How long does it take for water damage to set in?

4/1/2024 (Permalink)

The owners of the home were out of town when their pipes burst, allowing water to sit for multiple days, making the damage more severe.

How long does it take for water damage to set in? 

When you discover you have had a water intrusion in your home, you will have a lot of questions. How long has this water been sitting here? What do we do? Who do we call? How much time do we have to get this cleaned up? 

With any type of water damage, time is of the essence. A quick response is crucial to prevent water from causing its peak potential damage. It does not take very long for water to cause problems, but the longer it sits, the worse it will get. That also means that repairs will take longer and become more expensive. 

We have compiled this timeline to demonstrate just how quickly water damage sets in and what can happen if left for too long.   

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water absorbs into walls, floors, upholstery, and other 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 start 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 Monroe/West Monroe 

SERVPRO of Monroe/West Monroe specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a water damage event. Our team understands the importance of responding to water damage quickly, that is why we offer 24/7 emergency services so that our professional crews can get to work quickly, minimizing the potential damage to your property and returning it to “preloss” condition as soon as possible.  

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certifications.

Likely but Unexpected Outcomes in Monroe Homes after Water Damage

4/5/2023 (Permalink)

When responding to water damage incidents in Monroe, our SERVPRO technicians use the proper drying techniques.

What Water Restoration Procedures SERVPRO Takes in Monroe Homes

When you realize a broken pipe or a roof leak in your Monroe home, there are some things to expect. Wet floors, walls, and contents are all typical outcomes. However, water damaging a resilient floor such as tiles or the development of significant physical changes such as carpets stretching beyond the usual dimensions are not the likely expectations you have after water damage incidents. Several other puzzling things can develop in the course of the restoration.

Involving Monroe water damage professionals whenever a water-related incident affects your property is essential since any unusual issue can be dealt with accordingly. SERVPRO also facilitates inspections to reveal hidden problems. 

Specific puzzling issues include:

• Stretched carpets 
• Water penetrating tiled surfaces
• Gradient moisture leaves materials wetter at the core

Carpets are installed to fit the dimensions of a room perfectly. Therefore, if you notice folds or wrinkles that imply the carpet is suddenly larger after a water intrusion, you may not understand the outcome. Carpets are made from different materials, and moisture exposure causes many problems. One of these issues is reducing their tensile strength by up to 50% when wet. However, stretching does not occur automatically because a carpet is wet. Other actions such as subjecting the carpet to significant physical forces such as heavy foot traffic or dragging heavy furniture or appliances over its surfaces cause such changes. Rigorous drying procedures can also lead to such stretching. Our SERVPRO IICRC-certified technicians take various precautions when handling cleaning to avoid adverse outcomes.

When you notice wet structural materials, it is common to consider the wetness as uniform or at least the concentration to be heavier at the surface, where exposure starts, compared to the core of the material. However, sometimes the moisture concentration may defy norms. A moisture gradient can form whereby materials are wetter at the center than the surface. This pattern can interfere with water restoration procedures since moisture from the core areas keeps replenishing the dried sections as the surfaces dry. Therefore, drying efforts may seem inexplicably unfruitful. Alternatively, you may think that there is minimal moisture because of the dryness close to the surface. Our SERVPRO crews probe wet areas thoroughly before starting restoration. A simple tool like a moisture meter with probes to penetrate porous surfaces helps establish the amount of wetness involved and its spread patterns through a material. 

Water Damage in Unexpected Areas

Materials in a house can be broadly categorized as porous and nonporous. When the porous materials absorb moisture, it triggers changes from within, thus leading to damage. Most nonporous materials are resilient to moisture exposure. That is why areas such as bathrooms, laundries, or kitchens where water is constantly used have tiled floors and walls to withstand moisture exposure. However, sometimes water reaches beneath tiles causing significant deterioration. Typical reasons for such penetration include grout deterioration or cracks and gaps between the tiles.

Another standard expectation after water exposure is a high likelihood of reversing damage, especially when action is taken in the early stages. However, for composite materials such as laminated wood, swelling or deterioration of the glues holding the materials together leads to permanent damage. 

If there is water beneath tiles, you have to demolish the area to deal with the wetness and remove deteriorated materials. SERVPRO uses advanced technologies to counter these problems by improving extraction, limiting moisture migration, and controlling the drying process.

Some specialized resources for these tasks include:

• Drying mats 
• Drying chambers
• Cavity drying equipment

SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe is ready to help with any issues after water damage in your property. Call us at (318) 345-5121.

SERVPRO’s Fast and Efficient Water Removal Saves Monroe Homes

3/2/2023 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO to effectively tackle the water damage in your property. Call now!

SERVPRO Uses Advanced Water Removal Equipment in Monroe

Water accumulating on your property after incidents like burst pipes, ceiling leaks, or faulty plumbing can cause irreparable damage if not removed promptly. SERVPRO techs use industry-leading technology and equipment to pump the accumulated water out of your property as soon as possible. 

SERVPRO's technicians use various pumps and extractors for water removal in Monroe homes. The types of equipment techs use depends on the amount and location of water in the building and whether the water contains any sediment and debris. 

The Role of Electric Submersible Pumps in Water Restoration 

An electric submersible pump is one of the most versatile pieces of equipment that SERVPRO techs use during a water restoration project. As the name suggests, it is a small pump that remains submerged in the water while in operation. As the pump works on electricity, they are an excellent choice for water extraction in occupied homes. We can provide a power source with our gas and diesel-powered generators inventory.

Submersible pumps have a wide range of capacities. The small units can move between 100 to 18,000 gallons of water per hour, while large industrial units can move 1000 to 6000 gallons per minute. The type of pump used depends on the amount of water on the property. Some advantages of electric submersible pumps that make them the top choice of water restoration experts include the following-

• Quiet and continuous operation
• Can work on the standard 115-volt connection
• Have a discharge head of 69 feet, making them ideal for extracting water from basements
• They can be used in occupied spaces

High-Pressure Pumps

These pumps can provide a discharge head of up to 360 feet and are ideal for removing water from underground structures like basements and parking garages. 

Call SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe at (318) 345-5121 for a fast, 24/7 service you can trust.

We Have State Of The Art Equipment To Restore Your West Monroe Home

8/7/2022 (Permalink)

Regardless of where the leak starts, team SERVPRO can help with effective water removal and remediation services. We are standing by 24/7.

Water Cleanup West Monroe – Unsalvageable Items

Even a small amount of water can do a great deal of damage. Area rugs, carpeting, throw pillows, books, pictures, various papers/magazines and more are going to be soaked. Furniture may also be exposed to water from a broken window or water seeping through the ceiling.

SERVPRO provides water cleanup services in West Monroe for all types of water damage situations. We have the equipment and know-how to recover and dry your contents to mitigate the damage to your home or business.

Develop a Cleanup Plan

Our SERVPRO crew chief is usually first on the scene. His or her job is to assess the damage and ensure that the site is safe. The crew chief arranges for the appropriate equipment and resources to be deployed to remove the water, recover the contents, dry everything, and restore your home.

Water from plumbing leaks is one of the most common situations we encounter. In these situations, our focus is to remove the moisture using water extractors, dehumidifiers, and air movers. All items with hard surfaces are wiped down and removed to a dry location.

Difficult to Restore Contents

Our team's objective is to return your home to its original condition, “Like it never even happened.” However, contents that are sensitive to water, such as papers and documents, must be handled very carefully. Contaminated water cleanup situations also present additional challenges.

SERVPRO technicians review every water damaged item in your home. A plan is developed to restore those items and discussed with the client. Restoration of documents, pictures, and books to their original condition presents particular challenges. It may be possible to partially restore some of this content with appropriate drying techniques for the client.

While SERVPRO focuses on water cleanup and recovery, our sister company can also handle complete restoration and reconstruction of your home or business. Together we can provide a turnkey operation using our licensed contractors.

Call SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe at (318) 345-5121 for 24/7 serve. We serve the towns of Bawcomville, Richwood, Sterlington, and surrounding areas. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Get Professional SERVPRO Monroe Area Water Loss Services

7/10/2022 (Permalink)

Regardless of the scale of the water damage in your home, team SERVPRO has the equipment to remediate. Call our team right away for best results.

Your Guide to Water Damage Services in Monroe

Water damage is a severe problem in our homes. It can result from heavy rains, hurricanes, plumbing problems, or a faulty appliance. Restoring your home into its pre-damaged condition should be your ultimate goal regardless of the source of water or damage extent. Hiring a reputable professional service that understands water damage is highly recommended to minimize losses and prevent any future complications.

If your home in Monroe needs water damage services, SERVPRO is an ideal choice. Our technicians are highly motivated, trained, experienced, and certified to provide reliable water removal services. Our crews follow the best practices of the IICRC--the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification. We use top-notch equipment to resolve your current water loss problem.

We ensure that related complications like mold and bacteria do not cause havoc in your home because we completely dry all your belongings. To have your problem fixed for good, call us via our hotline. One of the most challenging facets of structural drying is preserving your floors. Fast action is needed if you have drywall or carpeting. The longer you wait, the more the damage, and also minimizing the possibility of preserving your carpet. SERVPRO technicians use truck-mounted pumps, extraction wands, dehumidifiers, and submersible pumps in water extraction.

Complete water extraction and drying the carpet plays a crucial role in preventing damages. If you have hardwood floors, water can seep into the joints and can cause buckling. Our SERVPRO team comes to your home with specialized tools and is ready to extract all the moisture. Drying mats and "tenting" can suction moisture to return to standard content levels for the specific type of hardwood flooring. After the water removal specialists have extracted all the water, dehumidifiers and air movers are used to dry out your home further. We understand the need for completing the work quickly to minimize damages and inconveniences. Working closely with the homeowner, we aim to reduce stress and secure the property.

Respond effectively to water damage by using professional restoration services. Contact SERVPRO of Monroe/West Monroe at (318) 345 5121 now. Our techs are always available, and we promise to make your home habitable again.

Unconventional Water Damage to Your West Monroe Home

3/16/2022 (Permalink)

Window air conditioner units can sometimes fail and bring water into your home. Contact SERVPRO when facing a water damage situation.

Our Technicians Understand that Overflowing Water Can Quickly Start to Cause Damage in Your Home

When you think of all of the things in your West Monroe home that could present a water emergency, many people consider items like the appliances that are water fed like the washing machine or hot water tank. While these are sometimes culprits to this kind of chaos, your air conditioning window units are an even likelier culprit in this humid and often hot environment typical of the area. 

The trouble with window units for your AC in your house is that you might not even be home when the malfunction and subsequent water damage occurs in West Monroe. The condensation and holding of water inside these appliances are pretty standard, and there is not a lot of internal components to keep this same water from pouring into your house. While this might only be a finite amount, it undoubtedly is enough to cause significant problems to your flooring and walls if it does not get caught immediately. 

If you come home to a disaster like this, you might have the instinct to start cleaning up the mess yourself, but these conventional cleaning and drying efforts are likely not going to be enough to address the full scope of the damage. SERVPRO utilizes thermal imagery in our inspections to see the presence of moisture and dampness in areas beyond what our eyes can decipher. 

If the problem gets addressed quickly enough, your water damage could get resolved using specialized equipment like our large drying mats, which penetrate underneath your flooring material to dry the area thoroughly. We have an injectidry system that uses multiple entry points to move air through this space and dry out any lingering moisture for internal wall damages. The objective (beyond merely restoring the damage) of drying these spaces is to prevent compounding damages like mold growth. 

Water damage might present itself in multiple ways throughout your life. Still, there are plenty of instances where professional restoration services are the best call to ensure that the cleanup gets done thoroughly enough. You can always trust in the dedication and experience of SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe to help you through any disaster you face. Give us a call today at (318) 345-5121.

Monroe Home Water Restoration for Drop Ceiling Leaks

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Ceilings are often culprits of water damage. Our techs remove the damaged areas and make it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Water Cleanup Pros Repair Water-Damaged Drop Ceilings in Monroe 

Some Monroe homes may have drop ceilings composed of mineral wool or fiberglass ceiling tiles, which are cost-effective for hiding structural components like plumbing or ventilation from plain view. That said, these tiles are highly vulnerable to water leaks. They can quickly warp, break, crumble, or even grow mold due to the material's porous nature in a vulnerable area.

SERVPRO water restoration techs in Monroe can restore damaged properties to a pre-disaster condition with specialized restoration tools. Restoration tools at their disposal include:

• EPA-registered biocides.
• Commercial-grade extraction and drying equipment.
• Effective deodorizing solutions designed to remediate odor-causing substances at the particle level.

SERVPRO's water remediation tactics for ceiling tiles and insulation

If water leaks onto acoustic ceiling tiles, the wet tiles need to be moved at least temporarily to access the ceiling cavity.

• Technicians can uninstall and dispose of ceiling tiles per homeowners' wishes. Acoustical ceiling tiles replacement is generally more cost-effective than trying to restore, as water can permanently warp and make tiles brittle and vulnerable to mold growth
• SERVPRO professionals can also temporarily remove and potentially salvage insulation. This chance is much more likely if fiberglass insulation is used. Cellulose or cotton, meanwhile, may require replacement
• Restoration techs can extract water from ceiling cavity materials with portable extractors, which feature vacuum, heater, and pump systems used for various materials
• Remediation professionals can also perform structural drying with movers pointed 90 degrees toward the ceiling. This air circulates through the ceiling cavity and out of another hole, typically from a second removed ceiling tile. This strategy allows low-grain refrigerant (LGR) dehumidifiers to collect ceiling moisture for effective removal

SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe can be reached at (318) 345-5121 for service. We're Faster to Any Size Disaster and available 24/7 for restoration.

Water Damage Remediation Services Near Me

2/8/2022 (Permalink)

Leaking pipes from the apartment upstairs can cause water damage in your unit. Call SERVPRO for fast remediation.

SERVPRO Can Provide Water Damage Mitigation to Your West Monroe Apartment!

The last thing anyone wants to deal with in their West Monroe apartment is water damage. Many people who live in cities choose to buy a condo instead of a house. Considering that more and more people are trying to do away with cars and use public transportation, it makes sense for those people to also look for homes within the heart of a city. 

Finding water damage in your West Monroe apartment can be startling and overwhelming, but it's essential to remain calm. Imagine a situation upon which you wake one morning due to the feeling of water droplets on your face. As you investigate, you realize the apartment over yours has had a significant water loss, and now the damage is trickling into your home. 

What Are the First Things I Should Do During a Situation Like This? 

Should you ever find yourself in the middle of water damage, try to remain calm. Living in an apartment building, the first thing you should do is:

• Contact the Superintendent of your building; they can turn the water off
• Contact a professional restoration company like SERVPRO
• While waiting, you could lay down some towels to absorb the water dripping from your ceiling

Here at SERVPRO, we arrive swiftly regardless of the time or day. As soon as we are contacted, we can begin to assemble a team of water damage restoration technicians (WRT) to send to your home. 

How Can SERVPRO Remove the Water from My Ceiling? 

Our SERVPRO technicians have a lot of experience remediating water damage. To remove the extra moisture from your property, we can: 

• Remove ceiling tiles and dispose of any too damaged for reuse
• Use wet/dry vacuums and extractors to expel small puddles of water
• Use air movers, air blasting tubes, and dehumidifiers to help ensure excess moisture is dried

We use advanced technology to remediate water damage. Trust our technicians to locate the excess moisture on your property and restore it to its pre-damage state. 

If you think you need water damage technicians in your home, call today! Speak with SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe by dialing (318) 345-5121. We're always here to help you.

Monroe Water Mitigation Services Near Me?

11/12/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO at the first sign of water damage. Our skilled technicians have the expertise to get your home back in order after a water catastrophe.

SERVPRO Can Delivery Fast and Effective Water Mitigation Services to Your Monroe Home! 

Quick action is the best remedy when it comes to finding a leak, standing water, or a broken pipe in your home. Visualize a scenario where you live in an older home. While watching TV during the evenings in your living room, you have begun to notice a brown spot develop and grow in size over time. 

Here at SERVPRO, we can provide your home with Monroe-based water damage mitigation services. We never judge you for the accidents that occur in your home. It is easy to forget about pressing issues, especially when a 9-5 job is the standard, and many Americans can even work six days a week. At SERVPRO, we would rather you contact us a bit outside of the ideal time frame instead of never getting help at all. 

Once inside your home, our restoration process could look a bit like this: 

• Our technicians investigate the damage, getting up in the ceiling space to see what is going on.
• We begin our restoration services based on a plan that we create specifically for your home. 
• We use advanced technology for the job, which can even help us filter dry air into hard-to-reach spaces. 
• We leave your home feeling, "Like it never even happened." 

SERVPRO techs could cut out the portion of stained and water-damaged ceiling tile to start. Devices like air-blasting tubes, air movers, fans, and dehumidifiers greatly minimize excess moisture. Furthermore, our technicians can install new ceiling tiles when the job is finished, so you can get everything done with a single company.

Call for help now if you find water damage on your property! Contact SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe by dialing (318) 345-5121. We are available night or day! 

Does Recovery from Water Damage in West Monroe Need to Be So Complicated?

10/14/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage restoration by SERVPRO is the way to go. We use the latest technology and eqipment for all water damage restoration services.

SERVPRO Commits Not Only to Following Best Practices But Also to Share Clear Communications with Our Customers For Their Water Damage Needs. 

It is natural for a West Monroe homeowner to be anxious that water damage is managed appropriately and impatient that professional mitigation and remediation take far more time than hoped. No one wants their day-to-day life upended. Still, the answer to significant water damage is not a simple fix. Instead, the process, intricacy, intensity, and length are determined by the specific circumstances of the loss. Many steps are involved, and all are necessary. We are committed to sharing the details of the water loss restoration with every customer. Count on us to explain how each phase, step, and task fits into the overall agenda and provide honest answers to your questions and concerns.

Why Do Professionals Assess, Test, and Measure Before Beginning the Work I Need to be Done?

West Monroe residents seeking water damage restoration might be surprised that workers do not immediately dig in, starting the tasks they must know so well. Instead, the project manager evaluates the site’s safety, putting in place safety controls before giving the green light to the water damage crews. Additionally, the crew chief directs the use of sensitive detection and metering devices to outline the extent of the water incursion and the compromised building materials' moisture levels.

Why Do Professional Restoration Companies Complete a Safety Assessment?

SERVPRO must proceed from the premise that every water damage scenario is unique and presents hazards we might expect but cannot be sure how they manifest. Typical safety hazards at a job site include:

•   Slip, trip, and fall concerns
•   Chemical contamination of fluids
•   Heavily involved areas can be in confined spaces with only one exit, low ceilings, cramped quarters, and unexpected substances or items that can spell danger
•   Environmental dangers like
•   Live electricity (shock or electrocution)
•   Hazardous materials (lead-based painted surfaces, uncontained asbestos)
•   Biohazards (infectious waste and molds)
•   Structural hazards (trapped water threatening to collapse walls or ceilings, weakened or damaged floors, stairs, and more)

Why Do We Assess and Test Before Water Damage Restoration?

Our crews need accurate information about precisely where the water hides and how much moisture building materials have absorbed. If we skip or shortchange this step, we risk leaving the water behind to deteriorate structural components. We also then lack the data needed to devise appropriate drying goals and to monitor the drying process. If our technicians do not make the effort to isolate water hidden in building cavities, we put your family and our crew in harm's way if a ceiling or wall full of water caves in.

Why Do Water Damage Restoration Crews Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)?

Safety protocols must be observed, and include the use of PPE for managers and technicians in many water damage restoration situations. Boots and hard hats protect from slipping and overhead hazards. Goggles and breathing apparatuses shield eyes and prevent airborne contaminants from inhalation. The use of PPE and robing and disrobing practices in a specified area also protects your loved ones from the debris our workers might otherwise track through your home.

What Can I Expect Now That the Crew Is Set for Water Damage Restoration?

Water Extraction

Our service vehicles await with pumps for water deeper than two inches and truck-mounted extractors for residual amounts. If we need to suction liquids from confined areas, portable backpack extractors extend our reach.

Controlled Demolition

If moisture detection located hidden caches of water, we might choose to employ limited removal of building materials to access the water and wet building cavities. These carefully planned actions usually repair easily after the water damage remediates. Release of the water and opening of spaces for more effective drying is needed to prevent secondary damage. Limited and controlled demolition can include:

•   Cut or drill holes in walls or mortar joints
•   Removal of baseboards, paneling, and beadboard
•   Flood cuts, which remove wall material from stud to stud, several inches above the waterline

Applied Structural Drying

A balance of air movement, temperature manipulation, and dehumidification returns structural components to normal moisture levels. Commercial grade equipment operated by our skilled workers rapidly dries the affected spaces, crucial to our restoration goal of “Like it never even happened.”

Navigating the road to water damage restoration with SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe ensures a speedy and successful result with no shortcuts. Call us at (318) 345-5121 to schedule your assessment.

Aging Appliances Can Cause Water Damage To Your Monroe Residence

8/19/2021 (Permalink)

When your old appliances leave you dealing with water damage in your home, Call the experts at SERVPRO for help.

Monroe Homes and Fast SERVPRO Water Damage Mitigation

You might be able to think of multiple issues that could affect your Monroe home, but one of the most common threats that homeowners face is the possibility of a water emergency. The real trouble with this possibility is that it can come from several sources and impact your house in disastrous ways. 

Aging appliances are a typical culprit for water damage to your Monroe residence. While you might diligently service your appliances to work as well as they can, aging machines run a risk of breaking down and malfunctioning. When an appliance like a washing machine or your water heater breaks in a specific way, it can allow water to pass through unabated and overflow onto the floor in this region of your home. 

Until you recognize the problem and successfully shut down the appropriate valve to stop water flow to the appliance, high volumes can potentially pass through and find their way to the floors of your home. Our SERVPRO team can work quickly to assess the scope of the damage you face and make a tailored restoration plan specific to the needs of the current situation. 

Water Removal Services

With appliance failures, extraction is often a typical first step of the restoration process. Utilizing both portable pumps and wet-vacs with extraction wands, our SERVPRO technicians can remove virtually all of the pooled water on the floors of the affected areas of your home. Drying is a critical component to restoring the damage. This process utilizes large air movers, dehumidification equipment, and specialty tools like drying mats to penetrate below the flooring to ensure the area is thoroughly dry. 

While our SERVPRO professionals work to preserve the flooring of your home, sometimes the water has damaged this material too much for salvaging. In these cases, we remove the irreparably damaged portions of flooring and prepare the area to reinstall new materials. 

You cannot always account for when a water-fed appliance has aged enough to break down. Fortunately, with SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe, you do not have to contend with the resulting water damage on your own. Call anytime 24/7 you need us at (318) 345-5121.

What Are the First Water Damage Repair Steps for West Monroe Homes?

5/19/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage from a ceiling leak often needs SERVPRO's team for mitigation and repair--West Monroe homeowners always call us

Our Quick Response and Mitigation Strategies Can Prevent and Restore Threatened West Monroe Properties After a Water Damaging Event.

Flooding from a burst pipe or roof leak can be one of the most expensive and devastating disasters you may ever have to face. Worse still, you don’t have time to waste as mold can start developing in as little time as 48-72 hours, irrespective of the water level. That’s why you need to act fast and hire the right professionals for the job. SERVPRO technicians have the experience, equipment, and time to get your home back to its normal state, “Like it never even happened.”

West Monroe Water Damage Cleanup and Restoration

Our expert technicians utilize high-end cleaning and drying equipment to eliminate the initial threats and protect your home and its contents. Our IICRC-certified SERVPRO professionals and our We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster mentality provide effective water damage removal and repair solutions. We handle every home differently depending on the level of damage but maintain the same process. Some of the critical steps involved in water damage repair in West Monroe include;

• Inspection and assessment
• Water extraction from the home
• Drying and dehumidification
• Carpet cleaning
• Odor removal
• Regular monitoring

Don’t wait until there is nothing to salvage. Act now and dial – (318) 345-5121 to speak to our SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe response team.

Monroe Residential Property Owners Need Faster Water Mitigation Services to Save Their Homes

5/5/2021 (Permalink)

Rely on SERVPRO for advanced equipment like this LGR dehumidifier to dry your Monroe property after completion of the water extraction

SERVPRO Can Help Monroe Residents Save Their Property from Water Damage

For many people, two things come into mind when the name West Monroe is mentioned—Coca-Cola and Delta airlines. West Monroe is a famous city in Ouachita Parish, Louisiana, established on 31st March 1807 when the territory of Orleans was divided. It is located in the Ouachita River across the neighboring sister City-Monroe. The two sister cities were formed when Don Juan Filhiol was hired to create Fort Miro—a Spanish presence on the north of Ouachita River. In May 1819, Fort Miro became Monroe to honor the first steamboat to travel up the Ouachita to North of Louisiana and President James Monroe. West Monroe was initially laid out in 1837 but got its name in 1880 from the railroad workers who wanted to name a new city.

One facet about Monroe that makes it appealing for visitors is its deep colorful history. The small city played a huge role in World War II, where Monroe's Selman Field operated as the largest flight navigator school in the nation. It was also home to General Claire Chennault—founder of Flying Tigers that played an integral part in the war. That explains why the city is dotted with so many museums that mark the old city's history.

Biedenharn and Delta Airlines Contributions

Joseph Biedenharn—the first person to bottle Coca-Cola, built his home in West Monroe and was actively involved in the city's development until he died in 1952. His great old mansion was converted into a museum—the Biedenharn Museum and gardens. His daughter, Emy-Lou, also established the Emy-Lou Biedenharn foundation to support Louisiana's artistic and cultural life in 1971. Delta airlines started as an aerial crop dusting organization. It was initially formed in Monroe and was known as Huff Daland Dusters. In 1925, the company was changed to the modern, now known as Delta Airlines.

What to Do and See in Monroe

Whether you are a history enthusiast looking to expand your history knowledge or simply enjoy exploring different cities, Monroe has what you need. Places you can visit:

• Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge
• Flying Tiger Brewery
• Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo
• Biedenharn Museum and Gardens
• Chennault Aviation and Military Museum
• Warehouse No 1 Restaurant

What to Do To Mitigate Your Home after Water Damage in Monroe

If you live right in the heart of Monroe, you probably understand how essential water mitigation services can be. Acting quickly can be your first line of defending your property. You also need to hire the right people to save your home and avoid future problems like mold. SERVPRO professionals are experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills. Our philosophy is to act promptly and save customer property and adhere to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). We live and work in this city, meaning we're closer to you than you think. We are locally owned and operated to provide faster water damage repair solutions.

SERVPRO Water Damage Repair Process

Our Restoration process involves thorough assessment and evaluation to determine the exact problem and how bad the situation is. The method may include using advanced equipment to remove water and hidden moisture quickly and effectively. We then use dehumidifiers to dry structures and contents, and finally, we clean affected areas using powerful cleaning and sanitizing agents. Here is a list with steps for a typical water damage emergency;

• Damage inspection and assessment
• Water removal
• Drying
• Cleaning and repair

Standing water can put your health and property at risk. Dial (318) 345-5121 to speak to our SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe response team.

Water Damage Repair After Water Leak in West Monroe Homes

4/12/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is equipped to restore any water damage you might incur.

Need Water Removal Services in West Monroe – Call SERVPRO

Water clean-up after a water leak often involves removing water from carpeting and underpadding. Water may have seeped from adjacent rooms such as kitchens or bathrooms where the original leak occurred and soaked the carpets, underpadding, and even the subfloor.

SERVPRO provides water damage repair and water cleanup to West Monroe Homes. We take safety very seriously for our employees and especially our clients. For example, floating carpeting and underpadding improves the time it takes to dry the carpet. Dry air is blown under the carpeting to absorb moisture and then dried using dehumidifiers.

While the drying operation is taking place, we implement the following safety procedures to avoid injuries:

• Avoid walking on floated carpets to prevent tripping
• Cover tack strips with foam strips to prevent injuries
• Tack strips can cause tetanus and other diseases

Once everything is dried, our team will reinstall the carpet and padding as part of our water damage restoration service. Fast drying and action by SERVPRO can reduce the possibility of carpet delamination requiring replacement.

Call SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe for water damage repair services in West Monroe and surrounding areas. We can help 24/7. Call (318) 345-5121.

Livening Up Evening Plans in Monroe

1/18/2021 (Permalink)

Count on SERVPRO to extract water and restore your home or business in Monroe after a damaging event from a leak or flood.

Monroe Residents Enjoy Fun, Games, and Motorcycles

Flying Tiger Brewery on North 2nd Street in Monroe is partnering with Warhawk Harley-Davidson for Bike Night. This event, which takes place on January 21, strives to liven up the evening from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Flying Tiger Brewery is well-known for its dedication to serving high-quality, unique craft brews and honoring active-duty military and veterans alike.

Entry is free and open to the public. Attractions expected at Bike Night include:

• Games
• Food trucks
• Prize giveaways
• A live DJ

Warhawk Harley-Davidson, much like The Flying Tiger, is another local business invested in providing the community with quality products and services for their motorcycles and accessories. This dealership, formerly known as Bleu Bayou Harley-Davidson until March 2019, has a store located on Frontage Road, just off of I-20.

SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe is only a phone call away from rendering water cleanup services for Monroe homeowners at (318) 345-5121.

Open Wagon Rides through the Lights in West Monroe

12/7/2020 (Permalink)

Don't let water damage ruin your property. Let SERVPRO handle all the mess and stress for you.

Enjoy a Fun-Filled Evening in the Streets of West Monroe Exploring Light Displays

One of the enjoyable ways to spend your evenings during the festive season is watching light displays in various properties. However, you may not know where to find the best displays in West Monroe or have people to accompany you as you enjoy such displays. One way to overcome these setbacks is to join the Open Wagon Rides Through the Lights, organized by Landry Vineyards. People hitch a ride in the back of an open, truck-drawn, wooden wagon.

Some of the notable aspects of the event include:

• A 30-minute ride beginning at 5 PM
• The rides are done Fridays and Saturdays each week. You can book a place for the next event on 11th or 12th December 2020
• The ride begins at Alley Park

Landry Vineyards is renowned for producing quality Louisiana Wines, which are available in over 450 stores all over the state.

SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe helps with water cleanup and drying of West Monroe properties affected by any type of water intrusion. You can reach our support staff at (318) 345-5121 at any time.

Water Damage Restoration in Monroe

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is ready at a moments notice, Call us right away at (318) 345-5121, when you experience water damage in your Monroe home.

Monroe Residents Often Need Water Damage Restoration Services.

Monroe, the largest city in northern Louisiana and the eighth-largest in the state, has a relatively long history dating back to well before the establishment of the American Republic. Officially, though, it only received its current name in 1819. In that year, the small town was renamed in honor of the then-current U.S. president James Monroe. As a result of its long and storied history, Louisiana’s eighth-largest city is home to more than a few old mansions and numerous other time-weathered residences. Tourists from all around flock to see the more famous of these.

The Famous Stately Mansions of Monroe

Some of the more notable fine homes in and around town date back to the 1800s. These antique residences feature a wide variety of architectural styles and embody the culturally and stylistically diverse nature of our community. A few of the prominent homes in our area included on the National Register of Historic Places are:

Logtown Plantation, designed in the Federal Stick style, was built in the first decades of the 1800s and is situated on the Ouachita River to the south of Monroe. It was the home of Don Juan Filhiol, the builder of what later became our city.

Bosco Plantation House, a Greek Revival mansion constructed during the early 1800s and located south of town at 279 Pipes Lane.

Mulberry Grove, constructed in the first part of the 1800s and now integrated into the brick mansion Layton Castle. It can be found at 1133 S. Grand St. in Monroe.

Lower Pargoud, a Greek Revival residence built in town around the 1850s at 2111 S. Grand St.

Roland M. Filhiol House, a fine example of Queen Anne architecture and Eastlake style erected in the late 1800s at 111 Stone Ave.

Harvey House, a late 19th century home in the Italianate architectural style located at 608 Grammont St.

All of these historic marvels remind us of our city’s pioneering roots west of the Mississippi, as well as its growing reputation throughout the 1800s as an important regional industrial and commercial hub.

A City of Old Homes – A Potential Minefield of Hidden Issues for Homeowners

It is important to remember that Monroe is not only home to several famous antique residences but is also filled with numerous older common homes. As a settlement that has prospered for more than a hundred years, it, of course, contains many houses that are older than fifty years old. Such houses, as you can imagine, typically suffer from certain age-related problems. These issues range in severity from nuisance to being potentially catastrophic and include:

Old damaged or poorly maintained roofs that leak

Drainage systems that are clogged or otherwise no longer function

Leaky damaged pipes throughout the home

Sewage system problems

Faulty aged electrical networks that may cause fires

Dry rot, termite-related damage, or other structural deterioration

While older houses are often more visually appealing than their newer counterparts, exhibiting a bounty of distinguished sophistication, they are usually a minefield of hidden issues like those noted above.

The Trouble an Old Leaky Roof or Pipe Can Cause

Although seemingly minor concerns, roofs, and pipes with small, slow leaks can mean big trouble over time. These problems pose a serious and more probable threat to purchasers of older homes. With that said, there are some telltale signs indicative of leak-related water damage that can help you address them early. Some of these signs are:

Discoloration of surfaces and mold or mildew growths

Musty odors

Deteriorated plaster or drywall

Dry rotted materials

Warped walls or ceilings

Floor buckling and other abnormalities

Always keep an eye out for all of these indicators so that you can either address water-related issues as soon as possible or simply avoid buying a residence with them.

Living in a quaint historical city can be an everyday treat for the senses, but this luxury does not come without its negatives. Year-round, residents and tourists alike can enjoy the diverse architectural styles to be found in our small city. They can see residences dating to every period in the 19th and 20th centuries and observe the differing designs of each. However, while tourists can simply enjoy the sights and leave, many residents have to stay and deal with the difficulties of maintaining older homes. Residents are continually faced with the seemingly impossible task of locating and properly addressing the age-related issues of their houses. This can be both an expensive and time-consuming prospect.    

Luckily, there are local, high-quality water damage restoration companies like SERVPRO of Monroe/West Monroe that can help area homeowners properly maintain their properties. Our highly trained, experienced, and well-equipped technicians are skilled in locating and remediating all kinds of water-related damage. They can likely resolve whatever situation you may have.

How Does SERVPRO Restore Water-Damaged Homes?

Armed with all the latest training and tools of the remediation trade, SERVPRO professionals can successfully restore most water-damaged residences. They take various innovative measures and employ an arsenal of cutting edge gear to do this. Some of the things our technicians do to clean up and restore your property are:

Removing any standing water from your residence with powerful wet vacs and extractors, if necessary

Drying out interior air, structural elements, and contents with air movers, high-velocity fans, and dehumidifiers

Employing Injectidry systems and floor pads to dry out subflooring, areas behind walls and ceilings, and other obstructed spaces

Using state-of-the-art foggers to treat affected materials and air with disinfectants and deodorants approved by the EPA.

Sanding down warped or buckling flooring

Reconstructing destroyed structural elements and rooms

Most times, these expert methods prevent further water-related problems and rapidly return your home to its pre-damage state.

As fellow neighbors of this small historical community, the professionals at SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe want to help you overcome whatever water damage you may have. So, if you ever want to have your residence inspected or need remediation work done, do not hesitate to call us at (318) 345-5121.

Can My Hardwood Floors Be Saved After Kitchen Flooding?

6/23/2020 (Permalink)

When water damages your flooring, call SERVPRO for fast remediation.

SERVPRO Can Return Hardwood Floors in Your Bawcomville Home to Their Natural Beauty with Immediate Mitigation  

Kitchen flooding in Bawcomville is a common occurrence, whether from a dishwasher overflowing or a pipe bursting. If you have hardwood floors, it can ruin your floors if not dealt with immediately.  

Will I need to replace my hardwood flooring? 

Hardwood floors bring beauty and warmth to a home. They are also very durable and easy to care for, but they do not like moisture. Flooding in your kitchen causes your wood floors to absorb moisture like a sponge. Getting help within the first twenty-four hours is vital for repairing water damage to floors in your Bawcomville residence. If left untreated, you end up dealing with: 

• Cupping – moisture causes wood to depress in the center
• Crowning – moisture pushes wood upward in the center
• Buckling – A result of the above. Lifts the floorboards from the subflooring
• Mold 

Restoration Instead of Replacement 

Genuine hardwood floors, meaning a single layer of wood, can be repaired and restored if handled professionally and quickly. Wood is susceptible to water damage and also pulls moisture from the air. Even when the wooden floorboards look dry, moisture hides underneath or gets trapped in the wood. Our team will mitigate the water damage by: 

• Moisture meters – determining where and how much moisture 
• Centrifugal air movers – pulls air from above and below the flooring
• Dehumidifiers – desiccant silica gel may be used 
• Sanding and refinishing 

Your lovely hardwood flooring isn’t subject to costly replacement with water mitigation action by our Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) trained technicians. Having professionals clean and restore your home from water damage saves you time and money, and makes your insurance company happy. 

For service that will leave your home, “Like it never even happened.” contact SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe at (318) 345-5121. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster. 

More about Bawcomville.

Water Cleanup Services In Monroe

4/22/2020 (Permalink)

If you need assistance, you can always call SERVPRO!

In Monroe, Water Cleanup Services are Needed for Many Reasons

There are many reasons Monroe residents and business owners may require water cleanup services.  These could result from artificial internal sources or acts of nature. Whatever the cause, help is available.

Standing water can have many sources in this small southern city. It is for this reason, water cleanup in Monroe is often necessary. Over time, normal component deterioration eventually compromises your home or business’ plumbing and water tanks. It is also possible that vandals or mischievous children might turn on taps or sabotage your pipe networks in some way. Another, but not uncommon, way a water emergency may occur is by natural disaster. As a low-lying city surrounded by water and prone to the effects of hurricanes, Monroe often experiences severe flooding. Related heavy rains and storm runoff quickly inundate basements and ground floors.

As for internal plumbing issues, these can have many unexpected causes. One area apartment landlord recently found out that misbehaving teenagers can do a lot of damage. These hoodlums turned on faucets and broke some piping in his complex’s basement laundry room. By the time he discovered the vandalism, the basement had filled with several inches of water.

The owner contacted SERVPRO, a water removal business he had used in the past, to perform the cleanup. After shutting off the water, company technicians used an industrial-strength truck-mounted extractor and a submersible pump to quickly remove the water from his building. SERVPRO then used dehumidifiers and air blowers to reduce the room’s moisture to normal levels.

If ever faced with such a water emergency, remember these important tips:

    •    Turn off the water source, if possible
    •    Do not enter inundated rooms
    •    Shut off power to affected areas
    •    Don't try to remove standing water with your household vacuum cleaner
    •    Remove moisture-sensitive items like computer equipment, if you can do it without stepping in standing water

After you have taken the necessary precautions, call a water removal service you trust. If you need assistance, you can always call SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe at (318) 345-5121.

For more about Monroe click here.

Water Cleanup In West Monroe

1/12/2020 (Permalink)

Day or night, we're here for you.

SERVPRO of West Monroe Can Guide You Through a Water Cleanup In West Monroe

Having children can mean many messes in your home, including ones that leave you needing water cleanup services. However, sometimes the messes are not the kind that needs urgent help. Sometimes, you can afford the clean them yourself, so long as you have a little guidance that can help you prevent further damages from occurring.

Imagine a situation where you discover an overflowed bathtub and consider calling for local West Monroe water cleanup services. However, let's say the finances are a little tight this month, and you can't really afford the service. That is okay because you can still get the help you need and clean up the water yourself.

Here at SERVPRO, we're dedicated to helping you. Even if you can't afford to call us, we can still offer you help in the way of guiding you through a DIY cleanup. In a situation with a spill that you can address immediately, it shouldn't be an issue for you to clean up the water yourself, so long as you have a few tools. However, if the water has been sitting for a significant period of time, you must reach out for professional help, as water damage could have already set in.

The first step to cleaning up the spilled water is to get out your mops and some towels, anything absorbent that can pick up the excess water from your floor. Our SERVPRO techs would use wet/dry vacuums to clean up standing liquid. However, because it is not a practical device for the average person to own, we recommend using what you have.

Once you are sure all of the water is cleaned up, you may think the job is done. However, it is wise to try and ensure that no excess moisture can linger behind. If you have a space heater and a dehumidifier, put them both inside of your bathroom overnight and let them run. They can help ensure that any excess moisture evaporates and can prevent further damages from occurring. If in the next week or so, you notice any signs of water damage, you should reach out to SERVPRO immediately.

If your home needs professional water damage remediation services, get help immediately. Get in contact with SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe by dialing (318) 345-5121. Day or night, we're here for you.

For more about West Monroe click here.

Our Water Damage Experts Can Save Your Home In Bawcomville

8/31/2019 (Permalink)

When water damage threatens your home or possessions, contact SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe at (318) 345-5121.

Top Reasons Bawcomville Homeowners Should Outsource Water Damage Cleanup

Even a little water damage to a residence can leave an assortment of issues to clean up. For example, a pipe with a 1/8-inch crack has the potential to pour 250 gallons of water into a home in a single day.

When water damage hits your Bawcomville home, it may be tempting to clean it up yourself. In some cases, it will work out okay, and in others, if you miss any water or you have damaged building materials, you can leave yourself open for mold, foul odors and a host of other problems that could be costly.

Reasons you should outsource the water cleanup include:

    •    Water is heavy, and if you clean it up yourself, there is a risk of injury. A single gallon of clean water weighs in at 8.34-pounds. The average consumer-size wet/dry vac holds approximately three to five gallons of dirty water. Imagine repeatedly needing to empty 25 to 42 pounds of water over and over.

    •    Potential for contaminants. Depending on the type of water loss and how long before cleanup started makes a difference in the category of water ranging from category one to a category three biohazard.

    •    Water migrates. It is easy to overlook the hidden areas of water. SERVPRO uses moisture detection equipment that allows us to see within walls and under flooring to ensure our technicians miss nothing during the water extraction.

You need professional equipment to dry a property effectively. SERVPRO does not use fans, we use air movers to dry the property, and we also set drying goals to ensure the humidity levels are too low for airborne mold spores to germinate and set up home.

Our technicians work hard to limit loss. We inspect each water-affected item and determine the restorability potential through our proprietary cleaning methods. Also, we maintain communications with both property owners and their adjusters to be sure that any actions are within the scope of coverage and agreed to before performing the activities.

When water damage threatens your home or possessions, contact SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe at (318) 345-5121. Our trained, certified technicians arrive on-site within an hour and make your water loss “Like it never even happened.”

For more about Bawcomville click here.

Are you Walking on Water Damaged Hardwood Floors in Monroe?

8/8/2019 (Permalink)

Don't let water ruin your hardwood floors. Call SERVPRO today!

How Hardwood Gets Dried After Monroe Water Damage 

Hardwood is one of the most enduring and aesthetically appealing flooring options for many Monroe homes. With the possibility of a water loss incident existing nearly continually for all area residents, having a plan in place to protect these more expensive flooring options is critical. It is essential for effective mitigation and drying efforts to begin as promptly as possible, which is why choosing professional restoration after water damage might be an ideal choice. 

Water damage in Monroe homes varies based on the source of these effects and what materials exist in the path of the moving water. It is the priority of our SERVPRO professionals to perform a thorough and detailed inspection for every loss situation immediately upon arrival. This assessment delegates machinery and personnel to specific areas and damages within the property, ensuring that every phase of recovery is as efficient as another. 

Water damage to hardwood floors presents unique obstacles for our experienced SERVPRO professionals, beginning with the threat of full saturation. Once moisture has moved beyond the flooring planks to subflooring and supports, the only access to dampness and saturation exist in specialized equipment like our drying mats. We always have a restore before replacement mentality, ensuring that all flooring types and exposed materials get dried thoroughly in place rather than relying on contractors to reinstall removed portions of flooring. 

Drying mats slowly draw out moisture from exposed planking, careful to stop at the leveling point where moisture content returns to the acceptable parameters. Especially with hardwood, it is vital to maintain a balance of healthy moisture within the planks to promote pliability and a longer lifespan. A wild swing to one side of the spectrum or the other is equally damaging to this flooring material. 

With hardwood being a popular flooring option for both older construction in the area and new homes getting built, you need a team of professionals that can handle restoration when these elements become exposed to water damages. Our SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe team can help 24/7 by calling (318) 345-5121.

More about Monroe.

Is Moisture Damage Being Stored in Your Monroe Attic?

5/23/2019 (Permalink)

Check your attic for signs of moisture damage.

Attic Moisture Damage for Your Monroe Home

With so many homes throughout the Greater Monroe area with livable attic space, water penetration from vulnerabilities in the roof or soffit of the house can cause many problems. Even if you can quickly identify a problem as it exists, addressing these effects must happen quickly by competent professionals like our team. The technicians of our water recovery unit all have accreditations from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) as both Water Restoration (WRT) and Applied Structural Drying Technicians (ASD). 

Our extensive training for water damage recovery in Monroe is just the beginning to what our professionals can offer your home. We understand how quickly even moisture damage can spread throughout the attic, affecting various materials and contents within this area, so we move quickly to set up containment and to get mitigation work started right away. Our SERVPRO team has effective tools and equipment to begin addressing the primary damaging elements within the house, starting with the saturation. 

Moisture content is not something that many homeowners or even skilled professionals can determine without sophisticated equipment like our readers and detection devices. With approaches like thermal imagery, our technicians can identify moisture pockets even behind walls and other building materials. 

Rapid drying solutions are critical for any variety of water damage that exists in homes throughout our service area. We utilize multiple types of dehumidifiers and air movers, all of which have the strength and effectiveness to quickly reduce humidity and moisture content levels in even large spaces like open attic areas. In some cases, our SERVPRO team might need to address moisture damage directly through the use of our Injecti-Dry System, which can get directed through walls and ceilings to where the dampness gets found. 

We know how important it is to respond to even moisture damage quickly, as these effects can spread to new areas and allow for secondary effects like mold growth to develop. Whenever dampness finds a path to your attic space, give our SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe team a call at (318) 345-5121.

Read more about Monroe here.

A Simple Plan for West Monroe Water Damage Remediation

4/14/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage commonly affects bathrooms. Should your home's bathroom have excess water, contact team SERVPRO for water removal.

When Bathrooms Get Overly Wet, Cabinetry can Sustain Water Damage in West Monroe

SERVPRO's goal after any event that involves water damage is to make everything “Like it never even happened.” again, as quickly as possible. This cuts down on interruptions to our customers' daily routines and helps keep things running smoothly.

The places where you store things inside your home's bathroom can also sustain water damage in West Monroe. This can come from a slow leak in plumbing fixtures or from a broken pipe that suddenly drenches everything in the area. Cabinets notoriously hold water behind their structures, between their backs an the wall, allowing any present microbes to multiply quickly. SERVPRO specialists can help prevent secondary water damage by mitigating the situation rapidly.

Because we partner with our customers during the restoration of water damage, we include them in the decisions we need to make. One of these involves making small changes in the structures, including the backs of cabinetry. We use similar techniques to when we need to dry out the interior of walls and ceilings. Whenever we make such changes, we do so in as small and insignificant manner as possible.

To dry the area inside enclosed areas, we often must drill holes to allow air to pass through. Before doing this, however, we inform our customers that our equipment requires such alterations. We also advise the homeowner of the steps we plan to take afterward, to hide these places. Under cabinetry, these holes do not create a significant blemish, but patching them up after we finish prevents future problems.

While the holes remain open, we use flexible tubing to force air into the area. This rapidly dries the area and removes the water. Getting the interior of the cabinet dry also happens, and keeps cabinet drawers and doors from losing their finishes. Warping of more fragile wood products saves our customers significant amounts of money, an additional benefit of working with IICRC-certified water damage restoration specialists.

SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe is here to help when plumbing in your Bawcomville, Calhoun, or Sterlington home fails and causes problems for you. Call us at (318) 345-5121, so we can start with water damage mitigation and prevention services that protect your home from more extensive problems.

Click here for more information about the city of West Monroe.

Why Odor Removal is Important After Water Damage in Monroe

2/19/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage can leave unpleasant odors. Trust the SERVPRO Brand to remove the unpleasant odors.

Odor Control is Essential to Water Removal Services here in Monroe

One of the less considered issues caused by a water spill at home is unpleasant odors. Remediation of your property is usually a quick process using local technicians and pumping equipment. Afterward, chemical-based cleaning solutions can be applied to ensure the property does not develop secondary damages like mold or mildew growth. However, these chemicals can mask odors which appear once the home returns to its normal condition. Dealing with odors as well as the spill itself is why you should seek professional, qualified restoration experts to deal with the problem.

Many services offering water removal in Monroe can assist with the initial phase of getting the water out of the property as quickly as possible. SERVPRO offers a thorough solution that can involve technicians with certificates in odor control from the IICRC. These qualifications can be a vital part of getting your home back to its preloss condition rather than merely limiting damages.

Technicians with experience know that the key to removing odor is to tackle it at the source. That source could be obvious like raw sewage or less evident like hidden mold, pet litter or water with bacteria. It is not always possible to find the source of an odor, so the only safe method is to tackle it in multiple ways to guarantee a clean, healthy home environment.

We use more than one deodorizer to ensure we can combat unpleasant smells efficiently after water removal. Sometimes masking agents, made up from time release beads, can help to cover up an unpleasant odor. However, these fail to address the source, so SERVPRO Franchise professionals use them in combination with pairing agents; products that join with odor particles causing them to drop onto surfaces where they are cleaned away.

SERVPRO Franchise professionals can also deploy air-scrubbers which remove moisture from the surrounding air. Fitted with HEPA filters, these are capable of filtering out offensive smells or odors from a variety of sources. Usually, with water damages, it is necessary to use them in conjunction with dehumidifiers. Finally, a clean sweep with disinfectants and sanitizers can be beneficial in preventing secondary mold or mildew buildup. It is normal to have odors present in water damages; we are capable of removing both water and odor with the first time of asking.

If you need a comprehensive solution to property damages, contact SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe at (318) 345-5121.

Read about the city of Monroe here. 

How Our Water Damage Restoration Process Can Restore Your West Monroe Home To Pre-Damage Condition

11/19/2018 (Permalink)

When water saturates hardwood flooring, the fibers swell, and permanent damage can follow.

Take It To The Mat When Water Damages Your West Monroe Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors have been a desirable feature in West Monroe homes for the nearly 200 years this Ouachita Parish community has been inhabited. Beautiful and durable, wood floors continue to be a top choice of architects, home designers, and homeowners. When water saturates hardwood flooring, the fibers swell, and permanent damage can follow. Our professional water removal equipment and techniques can reduce or eliminate the effects if applied to your scenario quickly.

When water damage affects your hardwood floors in West Monroe, the result can be one or more of the following issues -- warping, buckling, cupping, or crowning. Depending on the penetration direction of the water, the hardwood planks change dimension as water infiltrates. The wood becomes distorted, crowded in placement, and even lifts off the subfloor in extreme cases. Advanced drying strategies can halt the progression of wavy, ill-fitting sections.

The first step SERVPRO takes when water threatens a hardwood floor is a thorough extraction of surface water. Our wanded, truck-mounted extractors suction standing water off and even pull moisture from below the surface planks. Our IICRC trained technicians take moisture level readings to establish baselines for drying goals, making sure to sample the subfloor layers as well to ensure excess moisture does not migrate from a wet lower level up into the surface-dried hardwood.

Heavy-duty drying mats are an effective solution to pull moisture from several layers of flooring. Technicians attach the flat, plastic mats to areas of the floor with tape, sealing the edges. Hoses connect the mats to a negative air pressure extraction system. When the pressure engages, it sucks residual water into containment tanks for disposal. SERVPRO employees periodically use moisture meters to gauge the drying progress.

We also consider drying from beneath the subfloor when that layer is exposed. For example, we might position air movers and heaters in a basement below a wet hardwood floor in a living or dining room. More than one method might be used to hasten the drying process.

Let SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe bring 21st-century water damage mitigation technology to lovely hardwood floors installed recently or dating back many decades. Call (318) 345-5121 to schedule an assessment by one of our experienced project managers after a water loss.

Click here for more about West Monroe.

Our Specialized Drying Techniques Will Restore Your Water Damaged Bawcomville Home To Pre-Damage Condition

10/4/2018 (Permalink)

When responding to water damage incidents in Bawcomville, our SERVPRO technicians use the right drying techniques.

Drying Techniques That Speed Up Water Damage Restoration In Your Bawcomville Property

Hazards such as water damage threaten our property, lives, and homeland at large. The National Preparedness Month offers us the perfect chance to focus our attention towards preparing our communities, businesses, and homes for such disasters and at the same time honor those who sacrifice by offering aid and responding to disasters and crises. Residents of Bawcomville can get ready for potential disasters by coming up with a response plan, acquiring a disaster supply kit, having emergency savings and taking the alerts seriously.

When responding to water damage incidents in Bawcomville, our SERVPRO technicians use the right drying techniques. Most drying procedures take airflow as a valuable tool. To enhance the circulation of air in a structure, we have to set up air movers. Setting up these devices is not enough, their correct positioning counts a lot. For instance, when an air mover directly blows air into a surface, the air bounces back and forces the moisture into the area.

Our SERVPRO technicians ensure the air movers are directing the air into the wall at a 45-degree angle. By doing that, the air that bounces off the surfaces carries much moisture and gets replaced by drier air. During the setup, the snouts should touch the wall with the inlets pointing towards the wet surface. We also evenly place air movers in a clockwise pattern within the structure.

When drying drop ceilings in a structure, our SERVPRO technicians open a few panels and then direct dry air into the open sections. We have also to remove baseboards when drying walls if they have water inside. If necessary, we drill holes on one side of the wall and blow air into them to speed up the drying process. During this step, we are careful not to cause any damage to the walls when removing baseboards and making the holes.

At SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe, We're Faster To Any Size Disaster whether it is on your residential or commercial property. To access our 24-hour emergency services, call us at (318) 370-3199 and learn more.

Click here for more about Bawcomville.

Restoring Your Items and Structural Materials after a Water Damage Experience in Bawcomville

8/26/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage can happen as a result of many possible causes. Call SERVPRO to assess and remediate the damage in your home.

Team SERVPRO Takes an Assessment of the Water Damage in Your Home Before Commencing the Remediation Process

A water damage experience can affect your property in many ways. The type of materials that are in contact with the moisture determine the kind of damage we need to address. For instance, when the water comes into contact with the insulation of your home, its insulation power may lessen and force us to do the removal. The scenario might be different if your Bawcomville home has fiberglass insulation - which in some cases might be easy to dry and reinstall.
 
We are going to look at how we handle various materials areas during water damage restoration in Bawcomville. Our SERVPRO technicians understand that Rockwool and cellulose insulations can mat after getting exposed to moisture. Additionally, the metal component of the Rockwool insulation may rust. There is a need to remove the two types of insulation after a water event. Vapor barriers around the insulation may also slow the drying process and increase chances of mold growth.
 
It is also a challenge to dry the wet wall cavities. The introduction of ventilation, drilling holes, and removing baseboards can speed up the drying process. Where necessary, our SERVPRO technicians may force air through the holes to increase the speed of evaporation. If there is too much moisture in the cavities, we might be forced to remove some sections of the drywall. We use moisture meters when checking whether there is water in the walls.
 
Through wet vacuuming, our SERVPRO technicians can remove damp debris and excess water. By using a HEPA-filtered vacuum, we can clean dry your items and at the same time capture any present fungal spores with the help of the high-efficiency filtration. We usually dispose of such content in sealable plastic bags. By using water or detergent, we can wipe hard surfaces such as desks, metal filing cabinets, wood furnishings, and bookcases.
 
SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe is highly experienced and uses advanced cleaning and restoration equipment when working on your property. Call us at (318) 345-5121 when you need to work with a trusted industry leader.

Click here for more information on the city of Bawcomville.

Water Damage Experts Out Of West Monroe Talk About Specialty Drying Situations

7/5/2018 (Permalink)

If water ever leaks into your home in West Monroe, the moisture left behind can give you a headache.

Water Damage Experts Talk About Specialty Drying Situations

If water ever leaks into your home in West Monroe, the moisture left behind can give you a headache. Depending on how long it leaks, water can spread and accumulate throughout the house. When some types of structural components become saturated, they can fall apart and must be replaced. If organic building materials or contents stay wet for more than 48 hours fungal development can occur.

Since mold can cause health effects, drying out wet organic substances quickly after a leak becomes our SERVPRO technicians' top priority. To reduce moisture levels after water damage in West Monroe, we typically use a combination of extraction and rapid drying techniques. Depending on how many things got wet and the source of the leak, we utilize various techniques unique to each situation.

Air movers and dehumidifiers get set up inside most houses that suffer a leak. A combination of the two systems helps reduce moisture levels during just about any restoration project. The two types of drying equipment help speed up the natural evaporation process and reduce indoor humidity levels.

However, sometimes certain materials inside a building require individual, specialized attention. Things like drywall, hardwood floors, and acoustic ceiling tiles can be tricky to dry. When dealing with specific types of materials, our SERVPRO restoration crew has several different tools and methods at their disposal.

Some structures contain multiple layers of drywall that can extend drying time. Single layer drywall can usually be dried out in five to seven days whereas more than one layer can take as long as ten to fourteen days to completely dry. In these situations, our SERVPRO mitigation team monitors the drywall material's moisture levels every day and sometimes drill holes into the wall to increase air circulation inside the sheetrock.

Houses with acoustic ceiling tiles pose additional problems when they get wet. These tiles are typically easier to replace than to dry. Often, replacement is required due to water stains. However, removing moisture from these types of ceilings is possible and works better when the tiles are temporarily removed from the ceiling.

After moisture levels return to preloss conditions, the cleaning and reconstruction processes are the final steps. Ceiling tiles get reinstalled, and any holes drilled into walls get patched up. For 24 hour assistance with wet building components, call SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe at (318) 345-5121.

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When Your Return Home From Vacation Leads To The Need For Water Removal In Your West Monroe Home

6/5/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage to this home required removal of drywall and flooring to dry the area thoroughly.

Water Removal for those unforeseen surprises

Imagine going on a vacation away from your West Monroe home only to come back and discover substantial water damage widespread throughout the house. Something as fundamental as a supply hose to your washing machine loosening slightly could all but flood your home over an extended period, leaving you in desperate need of professional assistance from certified and reputable restorers.

No matter what has caused this disastrous damage to your house while you were away, you no doubt require water removal services for your West Monroe residence. Fortunately, our SERVPRO professionals have the unique training, expertise, and equipment to help you overcome every hurdle on your way back to a fully restored home.

Our team arrives quickly from the time that you call to prevent the situation from getting any worse than it already is. Our initial approach is to inspect the entire home for the full extent of the damage that you face and to determine the personnel and equipment necessary to restore these areas of your house.

As you might have guessed, the work begins with extraction. With substantial damages, we dispatch a truck mounted pump from our SERVPRO fleet to quickly remove the water from all of the affected areas of your home. Spot extractions proceed from there in areas inaccessible to the larger pump.

Drying the area is a critical component of this process, especially if compounding damage like mold growth has not yet begun from the persistent moisture. Removal of this dampness and moisture falls primarily on air movers and dehumidifiers. Specific specialized equipment might also be necessary for constricted space or areas that the air mover cannot penetrate.

The need for water removal is something that most homeowners do not prepare for, but fortunately, our SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe restoration specialists do. We can answer quickly to your call and dispatch our emergency response team to get your home back to the way it should be. Give us a call whenever you need us at (318) 345-5121.

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Water Removal Experts In West Monroe Explain Dehumidifiers

5/14/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Recommends Maintaining About 55% Humidity in Your West Monroe Home to Prevent the Need for Silica Gel in Dehumidifiers

SERVPRO's Industry Leading Equipment Extracts Moisture from Properties in the West Monroe Area

If excessive moisture ever gets into your home in West Monroe, rapid drying is essential to reduce the extent of the damage. If materials stay wet they can lose their structural integrity and microbes can develop inside the house. Water first gets removed with specialized extraction equipment before drying takes place.
 
Once all water possible gets extracted out of the interior of the building, drying equipment gets set up to remove the remainder of the moisture. The amount of dehumidifiers and air movers used during water removal in West Monroe varies depending on the specific situation. The size of the affected area and the amount of water that entered the house all play significant roles in determining what equipment is needed.
 
Our SERVPRO technicians place air movers in the affected region to create an air flow that replaces moist air evaporating off of wet surfaces with warmer, drier air. Dehumidifiers then get set up to pull the moisture out of the air and dispense it into a container in liquid form. The dehumidifiers also exhaust the dry air out so that the air movers can use the hot, dry air in their counterclockwise airflow.
 
SERVPRO uses two types of dehumidification systems that pull water out of the air using two different methods. Refrigerant dehumidifiers use cold metal coils to drop air to its dew point such as when water forms around a pitcher of cold lemonade during a hot day. The moist air enters the dehumidifier and gets pushed along coils that are 20 to 30 degrees below the dew point temperature. The water vapor hits the cold coils, condenses and falls into a collection tray. The air then passes through a warm coil that heats it up before exhausting out of the machine.
 
Desiccant dehumidifiers use a more straightforward method of removing moisture from the air and get used during specialty drying situations. Desiccant dehumidifiers pull air across a silica gel that works as a drying agent. The air is then heated up and pumped back through the gel so that it does not get saturated.
 
The type of dehumidifiers used varies based on the drying requirements of each project. If you ever need professional help with rapid structural drying, call SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe at (318) 345-5121 any time of the day.

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Water Damage: The Science of Drying - Part II

12/24/2015 (Permalink)

A Hygrometer reads humidity levels providing important information when answering "Is It Drying," and "Is It Dry."

When the expert water technicians from SERVPRO® of Monroe/West Monroe begin drying your home after a water disaster, we have already answered two very important questions:  “What is Wet” and “How Wet Is It.” We have discussed these questions in an earlier post.  The answers to those questions allow us to develop a specific plan of action to begin the drying process.  That plan tells us how much temporary drying equipment is needed in the affected areas and where that equipment needs to be installed.  

Once drying equipment is installed and operating, the next phase of drying your home begins.  Like the initial assessment, there are two questions that must be properly answered before our job is complete.  Those questions are, “Is It Drying?” and “Is It Dry?”

Under ideal circumstances, drying your home can take several days.  The different materials impacted by water damage in your home have unique drying characteristics.  The metering equipment that tells us what is wet also tells us how much these materials have dried.  Proper drying techniques include temperature management, air movement and dehumidification.  Temperature (heat) brings moisture to the surface.  Air movement removes (evaporates) moisture from the surface.  Dehumidification removes the evaporated moisture from the air while supplying a sufficient amount of dry heated air to keep the cycle going.  This on-going process lets us answer the question, “Is It Drying.”

The final question, “Is It Dry,” is answered when moisture and other measurements taken from the areas initially impacted by the water damage closely match the readings from areas that remained dry.  In our initial assessment, and throughout the drying process, we take moisture measurements from an area within your home that was unaffected by the water leak and use those measurements as our “drying standard.”  In its simplest terms, when our wet-area measurements closely match the dry-area measurements, we can conclude your home is dry.

At SERVPRO® of Monroe/West Monroe, we provide emergency water disaster services.  These are the questions we know how to answer to get your home dry and keep your environment safe.  We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling (318) 345-5121.  We know how to properly assess water damages and develop and execute a plan of action in our efforts to make your loss “Like It Never Even Happened.”

Water Damage: The Science of Drying - Part I

12/24/2015 (Permalink)

A Moisture Meter helps determine water concentration levels. It is one of the tools we use to determine "What is Wet" and "How Wet Is It."

When the expert water technicians from SERVPRO® of Monroe/West Monroe enter your home after a water disaster, we have two very important questions that we must answer before drying equipment is installed.  The first question is “What is Wet?”  The question sounds simple enough but the answer is often more complicated.  Standing water is obvious but it almost always means that hidden cavities of water exist that must also be found.  These hidden areas can be found under cabinets or laminated flooring.  Water can also seep under tile floors or hardwoods.  Beyond the floors, water often rests inside walls and insulation and can move to adjoining rooms.  Determining “What is Wet” is one of the most important questions we must answer.

The second question in our damage assessment is “How Wet Is It?”  Water found under cabinets or inside walls can cause extensive damage if left untreated.  Wood will warp, wet sheetrock will lose its strength and insulation can absorb large amounts of water.  To answer the question “How Wet Is It,” we use sophisticated metering equipment that can measure moisture levels in areas that are out of site.  We may also use a special camera capable of reading temperature variations within walls or ceilings or even in the foundation to answer this critical question.

At SERVPRO® of Monroe/West Monroe, we provide emergency water disaster services.  These are some of the questions we know how to answer to get your home dry and keep your environment safe.  We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling (318) 345-5121.  We know how to properly assess water damages and answering these critical questions lets us develop and execute a plan of action in our efforts to make your loss “Like it never even happened.”

Calvin Blunt: SERVPRO® Quality

12/4/2015 (Permalink)

Calvin Blunt, SERVPRO® of Monroe/West Monroe Water Crew Chief, with his newly equipped service van.

Calvin Blunt, crew chief at SERVPRO® of Monroe/West Monroe, is a valuable leader in our team of expert water mitigation and fire restoration technicians.  When we receive a call about water damage, like a flooded home or business, a ruptured water supply line, or other types of water damages, we do our best to put Calvin on the job.

In recognition of his years of experience, his professional training and his outstanding reputation for providing excellent customer service, we have presented Calvin with his own water damage response van.  In his lead role in water mitigation claims, Calvin will take this custom-equipped van to every claim he works.  It has been supplied with the latest electronic tools for determining the extent of the water damage and is also equipped with sufficient equipment to remove damaged items and begin the process of drying the home or business.

While we are happy to present Calvin with this special SERVPRO® van, we are equally excited for the customers of SERVPRO® of Monroe/West Monroe in every part of Northeast Louisiana and Southeast Arkansas.  We want our customers to have the best, and with Calvin on the job, we know that is exactly what they will get.