The Different Types of Fire Damage

2/10/2025 (Permalink)

What to do in case of a kitchen fire.

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

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

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

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

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

After a fire, you could simultaneously deal with flame, smoke, water, and heat damage.  FEMA has some great information on what to do after the fire.  The best way to ensure this is promptly and correctly is to contact the team at SERVPRO of Slidell to get on the job!

What To Do After A Fire

1/31/2025 (Permalink)

A list of how many fires SERVPRO handles each year.

Here are a few things you can do to help after a fire event at your home or business.

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keep hands clean so as not to further soil the upholstery, walls, and woodwork.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas.
• If the electricity is off, empty the freezer and refrigerator and prop the doors open.
• Clean and protect chrome with a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of the leaves.
• Change the HVAC filter.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

Commercial Water Mitigation: Protect Your Slidell Business

5/2/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO'S ERP program can mitigate water damage to your Slidell business. Let's keep your doors open. Here to Help®

SERVPRO® Essential Tips for Water Mitigation 

Slidell, Louisiana, is a lovely city on the northeastern shore of Lake Pontchartrain. It is known for its rich cultural history and proximity to New Orleans. When your Slidell commercial property faces water damage, quick action is essential to minimize loss. Water can sneak into basements, utility rooms, and areas with critical equipment, causing severe damage. Here's what SERVPRO wants you to know to protect these vulnerable areas in your business: 

Key Areas at Risk 

When it comes to commercial water mitigation for your Slidell business, keep these spaces in mind: 

• Basements: Often the lowest point in a building, basements are highly susceptible to water accumulation from leaks or flooding. 
• Utility Rooms: These spaces accommodate necessary machinery, such as HVAC systems and water heaters, which can leak and cause extensive damage. 
• Equipment Rooms: Rooms that contain critical business equipment must be protected as they are pivotal to your operations. 

Advanced Mitigation Technologies 

To effectively combat water damage, our professionals use state-of-the-art technologies and equipment: 

• Thermal Imaging Cameras: These tools help detect moisture hidden in walls, floors, and ceilings, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of water damage. 
• Automated Water Extraction Systems: These systems quickly remove water from affected areas, reducing drying time and mitigating mold growth. 
• Industrial-grade dehumidifiers pull excess moisture from the air and structure, which is crucial for preventing further water damage. 

Protective Measures 

To shield your Slidell commercial property from water damage, consider the following proactive steps: 

• Routine Inspections: Regularly check areas prone to water damage for signs of leaks or moisture accumulation. 
• Proper Maintenance: Keep all plumbing and HVAC systems in good repair to prevent unforeseen leaks. 
• Emergency Ready Plan (ERP): Develop a detailed plan for responding to water damage, including the contact information for restoration professionals. 

Water damage in commercial settings not only disrupts business operations but can also lead to significant financial losses. Understanding the risks and preparing accordingly can help safeguard your property. 

For professional help with commercial water mitigation in Slidell, don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of Slidell at (985) 649-1516. Our skilled crew is equipped with the tools and knowledge to restore your property efficiently and effectively. Here to Help® 24/7.

Slidell Flood Damage Restoration by SERVPRO Experts

4/8/2024 (Permalink)

Flood damage restoration is a long and difficult process. Contact SERVPRO for professional advice and remediation services.

IICRC Certified Pros Ready for Your Flood Recovery

Flood damage in Slidell can be overwhelming, leaving residents and business owners facing the daunting task of recovery. SERVPRO®, with our team of IICRC-certified technicians, stands ready to assist in navigating the aftermath of floods, ensuring a comprehensive and efficient restoration process. Our expertise in water damage restoration and our rigorous approach to handling contaminated spaces make us your go-to partner in bringing your property back to its pre-flood condition.

It is vital to understand the critical nature of an immediate response. SERVPRO's experts are equipped with state-of-the-art tools and proven techniques to address the unique challenges developing due to flood damage in Slidell:

• Rapid Water Extraction: We utilize powerful, industrial-grade equipment to quickly remove standing water, minimizing secondary damage and the risk of mold growth. 
• Advanced Drying Techniques: Our sophisticated drying methods ensure thorough moisture removal from walls, floors, and furnishings. 
• Sanitization and Decontamination: Floodwaters often carry contaminants. Our meticulous cleaning process ensures your space is safe and free from harmful substances. 
• Mold Remediation: Preventing mold growth is crucial. Our specialists employ effective strategies to mitigate and remediate mold issues. 
• Restoration and Repair: From minor repairs to major reconstructions, we're equipped to handle all levels of flood damage restoration. 

At SERVPRO, we understand that the impact of flood damage extends beyond the physical. It's an emotional and financial strain that requires a prompt, empathetic, and professional response. Our commitment to excellence and customer-first approach means that you can trust us to restore not just your property but also your peace of mind.

Reach Out Today

For Slidell residents facing flood challenges, remember that SERVPRO of Slidell is here to help. With our IICRC-certified technicians and proven water damage restoration techniques, we are dedicated to making your flood problem "Like it never even happened." Call us at (985) 649-1516.

Fire Damaged Slidell Homes Require a Highly Experienced Team

1/17/2024 (Permalink)

If your Slidell home has fire damage, call SERVPRO. We'll make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® Techs Mitigate, Clean, Restore Post-Fire

Maintaining your home in Slidell is something many homeowners do themselves. Learning the nuances of your own home can make you more adept at spotting problems early. Checking outlets and ensuring power strips are not overloaded can help prevent fire damage. Knowing your appliances can also help prevent anything from becoming too hot and igniting surrounding materials.

Knowing the intricacies of your family's home in Slidell cannot guarantee fire damage never takes place. SERVPRO has technicians who can work in teams, so your family can soon move home "Like it never even happened." We use international standards to mitigate the existing damage. We remove soot, ash, and other fire by-products so your family does not see or smell anything unpleasant. Physically damaged structures and many personal belongings also require restoration work, and we're highly skilled in every step.

Before doing a final walk-through with your family to show you the work we have accomplished, we must complete some crucial tasks, including:

• Deodorization, and
• Drying

Removing the sharp odors from a fire can require several different but simultaneous approaches. There are other reasons for the need for various applications. New odors can come from charred wood, melted plastics, natural fibers (clothing made from leather or fur), and other synthetics (upholstery/carpeting). The heat from the fire forces smoke from partially burned items into inaccessible locations. For this, we use thermal fogging. It copies the behavior of the smoke while introducing bonding agents that hinder the particles from making additional odors. Another method uses scented gels we inject into carpeting or upholstery.

Even when fire departments use foam, a house fire can leave your home with water damage if plumbing fixtures melt or warp enough to release water unabated. SERVPRO knows how to mitigate, clean up, and restore homes exhibiting both situations, saving you time and money.

You can trust the restoration of your home to the experienced team at SERVPRO of Slidell. For this and other services, including water damage restoration, call us at (985) 649-1516. Here to Help®.

Tackling Hidden Moisture during Water Restoration in Pearl River

12/21/2023 (Permalink)

When dealing with water damage, you want someone who knows what they're doing. Contact SERVPRO for professional technicians and equipment.

Dangers Hidden Water Damage Poses in Pearl River

Pearl River is a small town in St. Tammany Parish, Louisiana. The town's name is a nod to the nearby Pearl River. The town's atmosphere is predominantly residential and rural, making it attractive for people who prefer a quieter and more natural environment. Residents can access essential services and enjoy a comfortable lifestyle like Fast Pace Health Urgent Care - Pearl River, LA, Pearl River High, and Pearl River Lions Club.

Addressing hidden moisture during water restoration in Pearl River homes is critical to preventing hidden damages. Water intrusion into a property can be insidious and find its way into less obvious areas through various pathways. Recognizing the potential for hidden damage allows for early detection and intervention. SERVPRO® professionals take prompt action to remove moisture in concealed spaces. Our teams have experience, specialized equipment, and techniques to identify and address hidden moisture.

Possible areas where moisture can collect

• Underfloor cabinets and vanities
• Inside wall cavities
• Under staircases
• Subflooring

Staircases often have hidden spaces beneath them. Water can accumulate here, causing structural issues, including rot, mold growth, and decay of wooden stairs and the supporting structure. SERVPRO crews inspect these areas during the restoration process.

Addressing Moisture in Concealed Spaces 

Addressing moisture in obscured areas like staircases requires specific tools and techniques to ensure thorough restoration. For example, our crews use moisture meters to assess the moisture levels in the materials surrounding the stairs, including the framing, drywall, and flooring. Elevated moisture levels can indicate hidden moisture issues. Also, moisture often causes temperature differences that are detectable with Infrared (IR) cameras. We use these cameras to locate areas with hidden water, even when covered by dry materials. Once we have identified the presence of water in these areas, we may need to perform other actions, including;

• Remove materials to access the area
• Using cavity drying tools to supply warm, dry air in concealed areas
• Set up air movers and dehumidifiers for general drying

SERVPRO of Slidell provides efficient water restoration, ensuring that the hidden dangers are mitigated. Call us at (985) 649-1516. We are Here to Help®.

The Franchise Training Program at SERVPRO Industries, LLC

10/24/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO invests in our employees and owner/operators to ensure we provide the highest quality cleanup and restoration services in the Slidell area.

Expertise Through Training

Providing local communities with trusted restorations and excellent customer service are part of the very foundation of all SERVPRO® franchises. Recently, Madison Scott (wearing black) and Kimberly Nicholes wearing blue) of SERVPRO of Slidell completed the Franchise Training Program. This extensive program occurred at the SERVPRO Industries, LLC, headquarters in Gallatin, Tennessee.

This regular franchise training plays an integral role in building individual franchises. The program sets the stage for all aspects of the business. It prepares each franchise owner and employee to better serve the local communities with trusted restorations and disaster recovery. We are only as good as our people.

SERVPRO – Faster to any size disaster™.

Having SERVPRO Do Your Mold Damage Repair in Slidell is Very Wise

9/17/2023 (Permalink)

Mold is not something that can be easily removed. Call SERVPRO for professional mold damage remediation services.

We Help Slidell Homeowners with Mold Damage Repair

Mold growth in Slidell homes is a serious concern that should never be ignored. It not only compromises the structural integrity of your residence and lowers its value, but also makes it more susceptible to future fungal outbreaks and impacts your peace of mind. So, as you can clearly see, there are numerous reasons why you should call a professional remediation firm to resolve your mold-related issues.

Over the years, SERVPRO® has quickly become Slidell’s go-to mold damage repair service. SERVPRO’s growing popularity is the result of our almost unrivaled expertise in everything from dealing with ceiling leaks, burst pipes, and basement flooding to doing complete water damage repairs. This expert knowledge aids us as we work to:

• Ensure your home’s structural integrity and inhabitability by properly treating mold growths on ceilings, walls, and flooring
• Prevent mold from spreading around your residence into new, unaffected areas, thereby minimizing the extent of damage and reducing overall restoration costs
• Keep fungal growths from recurring in the future by identifying and fixing the water leaks or excessive moisture problems that have caused them
• Preserve your property’s market value by effectively dealing with future buyer’s/tenants’ potential livability, safety, and maintenance cost concerns so that your house retains its appeal to them
• Ensure your peace of mind by helping you rest assured that your residence has been remediated by trained professionals and is free from mold-related structural concerns and other potential complications

Mold damage repair is a crucial step in maintaining a high-quality living or working environment and preserving the integrity of your property. In promptly addressing mold issues, you prevent further damage, preserve property value, and fully benefit from our expertise.

That said, if you ever need mold damage repair services, don’t hesitate to call your friends at SERVPRO of Slidell. We are always ready for your call at (985) 649-1516.

Why Air Drying is Key During Water Damage Cleanup in Slidell

5/15/2023 (Permalink)

We ensure the drying equipment is well positioned for optimum coverage and airflow.

SERVPRO Can Safely Dry Your Slidell Property During Water Damage Cleanup

Prompt response is required during water damage cleanup to prevent further damage. Stopping the water source, extracting water from the structure, and controlling the site's humidity and moisture summarize the restoration processes. Water damage mitigation technicians have handled several incidents and are well-trained to develop a restoration plan that perfectly suits the situation.

To speed up evaporation during moisture control in Slidell, our SERVPRO technicians strategically position air-moving equipment. When moisture escapes from wet materials to the surrounding air, the evaporation speed gets slowed because a humid layer forms around the wet items or areas. So, we use air movers to introduce drier and warmer air to break up the layer and replace the humid air.

During the air-moving process, our team performs the following:

• Ensure the equipment is positioned well for optimum coverage and airflow
• Regularly monitor and adjust the equipment to enhance proper drying
• Ensure the air mover is operating in a safe manner

Our SERVPRO team can use centrifugal or axial air movers to move dry air over wet surfaces. We prefer using centrifugal air movers when the affected area is not big and highly pressurized air needs to be directed to specific regions. Axial air movers are preferred when dealing with larger surfaces and when larger volumes of air need to spread over large areas.

The safety of our equipment is crucial during water removal. The air movers have thermally protected motors, safety screens at their outlets and inlets, and three-prong plugs that guarantee safe operation. Our SERVPRO team regularly cleans them to remove any dust accumulation and ensure they do not overheat due to over-stressing.

SERVPRO of Slidell is certified to offer professional water damage remediation assistance to commercial and residential properties. Call (985) 649-1516 to work with qualified restoration experts who use specialized equipment and resources to make it "Like it never even happened."

Understanding Mold Remediation in Your Slidell Home

4/18/2023 (Permalink)

Mold can grow in any area of the home. Call SERVPRO for fast and effective remediation.

SERVPRO is Ready to Help with Mold Removal in Slidell

Mold in a Slidell home can spread without anyone noticing. Crawlspaces, basements, and even carpet under pads are notorious for letting mold grow while causing damage to flooring and building materials. Traditional household cleaners are not enough to fight mold growth, so if you ever suspect excessive mold growth, it is best to call a professional team to ensure the proper steps are in place to keep your home safe.

Mold remediation in Slidell is possible when you contact SERVPRO and let our IICRC trained team team take charge. Whether mold has been growing or a recent water leak left excess humidity, do not wait to enlist help. Time is your worst enemy when mold grows in your home, and your items, wiring, and other organic materials may rot quickly.

Mold cleanup is not universal. Each surface requires specific treatment to remove mold spores and delay additional growth. Non-porous surfaces like plastics, glass, and marble are easier to clean. In contrast, porous surfaces such as upholstery and curtains pose a more significant challenge and may sometimes need a complete replacement. 

Techniques we may employ throughout your home could include:

• Dry sponges and vacuuming with HEPA filters, along with antifungal cleaners.
• Sandblasting, wire brushing, and other abrasive techniques permeate porous and semi-porous surfaces.
• Isolation of affected areas and creation of negative pressure spaces to prevent further spread throughout the home.

SERVPRO of Slidell is your top resource when mold damage threatens your home. Whether the infestation looks big or small, call us at (985) 649-1516 and let us leave your home “Like it never even happened.”