fire in Geismar, LA.

A fire is one of the most unpredictable forces in nature. Knowing how to escape one if it should break out at your Ascension Parish business can be key for reducing injuries to your employees and customers. Even if you have fire safety measures in place, such as ceiling sprinklers and fire extinguisher stations, a contingency plan can be as equally important when a blaze gets too big for you to handle alone. Asking yourself a few questions about your building’s layout and workforce can help you create an effective and viable escape plan.

Where Is Your Company Located?

The location of your business within a building can affect your evacuation plan, so this is a factor you will probably want to consider. Take a quick tour of your office space and note the specifics that might affect your planned route:

• The number of exits
• The floor your company occupies
• The condition of accessible stairwells

If you rent a building, ask your landlord to assist with creating the plan and whether you can modify any exits to make them safer during an evacuation. SERVPRO of Ascension Parish can also assist in putting a plan in place for your business for FREE. 

Does the Plan Include Handicapped Routes?

Handicapped employees and customers can have difficulty reaching safety during an evacuation, so it is important to include special considerations for them in your contingency plan. Assign handicapped workers an evacuation partner to assist them in case of an emergency and create at least one route that is wheelchair accessible.

Are All Shifts Aware of the Plan?

If you have more than one shift working at your business, it is important that each understands the details of the evacuation strategy. Call in a fire damage and cleanup service to help you organize a company-wide information meeting on safety so you can perform drills and ensure all of your employees are prepared in case of fire.

Fires can break out without warning, even if your East Baton Rouge business is normally at low risk for such an event. Having an effective contingency plan in place helps to protect your employees and customers while offering you peace of mind as a business owner.

Commercial Properties

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

Your commercial property’s appearance speaks volumes to your clients. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, SERVPRO of East Baton Rouge has the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

• Small Office Buildings
• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotel/Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• High-Rise Residential
• Manufacturing & Industrial
• Government/Military

SERVPRO of East Baton Rouge is available 24 hours a day to restore your commercial property and get you back to business. We have the expertise, equipment, and highly trained personnel to handle your commercial water, fire, mold damage or COVID-19 disinfecting of ANY SIZE. 

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish sends help to North Louisiana

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish Storm Team on site in North Louisiana.

As a major Winter Storm Warning went into effect early Valentine’s Day weekend, North Louisiana settled in for what was expected to be a long and cold week of record-breaking temperatures. With almost 2 million residents losing power and multiple businesses closed due to dangerous road conditions, the White House had officially declared a state of emergency over Louisiana. Rolling blackouts and empty grocery stores cast an eerie, almost apocalyptic spell over the usually warm and sunny climate the state is known for. Amidst unprecedented times, Winter Storm Uri was as singular in its effects as it was harsh in its weather. Our crews from SERVPRO of Ascension Parish responded to the Storm call to help home and property managers regarding water damages caused by burst pipes. Our trained technicians have slushed through several inches of water to find collapsed ceilings, ruined furniture, and buckled flooring that has forced residents into the homes of friends and neighbors. Though this event was uncommon, this is what we have been trained for. This is what sets SERVPRO apart — when you call us, you get access to over 1700 franchisees who are ready to respond to disasters at this scale. Winter Storm Uri was unprecedented and unlike anything we could have expected, it has also revealed the depth of commitment and strength that flows through the SERVPRO system. There’s a reason why tens of thousands of people have called us to restore the damage from their homes and businesses: because we show up.

SERVPRO Rapid Response

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

When any business suffers a structural disaster, the speed with which a team of fix-it professionals can begin making repairs is critical. An ability to handle the problem with haste is important to reducing damage. Therefore, having a 24 hour, round-the-clock restoration team available is a huge advantage. Here are some things worth knowing about SERVPRO of Ascension Parish rapid response abilities.

Elements of SERVPRO’s Speediness

Because they are designed with timeliness in mind, you should expect:

• Emergency calls to receive a response within an hour
• Fast site arrivals, a benefit of their more than 1,700 North American locations
• Inspections completed within 4 hours
• Briefings delivered within 8 hours
  
  

Whether the problem stems from water, fire, mold or COVID-19, SERVPRO’s fast response makes them a preferred vendor for most insurance agencies. Being always open means repairs can begin even in the middle of the night. That’s the power of SERVPRO’s 24-hour service.

Importance of SERVPRO’s Speediness
Imagine an office in Ascension Parish experiences a broken pipe or natural flooding. The longer it takes to clean up, the greater the level of destruction. Within minutes, water can seep into drywall, carpeting, and filing cabinets. Additionally, computers and other electronic equipment are likely to be ruined.
Within a day, additional issues may surface. Metal can begin to tarnish. Cubicle walls may become compromised and need to be thrown away. A distracting, unpleasant smell could start to develop.
Between two days and a week after the incident, mold may start growing. Wood floors might begin warping. Contaminated water will have probably spread, posing a health risk to employees. The cost of building rehabilitation will have grown exponentially.
Water Damage is just one scenario where the passage of time compounds problems. The same level of increased trouble occurs when delaying action under other scenarios.
Having a 24-hour team available to react to the most common types of office disasters is a true advantage. When calamity strikes at any hour, contact SERVPRO of Ascension Parish for prompt service.

We Are Local!

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

When you call SERVPRO of Ascension Parish you have the best of both worlds.

Not only are we a large company by name, we’re also local.

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish has served our community for over 28 years!

We have helped countless homeowners and business owners with their restoration needs when it comes to Fire, Water or Mold. With the recent pandemic, SERVPRO of Ascension Parish has worked tirelessly to make sure commercial properties are safe for employees and guests. 

How does that benefit you?

1. Our Owners and Employees are from the same community as you! We take pride in assisting those in our own areas. 
2. Having a national brand name and plenty of resources, we can assist on any job no matter the size. 
3. We sponsor local events and make donations as well to support and strengthen our community.

Being local is like being family so when that water or fire emergency strikes give us a call.  We service homes or businesses! We are here to help!

SERVPRO: The Cleaning Experts

4/6/2021 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

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

The CDC encourages 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

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends 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 Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish.

Vacationing Soon?

4/6/2021 (Permalink)

Going on vacation is always exciting! As the weather starts to warm up and Louisiana COVID restrictions loosen, more residents will be looking to get away.

Here is a simple check list to protect your business or home from disaster while you are away:

• Suspend mail and newspaper services
• Arrange for lawn care services while you're gone
• Install Exterior lighting or motion detectors to deter burglars.
• Wait to post vacation pictures on social media until you have returned
• Check the batteries in home or business security devices, including motion detectors, cameras, and smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace them if necessary.
• Shut off the main water supply. If you would like to leave the water on for an automated sprinkler system, then at least turn off the water supply to the dishwasher, washing machine, and to each toilet. 
• Switch your water heater to vacation mode or turn it off completely.
• Set your thermostat to either four degrees above or below your normal temperature. For summer months, set the thermostat in the upper 70's. For winter months, set the thermostat in the upper 50's.
• Prevent a power surge by unplugging your electronics or make sure they are plugged into a surge protector.

Water Damage Detection

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage can happen when you least expect it. Standing water is one thing, but, what happens with the water that you don't see? And, what happens if there is too much water to clean up?

Detecting Water Damage

With water damage, it's the water you don't see that causes the most damage. It is no surprise that water damage that has not been properly mitigated can lead to microbial growth and mold. After a water damage, it is important to have the entire area checked for moisture in order to prevent more extensive damage, and ultimately, more expensive repairs. If you've noticed water damage, call your local SERVPRO professional. We will be able to determine if the moisture levels in the home are normal. If they are not, we will show you where the moisture is found, develop a scope of how the site should be properly mitigated, and update you daily with drying progress. 

Call SERVPRO

There is no such thing as a small disaster. A small leak now can turn into a large damage if not properly remediated. By using a quality restoration team like SERVPRO of Ascension Parish, that unexpected water damage will stay a thing of the past. If you have a water damage, call the team that is faster to any size disaster.

Clean Water Damage: What to Do

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

• Shut off the source of water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.
• Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors.
• Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet carpeting or floors.
• Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

Fallen Trees on your Ascension Parish Home

8/14/2020 (Permalink)

Recently, SERVPRO of Ascension Parish has received several calls into our office either during storms in our area or just after regarding fallen trees on homes. 

For as inviting as the natural light can be to your Ascension Parish home, grand window layouts can also present potential threats when your home encounters one of the many severe storm systems expected throughout the year. When trees get pushed over or split due to excessive winds, lightning, or other damages, these significant additions to your property can find their way to the windows you have installed and break them out. As alarming as this situation might be, the flooding that can result from this exposed portion of your home can become even more threatening. 

There are many homes throughout the area and its smaller surrounding communities, so storm and flood damage in Ascension Parish after a severe storm can affect many properties simultaneously. While there are many steps to recovering your home after substantial damages like this, you need a team of professionals that can arrive fast with the expertise to handle all phases of the job through its completion. Our SERVPRO team offers comprehensive support in flood damage situations to handle mitigation, assessments, reconstruction, and final restoration work that returns your damaged home to preloss condition.

Our professionals can arrive quickly with the equipment to begin extraction while our licensed contractors board up the areas broken out from the wind or falling trees. We can remove the tree or its limbs from against your home as well to further protect it from continued water damages. Once mitigation completes, our contacting division can step in immediately to repair and reconstruct damaged areas of your property.

The faster that our SERVPRO team can get notified of the situation the better able we are to protect your home against threats from flood effects. In the right circumstances, many of the saturated materials and affected areas can get fully restored without the need for further demolition and reconstruction.

It is essential to secure professional restoration services immediately when disasters like this strike, as you are rarely the only home in the area affected by the severe weather. Our SERVPRO of Ascension Parish rapid response team can work to make flooding in your home “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call at 225-663-8877.

Is Your Roof Storm Ready?

8/14/2020 (Permalink)

When it comes to our homes, and even commercial properties, our roofs are the first line of defense against storms. While spring/summer is when severe storms are most likely to occur in our area, the long and cold rainy days we have during the winter often result in water damages when they penetrate through a roof that was not repaired after a heavy storm season earlier in the year.

In order to ensure your roof is ready for anything the weather may bring you should check for damage regularly. Missing shingles, signs of small leaks, or mold damage are some of the things you yourself can check for regularly, especially following a hard storm or consecutive bad weather days. If you suspect there may be any type of problem with your roof, you should call in roofing professionals that can give you a complete assessment. When the weather gets bad the last thing you want to worry about is whether or not your roof can hold up against a storm, so try to do regular inspections throughout the year and at least one professional assessment per year in order to protect your home.

If you have a water damage due to a roof leak at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Ascension Parish anytime at 225-663-8877. Our team can be onsite quickly to begin the restoration process as soon as possible.

3 Facts Business Owners Need to Know

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

Your commercial building can be affected by flooding from several sources. Water damage can include warped flooring and moldy drywall, but one of the more immediate issues caused by flooding is the influx of contaminated water. If your business has recently been damaged by flooding, it can be helpful to understand how this type of water can cause long-term damage and what you can do to mitigate it. 

1. It Can Contain Dangerous Chemicals 

Environmental experts often call contaminated water that stems from flooding Category 3. This means the water did not come from a sterile source and may contain a variety of hazardous components, including harsh sewer and lawn chemicals that entered the water during flooding. These chemicals can make the water dangerous to touch, so calling in a flood damage and cleanup service is the safest way to have it removed. 

2. It May Make You Sick 

Category 3 water damage can be dangerous in more than one way. For example, standing black water can grow microbes that may cause a variety of health effects. Urine and feces may also be present, even if they are not immediately visible, so it is wise to avoid this type of water completely and wait for professional cleanup services to arrive. 

3. Acting Quickly Can Be Essential 

Because contaminated water can become more dangerous the longer it sits, it is a good idea to call in a cleanup crew right away. This can be important even if you believe the worst of the damage has already been done. Having the water removed may reduce the chances of long-term issues with your building’s affected floors and walls and prevent mold growth, which can be difficult to treat once it takes hold. 

Cat 3 water damage can harm your commercial building in several ways. However, when you know its dangers and how to combat it, you may be able to prevent the worst of the destruction.

If your commercial building has experienced a water emergency call SERVPRO of Ascension Parish at 225-663-8877.

Business Interruption - A Commercial Clients Top Priority

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

Business Interuption

Avoiding business interruption is almost always the top priority of our commercial clients. 

At SERVPRO of Ascension Parish, many of our members come from backgrounds in finance and accounting professions, and they understand the importance of maintaining cash-flow for a business. 

Prior to beginning a commercial restoration project, the facility is walked-through with appropriate decision makers. If avoiding business interruption is a priority, our team will work with the client to provide quality service while helping the client maintain production in their facility. Some of the ways we do that is by working out a schedule with the client so that our team works after hours or on weekends while the facility is normally closed; or, we may work around the client in specified areas during business hours; another solution is moving the client to another building until restoration and repairs have been completed. Whatever the answer may be, each is tailored to meet and satisfy the needs of our client on a case by case basis.

Commercial Damage?

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish recognizes the urgency to react and to immediately build a recovery plan when we partner with commercial clients. Our office works with our partners to make sure documents flow through the right channels in order to simplify settlements during claims or direct pay losses. If tenants are involved, we have the flexibility to work directly with them individually. We also anticipate and recognize coverage issues so that our customers can understand how the claim will be settled.

The SERVPRO brand is the most recognized and respected brand in the mitigation industry. If there is a disaster in your commercial facility, call the team at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish at 225-663-8877.

Fire Pit Tips

8/12/2020 (Permalink)

During the Summer in Ascension Parish, it's common to hang out by the fire pit with friends and family!

Here are some tips to keep you and your family safe this Summer.

Backyard Fire Pit Safety Tips:

Whether you prefer a built-in or portable fire pit, choose one that is not too large for the area. The pit should be a minimum of 10 feet away from any structures or combustible materials as well as away from trees, fences, sheds, power lines, and telephone wires.

Make sure that the seating area is large enough and properly placed for comfort and ventilation.

Check wind direction before lighting a fire.

Don’t use flammable fluids (gasoline, lighter fluid, etc.) to light or relight fires.

To start the fire, use a lighter to ignite crumpled pieces of paper covered with small sticks. Then, add larger sticks and a log or two to keep it burning.

Burn only dry material. Damp material will create excess smoke.

Don’t wear flammable clothing (like nylon) or any loose-fitting clothing.

Never leave the fire unattended, and keep pets and children far away from the fire as they will be attracted to it.

Keep a fire extinguisher, garden hose, or bucket of water nearby.

As the fire dies down, use a shovel and spread out the ashes to allow them to cool down. Then slowly pour water over those ashes and watch them closely to be sure that no burning embers remain or reignite. Put the cooled ashes in a specially designated ash storage metal can.

Fire Safety for Kids and Parents

8/12/2020 (Permalink)

According to the American Burn Association, children are the most susceptible to burn injuries. 73% of all burn injuries happen in the home. At some point in time, children are going to be curious about fire, but it can be dangerous and costly.

Here are some tips to follow to keep your family safe according to the National Protection Association:

• Be sure to keep all matches and lighters out of the reach of children, preferably somewhere up high or in a locked cabinet.
• Closely supervise your children, making sure that they are away from any fire sources, including lit candles, cigarettes, fire pits, and stoves.
• Take advantage of any opportunity to teach your children about fire safety.
• Explain that fires are something to be taken seriously as they move very fast and can hurt you with contact.
• Teach young children to not touch matches or lighters, and to notify an adult immediately if found.
• Establish a clear set of rules and consequences about unsupervised and unapproved uses of fire.
• Remember, children are always watching. Make sure you set a good example by handling fire in a safe manner.
• Show your children appreciation for displaying respect and age-appropriate responsibility when it comes to fire.

If your children happen to burn themselves, cool the burn by running it under cold water for 10 to 15 minutes.

If it is a more serious burn, call 911.

Water Damage? Now what?

8/11/2020 (Permalink)

When water damage occurs, do you know what to do and what not to do?

Water damage can happen at any point for anyone, home or business, resulting in damaged property. These do's are only for clean water and do not’s pertain to sewage water. Sewage water is treated differently since it causes different damage and requires a different cleanup process. With the right tools and pieces of equipment, our professionals can safely dry out your home or business and the contents within it. Here are some things to always keep in mind.

• To minimize the damage, make sure to shut off the source of water and turn off the electricity. It is essential to remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and soaking up with towels. This is especially important for wood furniture. 
• To ensure that more damage isn't sustained by the furniture make sure to try and move it, if safe to do so. 
• Make sure to NOT enter a room with standing water since there could be a risk of electrical shock 
• Make sure to disconnect all power first. 
• It is recommended to NOT leave rugs and furniture upholstery wet against one another because the fabrics have the potential to bleed between each other. 
• It is important to note that you should not be utilizing your household vacuum to try and suck up any water. 

If these tips are followed, then damage can be minimized and you will be better prepared for help to arrive. Remember to stay safe and get excess water cleaned up professionally to minimize the chance of mold growth. Our Team at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is ready to assist at a moment's notice with any of your water mitigation emergencies. Give our team a call at 225-663-8877. 

Natural Disaster and Your Business

8/10/2020 (Permalink)

Natural disasters can be terrifying. Especially if they affect your business, and those that depend on you being open. Although it’s scary to think about, there are a wide variety of different catastrophes that could strike your business, including floods, hurricanes, tornado, fires, and more.  If one of these unfortunate events happens, you don’t want to find yourself unprepared! Discover the most important steps to take following a major disaster so you can recover quickly and safely.  

1.     Assess the Situation

As soon as the calamity has died down, check yourself and any family members to make sure no one is hurt. If you have any nearby neighbors, see if they are in need of any help. Turn off the gas and electricity in your home if it safe to do so, and avoid entering your home for a while, as there could be damage to your floors or ceilings that could cause them to collapse.

2.     Finding Food and Shelter

If your business no longer has running water, you can obtain it through emergency sources, such as rainwater, your hot water tank, your toilet reservoir, or ice cube trays. Shelters are usually assembled by the American Red Cross in emergency situations for those whose homes are too damaged to stay in; look for one of these if you feel your home or business is dangerous. The Federal Emergency Management Agency, as well as local churches and community services, are also good resources for any needs you might have in these dire situations.

3.     Be Cautious

Disasters always leave a trail of destruction behind; be wary of contaminated floodwaters, fallen power lines, or any criminals taking advantage of all the chaos. Don’t turn the gas back on in your home, as there could be a leak, and make sure your house is ventilated if you’re cooking over your fireplace.

4.     Recovering Important Information

One of the last steps of disaster rehabilitation and recovery is to salvage as many of the important documents from the wreckage, such as your insurance policies, birth certificates, driver’s license, deeds, wills, financial statements, and any other precious information. Although these procedures might be difficult, it will help you and your family recover from this crisis as quickly as possible.

Call SERVPRO of Ascension Parish with all Your Disaster Rehabilitation Needs!

If a disaster has affected your home, call SERVPRO of Ascension Parish for all your cleanup needs! Our disaster restoration services are available 24/7, 365 days per year; they include water and flood damage cleanup, mold remediation, odor control, reconstruction services, trauma cleanup, and fire and smoke damage cleanup. Don’t wait another moment if your home has been devastated! Call us today! 225-663-8877

Steps to take if your Retail Business Floods

8/10/2020 (Permalink)

If your retail business floods, you must act as quickly as possible to salvage what you can and minimize the ongoing destruction that will come from standing water and saturation. If this happens you may feel like there is so much to take care of you don’t know where to start. Here are some important first steps to take after your retail store floods.

• Safety first, of course. It’s important to move quickly, but it’s more important to protect yourself while you assess the damage. There are many dangers that you might encounter when returning to your flooded property, such as: 
• infectious and diarrheal diseases – floodwater can contain some really unhealthy stuff
• fuels, solvents and other industrial chemicals in floodwater
• drowning or being wounded by submerged objects are possible hazards in a flooded basement or storage area, as well as in moving or standing water
• electrical hazards – watch for downed power lines or underground electrical service exposed by erosion. Do not enter your flooded building if the electrical power is on or if you can see obvious structural damage
• Assess the damage. Walk the perimeter of the property first, taking pictures and/or shooting some video footage to document what you find.
•  Look for erosion that has left walls unstable or exposed utilities like underground electrical service or gas, sewer, or freshwater supply lines. 
• If electrical or gas lines are exposed, call an electrician or your power company. These are situations that are potentially deadly. Get professional help before entering the building.
• Remove all water and dry everything as quickly as possible. If your retail store has suffered significant flooding, professional help will probably be best, and you will want to choose a company that knows mold. A mold colony can become established in 24 hours after a flooding event, and that will be a disaster for your business, affecting your fixtures and product, and therefore your livelihood.

Our SERVPRO of Ascension Parish team is here to help you if you suffer a flooding event. We are mold remediation experts, too! 225-663-8877

6 Steps to Water Damage Restoration

8/6/2020 (Permalink)

When your property incurs water damage, acting quickly is important

6 Steps to Water Damage Restoration

1. Initial Emergency Contact
   • You can call us 24 hours a day to begin the water restoration process because taking immediate action is crucial after water damage occurs. When you call us, we will ask you questions to get an overview of the damage and to help us determine what resources to dispatch to you.
2. Inspection and Damage Assessment
   • When we arrive on the scene in response to water damage, we will do a detailed property inspection to assess the scope of the damage and to develop a thorough plan of action. We will identify the water source, the category of water, and check for safety concerns.
3. Moisture Extraction
   • The water extraction process will remove the majority of moisture via our vacuum and pump units. We will start this process as quickly as possible to lessen the likelihood of more damage occurring and to reduce drying time. We can also help you move out of your belongings in the event that they might be damaged as well.
4. Dehumidifying and Drying
   • After the excess water has been removed, we can begin fully drying all porous materials that have absorbed water. Our industrial-grade equipment moves air quickly and helps moisture to evaporate as fast as possible, which will dry out floors, walls, and carpets as well as discourage mold growth.
5. Cleaning and Repair
   • After sustaining water damage, impacted surfaces will typically require professional cleaning. In addition to structural cleaning, we will clean your belongings that are able to be restored. We will also do odor removal to prevent the musty odor that water-damaged objects often develop.
6. Restoration
   • The final step is ensuring that your property is restored to its pre-water condition. This will involve things like drywall and flooring repairs or even reconstruction. By working with us, you are working with a company that can handle all elements of the restoration, including the difficult reconstruction parts that truly restores things back to their pre-damaged state.

Protecting your Business from a Storm

8/6/2020 (Permalink)

Have you taken steps to protect your business and employees?

When we experience a thunderstorm in Ascension Parish they can potentially cause extensive damage to your business. Power outages downed tree limbs, and flooding from rainstorms are all possibilities. SERVPRO of Ascension Parish has a few preventative steps you can take to ensure you are able to protect your business when these storms happen.

1. Keep Your Lightning Rod Maintained

A lightning rod is a metal rod mounted on a structure and intended to protect the structure from a lightning strike. If lightning hits the structure, it will preferentially strike the rod and be conducted to ground through a wire, instead of passing through the structure, where it could start a fire or cause electrocution. If your business is located in a tall building that may attract lightning, then maintaining the lightning rod can be essential. Have the rod checked annually for damage and ask your certification professionals to verify that it is up to code. If your business is located in an area where lightning is common, it is wise to have the unit cleaned and inspected at least twice a year.  

2. Maintain All Trees on the Property  High winds can turn tree limbs into projectiles that may shatter your building’s windows and cause serious injury to your customers or employees. Make sure you are maintaining your landscaping so dead branches do not detach and strike people entering your business below. Trimming trees away from your building’s power lines can protect its power source during a thunderstorm 

3. Have a Flood Plan in Place  Having a flood plan in place can possibly prevent flooding in your business, especially in the case of mitigation services. Contacting SERVPRO of Ascension Parish before the wet season can be a wise choice because if your building should experience flooding, our team can have help on hand right away.

Smoke Odor Remediation

6/18/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Ozone Machine

Three Methods To Remove Smoke Odor

If you have experienced a fire in Ascension Parish, you may be in need of SERVPRO Professionals to get rid of any lingering odors.

Whether the problem is overwhelming or barely noticeable, there is equipment that can help remove smoke odors from a variety of materials within your home. Smoke can permeate carpet and upholstery, walls, and personal items like artwork and paper documents. By working with a professional odor removal specialist, you may soon have things smelling clean and fresh. Here are three common methods professionals use to remove smoke odors.

1. Air Filtration Devices
Air filtration devices work by scrubbing the air clean. The air is sucked in, recycled through specialized filters, and then dispersed back into the room. Some of the most common filters for these machines are HEPA filters and activated carbon filters. Many companies also use specialized filters that are specifically designed to target smoke.

2. Ozone Machines
A popular smoke cleaning device, ozone machines can be tailored to your match your unique environment. Professionals can adjust the settings to control the amount of time the machine runs, the amount of humidity it expels, and the temperature of the exhaust. Ozone machines work by oxidizing smoke residue and neutralizing smoke odors. Although too much ozone can be harmful, these devices are considered safe when operated by a professional.

3. Thermal Foggers
By using heat and pressurization, fogging can help get rid of odors in tiny cracks and crevices. It works by permeating porous surfaces, attaching to smoke particles, and destroying them. The fog is capable of reaching anywhere the smoke damage occurred. This technique also neutralizes harmful, carcinogenic debris that may be left from the fire.
Smoke cleaning is often the last step in the fire restoration process. By working with an expert remediation team, your home may soon look and smell like the fire never even happened.

Maintaining Your Buildings Sprinkler System

6/18/2020 (Permalink)

Most people expect sprinkler systems to work as expected, but malfunctioning sprinklers can cause water damage to your business. Without proper sprinkler maintenance, sprinklers can go off unexpectedly and damage assets such as carpets, drywall and important documents. Even worse, unmaintained sprinkler heads may not work properly if there is an actual fire in the building. If you own a business in Ascension Parish, it is important to protect yourself by performing some routine safety checks.

Cleanliness Is Key

Keep the fire sprinklers and the area around them clean and neat. Fire sprinkler heads should be cleaned periodically with a mild degreaser solution. This is especially important in areas where grease builds up, such as kitchens. The area around the sprinkler heads should be kept clutter-free so that nothing is in the way of the path of the water. There are several common items that could be blocking the flow of water and should be checked to ensure proper sprinkler maintenance:

• Tall plants
• Unattended ladders
• Tall storage cabinets
• Tall bookshelves
  
  

Inspections Are Necessary

You should have a professional perform an inspection at least once per year, more often in certain situations. They will check control valves and water pressure to make sure everything is in the on position and that there is enough pressure for the water to reach all the designated areas. They will also check the system for leaks or corrosion and make sure everything is properly calibrated. It should be noted that if you have manual control valves, you should check these weekly to make sure they are in the open position. Regular inspections can save your business from lost revenue and restoration bills.
A lack of sprinkler maintenance can be a costly mistake if damage occurs. You should check your systems often and have them regularly inspected by a professional. If you end up with water damage from fire sprinklers, you may need the help of a professional restoration service.

Handling Storms for your Business

6/15/2020 (Permalink)

When your company is in the midst of a storm, you want help and guidance from a storm team that is Here to Help. That's because a big storm can create a lot of problems for your company, including the following:

• Mold growth
• Flooding issues
• Water damage
• Contamination of materials
• Electrical system failures
• Leaking roof
  
  

There is never a good time for a large storm to hit your business. In a worst-case scenario you could face a lengthy business interruption. That's why a storm damage company in Ascension Parish, is a good place to start with your recovery.

Taking Care of Mold Growth
Any situation that brings in excess moisture (such as flood water) to your facility increases the risk of mold gaining a foothold. Mold is a naturally occurring fungus, and it is present just about everywhere. Under the right conditions—extra humidity, hidden corners, and cool spots—it can grow quickly. It only takes a few days for mold to develop into an unsightly colony that creates a musty odor and degrades walls and furniture. Effective mold remediation requires knowledge, training and the proper equipment. Since mold is made up of microscopic spores that get into the heating and cooling system, fast mold containment is important, as is a vigorous cleaning and deodorizing process.

Addressing Sewage Loss
Sometimes a big storm affects your plumbing system, resulting in a sewage leak. When this happens, professional cleanup is crucial. The water is likely to be contaminated with unhealthy substances; therefore, cleanup workers should wear personal protective equipment. Also, extra precautions should be taken so your employees and customers are kept away from contaminated water. Special treatment of belongings, walls, furniture, and clothing is required if these items are tainted with sewage.
Whether your company experiences mold growth after a storm or some other issue, a quick recovery is desirable. You want to get back to doing what your company does best.

How the Pros Handle Water Damage

6/15/2020 (Permalink)

When it comes to flooding, no source or type of this disaster is fun to deal with. Cleanup can be expensive, time-consuming and stressful. Sewer cleanup is an even more daunting task. The consequences of a backed-up sewer can be severe. The good news is that if you hire the right professional sewage remediation team, you can get your house back to normal.

Your Immediate Steps

Floodwater is divided into three categories: Category 1, Category 2 and Category 3. The first type is from a clean water source, while the second may come from leaking appliances. Categories 1 and 2 won't be fatal; however, category 3 water, or black water, can be lethal because it contains hazardous materials, including human waste. If you have a sewer backup at home, do the following:

• Get everyone safely out of your home.
• Do not come into contact with the water.
• Call a company that specializes in sewer cleanup.
  
  

Removal

Professional crews in Ascension Parish will come to your home and assess the damage. The technicians have the proper safety gear and equipment to remove all sewer water from your property. The team will use industrial-strength extraction machines to suck up standing water and water from saturated areas such as carpet and furniture.

Drying

Whether from a flooded toilet or a broken sewage pipe, the presence of water can encourage mold growth. After removing the water, the technicians will completely dry the area with high-powered fans so there is no moisture in your home.

Sanitizing

It is not enough to dry floors, walls, ceilings, and furniture. The cleanup company will disinfect all surfaces and materials to kill all bacteria and harmful substances. The final part of the sewer cleanup process is to rebuild and restore any damaged materials such as drywall and flooring.
If you have black water in your house, make sure you leave the sewer cleanup to the pros. You can count on these crews to use their skills and experience to make your home safe once more.

Grilling Safety Tips for the Summer

6/10/2020 (Permalink)

When we aren’t experiencing daily showers or a hurricane, summers in Louisiana are beautiful. The summer heat gets many people in the mood to hang out by the pool or beach, relax and maybe even grill. However, just like with cooking in your home, grilling too can have its fire hazards and it is best to practice safety measures. While here at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish, we are big fans of throwing a few burgers on the grill on a whim, we also following these safety tips before grilling:

1. Keep Your Grill at a Safe Distance

Keeping your grill a safe distance from your home in a safe, open area is best. This means in an area where there are no overhangs nor any activity from people or pets. Every year many people injure themselves accidentally coming in contact with a grill. 

This rule also goes for any furniture or decorations. Many outside decorative items are made from plastics, meant to withstand any weather condition. This plastic and other artificial material can make for quick ignition for a fire. 

2. Keep Your Grill Clean

Like grease fires in a Ascension Parish home, leftover grease and food particles can also cause a fire. Cleaning your grill after cooking is done and once it’s cooled down will save you from any work the next time you decide to use it. 

3. Do Routine Maintenance and Safety Checks

Grills should be treated like any other major appliance. Checking your propane tanks for gas leaks, loose hoses or any other damage before use is highly recommended. Be sure to keep any charcoal, fuel, and lighters within safe distance once your grill is lit. 

4. Keep an Eye on Your Grill

Make sure you are always near your grill, actively watching it for any signs of misuse or potential accidents. Being vigilant and cautious will help keep your food from overcooking also!

5. Don’t Overload Your Grill

Putting too much food on your grill may make the cooking process slower, pushing you to turn up the heat. Turning the heat up can be unsafe especially when cooking food items that are fatty, like hamburgers. Dripping fat combined with high heat can also cause a fire to occur. 

Other preventative measures may mean keeping a fire extinguisher nearby, using the proper cooking tools, and storing the grill properly when done. 

Soaking up the sun, hopping in the pool, and grilling is all part of summer in Ascension Parish. Doing so safely means more fun days to come without experiencing any fire damage to your home.

Types of Smoke Damage

6/10/2020 (Permalink)

The damage to your property following a fire can often be complicated due to the unique behavior of smoke. There are two different types of smoke – wet and dry. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Ascension Parish Professionals will survey the loss to determine the extent of impact from fire, smoke, heat, and moisture on the building materials and contents. The soot will then be tested to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. Pretesting determines the proper cleaning method and allows us to focus on saving your precious items.

Different Types of Smoke

Wet Smoke (Plastic and Rubber)

Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke (Paper and Wood)

Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue (Produced by evaporation of materials rather than from a fire)

Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.

Fuel Oil Soot (Furnace Puff Backs)

While “puff backs” can create havoc for homeowners, SERVPRO professionals can, in most cases, restore the contents and structure quickly.

Other Types (Tear gas, fingerprint powder and fire extinguisher residue)

Special loss situations require special care.

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish Professionals are trained to handle even the toughest losses. If your home or business suffers fire or smoke damage, contact us, at 225-663-8877, to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Are Mold and Mildew the Same Creatures?

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

Mole Remediation

The terms mold and mildew are often used interchangeably, but they are different animals. It is understandable that they often are confused among speakers, since they share a few similarities. Both are attracted to damp and warm places of the home. Both are a type of fungus and have that same aura or creepiness or sliminess. Finally, they like to grow on such things as drywall, flooring and paper products. However, the two fungi part ways with a few important traits. For one thing, mold damage is likely to be worse and harder to eradicate.

Identifying Mildew

The presence of mildew growth in a home in Ascension Parish, has a few characteristics that help identify it. The following traits are indicative of mildew:

• Mildew stays on the surface of materials
• It is usually a gray or white color and grows in small patches
• It is easily cleaned with a regular cleaner and a scrubbing brush and coarse cloth

Mildew is generally easy to control and treat. It also has less capability of causing harm to household items, belongings and the structure of a home.  

Identifying Mold

To correctly identify mold it is necessary to have a certified professional with the appropriate equipment for mold testing. In general, mold is a green or black color. Mold growth can be caused by several types of mold, each of which have different traits. Mold damage can be extensive and require the restoration of materials or belongings, and in some cases, objects will have to be disposed of. A local mold remediation company has the training and the equipment to mitigate a mold problem in a home. A rapid inspection and damage assessment is the first step in containing mold.

What to expect with SERVPRO of Ascension Parish

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

24/7 Response Time

What should be expected when you contact us?

First and foremost, expect our 24-hour availability! Whether you are calling day or night, weekday or weekends, and even during the holidays, you can always expect to speak with a real person about the emergency you are experiencing. SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is the top choice for many insurance agencies. 

Here is what you can expect during the first several hours after contacting SERVPRO of Ascension Parish: 

Quick Response - When a building has been damaged, the response time is an important factor in how time-consuming and how costly restoration will be. SERVPRO is always open, so you can expect to hear back within an hour after you have contacted them about the emergency. Once you have provided them with the necessary information, we will begin preparing to address the needs of your client.

Arrive Time - Our technicians can be on-site to begin the restoration process within four hours. This fast response can make the difference if your home or commercial business has suffered a great deal of damage. Beginning the process more quickly will result in less damage overall which can end up costing the insurance agency less money.

Inspection/Verbal Briefing - Once the damage restoration specialists have arrived, they can inspect the home to determine the extent of the damage and decide on the best course of action moving forward. Our team has the ability to let you know in the emergency is claim worthy or not as well. They will provide a verbal briefing so that you are aware of what will happen next. Our team's quick 24-hour response will allow us to begin mitigation as soon as possible to prevent any further damage before we begin work on necessary repairs.

Restore vs. Replace

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

Water Loss

The restore vs. replace mentality is one of the greatest assets SERVPRO of Ascension Parish has. When it comes to making it "Like it never even happened." it’s impossible to overstate the importance of keeping as many of the original items as possible.

This thinking allows prices to stay down as the cost for restoration is 20% of the cost for replacement. More importantly restoring is the preferred option because whether we realize it or not, the things in our homes, even the most arbitrary, have some kind of sentimental value. The blanket you always grab when you watch a movie, the plate you put your Thanksgiving turkey on or the couch your grandparents gave you.

Every item of yours is important and SERVPRO of Ascension Parish will treat it as such.

Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Prevention

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

Sanitize

Get the most current information on how to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus direct from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Be vigilant with hand washing. Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily with a hospital grade disinfectant. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.

Below is an excellent link to the current CDC recommendations. Be smart, get the facts.

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is here to perform preventative cleaning and disinfection of commercial properties, such as offices, schools, and retail areas. Contact us for more information on how SERVPRO of Ascension Parish can help your clients, employees and students stay safe through this time of concern. We can be reached at 225-663-8877.

Prevention of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) | CDC

SERVPRO is not just a local brand, but a national one.

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

Since its founding in 1967 SERVPRO has expanded to over 1,700 locations across the United States and Canada. Since then SERVPRO has also greatly expanded the array of services we offer. Since those services range from carpet cleaning and deodorization to large scale disaster recovery and with SERVPRO’s 1,700+ locations our collective knowledge and experience are one of the greatest assets SERVPRO has and we know how to use it. 

SERVPRO locations provide all kinds of support to each other ranging from equipment to people-power and technical advice. Sometimes we might run into an issue that we have not encountered before or possibly elements to a job that prevents our normal methods for jobs. This is when we have been able to rely on the knowledge base which our corporate office and other SERVPRO’s have accumulated. 

It does not matter what emergency you are facing. From Water Mitigation, Fire Restoration, or Mold Remediation. SERVPRO has the team and backing to handle it all. We are known for taking care of big problems and disasters, but we also are adept at helping people with issues you normally may not know the solution too. If you have an emergency which makes you think “I don’t even know who does this,” try giving us a call.

We are Cleaning Experts

3/18/2020 (Permalink)

We are here to help!

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

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

The CDC encourages 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

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends 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 Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today - SERVPRO of Ascension Parish 225-663-8877

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

Be Hurricane Ready

9/5/2019 (Permalink)

Hurricane Winds

Are You "Hurricane Ready"?

This time of year can always be scary for anyone who lives in the possible path of hurricanes or may have friends and family who do live in a consistent path. Hurricanes are massive storm systems that form over ocean water and often move toward land. Hurricanes include high winds, heavy rainfall, storm surge, coastal and inland flooding, rip currents and tornadoes all of which can destroy homes, buildings, and roads. It is important to stay ready so you do not find yourself scrambling to brace for the impact. There is always the potential looming that our area could be hit by a hurricane. Here are a few things to know ahead of a hurricane if one was to head our direction. 

Know the Difference

• Flood/Flash Flood Watch—Flooding or flash flooding is possible in your area.
• Flood/Flash Flood Warning—Flooding or flash flooding is already occurring or will occur soon in your area. 

How to Prepare

• Listen to area radio and television stations and a NOAA Weather Radio for possible flood warnings and reports of flooding in progress or other critical information from the National Weather Service (NWS).
• Be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice.
• When a flood or flash flood warning is issued for your area, head for higher ground and stay there.
• Because standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flooding, it’s important to have protection from the floods associated with hurricanes, tropical storms, heavy rains and other conditions that impact the U.S. For more information on flood insurance, please visit the National Flood Insurance Program Web site at www.FloodSmart.gov.

Always Know the RisksTo find your risk, visit FEMA’s “Know Your Risk Map.” Be better prepared for this hurricane season, and learn more at www.ready.gov/prepare

Checklist: Preventing a Fire

9/3/2019 (Permalink)

Kitchen Fire

More than 4,000 people die every year in fires according to U.S. government statistics. More than 25,000 are seriously injured. Most of these deaths and injuries could be prevented. Here’s a checklist of some ways you can help prevent a fire in your home and make your home safer:

•    Talk with your kids about the dangers of playing with matches, fire, lighters, and flammable liquids
•    Don’t leave the kitchen when you’re cooking (most home fires start on the kitchen stove)
•    Know and post your local fire department’s emergency phone number
•    Keep gasoline, kerosene, paint thinners, and other flammable liquids in appropriate containers and away from other flammable materials

Need Fire Damage Repair or Restoration? Call (225) 663-8877

•    Keep your garage clear of trash, newspapers, and other combustibles
•    Don’t use flammable liquids like gasoline, kerosene, or benzene indoors
•    Make sure flammable liquids are stored in appropriate containers in a well-ventilated area
•    Safely discard cloths or paper towels used with flammable liquids, preferably outdoors in metal containers
•    Avoid plugging several appliances into one electrical outlet unless you use a UL-approved outlet with circuit breakers
•    Don’t use extension cords with heaters or air conditioners
•    Use smoke alarms throughout your home and test them regularly
•    Use caution with alternative heating sources like kerosene, wood, or pellet stoves
•    Use only the type of fuel that’s meant for these heating sources, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions  
•    If you must smoke, do so safely:
•    Never smoke in bed
•    Don’t leave the room with a cigarette burning in an ashtray 
•    Keep matches, cigarette lighters, and grill lighters in a locked cabinet
•    Never smoke when you’re drowsy, medicated, or reclining 
•    Make sure smokers have deep, sturdy ashtrays, and make sure cigarette and cigar butts are cold before you put them in the trash

If you do experience a fire in the Ascension area, you can rely on the fire damage repair and restoration services of SERVPRO of Ascension Parish. We have restored many fire-damaged homes and businesses. You can also rely on us for smoke damage cleanup.

Call SERVPRO of Ascension Parish
For any commercial or home cleanup and restoration questions you have, call SERVPRO of Ascension Parish anytime, 24/7 at 225-663-8877. At SERVPRO, our fire damage restoration teams are trained in the safest, most advanced, and quickest ways to help. 

What to do AFTER a Water Damage

9/3/2019 (Permalink)

Water Loss

Understanding what type of water you are dealing with is critical. 

Clean water is water from a broken pipe, or other water source; rainwater is also considered clean.

Gray water is slightly contaminated water; clean water becomes gray water when it is left untreated.

Black water is highly contaminated and filled with fungi, bacteria, and chemicals. Black water is usually caused by sewage damage, flooding or any type of natural disaster. Black water should ALWAYS be handled by a trained professional.

Make sure you...

-Shut off the water source if possible or contact someone to do it

-Turn off circuit breakers if safe from potential electrical shock. DO NOT enter rooms with standing water.

-Remove excess water by mopping and blotting. Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing tabletop items. Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet.

-Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions.

-Move any paintings, art, computers, documents, and other items of value to a safe place.

-Do not leave any books, newspapers, or magazines on wet carpet.

-Do not use your household vacuum cleaner since there is potential for electrical shock. 

-Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet, and do not enter the room if the ceiling is sagging.

Tips to Prepare for a Hurricane

8/29/2019 (Permalink)

Hurricane in the Gulf of Mexico

Preparing your Home or Business for Hurricanes

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is keeping a close watch on Hurricane Dorian as it approaches landfall in the next several days. We wanted to provide a few tips on how you can prepare your home for an upcoming storm.  

10 TIPS ON PREPARING YOUR HOME FOR HURRICANE SEASON

1. Make sure your insurance policy will cover the full cost of rebuilding your home if it is destroyed during a storm.
2. Consider getting flood insurance. Floods often follow a storm- and many homeowner insurance policies do not cover them.
3. Take an inventory of your property, so that in the event of a storm you know exactly what you need to replace and how much it’s worth.
4. Trim or remove damaged trees and limbs surrounding your home
5. Retrofit your roof and seal all windows and doors so that they are secure. Consider adding roof straps if you have access to your roof via an attic
6. Secure loose rain gutters and downspouts and make sure you clear any clogged areas to prevent any water damage
7. Install a vertical garage door brace into your existing garage door so that it doesn’t blow in during a storm
8. Make sure not to leave any furniture outside that could be picked up by strong winds and transformed into a projectile (such as patio furniture, grills, decorations etc.)
9. Consider purchasing a portable generator for use during power outages
10. Look into building a FEMA safe room for your property.

As always, SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is here to assist following any disaster. We can help restore your property back to it’s pre-storm condition. Give us a call at 225-663-8877.

When the storm rolls out, we roll in!

8/29/2019 (Permalink)

Faster to Any Size Disaster

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish and our response team details:

Storm Response

When the storm is a major event, you need more comprehensive restoration support. SERVPRO of Ascesnion Parish is “Ready for whatever happens.”

Time is Money

As the leader in water damage restoration, SERVPRO of Ascension Parish knows fast mitigation is the key to limiting business interruption. With an unmatched national footprint of over 1,500 Franchises nationwide, SERVPRO® is faster to any size disaster and can be on-site within a few hours to help reduce the future damage water can cause. We have the right equipment, procedures, man power and training to help ensure the structure is dry the first time, saving you time and money. Our goal is always to get you and your business back up and running as fast as possible. 

Storm Teams

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is ready to mobilize at any location in the event of flooding or storm damage. We have a history of traveling to disaster areas in Texas, Kentucky, Florida and North Carolina to assist those in need. 

If you or your business suffer interruption from a disaster, call on the industry leaders at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish at 225-663-8877.

Restoration Company vs. Contractor

7/29/2019 (Permalink)

Imagine you come home for lunch on a Wednesday afternoon and you walk into your living room covered with 8 inches of water.

What do you do?

Who do you call?

Do you call your family friend local contractor or Water Restoration Company?

What is the difference?

There are many differences between Contractors and Water Restoration Companies. Here are a few:

• A contractor’s job is to replace everything that is affected. This will include all flooring, walls, cabinets and even furniture. SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is certified in drying water damage to IICRC industry standards. We will not remove materials unless it is necessary. This prevents further interruption to your daily life.
• A contractor will have to replace all of the materials they took out of your home. This can take weeks waiting for material decisions, insurance approval, shipping, and installation time. SERVPRO of Ascension Parish average drying time is only 3 days. We have crews available 24/7/356 and someone to monitor your job daily.
• Replacing flooring, drywall, and all of your furniture is expensive. Restoring your home is a lot less expensive than replacing everything in your home.

When you call SERVPRO of Ascension Parish you can expect a First Responder on site within an hour and your home to be restored quickly by certified, professional technicians.

Where to look for Water Damage

7/29/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding is very common in Louisiana, but water damage can come from many different places and is not just a problem for people living on the coast. While the damage from a flood is pretty apparent, there are many ways water damage can happen to your home when you don’t even realize it.

Here are some common causes of water damage and how you can spot the warning signs.

Weather is a common cause of water damage. Rains cause flooding that can get into your home from the outside.

Even if it isn’t raining there is still moisture in the air. Damp air can lead to condensation and water damage to your walls. This is especially true of bathrooms and other damp areas of your home that don’t get much airflow.

Appliances like your washing machine, garbage disposal, water heater, toilet, and air conditioner can all contribute to water damage if they leak or stop draining properly.

Water from our pipes and plumbing systems can also cause water damage. Leaks and drips can go on for months, or even years, raising your water bill and doing unseen damage to your home.

So if these are all the ways water can sneak into your home, what are the signs of water damage?

Here are a few warning signs that you have a water damage problem in your home.

Standing water – This may sound pretty obvious, but if you notice water pooling in your house you have a water problem that needs to be taken care of immediately.

Bad smells – While water doesn’t normally have much of a smell, the mold and bacteria that grow in damp environments can give off a distinct musty, wet odor. If you smell mold or mildew you might have a water issue.

Stains and spots – Stains on the ceilings or walls can be a sign of water damage. You might have a leaky pipe or roof. Call SERVPRO of Ascension Parish at 225-663-8877 to determine the cause of the problem and to clean up the damage before it becomes a serious mold problem.

Peeling paint – Paint damaged by water will start to peel, bubble, or flake off.

Uneven surfaces – Water damage can cause floors, ceilings, walls, and other surfaces to warp and feel uneven.

Cracks – Water is always seeking the path of least resistance out of your home. Water can enter through cracks and once water finds it’s way in, the crack will expand allowing even more to get into your home. Make sure you seal all visible cracks on your property.

If you notice your home has water damage call the experts at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish Today at 225-663-8877.

Taking on Storms with Technology

7/26/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ascension FREE Emergency Ready Profile

With Hurricane Season upon us, it is important to be ready for a storm and disaster can strike at a moment’s notice!

Technology is working hard to let us be aware of danger with more time to prepare before it hits! Technology can also be a vital tool in preparing for emergencies or disasters, as well as during or after to stay informed of the situation and in communication with others. From common technology you already use on a day-to-day basis to taking a few extra steps to prepare. Below are a few things that will help you be ready in the event of an emergency or disaster.

Store Information Online

There are many places to store important information securely online. Services like Google Drive and Dropbox offer a free way to store different types of files, from a Word document to images of important documents. Ready.gov suggests saving an electronic version of insurance policies, identification documents, medical records, and information on your pets, if necessary.

Follow the News

Stay informed by following agencies such as FEMA, local news channels, and local government on Twitter for the most up-to-date information in a disaster situation. You can also alert first responders if a rescue is needed through Twitter.

Mark Yourself Safe

The American Red Cross offers a Safe & Well check-in site to list yourself as safe or find family and friends in situations where communication is difficult to establish. Facebook also has a feature called Safety Check that is activated after natural disasters or a crisis. You will receive a notification from Facebook if you’re located in the affected area at that time.

Get in Touch

Make sure your contact information is up-to-date in your phone and e-mail for communication with family, friends, business contacts, and others whom you may need to get in contact with before, during, or after a disaster.

Charge Up

Keep a portable charger in your car and home in case of an emergency. You may need to recharge this from time to time, but you can also buy solar-powered chargers as well. 

An Emergency READY Profile from SERVPRO of Ascension Parish will provide a FREE assessment of your facility to help prepare you, your property, or your business for an any emergency. By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your property or business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action.  Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your property or business. Put help in the palm of your hand with the Ready Plan App.  Get in touch with SERVPRO of Ascension Parish today for more information on developing an ERP for your property or business! Call us Today: 225-663-8877

Is Your Roof Ready for a Storm?

7/26/2019 (Permalink)

Roof Damage

When it comes to our homes, and even commercial properties, our roofs are the first line of defense against storms. While spring/summer is when severe storms are most likely to occur in Ascension Parsh, the long and cold rainy days we have during the winter often result in water damages when they penetrate through a roof that was not repaired after a heavy storm season earlier in the year.

In order to ensure your roof is ready for anything the weather may bring you should check for damage regularly. Missing shingles, signs of small leaks, or mold damage are some of the things you yourself can check for regularly, especially following a hard storm or consecutive bad weather days. If you suspect there may be any type of problem with your roof, you should call in roofing professionals that can give you a complete assessment. When the weather gets bad the last thing you want to worry about is whether or not your roof can hold up against a storm, so try to do regular inspections throughout the year and at least one professional assessment per year in order to protect your home.

If you have a water damage due to a roof leak at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Ascension Parish anytime at 225-663-8877. Our team can be onsite quickly to begin the restoration process as soon as possible.

Contents Restoration (Fire)

7/24/2019 (Permalink)

CONTENTS RESTORATION

From furniture to antiques to artwork and appliances, we'll treat your treasures with the care they deserve. While some items can be cleaned on-site, in many cases we'll need to inventory, pack out and transport the contents of your property to our state-of-the-art facility to ensure the best care possible.

Key Issues

• Contents may need to be cleaned off-site
• Contents inventory
• Determine replacement and restoration
• Pack
• Ozone treatment
• Cleaning
• Odor removal
• Secure
• Return

Contents Inventory

• We arrive on-site and inventory all of your personal belongings.
• We carefully pack all salvable items to transport to our secure warehouse and cleaning facility.
• Unsalvageable contents are inventoried and discarded.

Restoration

• Thorough cleaning
• Proper handling of all electronics
• Photographs and artwork
• Fabrics
• Clothes
• Memorabilia
• Antiques
• Soft goods
• Dry Cleaning
• Appliances
• Surfaces
• Odor Removal

Board Up Services - Post Fire

7/24/2019 (Permalink)

If your property in Ascension Parish has experienced a fire, there are several reasons why you might want to board up structural damage or windows. In addition to keeping the external elements out of a building with fire damage, boarding up can also prevent additional losses due to looting and make the fire cleanup process easier.  SERVPRO of Ascension Parish offers full-service restoration specialists who can also assist in board-up services.  

Here are four reasons to board-up after a fire.

• In a commercial setting, there may still be viable stock on the premises. If products that appear viable remain in the building, you should consider boarding up. These items may require assessment and cleaning and may not be fit for sale, but having them properly processed rather than stolen can be helpful for insurance purposes.
• You want to protect electronics and other valuables. Depending on the extent of the fire damage, you may be able to restore some electronics or other valuable property to working condition.
• You need to keep out the elements. If the structure of your property has sustained extensive damage, you should try to keep the elements out to prevent additional damage. Exposure to additional water, wind, or sunlight can compound the damage caused by smoke residue and soot.
• You want to limit soot damage. It is generally a good idea to reduce foot traffic on the scene of a recent fire. When soot gets embedded into carpeting or upholstery, it can be much more difficult to restore these materials to a pre-fire condition.

Talk to our experts at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish, about whether boarding up is a good strategy for preventing loss and limiting damage after a fire. Your major concern is likely to be how to recover from fire damage as quickly and completely as possible. Preventing looting and exposure to the elements can make fire cleanup more successful. Call SERVPRO of Ascension Parish today at 225-663-8877 for more information.

Preventing Mold in Commercial Buildings

7/23/2019 (Permalink)

Why should you worry about mold in your building? According to OSHA, some mold, over time, may cause structural damage to wood along with damage to furnishings and finishes. Use the following tips to help prevent mold growth in your business.

#1: Clean Out the Refrigerator

It can be difficult to keep track of shared refrigerators. Some people will always remember to clear out their leftovers, others won’t. Old food storage containers are a perfect breeding ground for mold. Over time, mold can travel to the shelving and even outside the refrigerator. Consider instituting an office refrigerator policy. If something is left in the fridge by a certain time each week, it goes in the garbage.

#2: Look for And Repair Leaks

Leaks from plumbing, windows, roofs, and more can lead to significant water damage in your business as well as an increased risk of mold growth. If you aren’t regularly inspecting your property, it’s easy for these leaks to go unchecked until they create a larger, more costly problem. Watch for telltale signs of a leak such as lower water pressure; wet spots on the floors, ceilings, or walls; and condensation around window sills and in attic spaces.

#3: Keep It Clean

It’s easy for anyone to get caught up in work and let clutter take over his or her workspace. However, clutter creates lots of hiding spots for crumbs and dust, which are both great food sources for mold. Make sure to clear the clutter and wipe down hard surfaces regularly. Make sure to promptly clean all spills as well. Clean and sanitize break rooms and bathrooms frequently. Both rooms provide ample opportunity for mold growth. These rooms should be cleaned at least weekly depending on how regularly people use each room.

#4: Turn on the AC/Dehumidifier

Leaks aren’t the only way for moisture to accumulate in your business. High humidity levels can lead to moisture and mold as well. On hot days, fans can cool you off, but they don’t do much for humidity levels. Run your AC or a dehumidifier to cut down the humidity in the building.

#5: Clean out Trash Cans

While you might switch out the liners regularly, can you remember the last time you washed out the trash cans? It’s easy for bits of food and condensation to sneak beneath liners into the can, which is all mold needs to grow. Try washing out office wastebaskets about once a month to prevent mold growth.

#6: Take Care of Your HVAC System

Your HVAC system can quickly distribute mold spores throughout your building if there is a problem. Make sure your HVAC system receives regular inspections. Sometimes moisture condenses inside air ducts or leaks drip onto ducts from ceiling tiles, which can lead to mold growth inside the ducts. Make sure to keep the HVAC drip pans clean and unobstructed. Additionally, replace your filters as needed.

#7: Slope the Ground Away from the Foundation

If the ground around your building slopes toward the foundation, water can accumulate and weaken your building’s structure. Additionally, it provides an ideal environment for mold to grow. The ground should slope away from the building. You should also make sure your building follows the local building codes for drainage. Mold is persistent. Even if you follow all the right steps it’s still possible for mold to grow and spread in your building.

Fortunately, at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish, we have the right experience in mold remediation to make your place of business “Like it never even happened.” Unfortunately, mold doesn’t stay put, it grows quickly. You’ll want to give us a call as soon as you notice it, so we can start the remediation process. Our technicians have the training, equipment, and knowledge necessary to help locate and remediate mold efficiently. If you find mold in your place of business, call us today at 225-663-8877

Causes of Commercial Water Damage

7/23/2019 (Permalink)

When business owners visualize water damage, they often picture a massive storm wiping out power lines, flooding offices, and shutting down businesses for days at a time. It is true that commercial water damage is often the result of floods and water that stems from weather events and storms. 
 
However, many entrepreneurs and business space renters (property managers) forget that storms and severe weather aren't the only causes of floods and water damage. Here are some of the typical causes of water damage to commercial buildings. 
 
1. Malfunctioning sprinkler systems 
Some older office and retail buildings still have outdated sprinkler systems that work in conjunction with fire protection systems. While such sprinklers can come in handy during a fire emergency, they can also cause commercial flood damage if they are faulty or in need of replacement. This could easily damage inventory and business assets.

2. Damaged appliances and equipment 
This cause of commercial flood damage is more common in restaurants and catering facilities, as well as any business that has appliances and equipment that make use of water. If the appliance fails and sends water across your building, especially during late hours when no one is around, you may come back to work and face a water emergency. 
 
3. Broken pipes and plumbing 
Just like in a residence, if the plumbing system in your workplace fails water damage could be the result. 
 
4. Backed up sewer lines 
This is another cause of commercial water damage that often catches business owners by surprise. Should the sewer line to your building back up or become damaged, realize the potential dangers of contaminated Black Water which can cause health effects and ruin products and office furnishings. 
 
If your business has suffered commercial water damage, SERVPRO of Ascension Parish will get you back up and running again. Call us anytime, 24/7 at (225) 663-8877 for fast help.

Protect your Business from Storm Damage

7/22/2019 (Permalink)

Here are are, at the start of Hurricane season 2019. 

So we thought it would be a great time to cover some tips to protect your business in the event of a storm. 

A flooded building can wreak havoc on your business operations. If flood water is a real concern in Louisiana, it is important to do what you can now so that your business property is better protected later. Here's how you can protect your property from water damage.

Preparing Your Building

Before a flood even occurs, you can take steps to seal your building from water. Start by applying a waterproof coating to the exterior walls. Several other steps are also important.

" Install waterproof shields over windows and doors where possible.
" Strengthen walls to stand against the pressure of flood water or flood debris.
" Seal all areas where utilities enter the building.
" Anchor the building if necessary.

Protecting the Lower Levels

Inspect your first floor to ensure there are no areas where flood water can easily enter the premises. Regrade any land that slopes into your property, extend or redirect gutter spouts and repair any cracks in the walls. Move any valuable equipment or furniture to higher ground and create digital backups of any important paper documentation.

Taking Other Safety Measures

Water damage is not the only thing to worry about during flooding. It is also important to properly anchor any fuel tanks to prevent the water from sweeping them away, which can cause the lines to break and fires or explosions to happen. Sewer backflow valves are also important.

Preparing for Restoration

No matter how well you prepare your building for a flood, at least some damage is still likely to occur. Call a well-respected restoration company to help you remove moisture, dry materials and get your property ready to do business again.

Being 100 percent prepared for a natural disaster is practically impossible, but preparing now for a later storm means getting back into the swing of things as quickly as possible after any damage happens.

Can my Carpets be Saved?

7/17/2019 (Permalink)

One of the most common questions asked after flooding or a water damage is, "Do my carpet have to be replaced?" After your home or business has been affected by water, you'll need to handle some repairs and assessments before you can determine whether the carpet can stay.

Step One: Contact a Professional

There are many reasons to work with a restoration professional immediately. These experts have the equipment best suited to facilitating a quick and comprehensive recovery from flooding. In many cases, your insurance company may prefer that you work with professionals and may not provide coverage if you didn't respond to the pipe break appropriately. Water damage restoration professionals can provide you with expert advice concerning water exposure to your home and furnishings. 

Step Two: Consider the Length of Exposure

If the materials and furnishings in your home have been wet for more than 72 hours, it is probably best to replace porous items. For example, any padding under your flooring could be harboring mold spores. It is very difficult to thoroughly dry and clean padding, so it will also need to be replaced. 

Step Three: Identify the Type of Flood Water

Did the water come from an interior pipe or did it back up from the sewage system? If the water came from a clean water source, such as a kitchen sink, there's much less risk than if contaminated water affected your home. If you aren't certain in your assessment of the type of water, ask a qualified professional for testing. 

Step Four: Carefully Weigh Your Options

As restoration options are presented to you, consider time, inconvenience, cost, and safety. For example, if you have to replace the padding, you may need to spend a lot of time carefully removing the carpet so that you don't damage it. Before you handle either, you'll need to be sure you aren't exposing your home or family to mold and contaminants.

We are available to provide answers and advice. It's generally best to call us immediately after discovering your home/business has been affected by water. SERVPRO of Ascension Parish 225-753-3434

Red Cross - Storm Weather Tips

7/17/2019 (Permalink)

Recently, Ascension Parish and surrounding areas have encountered flooding, tornadoes and thunderstorms. All of these storms have had a significant effect on residents in our area for both residential and commercial properties. 

TORNADOES 

Tornadoes can strike without warning and destroy a community in seconds. Before a tornado warning is issued for your area, here are some things you should do:

1. Know your community’s warning system.

2. Pick a place where family members can gather if a tornado is headed your way. It could be your basement or, if there is no basement, a center hallway, bathroom, or closet on the lowest floor. Keep this place uncluttered.

3. If you are in a high-rise building and don’t have enough time to go to the lowest floor, pick a place in a hallway in the center of the building.

4. Remove diseased and damaged limbs from trees.

5. Move or secure lawn furniture, trash cans, hanging plants or anything else that can be picked up by the wind and become a projectile.

THUNDERSTORM SAFETY

Thunderstorms injure an average of 300 people every year, and cause about 80 fatalities. Here are the top thunderstorm safety steps you should follow:

1. If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to the storm to be struck by lightning. Go to safe shelter immediately.

2. As the storm approaches, take shelter in a building.

3. If you are driving, pull off the roadway and park. Stay in the car with the windows closed and turn on the emergency flashers. Avoid touching metal or other surfaces that conduct electricity in and outside of the vehicle.

4. If you are inside, unplug appliances and avoid using the telephone or any electrical appliances. Avoid taking a bath or shower, or running water for any other purpose.

5. If you are caught outside and cannot reach a safe building, avoid high ground, water, tall, isolated trees and metal objects such as fences or bleachers. Picnic shelters, dugouts and sheds are not safe.

FLOODING 

Heavy rains could fill rivers and streams, bringing flooding to the area. If your neighborhood is threatened with the possibility of flooding, here are some things you should do:

1. Be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice. When a flood or flash flood warning is issued for your area, head for higher ground and stay there.

2. Stay away from floodwaters. 

3. If you come upon a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.

4. Keep children out of the water.

5. Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood danger.

Commercial Duct Cleaning

7/16/2019 (Permalink)

Cleaning air ducts in a commercial building may seem like an unimportant item to add to a long list of “building needs”; however, it is not something to ignore, even if your ducts do not seem to be experiencing any issues. If you own a commercial property in the Ascension Parish area, consider using SERVPRO of Ascension Parish when it comes time to clean the air ducts in your building. There are many benefits to having air ducts routinely cleaned, here are just a few:

• Decrease in dust reentering the system, which will cut down in cleaning and remove potential allergens from the environment.
• Reduce the risk of mold in your ducts, which will help lower the amount of mold spores spreading throughout your property.
• Remove any materials from previous pest infestations, and decrease the likelihood of any future infestations.
• Longer HVAC lifespan and greater HVAC efficiency.
• Better air quality for building occupants.

For more information regarding a duct cleaning service for your commercial property call SERVPRO of Ascension Parish at 225-663-8877.

Different Levels of Commercial Damage

7/16/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish handles not only residential damage and restoration, but commercial as well.

There are three levels of commercial damage that are considered:

Level 1

Level 1 is a small commercial loss typically involving 15,000 square feet or less of affected floor space. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a small commercial loss may include, but are not limited to, a stand-alone retail establishment, a small church, a daycare facility, a small shopping center, a small warehouse or manufacturing facility, or a stand-alone administrative building. A Level 1 loss can also be a small portion of a much larger structure.

Level 2

Level 2 is a midsize commercial loss typically involving 15,000 to 60,000 square feet of affected floor space. The building or buildings involved are usually multi-level or greatly divided spaces. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a Level 2 loss may include, but are not limited to, a small multi-family property, a midsize church or school, a small shopping center, a multi-tenant administration facility, or a midsize warehouse or manufacturing facility. A Level 2 loss can also be just a portion of a much larger structure.

Level 3

Level 3 is a large commercial loss typically involving more than 60,000 square feet of affected floor space. The building or buildings involved will likely be large multi-level structures. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a Level 3 loss can include, but are not limited to, a large church, hospital, school, or university; a large multi-family property; a mid- to high-rise retail or administration facility; a large industrial, manufacturing, or warehouse facility; or a large strip-style shopping center or shopping mall. This is the level at which it would be appropriate to refer to the project as a “large loss.”

Once our team determines the level of loss, the property is further assessed, and a team of appropriate size is dispatched to get the job done quickly and efficiently, and return your business to operation “Like it never even happened.”®

New Equipment for Commercial Damages

6/18/2019 (Permalink)

For years SERVPRO of Ascension Parish has been delivering fast response and quality service to commercial building owners and property manages in the surrounding areas. 

Our experienced and knowledgeable staff take a priority approach to mitigate the damage left behind by fire or water. 

We are proud to announce our recent addition of our desiccant drying package with generator to our Large Loss division. In addition we have also added a Large Loss and Reconstruction Manager to get you back in business even faster than ever before. 

Give us a call at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish at 225-663-8877 and let one of our qualified SERVPRO First Responder assess your emergency needs. We respond 24 hours a day 7 days a week and are ready to help you in time of need making it "Like it never even happened."

Fire Prevention Tips While Away on Vacation

6/18/2019 (Permalink)

Summer is typically a time where we all get to take a break from patterns of day-to-day life.

It’s always nice to have a couple of weeks off to either beat the heat at a cold tourist destination, or even to embrace it on a beautiful beach.

However, no matter how you deal with heat, you don’t want to return from your vacation this summer to discover that a heat of a different kind has destroyed your home.

Fire damage can happen at any time of the year – the extensive fire and smoke damage can destroy your home. While SERVPRO of East Baton Rouge offers emergency restoration services to help rebuild after fire damage, we want to provide some tips that can help you avoid a tragic event this summer.

Tips for Preventing Fire Damage at Home

There are certainly occasions where natural disasters are simply out of our control and really aren’t affected by any precaution we take. However, for those instances where everyday choices can make the difference, we’ve compiled a few tips for preventing fires at your home while traveling this summer.

Neighborhood Watch

You don’t need to have an active Neighborhood Watch to make sure someone’s looking after your home.

Ask one of your trusted neighbors to be on the lookout while you’re away. This can be very helpful for both preventing fires from breaking out, but also for stopping them before they get too out of hand. Even if you’ve taken precautions before leaving, it doesn’t hurt to have someone do a walk through to double check.

In the worst-case scenario, you’ll at least have someone you trust keeping your home in mind and ready to call the fire department. Their watchfulness can make all the difference in how much fire and smoke damage occurs.

Electricity

There’s a strong likelihood that you’re not going to be using any of your home appliances while traveling.

Unplug them.

It’s always proper fire prevention practice to make sure your appliance chords are in a good shape, that they’re being used to manufacture standards, and that your circuits and extension cords aren’t overloaded.

However, while gone, the simplest remedy is to unplug everything that doesn’t need power. A damaged chord can’t cause you issues if it’s not plugged in.

Also, while you may be somewhere taking in the summer sun and clear skies, a thunderstorm could be happening in your city. You can easily prevent a power surge hitting your house and causing a fire by having little-to-know items connected.

This appliance check also includes your water heater. This is another area of your home which should be checked routinely because damage to electrical lines or faulty valves or vents can lead to a major fire hazard.

Additionally, it’s a wise idea to check your house’s main circuit breaker or box. This is a good habit before leaving for the summer, but also for any time of the year. The main box serves as a defense against electrical surges. So, if you see it’s already burnt out, call a specialist right away.

Safety Systems

There is a wide variety of tech and detection services available to monitor your home while away. These are great whenever you’re away from home, especially if you’re gone for an extended period.

If you know you’re going to be traveling extensively, it could be a great idea to invest in a home security system. Wireless systems like these not only can alert you for when a fire breaks out, but can even be automated to the point of calling the fire department on your behalf. 

Investing in a sprinkler system for your home is an obvious plus against preventing fire damage. Check this system before you leave to make sure that it’s functional. A home security system and a helpful neighbor can only do so much, and it may be your sprinklers which save the day.

Enjoy the Heat

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is here for you with emergency restoration services in the unfortunate event that your home has fire or smoke damage. Routine appliance and safety equipment checks should be a part of keeping your home safe during any time of the year. It’s better to check them now, so you can enjoy your summer later.

If you need assistance with an old or new smoke alarm check or installation, please call SERVPRO of Ascension Parish today at 225-663-8877 and we will see that a proper check or installation is done by our local Red Cross for FREE. 

No Storm Too Big or Too Small

6/11/2019 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes it is hard to know what path to take. When it is a widespread disaster it is even harder to figure out which restoration company you can trust. SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is there for you! We have dedicate teams to help you through storm season. 

Whether it is damage due to wind, hail, tornadoes or hurricanes our team is on standby. Our crews can respond quickly and handle a residential customer or a downtown high-rise. 

With over 1700 franchises around the United States, our reach is endless to get you back up and running as quickly as possible. 

Our office team is well versed in covered and non-covered events and can get you the correct information you need when you need it. Our teams document with pictures, daily moisture readings and daily notes ensuring when it is time to send information over to your insurance company we have it. 

Experienced a loss give our teams give us a call.

Is your Company Ready for a Disaster?

5/28/2019 (Permalink)

Disasters strike and we have no knowledge of when, where or to what magnitude. All we as business owners can do is prepare for the worst. That is where our SERVPRO of Ascension Parish Commercial team comes in. 

So how exactly can you prepare for a disaster? 

You put plans in place and make the chaos that will happen as organized as possible. 

How can we help? 

Through our Emergency Ready Profiles!! These profiles are a great way to prepare for those unknown emergencies. Our team comes out and meets with your on-site personnel and retrieves information such as water shut off, panel boxes, emergency contact info, etc. Through multiple site visits our crew is then able to put together this profile for your business. 

Our team also has your profile on file so in the event you do not have access to your profile and disaster strikes we have your back. 

Interested in this completely free service. Give our sales team a call at 225-663-8877

FIRES: Getting Rid on the Smell

5/28/2019 (Permalink)

If you have ever experienced a fire you know getting rid of the burnt smell can be harder than it sounds. 

At SERVPRO of Ascension Parish we have the knowledge and ability to make those pesky odors go away. 

Smoke Odor Deodorization Tips: 
Performing fire damage restoration involves both removing the smoke residues and also deodorizing smoke odors. The odors in a smoke-damaged building will be considerably decreased once the affected materials are demolished and removed or cleaned. 

The actual cleaning and deodorization procedures will vary depending on whether the smoke residues are light, medium or heavy. 

Different Categories of Smoke Odor / Damage

Light Smoke Odor Situation - typically only affects a small area and has no structural damage. Smoke residues are typically light and not visible. 

Moderate Smoke Odor - typically smoke residue are on both horizontal and vertical surfaces. Structural damage in the affected area involved burned materials such as cabinets, counter-tops or contents. Odor problems are greater when a fire burns for a longer time or when an increased number of materials burn. Smoke residues are carried further throughout the home. 

Heavy Smoke Odor - typically the entire home is affected by smoke residue. This typically requires almost complete demolition of the interior of the home and sealing of studs to control odor. 

Experienced a fire damage and unsure where to start give our team of specialists a call at 225-663-8877

Smoke Alarms - Life Savers

5/24/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms save lives when properly installed and maintained, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). In homes, smoke alarms should be in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level, including the basement. Extra smoke alarms may be needed in large homes.

Test smoke alarms monthly using the test button. Smoke alarms with non-replaceable batteries need the entire smoke alarm unit replaced every ten years. Other alarms need batteries replaced every year and the unit replaced every ten years. If the alarm chirps signaling low battery, take the proper steps to replace the unit or the batteries immediately. Never disable or remove the battery from an alarm. Almost half of fires where smoke alarms were present but did not activate had missing or disconnected batteries (NFPA).

If you need help installing, testing or changing batteries in your smoke alarms, contact your local fire department, an electrician or the American Red Cross.

Be sure your home has a fire emergency plan in place and conduct regular fire drills with your family. For more information on Emergency Preparedness, contact your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional.

SERVPRO of East Baton Rouge is a proud supporter of the American Red Cross. Give us a call if you need assistance with a fire damage 225-663-8877.

Our Process - The Water Damage

5/24/2019 (Permalink)

Most of us in our lifetime will never deal with a water damage in our home. Of course that is not true for everyone. If you are one of those that has dealt with or are dealing with a water damage our teams take a very structured approach to ensure we get your home to preloss condition as quickly as possible. Our process is broken up into several phases and steps that take us through the entire process from the initial visit to final billing to the insurance carrier. 

Phase 1 consists of Project Initiation this is the initial meeting with the customer explaining our process and taking our required photos and measurements. Following this we move over to Phase 2 which is our Project Plan. This is where our crews collect moisture readings and compile a plan of action. If any necessary approvals are needed our crew would,during this phase, reach out to an insurance adjuster and obtain those additional approvals. Phase 3 then consists of actually performing the plan that was put in place by the water crew chief. The final phase it the project close out. At this phase our crew chief does a final walkthrough with our customer and ensures the job is satisfactory. 

If you ever experience a water loss please call the team at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish at 225-663-8877 to assist. 

Like it never even happened

4/14/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO - A Restoration Vendor for Insurance Carriers Nationwide

The Brand You Know and Trust

You can recognize and trust the SERVPRO name... "Like it never even happened."

Serving America Since 1967

Since 1967, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have been assisting client's fire and water damages across the United States. Nearly four decades of experience have culminated in the proven processes, technology, equipment, and products to help ensure IICRC S500 industry standards are met and you are satisfied. 

More Than 1,700 Franchises Nationwide

Today, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals from more than 1,700 Franchises are ready to assist including SERVPRO of Ascension Parish. 

24-Hour Emergency Service

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are committed to providing 24-hour emergency service to help you when it comes to fire, water and mold both in residential and commercial properties. 

Detailed Estimates

You will be provided a detailed estimate that clearly lists all services to be performed. There are no unwelcome surprises with SERVPRO.

Trained, Uniformed Franchise Professionals.. Your "Heroes"

When you call, a trained, uniformed SERVPRO Franchise Professional will arrive at your property with the equipment necessary to help protect the structure and contents. Your concerns will be addressed quickly and professionally to help begin the process of regaining control of your life. 

Call SERVPRO of Ascension Parish today with any questions: 225-663-8877

Why SERVPRO of Ascension Parish? Because we are Certified!

4/9/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of Ascension Parish

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, water damage event or mold restoration. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm.

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish believes in continuous training for all staff members: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility, to regular IICRC-industry certification, to weekly in office classes. Rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Call the experts at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish at 225-663-8877 for all your water, fire or mold restoration needs.

The SERVPRO ERP: Minimize Business Interruption

4/5/2019 (Permalink)

As a leader in restoration and disaster prevention, the professionals at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish has your business’s best interest at heart.

One of the ways we are looking out for your business is through an Emergency Ready Profile. The creation of an emergency ready profile allows you to work with a qualified SERVPRO of Ascension Parish representative to develop a plan of action for when disaster strikes.

1. What is it?

An Emergency Ready Profile is a file created for your business that contains an emergency plan of action. This profile allows you to minimize any prolonged business interruption by ensuring that SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is ready and prepared to help with a simple phone call.

2. How Can It Help?

The ERP helps provide you with a level of security that many businesses do not have after experiencing a Fire or Water loss. After one of our reps assess your facility, identifying a line of command, and establishing an emergency profile, you will know that when disaster strikes, a qualified professional has your back and knows just what to do and who to contact.

3. Does It Matter for Your Business?

The research doesn’t lie: After a fire or water loss many businesses — about 50 percent — have to close down. Having an Emergency Ready Profile in place allows SERVPRO of Ascension Parish to take action immediately following a fire or water loss. By taking fast action, you can limit business interruption, meaning that you can get back to doing what you do best as quickly as possible. 

4. How Can You Get Started?

You can get started creating your emergency profile by contacting a SERVPRO of Ascension Parish representative at 225-753-3434. Once you have initiated contact, a representative will reach out to find out the best time to schedule your facility’s free assessment.

An ERP is an excellent way to protect your business and your interests.

Did we mention that it is......FREE!

Call us today at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish today to get started. 225-663-8877.

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish's Mission, Vision, Values & Goals!

4/4/2019 (Permalink)

Mission

To develop a team of Quality People, who Focus on Excellent Service, Fairness and Mutual Respect.

Vision 

To be the Premier Fire, Water, Mold Restoration Company in the Communities we Serve.

Values 

Integrity: To act with integrity and honesty in the work that we do, the people we interact with, and the decisions we make. We will not compromise what is right, for what is easiest. 

Customer Service: To provide premier services through continual reviewing of our goals, expectations, and training. 

Leadership:  To lead others by our example. 

Responsibility:  To maintain our team’s strong foundation, and to be a positive agent of change. 

Respect:  To show respect to others with our words, our actions and our attitudes.

Goals 

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish seeks to honor the Lord in all that we do, and to have a positive impact on the lives of our employees, customers, and community.

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is "Faster to Any Size Disaster"

4/4/2019 (Permalink)

We have a saying here at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish, that we’re, “Faster to ANY size disaster”

Well, to be fair, this is a saying the ENTIRE SERVPRO franchise system lives by, but that fact only adds to the importance of the overall message: no matter where you are, if you need our help, we will be there for you ASAP.

If your home floods in the middle of the night, or you have a business fire on a holiday and need board up services, we will be there for you.

There is always someone to answer our phones, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. If you have an emergency, we always have a team of highly-trained, expert technicians on call. They will come to you when you need them for ANY disaster large or small.

And because SERVPRO itself is a large system, with more than 1,700 franchises nationwide, we can be there when needed for large-scale disasters as well.

If a natural disaster causes widespread damage across the Baton Rouge or Ascension Parish area, our team will be there to help, but we can also call on other teams from around the country to come in and help as well. We are able to share manpower and equipment when the situation is dire.

In that same way, our local techs will sometimes go to other areas to help out when there’s a great need.

The goal is to help people get their lives back to normal as quickly as possible, while providing the very best service.

Don’t forget, we offer help for cleanup (both Residential and Commercial) after any water loss or flood, fires, storms, and mold. We can help with disasters large and small, because we know what even a “small issue” can seem very large when you’re the one living through it.

Call us when you need us at 225-663-8877, because we are the ones who are “Faster to any size disaster.”

No Job to Big or Small

4/4/2019 (Permalink)

Hurricane Michael

As some of you may know, SERVPRO of Ascension Parish has traveled all over the United States to help out when disaster strikes.

Both of our franchises, SERVPRO of Ascension Parish, have traveled all over the country when catastrophic flooding or storms have affected communities. We often end up staying in those areas as long as we could to help out and get everything back to normal.

This past year, SERVPRO of Ascension Parish traveled to North Carolina and Florida following the hurricanes that devastated both areas. 

In 2016, SERVPRO of Ascension Parish was instrumental in assisting communities that our owners and staff live in following flooding in Baton Rouge and surrounding areas. 

We strive to go where the help is needed the most and take on jobs of all sizes to assist those in need.

With our extensive experience in dealing with these large scale disasters, there is no one better to be called in when catastrophe strikes. Whether it’s hundreds of miles away or right here in our own backyard, SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is ready for action on any size job 24/7.

Our customers can count on SERVPRO of Ascension Parish to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Call us today at 225-663-8877 for any water, fire or mold restoration needs. We are happy to assist 24/7....365!

National Preparedness Month

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

September is National Preparedness Month

This year for National Preparedness Month, SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is joining the community in preparing for emergencies and disasters of all types. SERVPRO of East Baton Rouge is leading efforts to encourage the community as a whole to become even more prepared. "Disasters happen" and not only devastate individuals and neighborhoods but entire communities. Working together as a team to ensure that our families, businesses, places of worship, and neighborhoods are ready.

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is educating the community citizens and business owners to work together in the event of an emergency. At Ready.gov/business, companies can find vital information on how to begin preparing their organization and addressing their unique needs during an emergency. You can also contact SERVPRO of Ascension Parish to find out more on how to be ready when the disaster strikes with the Emergency READY Program.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Call Today – 225-663-8877

Fire Safety for Pets

8/21/2018 (Permalink)

Keep your pets protected, SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is here to help.

Home fires are the most common disaster that the American Red Cross responds to, according to their website – and also, they are the most preventable. According to the United States Fire Administration, an estimated 500,000 pets are affected annually by fires.

It’s important to keep in mind that if you need a plan for your family in case of disaster, you should also have a plan for your pets.

Did you know?

• The National Fire Protection Association estimates that nearly 1,000 home fires each year are accidentally started by the homeowners’ pets.

The best way to protect your pets is to include them in your family escape plan, in case of disaster. Train your pets to go to you when you call their name that way in the event of a fire evacuation, you can leave with them easily and safely.

The American Kennel Club and ADT Security Services have provided the following tips:

• Be sure your pet is not left unattended by open flames, such as cooking appliances, candles, or fire place. Be sure to extinguish any flame before leaving your home.
• Remove stove knobs or protect them with covers before leaving the house. A stove is the number one appliance involved in your pet starting a fire.
• Invest in flameless candles – these candles contain a light bulb rather than an open flame, and take the danger out of your pet knocking over a candle (something cats are notorious for).
• Secure your pets while you’re away – keep them confined in secure areas that don’t present a potential fire hazard.

Some other tips? Keep pets near entrances when you’re away from your home and keep their collars on. Have leashes nearby and ready in case firefighters need to rescue your pet. You can also affix a pet alert window cling and write down the number of pets inside your house and attach the cling to a front window. This information saves rescuers time when locating your pets.

Pets become a part of our families, and we need to remember that we need to have plans in place for them too when it comes to safely evacuating a home in case of a fire. And remember, if you are victim of a house fire, SERVPRO® of Ascension Parish can help #LikeItNeverEvenHappened.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Call Today 225-663-8877

Mold 101

8/21/2018 (Permalink)

Don\t let mold invade your home or business call today 225-663-8877

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all molds from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all molds, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Call Today 225-663-8877

What To Do Until Help Arrives

8/21/2018 (Permalink)

STOP....WAIT....

These Emergency Tips will assist you in taking the proper action until your SERVPRO of East Baton Rouge professionals arrive. Please follow these DOs and DON'Ts to help reduce damage and increase the chances of a successful restoration. Here are the DOs and DON'Ts for a water damage from a clean water loss.

DOs

• Call SERVPRO of East Baton Rouge immediately at (225)753-3434.
• Shut off the source of water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletops items.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
• Place aluminum foil or wooden blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents, and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.
• Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors.
• Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet carpeting or floors.
• Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

DON'Ts

• Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.
• Enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.
• Leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors to cause staining.
• Leave Oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet wall-to-wall carpets to cause staining.
• Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner. 
• Use TV's or other appliances while standing on wet carpets of floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

About SERVPRO of East Baton Rouge

SERVPRO of East Baton Rouge specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Call Today 225-663-8877

Handling Contaminated Water

8/21/2018 (Permalink)

What to do when exposed to contaminated water?

These Emergency Tips will assist you in taking the proper action until SERVPRO of Ascension Parish professionals arrive. Please follow these DOs and DON'Ts to help reduce damage and increase the chances of a successful restoration. Here are the DOs and DON'Ts for Water damage from Contaminated Water.

DOs 

• Call SERVPRO of Ascension Parish immediately at (225) 663-8877.
• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage. This includes damages incurred by a sewage backup.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items.

DON'Ts 

• Spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damaged or wet areas.
• Turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.
• Use household fans to dry the structure and spread contaminants.
• Use products for personal hygiene and cleaniness if exposed to contaminated areas.

Note: If exposed to harmful waste, OSHA recommends a post-exposure medical evaluation. Consult with your local health department or physician.

About SERVPRO of Ascension Parish

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a sewage backup or a contaminated water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Call Today 225-663-8877

Why and How To Create a Business Continuity Plan

8/21/2018 (Permalink)

A wide variety of vulnerabilities in your business may lead to loss of income and customer loyalty when a disaster occurs. A business continuity plan, also referred to as an emergency response plan is a technique you may use to identify and prepare for potential problems, keeping your activities running with the least disruption possible.

5 Steps To Create a Plan

To make the process easier, the creation process is broken down into five steps. Consider each part with your business’s needs.

1. Business Impact Analysis: This is a questionnaire that allows you and your managers to assess potential emergencies and the materials required to deal with them. Preparation, distribution and evaluation of results are usually necessary elements of this first step in your business continuity plan.

2. 
   Recovery Strategies: These are plans that allow you to analyze resource needs, the gaps between the required resources and those currently available, managerial choices of strategies to be used and action on those decisions.
3. 
   Plan Development: This is the laying out of the actual emergency response plan, the arrangement of teams to implement recovery from the disaster, production of documentation and approval by management.
4. 
   Training: This is the preparation of the team responsible for continuity actions.
5. 
   Testing and Exercises: This is the creation of training and evaluation materials, which are then tried and implemented.
   
   Value of the Plan for Your Business
   
   An emergency response plan provides a clear, deliberate and well-thought-out way to deal with potential disasters at your business facility. Employees and management should be trained in the procedures that should make a crucial difference in the rapid recovery of your business.
   
   Guidance in Developing Your Plan
   
   There are online materials that provide detailed information on how to create your business continuity plan. Some of these materials are aimed at specific types of emergency services available in Pearl River, LA, such as IT repair or commercial water damage mitigation.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Call Today 225-663-8877

Does Your Ascension Home Have a Mold Problem?

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

Call today for your mold damage 225-663-8877

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Call Today 225-663-8877

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is a member of Ascension Chamber of Commerce

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN ASCENSION

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is a proud member of the Ascension Chamber of Commerce. SERVPRO of Ascension Parish commits to doing business with the community & businesses in which they live in. SERVPRO of Ascension Parish wants to impact successful programs that solicit new business, educational growth and improve the economic climate and quality of life in the Ascension Parish area.

As the fastest growing parish in the State of Louisiana, Ascension Parish currently has more than 120,000 residents and that number is expected to grow to 125,000 by 2020. Situated along the Mississippi River and the Industrial Plant corridor, Ascension Parish is home to a thriving manufacturing industry but is also a center for retail and small business. While large industry is the economic driver in the parish, it is the small businesses and service industries who truly serve as the backbone of the local economy. SERVPRO of Ascension Parish strongly believes that the key to Ascension Parish’s economic success is the partnerships the Ascension Chamber is able to cultivate between local businesses, both large and small, and the community.

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish looks forward to helping Ascension parish by supporting local fire departments, educational facilities, hosting business lunch n learns about fire/water safety, and joining local service clubs that truly help the community in which we all live in.

To contact SERVPRO of Ascension parish please call 225-663-8877

How Commercial Fire Sprinkler's Work: The Basics

6/29/2018 (Permalink)

If you've ever looked up at the ceiling of a commercial building and wondered how a tiny fire sprinkler can help stop a fire, you're not alone. Commercial fire sprinklers are small and unimposing, but they are actually a huge help. If you're not convinced, consider these quick facts: 

• Fire sprinklers are backed by piping that is filled with water, so that the sprinklers are always "on call," so to speak.
• Sprinklers often respond quicker than any fire department ever could, and thereby make it easier for occupants to evacuate safely. 
• Sprinklers can help control or limit the amount of toxic smoke that develops in a building. 
• Commercial sprinklers spray more than 25 gallons of water per minute. 

How a Fire Suppression System Works

A sprinkler system becomes activated as soon as the temperature near the sprinkler rises to a certain degree. The water that has been sitting in the pipelines, waiting for release, gushes out as soon as the fire sprinkler opens up, spewing water so forcefully on the flames that, in most cases, they're extinguished immediately. Though heat activates a sprinkler, smoke does not, which is a good thing, as smoke often travels to areas of a building that are not affected by or at risk of a fire. If an errant sprinkler does go off, it can significantly add to your fire sprinkler cleanup efforts. 

Because sprinklers respond immediately, they can help contain an inferno and even extinguish it entirely. This can not only reduce the amount of property damage, but it can also save lives. 

Misconceptions Regarding Sprinkler Systems

A lot of people are hesitant to install fire sprinklers in their buildings because of a few unprecedented misconceptions. Some such misconceptions include the following: 

• Fire sprinklers are prone to accidental activation. 
• Smoke often activates sprinklers. 
• All of a building's sprinklers activate at once. 

The above misconceptions are dangerous, as they prevent building owners from investing in the necessary safety equipment. Don't be fooled by such myths, and talk to your SERVPRO of Ascension Parish team about the benefits of a fire sprinkler system, how they actually work and why your building needs one.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Call Today – 225-663-8877

Why and How To Create a Business Continuity Plan

6/29/2018 (Permalink)

A wide variety of vulnerabilities in your business may lead to loss of income and customer loyalty when a disaster occurs. A business continuity plan, also referred to as an emergency response plan is a technique you may use to identify and prepare for potential problems, keeping your activities running with the least disruption possible.

5 Steps To Create a Plan

To make the process easier, the creation process is broken down into five steps. Consider each part with your business’s needs.

1. Business Impact Analysis: This is a questionnaire that allows you and your managers to assess potential emergencies and the materials required to deal with them. Preparation, distribution and evaluation of results are usually necessary elements of this first step in your business continuity plan.

2. Recovery Strategies: These are plans that allow you to analyze resource needs, the gaps between the required resources and those currently available, managerial choices of strategies to be used and action on those decisions.

3. Plan Development: This is the laying out of the actual emergency response plan, the arrangement of teams to implement recovery from the disaster, production of documentation and approval by management.

4. Training: This is the preparation of the team responsible for continuity actions.

5. Testing and Exercises: This is the creation of training and evaluation materials, which are then tried and implemented.

Value of the Plan for Your Business

An emergency response plan provides a clear, deliberate and well-thought-out way to deal with potential disasters at your business facility. Employees and management should be trained in the procedures that should make a crucial difference in the rapid recovery of your business.

Guidance in Developing Your Plan

There are online materials that provide detailed information on how to create your business continuity plan. Some of these materials are aimed at specific types of emergency services available in Pearl River, LA, such as IT repair or commercial water damage mitigation.

Best Tools in the Restoration Business

6/25/2018 (Permalink)

Right tool for the job

Proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing the damage expense during a fire or water loss. When time matters, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform. Your SERVPRO of Ascension Parish professionals will answer your call with rapid action and a full arsenal of drying equipment. 

Here are a few tools used by SERVPRO of Ascension Parish professionals:

• Moisture Sensors are used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards, and walls.
• Moisture Meters are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. The moisture tester provides accurate readings, allowing SERVPRO of Ascension Parish professionals to monitor drying process.
• Thermohygrometers measure temperature and relative humidity. When armed with this information, SERVPRO of Ascension Parish professionals can calculate and create an environment most conducive to drying. When facing a contaminated water loss, it is not only important to dry the structure, but the structure must also be disinfected and often deodorized. 
• Ultra Low-Volume (ULV) Foggers will atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing a fine mist that can easily penetrate the site where odor-causing residues may accumulate. This device can also be used to inject fungicides and disinfectants into wall cavities and other hard-to-reach areas.
• Thermal Foggers dispense solvent-based products by creating a dense fog. The fog consists of tiny particles of deodorant solution that attach to and neutralize odor-causing particles. 

About SERVPRO of Ascension Parish

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Call Today – 225-663-8877

Moving In or Moving Out: SERVPRO® of Ascension Parish Can Restore Your Home

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

Spring and summer have proven to be the most popular months for people to move apartments and houses. Although people move during the other seasons, spring and summer are popular because of the better weather and the timing. Moving during this time helps students and families with kids or teachers settle in before the school year begins. As we are in the middle of the summer season, Ascension Parish is getting ready for a new group of college students to move into town, along with seasoned students coming back to start another school year.

Whether you’re a student or have a student moving into an apartment, there are costs that come with moving and living in a rental. To help you out, we’ve developed a list of things to keep in mind and check when moving in (and moving out) of an apartment or rental home to avoid losing your deposit!

1. The Furniture: If you’re moving into a furnished apartment, check to see that the furniture is clean and in livable condition. When you are ready to move out, make sure the furniture is in good condition. If you need upholstery cleaning, SERVPRO® of East Baton Rouge provides this service.
2. The Walls: make sure the pain is consistent throughout the entirety of the unit. Verify that the paint isn’t made with poisonous materials. For wood-paneled walls, check to see none of the panels are loose or show signs of rotting. When you’re ready to move out, be sure the walls are free of dirt, pet dander, cigarette smoke and other contaminants. Need help? Check out what we can do.
3. The Windows: make sure all windows can open in case of a fire. Be sure there is no broken glass and that it is free of mold. Check that all of this is clear when moving out as well.
4. The Electricity: check all of the lights and be sure they work. Go to your fuse box and make sure it is not damaged or missing any pieces. Also check the plugs in the walls to be sure your appliances will work when plugged in. If in the unfortunate event there has been a fire, we offer fire restoration to get the unit back in shape.
5. The Thermostat: be sure that your unit can blow both hot and cold air. Check to see if the filter has been cleaned recently. Ventilation systems are vital in providing good air quality, if you need an inspection or cleaning, let SERVPRO® of Ascension Parish help.
6. The Smoke Detectors: make sure all are working properly. Test them to be sure they make noise. For an extra safety measure, replace the batteries with fresh ones upon moving in.
7. Water Flow: Turn on all faucets and showers to make sure the water can get cold and warm. Check quality of water to see that it’s clear and not foggy. Also use this time to make sure the toilets are clean and flush properly. In case there’s water damage while you’re a tenant, see how we can help with our water services.
8. Mold and Mildew: Check bathrooms and kitchen for any mold or mildew that might be inside cabinets or on walls. A mold infestation can produce allergens and irritants, you’ll want a professional that has training and experience to properly remove the infestation.
9. The Floor: make sure you check that the carpets are clean, without tears, and have no pieces missing. They should not be stained nor should they have an odor. If it’s tile, make sure all tiles are in place and none are popping out or scuffed. When moving out, make sure the carpets are clean and free of heavy soil. If you need help cleaning, SERVPRO® of Ascension Parish provides professional cleaning.
10. Pest Control: Make sure your apartment is clear of insects and rodents. If needed, notify your property manager of the problem and let them know pest control is needed. Keep an eye out for this during your time at this residence to prevent any damage to the property that could be repaired at the cost of your deposit.

Although exciting, moving can be a stressful time. To be sure your apartment is in good shape when moving out, contact SERVPRO® of Ascension Parish to inspect and help restore the unit if needed. We’re dedicated to responding faster to any size disaster, and you can depend on us to make your property look its best.

Contact us today 225-663-8877

Ascension Parish 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Ascension Parish has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect from SERVPRO of Ascension Parish

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Ascension Parish

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

Call Today – 225-663-8877

Protect Your Business

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

When natural disasters happen suddenly without warning, it can be tough as a business owner to know what steps to take. Today we’re providing you with a couple of tips to ensure that you’re not left unprepared if your business is victim of a disaster.

First – protect your workers! 

Talk with each employee to ensure they know just what to do if a disaster hits during work hours. Plan evacuation routes, emergency shelter areas, and have regular drills to practice your safety plans.

Secondly – secure your assets!

Protect your facilities, equipment, and more by contacting us to see what we can do for you in case of disaster. Back up data and software regularly, and maintain an up-to-date inventory of all equipment.

Third – remember us!

Keep SERVPRO® of Ascension Parish's contact information handy so you can get back to work as soon as possible following the disaster. SERVPRO® of Ascension parish is ready to respond immediately and work quickly to clean or restore your business. We understand that your property’s appearance is important and that every hour spent restoring is an hour of lost productivity. When you need a restoration or cleaning professional, SERVPRO® of Ascension Parish has the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Whether it be small offices or large restaurants, we can help with it all. We’re available 24/7 to get your business back up and running. Have Questions?

Call us today 225-663-8877

Storm Damage

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

Storms happen quickly and if your business experiences storm damage we know your recovery must happen even quicker. Even the biggest commercial building seems small in a storm and can experience damage as easily as a home.

No matter how big the storm, SERVPRO® of Ascension Parish can provide a quick and safe clean up. We’ve cleaned messes like standing water in multi-floor buildings and are equipped to handle the cleanup your business needs.     

We work with you every step of the way and do our best to work with little interruption to your normal schedule. With our service on call 24/7 we can have your business open by lunch time the next day. Storms may be big, but no amount of damage is too big your SERVPRO® of Ascension Parish.

Contact us today 225-663-8877

Floods: What you should keep in mind

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

With the recent devastation caused by Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, it has most of us thinking about what we would do if were in the situation that we needed to evacuate our homes because a hurricane was hitting our streets. What would we do if we came home and our house had been destroyed by flooding? What would we do if we suddenly have no clothes, food, or any of the appliances that we’ve come so accustomed to using?

After any water damage situation, your primary focus should be safety first:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Electrical and “slip and fall” hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities safe for you to perform
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. We are water removal and cleanup specialists and are ready to service your Lubbock home when flooding or water leaks cause water damage. We quickly dry your property using state-of-the-art water removal equipment and advanced drying techniques, documenting the drying process to make sure your property is dry and the job is done right.

SERVPRO® of Ascension Parish specializes in restoring contents damaged water. Our expertise and “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. We pretest your contents to determine what items can be restored back to their condition before the water damage. We utilize several methods of cleaning your contents, including the following:

Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning.

Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.

Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning.

Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.

Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.

Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.

We can’t imagine what the people in the Houston area along with the entire state of Florida are going through – but we want to help. Though the storms are over, donations are still needed. Please text HARVEY to 90999 to donate to the American Red Cross. You are also able to donate to both hurricane relief funds on their website: www.redcross.org.

Give us a call today 225-663-8877

Fireworks: Keep Your Home and Family Safe

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

Fourth of July is right around the corner, and while we look forward to the time spent celebrating America through parades and fireworks, it’s important to remember that setting off fireworks and playing with other goodies purchased from road-side firework stands comes with great responsibility. Whether you’re celebrating the Fourth of July, or enjoying a barbecue with friends, it’s always important to follow through with safe fireworks practices to protect you or your loved ones from the hazards fireworks could potentially have.

There are several safety measures to take when getting ready to pop fireworks: ranging from reading the directions on their packaging carefully, to being aware of the climate and your local laws referencing the use of fireworks. Here are 10 safety tips from the National Council on Fireworks Safety to help keep you and your family safe this summer:

1. Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.
2. Know your fireworks; read the cautionary labels and performance descriptions before igniting.
3. A responsible adult should supervise all firework activities. Never give fireworks to children.
4. Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Save your alcohol for after the show.
5. Do not hold a firework item in your hand.
6. Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area; away from buildings and vehicles.
7. Ensure all pets and animals are away from firework noise.
8. With the rise in stress-related disorders affecting American service men and women, pay special consideration to individuals who may be sensitive to loud noises in proximity to your fireworks show.
9. Never relight a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water before you discard it.
10. Dispose of spent fireworks by wetting them down and place in a metal trashcan away from any building or combustible materials until the next day.

Fires can be devastating to your home or business. If in the event you are affected by fire damage this summer season, SERVPRO® of Ascension Parish has specialized fire damage restoration training experience to quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition. Until we can arrive to help, please see our tips on what you can do until help arrives.

You know you can count on SERVPRO® Ascension Parish if disaster strikes. Stay safe this Fourth of July!

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 225-663-8877

Mold in Heating Ducts

6/12/2018 (Permalink)

Mold In Heating Ducts

Mold in heating ducts is a serious problem. Of course, household mold is never a good thing, no matter where in the home it's found. Exposure to mold has been linked to health effects and it can literally eat away at some building materials, including wood. There are a few reasons mold in heating, ventilation and air conditioning ducts is particularly problematic, though. We'll tell you why it's such a bad thing and what to do if you think you may have mold in your heating ducts.

You Can't See It

Mold can grow unseen in heating ducts for a long time before you ever realize it's there. Even if you suspect you have mold in your home and look for it, you might miss mold in your heating ducts. It can be hard to see even if you try to look in your heating ducts, since only a small portion of the duct work in your home can be seen without special equipment. Even if you can't see it, though, mold in your heating ducts can grow and spread and make you sick.

It Can Easily Spread Throughout The House

Most strains of mold grow and spread easily. The duct work that runs through your house provides a pathway for mold to move easily from room to room, throughout the whole house. Turning on the heat helps mold move through the duct work even faster, as the forced air carries the mold spores effortlessly along. Even worse, when the heat is turned on, the air blowing through the vents carries mold spores into every room. In no time at all, you could have mold throughout the entire house.

Mold In Heating Ducts Is Difficult To Remove

It's one thing to clean mold off shower stalls or to remove moldy carpet from a room. It is another thing to remove mold in heating ducts. While mold can be removed from nonporous surfaces like metal or fiberglass heating ducts, it's difficult to reach the ducts in order to clean them.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends calling in a professional if you need to have mold removed from your heating ducts and we definitely agree. Special equipment is needed for the job, including manual or mechanical brushes, blowguns or air skippers that drive mold particles and other debris toward a collection device, a vacuum with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter to remove potentially harmful mold and other contaminants from the heating ducts, and negative air pressure devices that create negative pressure within the duct work so that mold spores are unable to drift into other areas during the mold removal process. The job must also be done carefully in order to avoid inadvertently damaging the duct work in the process.

Look for a professional that is certified by, or at least adheres to the standards established by, the National Air Duct Cleaners Association. If you have fiberglass ducts or fiberglass liners in your ducts, look for a professional that also is familiar with and follows the cleaning procedures established by the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association. Many techniques commonly used to clean heating ducts can damage fiberglass, so it is important to choose a professional with the skills and experience needed to properly clean fiberglass ducts.

Until you can get a professional to look at your heating ducts, don't turn on the heat! 

Making Sure Mold In Heating Ducts Has Been Removed Completely

The Environmental Protection Agency suggests having your home tested for mold after mold remediation has been completed and we think that is especially important after having mold removed from your heating ducts. You want to make sure no mold remains in the duct work because if even a little bit of mold remains, it can grow and spread throughout the home again. Make sure you find a professional mold tester that adheres to the standards established by professional organizations like the American Industrial Hygiene Association or the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. 

Note that you want to hire a professional mold tester who is not affiliated in any way with any company or professional performing mold remediation in your home or cleaning the heating ducts in your home. You want someone completely independent and objective.

Inspecting For Mold

Having your heating ducts cleaned may not be enough to ensure your home is free of potentially hazardous mold. Since mold spreads easily, especially through heating ducts, we recommend checking the rest of your home for mold. A professional mold tester can test the rest of your home or you can schedule a free inspection by a mold removal specialist. If any additional mold is found, the mold removal professional will provide a written estimate for the work and answer any questions you may have.

For more information give us a call at (225)-753-3434

Commercial Services: Water Damage Restoration

6/12/2018 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO get your business back running quickly after a water damage event

Commercial Water Damage

Flooding and water damage events at commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Ascension Parish

SERVPRO of East Baton Rouge specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (225) 753-3434

Understanding the Mold Remediation Process

6/12/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Problem? Call SERVPRO of Ascension Parish 225-753-3434.

MOLD REMEDIATION

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our “typical” process:

1. Emergency Contact - (225) 753-3434

The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will ask a series of questions to help us determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel.

2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment 

We carefully inspect your property for visible signs of mold. Mold feeds on cellulose and water and can be hidden from plain view. We use various technologies to detect mold and hidden water sources.

3. Mold Containment 

Our professionals use various containment procedures to prevent the spread of mold. We may use advanced containment procedures like negative air chambers to isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process. All fans and heating and cooling systems will be turned off to prevent the spread of mold.

4. Air Filtration

Our specialized filtration equipment allows our Professionals to capture microscopic mold spores out of the air. We utilize powerful “air scrubbers” and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in process.

5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials

The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. We’ll use antifungal and antimicrobial treatments to eliminate mold colonies and to help prevent new colonies from forming. It may be necessary to remove and dispose of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and carpeting, to remediate heavy mold growth.

6. Cleaning Contents and Belongings

We clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, clothing, and other restorable items affected by mold. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and disinfect your belongings. We’re also trained to remove odors and deodorization using fogging equipment.

7. Restoration

Depending on the level of mold damage, drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may have been removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business. The restoration step gets your home or business back to normal.

About SERVPRO of Ascension Parish

SERVPRO of East Baton Rouge specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

When storms or floods hit the Ascension Parish area. SERVPRO is ready!

6/1/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Ascension Parish, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,700 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 225-753-3434

How To Kill Mold In Carpet

5/29/2018 (Permalink)

Mold in Carpet

How To Kill Mold In Carpet

It is nearly impossible to kill mold in carpets. Unfortunately, mold gets into the carpet fibers and even if it looks as if you've removed the mold, it is very likely small amounts remain.

You're probably aware of the many health risks associated with mold in the home and it is important to remove mold thoroughly from all household materials. We'll tell you what to do if you've got moldy carpet in your home so that you can protect your health and the health of your family.

Why Can't You Kill Carpet Mold?

There are numerous products available that kill mold, but none are very effective when used in an attempt to kill mold in carpet. Why not? Well, carpet, like all types of fabric, is made of tiny fibers twisted together to make thread and then woven together to create a type of fabric. While there are many different styles of carpet, all are made from fibers spun into thread, which is then woven into carpet.

When fibers are twisted and woven together, tiny spaces are left between the fibers. Microscopic mold spores can get into those spaces and it is virtually impossible to remove them. If you scrub the moldy carpet, you may not be able to see any more mold, but tiny amounts will still remain.

What Happens When Mold In Carpet Is Not Completely Removed?

Most strains of mold grow pretty quickly and also spread easily, so if even small traces of mold remain in the carpet, you may find yourself dealing with a serious mold problem again in the future. Mold may begin to grow beneath the carpet and can ruin your floorboards. It can also spread to other areas of the home. If it enters your heating and air conditioning ducts, it will quickly spread throughout the entire house as soon as you turn on your heat or air conditioning.

Of course, the continued presence of even small amounts of mold in your carpet will continue to pose a health risk. The longer you are exposed to mold, the greater the risk to your health.

If You Can't Kill Mold In Carpet, How Do You Deal With It?

Since you cannot kill carpet mold completely, you need to remove mold carpet and replace it. It's the only way to make sure your home is free of potentially harmful mold.

Moldy carpet must be removed carefully, though, to avoid spreading mold spores throughout the room.  

First the work area should be prepared by taping heavy plastic over heating and air conditioning vents and any open doorways. This prevents mold spores from drifting into other rooms or entering your HVAC system.

Then the carpet should be pulled up carefully and sealed in heavy plastic bags before it is carried out of the house. The padding beneath the carpet will most likely need to be removed as well. If the floorboards beneath the carpet and padding are moldy, they will also need to be removed and replaced.

Pulling up moldy carpet sends hundreds of thousands of microscopic mold spores flying into the air, where they are easily inhaled. Cutting into moldy floorboards in order to remove and replace them has the same effect. This exposure to mold can cause all sorts of health problems. In fact, it is recommended that if your health is compromised in any way, you avoid removing moldy carpet or handling other aspects of mold removal on your own. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)  recommends checking with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about whether or not it is safe for you to remove mold on your own.

Appropriate safety gear must be worn while removing moldy carpet, including disposable gloves, hair covers, shoe covers, and an N-95 face mask. Long pants and long sleeves should be worn and clothing should be laundered in hot water as soon as the mold removal work is completed.

For Help Dealing With Moldy Carpet

As you can see, since you can't kill mold in carpet and instead must remove and replace it, dealing with moldy carpet is a pretty big job. The job is made even bigger and further complicated if you must remove and replace floorboards. If you need help with the job, or if your doctor recommends you not handle moldy carpet yourself due to health concerns.

For more information give us a call at (225)-753-3434

Hurricane Preparedness 2018

5/29/2018 (Permalink)

Hurricane Season starts this week!

Top six things you should do now to be ready for Hurricane Season 2017, according to the American Red Cross :

1. Talk with household members and create an evacuation plan. Be prepared to evacuate quickly and evacuate if told to do so.
2. Build an emergency kit with a gallon of water per person, per day, non-perishable food, a flashlight, battery-powered radio, first aid kit, medications, supplies for an infant if applicable, a multi-purpose tool, personal hygiene items, copies of important papers, cell phone chargers, extra cash, blankets, maps of the area, and emergency contact information.
3. Get access to NOAA radio broadcasts. 
4. Identify a place to store lawn furniture, toys, gardening tools and trash cans (away from stairs and exits) to prevent them from being moved by high winds and possibly hurting someone. Protect windows with permanent storm shutters or invest in one-half inch marine plywood that is pre-cut to fit your doors and windows.
5. Be informed. Learn about your community’s hurricane response plan. Plan routes to local shelters, register family members with special medical needs as encouraged and make plans for pets. If travel is in your plans, learn about how emergency situations are communicated at your destination.
6. Download the free SERVPRO Ready app. Learn more about the SERVPRO Emergency Ready Program.

Have questions? Call us - 225-753-3434

Commercial Cleaning Services

5/25/2018 (Permalink)

COMMERCIAL CLEANING SERVICES

Helping to make water and fire damages “Like it never even happened"

You don’t have time to worry about the common wear and tear that gradually soils your office. When grime, odor and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, call in your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional. Whether it’s removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals to make your workspace look its very best. Your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional will get the job done right and get it done quickly, because the SERVPRO® Advantage includes these benefits:

SPECIALTY CLEANING SERVICES:

SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals offer cleaning services ranging from cleaning restaurant hoods to removing biohazard contaminants. They have the specialized training and products to get your property back to business. Their cleaning services include the following:

• Air Ducts and HVAC
• Biohazard
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Ceilings, Floors, and Walls
• Drapes and Blinds
• Odor Removal
• Sewage
• Trauma and Crime Scene
• Vandalism

TRAINING EXCELLENCE

The state-of-the-art SERVPRO® National Training Center teaches restoration and mitigation skills to Franchise Owners, SERVPRO’s Corporate employees and insurance industry employees. It is one of the few facilities in the country that has been recognized as a state-approved continuing education course location and IICRCapproved training facility.

COMMERCIAL LARGE LOSS DIVISION

The SERVPRO® Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration. Our elite large-loss specialists are prequalified and strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle any-size disaster. Every large loss is supervised by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation. The SERVPRO® Advantage is our ability to dispatch trained production professionals and cut costs through the strategic placement and oversight of temporary labor.

Clients include:

• Property management
• Hospitality facilities
• Education facilities
• Healthcare facilities
• Food Service facilities
• Retail facilities

SERVPRO® has the resources to help you immediately. SERVPRO® performs the necessary work to reduce further damage. SERVPRO® works with you and your carrier to develop and approve a recovery plan designed to reduce business interruption.

For more information give us a call at (225)-663-8877

Healthcare Facilities

5/25/2018 (Permalink)

HEALTHCARE FACILITIES

AT SERVPRO® our professionals are trained in adhering to the highest sanitation standards. We understand that time is crucial for both your operations and your patients. Our employees know how to handle regulated medical waste and undergo specialized training to work in operating rooms and other restricted areas, always adhering to HIPPA regulations. We also coordinate with environmental and infection control teams to establish containment areas, monitor progress and make sure that all necessary health certifications are obtained prior to completing any job. Our number one priority is to quickly and safely take full responsibility of your cleanup needs so that you are free to focus on your number one priority the patients.

Our experience in the healthcare industry has given us the ability to provide a variety of detailed services for the following:

• Hospitals
• Hospice facilities
• Assisted living facilties
• Rehab facilities
• Outpatient Surgical facilities
• Medical office buildings

Emergency Ready Plan

Many businesses have an emergency contingency plan in place, but few have a detailed understanding of how to get back into their buildings following a disaster. To access all of the SERVPRO® capabilities, services and additional benefits contact us today.

For more information give us a call at (225)-753-3434

Fire Damage Services

5/25/2018 (Permalink)

Putting You Back In Control

As a leader in fire and water cleanup and restoration, our number one goal is returning damage to its preloss condition, doing all we can to make it “Like it never even happened.” Every SERVPRO® Franchise Professional who steps onto a job site has this goal in mind. It is about total restoration of the damage and about the life of the customer being helped. Like it was never dirty, like it never overflowed, like it never caught fire, like it never spilled, like it never smoldered—whatever the case, with SERVPRO® our goal is to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Fire and Smoke Damage Tips

Do’s:

• Limit movement of people in the structure to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets
• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place dry, colorfast towels on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely, and prop doors open to help prevent odors.
• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances. Then protect with a light coating of lubricant.
• Pour RV antifreeze into sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs if heat is off during freezing season.
• Gently wash both sides of leaves on indoor plants.
• Change HVAC filter, but leave system off until checked by trained professional.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.

Don'ts:

• Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your SERVPRO® Franchise Professional.
• Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional.
• Attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service person.
• Consume any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water. (They may be contaminated.)
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock.
• Send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

For more information give us a call at (225)-753-3434

Smoke and Soot Cleanup 101

5/25/2018 (Permalink)

Trust the experts to cleanup smoke, soot, and odor from fire damages.

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Ascension Parish will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?Call Us Today – 225-753-3434

What Causes Mold In The Home

5/24/2018 (Permalink)

What Causes Mold In The Home

The short answer to the question of what causes mold is moisture. Mold cannot grow without moisture, although some types of mold need more moisture than others. Most types of mold also grow best in warm environments, although some types grow fairly well in cool places, as well.

Microscopic mold spores are all around us, both indoors and out. Mold spores can remain viable for a very long time in cool dry places; then, when water is introduced, mold begins to grow. 

Mold typically grows quickly and spreads easily. Mold grows as mold spores reproduce and it spreads as the tiny, lightweight mold spores float on the air or are carried from place to place by people or animals.

Causes of household mold usually involve water or moisture in areas of the home that should be dry. For instance, a small leak under the kitchen sink can provide the necessary moisture for mold to begin to grow. Mold can then spread from beneath the sink to other areas of the kitchen, and from there, to other areas of the home.

What Causes Mold?

Excessive moisture often leads to mold. Excessive moisture in a home may be due to a number of factors, including:

• A leak in the roof
• A leaky pipe or a broken pipe
• Leaks under sinks or behind toilets
• Leaky hoses on washing machines or dish washers
• Poor ventilation in bathrooms or kitchens
• Poorly-ventilated attics
• Overflowing sinks, tubs or toilets
• Poor drainage in the land around a home
• Lack of insulation, leading to condensation inside the home
• Missing grout between shower tiles

Preventing What Causes Mold

To prevent excessive moisture that can lead to the development of mold, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends taking these steps.

• Install exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens and use them when showering and cooking.
• Don’t use carpet in bathrooms or kitchens.
• If you have throw rugs in your bathroom, hang them up to dry whenever they get damp.
• Clean up water spills promptly.
• If you notice stains of walls or ceilings, or other signs of water leaks, address the issue promptly.
• Check periodically for leaks under sinks, behind toilets, and around appliances like washing machines and dish washers. Address any leaks promptly.
• Make sure rain gutters drain water away from the house.
• Land around the house should also slope away from the house so that water drains away from the building.
• Use large sheets of plastic to cover dirt in crawlspaces to prevent moisture from the ground from entering your home.
• Use mold-resistant paint in areas with high humidity, such as bathrooms and kitchens.
• Use other mold-resistant, water-resistant materials, like stainless steel fixtures, waterproof wallboard, tile, stone and deep-sealed concrete, in areas with high humidity.
• Install dehumidifiers in areas with high humidity.
• Use air conditioners or fans in hot weather to keep the humidity down. Don’t use fans in areas where mold is growing, though, because that can spread mold spores and make the problem worse. Don’t run your air conditioner if there is mold in your air conditioning ducts, either, because that will spread mold to other areas of the home.

Finding The Causes Of Household Mold

If you have mold in your home, it’s important not only to remove the mold but to determine the cause of the mold and fix that problem. Otherwise, mold can quickly return after you clean it up.

You’ll need to inspect your home thoroughly in order to find all sources of mold. Don’t assume there is only one source of excess moisture. Check all possible sources, including under sinks, behind toilets, around tops, under and behind dish washers and washing machines, around windows, in basements and crawlspaces, and in attics.

If you’re not sure what led to the growth of mold in your home, a mold remediation professional can assist you in figuring it out and advise you about how to correct the problem.

For more information give us a call at (225)-753-3434

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is an IICRC Certified Firm

5/24/2018 (Permalink)

IICRC Certified

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of Ascension Parish

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Fire, Smoke, and Soot Restoration

5/8/2018 (Permalink)

No Disaster Is Small When It Is Yours!

Your home or commercial facility contains many of your most valuable possessions. SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals understand the trauma that follows a loss. When fire damage takes control of your life, we help you take it back.

Contents Services

1. Inventory – One of the first priorities in fire restoration is to complete an accurate inventory to help ensure you can properly account for all your belongings. Your SERVPRO® Franchise Professional can provide a detailed room-by-room inventory of contents, including digital photographs and bar codes for each item, suitable for filing insurance claims forms and relieving you of this often stressful and time consuming process.
2. Move Outs – When the structure has suffered extensive damage, the cleanup and restoration process may need to be facilitated by relocating the contents for cleaning, deodorization and storage while structural repairs are being completed. A supervised moving crew can carefully pack and move the entire contents of your home or office.
3. Contents Cleaning – All of the restorable contents in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies and upholstery. SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals begin by carefully inspecting and testing all fabrics in the structure to determine which cleaning methods are most appropriate. SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals can provide wet or dry cleaning. Additionally, all the other restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to as near as preloss condition as possible. This includes electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, bric-a-brac and much more.

Structural Cleaning

1. Ceilings and Walls – Your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional will pretest to analyze the extent of the damage to your ceilings, walls and woodwork. SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals can reduce the cost of recovery by expertly cleaning lighter soot without incurring the expense associated with repainting. When higher concentrations of soot exist, SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals will clean the area to prepare the surface for smooth painting.
2. Carpet & Floor Restoration – After a smoke or fire damage, carpeting and floors will often need a deep and thorough cleaning. Residue from smoke or soot settles and is ground into flooring every time someone walks on it. Whether it is wall-to-wall carpeting or the most expensive tile floor, SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals have the experience, equipment and cleaning products to clean and protect all types of flooring surfaces.
3. Ductwork – The ductwork and HVAC system will be inspected to determine if they were affected by the smoke damage. Depending on the amount of damage, the proper restoration process will be determined to clean and deodorize your HVAC and duct system.

Deodorization

• SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals provide specialized services that rid your home or place of business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals do not merely cover up lingering odors with a fragrance, they seek out the sources of the odor and remove them. Ask your SERVPRO® Franchise Professional to explain the various deodorization methods available and which will work best for you.

Have a Question? 
Call Us Today – (225) 663-8877

Abrasive Blasting and Fire Damages

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

Re-mediating a home following a fire / smoke damage can seem like a daunting task for some homeowners. There are numerous steps that need to be taken to ensure smoke odors are eliminated and stay eliminated. A specific type of system we use is the IBIX Abrasive Blast System.

Abrasive Blasting (Media, Soda, Garnet) is the most commonly used method for fire & smoke restoration and odor elimination. This system uses compressed air mixed with abrasive materials to provide a pressurized steam of media capable of cleaning a variety of surfaces. This system is most commonly used on wood studs either in in the attic, walls or sub floors. 

Need Assistance give our team of Fire Professionals a call and we can help make it "Like it never even happened." 225-663-8877.

Ready to Respond in a Storm Situation

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

Hurricane Season starts June 1 and our Disaster Response Team is ready to respond in the event of a Storm. Following Hurricane Harvey our teams assisted numerous cities in the state of Texas. We responded, acted and served around the clock making sure all clients were taken care of. With storm damages it is important to remember a couple of key tips. 

1. If you experience back water flooding it is important to remember the water is contaminated. Make sure to decontaminate any items that may have come in contact with the water.

2. Do not drive in rising water. Wait until water recedes to go into your home.

3. In wake of a tornado do not enter a structure that is unstable - when in doubt contact a professional to assess. 

4. Take pictures, plenty of pictures. It is important to remember to include time stamps to show insurance companies when image was taken. 

5. If a hurricane is coming towards your area, collect any important paperwork that you would need in case you need to evacuate.

Need assistance give us a call 225-663-8877.

Do you know the equipment that is used to clean up water damage?

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

"Like it never even happened"

Having the right people and a plan is important for any job. Another deciding factor to getting the job done correctly, quickly, and professionally is having the right equipment. We will take a look at the equipment that is used in cleaning up a water restoration job.

SERVPRO® understands that using the proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing claims loss expense. When time matters, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform. SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals will answer your call with fast action, exceptional equipment, and trained, uniformed personnel. Certainly, the right tool for the job is vital to timely mitigation, but perhaps more important, these water damage professionals thoroughly understand how to dry a structure and personal property effectively.

Psychrometrics

Psychrometry is the study of the air and its properties. The properties of temperature, humidity, vapor pressure and dew point are measured to evaluate air conditions in the structure, enabling a SERVPRO® Franchise Professional to create the proper atmosphere for more efficient drying. Water can damage materials in two ways: first, by absorption through direct contact with water; and second, absorption of moisture from the air. Measuring the moisture content of the air is critical to the drying process. Restoration professionals must establish an environment favorable for drying. The restoration professional must also understand how to manipulate temperature and humidity levels to produce optimum drying conditions, without causing secondary damages through improper drying processes.

Detection Equipment

Scoping involves locating the areas of the structure affected by water and defining the extent to which the structure and contents have absorbed moisture. Moisture detection devices are also used to verify that an environment has been dried thoroughly.

• Moisture Sensors are used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards and walls.
• Moisture Meters are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. The moisture tester provides accurate moisture readings that enable the SERVPRO® Franchise Professional to monitor the drying process.
• Thermohygrometers measure both temperature and relative humidity. Capturing these two readings, a SERVPRO® Franchise Professional using a psychrometric chart can calculate specific humidity, dew point and vapor pressure.

Extraction Equipment

The most effective method of removing moisture from a structure is extraction. This is why it is critical to respond quickly to a water damage and to provide emergency mitigation services. When the water is extracted quickly, the environment can usually be dried much faster.

• Extractors are used in cleaning carpets and upholstery and in removing water from floors following a water damage. Extractors can either be truck-mounted or portable, allowing for greater access inside structures.

Air Moving Equipment

Air movers are used in water damage restoration to enhance evaporation at the surface level, thereby reducing drying time. As airflow at the surface level increases, the moisture in the air increases. This moisture is then eliminated via the use of dehumidification equipment.

Dehumidification Equipment

By extracting water vapor from the air, dehumidifiers lower the relative humidity, which in turn increases the rate of evaporation. In a water damaged structure, dehumidifiers pull in the moist, humid air and then discharge dry, warm air. The dry air acts like a sponge, absorbing moisture from wet materials. SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals use two types of dehumidifiers:

• Refrigerant Dehumidifiers work similarly to air conditioners.
• Desiccant Dehumidifiers use chemicals, called desiccants, that readily absorb moisture from the air.

Deodorization Equipment

• Ultra Low Volume (ULV) Foggers will atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing a fine mist that easily penetrates sites where odor-causing residues accumulate. The device can also be used to inject fungicides and disinfectants into wall cavities and other difficult-to-access areas.
• Thermal Foggers dispense solvent-based products in large volume, dense fogs suitable for confined areas. The fog consists of tiny particles of deodorant solution that pair with and neutralize odor-causing particles.

Have a Question? 
Call Us Today – (225) 663-8877

Emergency Tips for Water Damage from Contaminated Water

6/16/2017 (Permalink)

These Emergency Tips will assist you in taking the proper action until SERVPRO of Ascension Parish professionals arrive. Please follow these DOs and DON'Ts to help reduce damage and increase the chances of a successful restoration. Here are the DOs and DON'Ts for Water damage from Contaminated Water.

DOs 

• Call SERVPRO of Ascension immediately at (225) 663-8877.
• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage. This includes damages incurred by a sewage backup.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items.

DON'Ts 

• Spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damaged or wet areas.
• Turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.
• Use household fans to dry the structure and spread contaminants.
• Use products for personal hygiene and cleaniness if exposed to contaminated areas.

Note: If exposed to harmful waste, OSHA recommends a post-exposure medical evaluation. Consult with your local health department or physician.

About SERVPRO of Ascension Parish

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a sewage backup or a contaminated water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Have questions about Contaminated Water Damage and Cleanup? Call us - (225)663-8877

Flood Information for Ascension Parish

6/16/2017 (Permalink)

Floods are one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States. FEMA reports, in the last 8 years, all 50 states have experienced floods or flash floods. As most of us have recently experienced, nearly 20% of all flood insurance claims come from moderate-to-low risk areas. 

Here are a few Flood Facts provided by FEMA:

• Flash floods can bring walls of water from 10 to 20 feet high.
• Flooding can be caused by spring thawing (snow and frozen grounds melting in the spring), heavy rains, snow melt runoffs, flash floods, and mudflows.
• Floods are the most widespread natural disaster aside from wildfires. 
• A 2,000 square foot home undergoing 12 feet of water damage could cost more than $50,000 to repair.

Here are a few supplies you need to prepare for a flood:

• Stock up on First Aid items
• Non-perishable foods
• Three gallons of water per person for 3 days
• Battery operated radio for weather reports
• Extra batteries
• Personal hygiene necessities

About SERVPRO of Ascension Parish

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Have a Question? Call us Today - (225)663-8877

When Storms or Floods hit, SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is Ready!

6/16/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish Disaster Recovery Team

SERVPRO ofAscension Parish specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Ascension Parish, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,700 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams [http://www.SERVPROascensionparish.com/storm-flooding-restoration] that are strategically located throughout the United States.

About SERVPRO of Ascension Parish

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 225-663-8877

Understanding Fire Damage: Smoke and Soot Cleanup

6/16/2017 (Permalink)

This fire in Ascension Parish was caused by unattended cooking.

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Ascension Parish will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

About SERVPRO of Ascension Parish

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?Call Us Today – 225-663-8877

Understanding the Mold Remediation Process in Ascension Parish

6/9/2017 (Permalink)

This bathroom in Ascension Parish shows visible signs of mold.

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our “typical” process:

1. Emergency Contact - (225)663-8877

The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will ask a series of questions to help us determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel.

2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment 

We carefully inspect your property for visible signs of mold. Mold feeds on cellulose and water and can be hidden from plain view. We use various technologies to detect mold and hidden water sources.

3. Mold Containment 

Our professionals use various containment procedures to prevent the spread of mold. We may use advanced containment procedures like negative air chambers to isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process. All fans and heating and cooling systems will be turned off to prevent the spread of mold.

4. Air Filtration

Our specialized filtration equipment allows our Professionals to capture microscopic mold spores out of the air. We utilize powerful “air scrubbers” and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in process.

5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials

The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. We’ll use antifungal and antimicrobial treatments to eliminate mold colonies and to help prevent new colonies from forming. It may be necessary to remove and dispose of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and carpeting, to remediate heavy mold growth.

6. Cleaning Contents and Belongings

We clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, clothing, and other restorable items affected by mold. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and disinfect your belongings. We’re also trained to remove odors and deodorization using fogging equipment.

7. Restoration

Depending on the level of mold damage, drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may have been removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business. The restoration step gets your home or business back to normal.

About SERVPRO of Ascension Parish

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Have signs of Mold? Call us today - (225)663-8877

Restoring your Ascension Parish Business after a Fire

6/9/2017 (Permalink)

Many businesses are at risk for a fire, especially when they lease older buildings in need of repairs. We know how costly and devastating a fire can be to a business, so it is always our goal to get you back up and running right away. SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is committed to working around the clock to get your business restored as quickly and seamlessly as possible. 

What to Expect When We Arrive at Your Business After a Fire Loss:

1. Detailed scope of the effected areas to determine the extent of the loss.

2. Pretest affected surfaces is always performed to determine the type of smoke and which products will help us recover the area most effectively.

3. Equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.

If a fire has damaged your business, call us right away at 225-663-8877. SERVPRO of Ascension Parish will treat you with empathy and respect, and your property with care.

Commercial Restoration Presents Unique Challenges

Fire damage is especially devastating for a business or commercial property. In addition to the fire and smoke damage, significant water damage from firefighting efforts and fire suppression systems may occur. SERVPRO of Ascension Parish has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial fire damage emergencies. Whether your fire emergency occurs in a restaurant, motel, or office building, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion.

About SERVPRO of Ascension Parish

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Have questions about Smoke, Soot or Fire Damage Cleanup? Call us - (225)663-8877

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is an IICRC Certified Firm

6/6/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of Ascension Parish

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Have Questions? Call Us Today – (225) 663-8877

Commercial Water Restoration Presents Unique Challenges

6/6/2017 (Permalink)

Emergency Commercial Water Damage Restoration

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial flooding or water damage emergencies. We work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Flooding and water damage events that occur in a commercial building are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. We will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, call SERVPRO of Ascension Parish and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Ascension Parish

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Water Damage or Flooding? Call Us Today (225) 663-8877

7 Steps to Fire Damage Restoration for Ascension Parish

6/3/2017 (Permalink)

This fire damage was caused from unattended cooking, "pot on the stove."

SERVPRO of Ascension has just how devastating a fire can be. Fire and water damage can leave your home or business unsafe and unlivable. Our team of professionals are trained to clean and restore your home with as little disruption as possible. 

Here's a basic overview of the 7 Step Fire Damage Restoration Process. 

Step1: Emergency ContactThe restoration process begins when you call SERVPRO of Ascension at 225-663-8877.  

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

Our SERVPRO of Ascension team of professionals will carefully 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. 

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof Tarp Service (if needed)

Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, our professionals can assist you in boarding up missing windows & walls as well as providing resources needed to tarp damaged roofs. 

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. They will then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process. 

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

Our professionals will use specialized equipment and damage specific cleaning techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces. 

Step 6: Cleaning and Repair

They will clean all items that can be restored and structures that were damaged by the fire. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. They’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment. 

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business. 

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (225) 663-8877

Ascension Parish Fire Damage Tips

6/3/2017 (Permalink)

American Red Cross Home Fire Campaign coming to Ascension Parish.

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish is a community partner of the Baton Rouge American Red Cross. Together, we are working to reduce fire-related deaths and injuries in the US by 25% by 2020 through the Home Fire Campaign.  

Here are the Top Tips for Fire Safety courtesy of the American Red Cross.

• Install Smoke Alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas.
• Test Smoke Alarms every Month.
• Talk with Family Members about a Fire Escape Plan. Practice your plan twice a year.
• If a Fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL FOR HELP.

Each year, the #RedCross responds to nearly 64,000 disasters. The vast majority of which are home fires. As a matter of fact, 1 in 5 home fires are caused from unattended cooking; "pot on the stove". 

If you have experienced a fire, please refer to the Fire Damage Tips - Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish has the water and fire damage training and expertise to help you through this tough time. the specialized fire and water damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment to handle fire and water damage and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.

Have Smoke or Fire Damage Questions?
Call Us Today – 225-663-8877

Commercial Cleaning and Restoration Services in Ascension Parish

6/2/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ascension provides Commercial Cleaning and Restoration Services.

In an instant, fire and water damage can interrupt your business operations without notice. An unexpected period of lost productivity and revenue can be devastating. SERVPRO of Ascension Parish has the training, equipment, and resources to get your commercial property back to business.

When it comes to commercial restoration services, SERVPRO is a leader in the industry. Available 24 hours a day and seven days a week, SERVPRO of Ascension Parish responds quickly to your business’s fire, water, and mold damage emergencies.

Commercial Restoration Services

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation
• Commercial Storm and Major Events
• Disaster Recovery Team

For Emergency Services, Call 24/7 – (225) 663-8877

In addition to Commercial Restoration Services, SERVPRO of Ascension Parish offers Commercial Cleaning Services ranging from cleaning restaurant hoods to removing biohazard contaminants. We have the specialized equipment, various products, and skilled cleaning methods to make your business look its very best. Our cleaning services include the following:

• Air Ducts and HVAC
• Biohazard and Sewage
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Vandalism

When the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, SERVPRO of Ascension Parish has the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Have Questions? Call Today – (225) 663-8877

Mold Facts: Ascension Parish

6/2/2017 (Permalink)

Commercial Mold Remediation in Ascension Parish.

Mold and fungi naturally occur in our environment, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all molds from a home or business. 

When water intrudes into your property, like roof leak or leaking water line, mold growth can start in as little as 48 hours. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.
• These conditions may require the expertise of a qualified Indoor Air Quality/Environmental Professional to test and inspect the building for mold growth.

Our team of highly trained professionals understand mold and mold growth. Call SERVPRO of Ascension Parish to safely restore your building to preloss condition.

If you think you may have a mold problem, Call 225-663-8877.

Be Ready! Hurricane Season in Ascension Parish

6/2/2017 (Permalink)

Be Ready for Hurricane Season in Ascension Parish.

Top six things you should do now to be ready for Hurricane Season 2017, according to the American Red Cross :

1. Talk with household members and create an evacuation plan. Be prepared to evacuate quickly and evacuate if told to do so.
2. Build an emergency kit with a gallon of water per person, per day, non-perishable food, a flashlight, battery-powered radio, first aid kit, medications, supplies for an infant if applicable, a multi-purpose tool, personal hygiene items, copies of important papers, cell phone chargers, extra cash, blankets, maps of the area, and emergency contact information.
3. Get access to NOAA radio broadcasts. 
4. Identify a place to store lawn furniture, toys, gardening tools and trash cans (away from stairs and exits) to prevent them from being moved by high winds and possibly hurting someone. Protect windows with permanent storm shutters or invest in one-half inch marine plywood that is pre-cut to fit your doors and windows.
5. Be informed. Learn about your community’s hurricane response plan. Plan routes to local shelters, register family members with special medical needs as encouraged and make plans for pets. If travel is in your plans, learn about how emergency situations are communicated at your destination.
6. Download the free SERVPRO Ready app. Learn more about the SERVPRO Emergency Ready Program.

Have questions? Call us - 225-663-8877

Faster to your Ascension Parish Water Damage Event

3/31/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ascension provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Ascension Parish.

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Ascension Parish arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 225-663-8877

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of Ascension Parish

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Call SERVPRO of Ascension Parish for 24 hour Emergency Services

3/31/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Ascension is available 24/7 for immediate service day or night!

SERVPRO of Ascension provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Ascension Parish. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us at 225-663-8877

Whether your Ascension Parish home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. 

Residential Cleaning and Restoration Services

• Water Removal and Dehumidification
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation
• Smoke and Soot Cleanup
• Move Outs and Contents Restoration
• Contents Claim Inventory Service
• Odor Identification and Deodorization
• Catastrophic Storm Response
• Air Ducts and HVAC Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

The professionals at SERVPRO of Ascension Parish are committed to providing fire and water clean up and restoration services, as well as top-quality professional cleaning services for your entire home. 

About SERVPRO of Ascension Parish

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Have questions? Call us at 225-663-8877

Ascension Parish Residents: Smoke from a Fire Damage Event

3/31/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke damage can cause a persuasive odor in your Ascension Parish home.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Ascension Parish will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 225-663-8877

Ascension Parish Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

3/27/2017 (Permalink)

Be careful! Without proper training, you could be spreading mold throughout your home.

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of East Baton Rouge 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.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Ascension Parish specializes in mold cleanup and restoration; in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 225-663-8877