Recent Why SERVPRO Posts

Water Damage After a Fire

3/16/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Van parked outside a client's house SERVPRO van on the job.

With every fire job that comes our way, there is an important question we ask: how was the fire extinguished? 

The answer to this question will dictate numerous things; how we address the job, how long it will take for our technicians to finish the job, and the extent of the job. The answers to each of these questions will determine the level of service necessary as well as the estimate.

As the service provider, SERVPRO of Alexandria handles logistics so you don't have to. It is because of this that, as a member of our community, we expect you to deal with as little as possible after already having to cope with a tragic situation. We are always honored to be chosen as the trusted service provider to get the job done and do it properly.

Water Damage After a Fire

When you experience a fire at your home or business, who do you call? Firefighters. What do firefighters use to put out the fire? Water. And so, now what you believed to have been just fire damage has turned into water damage as well. Knowing this should help inform you when choosing the right mitigation company. Make sure that the company can provide restoration work for both types of damage.

SERVPRO of Alexandria takes care of the community of Central Louisiana in the best way possible to us. Always ready to help, any day of the week, at any hour of the day. We pride ourselves in our hard work, discretion, and efficiency. Our team is built on tact and respect. Contact us at (318) 427-7511. 

#heroReady #hereToHelp #centralLouisiana #cenLa #waterDamage #fireDamage #mitigation 

How SERVPRO Helps: Residential Duct Cleaning

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Crew chief using compressed air hose to dislodge dust from vents. SERVPRO Crew chief using compressed air hose to dislodge dust from vents.

Have you recently noticed the air quality of your house has been decreasing?

Perhaps it is time to check on your air vents! If you find yourself in need of a deep cleaning, SERVPRO of Alexandria can definitely help get that dust out of those ducts. The most common way of cleaning vents is with a spinning brush, however this may cause some damage considering how harsh some of the bristles can be, especially if your vents are not made out of metal. SERVPRO of Alexandria does a better, quality job by using compressed air keeping your ducts safe.

Our crew will seal off every vent with perforated adhesive sheets so they are easy to remove and won't leave any residue behind. A negative air machine will be attached to the register closest to the return to pull suction on the system. The technicians will then go through each individual vent, or register, and run pressurized air with a 360 degree nozzle, through the vent which will dislodge and push/pull all debris and dust to the suction point. Once every vent has been dealt with, the technician will take a diffuser filled with scented antimicrobial liquid and disinfect the vent thus giving your home a fresh smell.

If you have any questions regarding home duct cleaning, we are happy to answer them. You may contact our offices at (318) 427-7511. SERVPRO of Alexandria is an emergency service company open 24/7. 

#ductCleaning #centralLouisiana #cenLa #heroReady #hereToHelp 

How SERVPRO Helps: Fire Damage

12/27/2021 (Permalink)

Although after a fire there is no direct emergency to attend the matter, we believe that there is an urgency due to the unsafety regarding the structural damage a fire can cause, along with smoke damage. There are occasions where on top of fire damage, there will be some water damage considering the way the fire was put out. What does SERVPRO of Alexandria do to help Cenla after a fire has been put out? We go through the following steps:

Cleaning

We go through every room and search for soot, which gets cleaned out. Any smoke or flame superficial damage done also gets dealt with by our crew. If the damage is too high, demolition would be the next step.

Demolition

After going through the process of cleaning, there might be some furniture or structure in need to be pulled out, such as carpet, doors, and countertops. Everything that has been so damaged to a point of no return, will be gathered up and reviewed one final time before being disregarded.

Deodorization

After cleaning everything out, and making sure our hard work has been properly completed, we go through this step of deodorization; meaning make it smell good. We take thermal foggers which heat up our oil based scents and keep them there for a bit for the rooms to soak it all up. After a few hours, the property is safe to enter once again. We don’t want your building to smell like fire and smoke when you return, so we do our best to make it breathable. "Like it never even happened."

Our goal is to bring your property back to preloss conditions. At SERVPRO of Alexandria, we understand that there are times where the losses attributed to a fire are tough on our community. We are a respectful team that takes care of these situations with the utmost professionalism. You can count on us to maintain a transparent and honest relationship with you. SERVPRO of Alexandria is here to help Central Louisiana any day, any time.

#centralLouisiana #fireDamage #firePrevention #heroReady #insuranceClaim #fireSafety #smokeDamage #demolition #hereToHelp

How SERVPRO Helps; Water Damage

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

Central Louisiana friends, SERVPRO of Alexandria is an emergency service company that specializes in water damage. The reason that water damage is considered an emergency service is because water losses, if left unattended, can result in potentially hazardous situations. Check out this blog for more information on that. So how exactly can SERVPRO of Alexandria aid you in your time of need? We follow three main steps when we deal with water damaged property. 

Extraction

The first action we take is to remove all the standing water, if there is any, by vacuuming it out. If the need to remove furniture is required to have better access, then that would also happen during this first step. 

Demolition

When flooring, walls, or anything unmovable is far too damaged to repair, we go through the demolition process. To avoid water from affecting the structure any further in the future, demolition and reconstruction is usually the best bet. We do our best to make this as clean as possible to make it easier for a contractor to work. Baseboards may be removed to help materials such as drywall with better airflow which ultimately also helps dry in a faster manner. 

Monitoring

The third step is to monitor the drying progress daily. Our team will use state of the art equipment to dry the damaged property and measure humidity levels to make sure everything is progressing adequately. There are stubborn materials such as hardwood flooring that may require special equipment to dry properly.

Don't let it be too late! As soon as the main source of water has been stopped, don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of Alexandria at (318) 427-7511. We can satisfy all of your drying needs! Stay dry Cenla!

#centralLouisiana #hereToHelp #heroReady #waterDamage #moldPrevention #floodDamage #contractor #insuranceClaim

SERVPRO's Transparency

12/18/2021 (Permalink)

As an emergency service provider, SERVPRO of Alexandria maintains transparency on every project we are involved with. Therefore, not only are we thorough at the job site, but also in regards to production and office documentation. Accountability is everything! We will take pictures before, during, and after every job. It is important to keep communication flowing and detailed updates help with that process. A happy client turns into a loyal customer. SERVPRO of Alexandria is here to help with any cleaning, restoration, or construction needs from fire, smoke and water damage, as well as mold and biohazard remediation. There is never a bad time to call us at (318) 427-7511 for any information or questions you may have regarding our services. SERVPRO of Alexandria is here and ready to help Central Louisiana.




#hereToHelp #heroReady #waterDamage #fireDamage #moldRemediation #biohazardRemediation #smokeDamage #airQuality #centralLouisiana

Thanksgiving Dinner Safety Tips

11/23/2021 (Permalink)

As the holiday season approaches, we encourage you to take the best precautions possible. Kitchen fires are not uncommon during this time of year and safety should be a priority. Starting with thanksgiving dinner, here are some do’s and don’t tips you can follow:

Thinking of going the extra mile and deep frying your turkey this year?

  • Safety first! Wear goggles and mitts to avoid any burn injuries and protect you from splashing oil.
  • Keep the fryer a minimum of 10ft away from your home, kids, pets, garages, trees, or any other structure. 
  • If using a propane powered fryer, keep the tank and burner 2ft apart from each other.
  • Keep the fryer on a flat surface on the ground.
  • Make sure the oil is leveled and steady at all times. This ensures safety for everyone.
  • Turkey must be completely thawed and dried out before lowering to oil. Water and ice may cause flare-ups if it makes contact with hot oil.
  • Never leave the fryer unattended.
  • A turkey of 8-10lbs is perfect, try to keep away from 12lbs.
  • When you lower the turkey into the fryer, turn off the burner before, and turn it back on after. 
  • If the oil starts to smoke, turn off the fryer. Oil will catch on fire once it passes its smoke point.

In case of small, controllable fire:

  • Be extremely careful with grease fires. It is easy to accidentally spread them and cause a bigger fire. 
  • Turn off burner
  • Take a metal lid to cover the fire.
  • Baking soda can also be used to smother the fire.
  • Only as a last resort use a fire extinguisher. The pressure may cause the grease and fire to spread so stand far away and spray with caution until the fire is out.

After successfully frying and safely removing the turkey, here are some tips on how to properly dispose of the oil.

Planning on cooking your turkey the old fashioned way?

  • There are still a few safety tips to follow! 
  • Keep your stove and oven clean
  • Stay in the kitchen area. Avoid going into different rooms to deal with guests.
  • Check on your oven frequently to make sure it is cooking properly
  • Keep children away from the kitchen, you don’t want them to accidentally get hurt with hot pots and pans. 

In case your oven catches fire

  • Turn oven off
  • Keep the oven door closed
  • Keep a flame-resistant oven mitt, potholder or lid nearby to smother any flames

For more safety guidelines, visit Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections website.

As stubborn and sensitive smoke alarms are, do not remove them! Ultimately they have a purpose and save lives. Make sure they are always functional and in good condition. 

A good safety tip is to have an escape plan for you, your family, and guests just in case something does happen. 

Stay safe and enjoy your cooking!

#fireDamage #smokeDamage #fryingTurkey #firePrevention 

https://cenlachamber.org/

SERVPRO SANITATION SERVICES: Cleanup and Disinfecting Procedures

3/13/2020 (Permalink)

Coronavirus, COVID-19 SERVPRO of Alexandria can disinfect your home or business.

Cleanup and Disinfecting Procedures:

Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of waste.

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar type organisms to COVID-19.

SERVPROXIDE™, SERVPRO’s proprietary disinfectant, is a hospital-grade disinfectant that has demonstrated effectiveness against viruses similar to SARS-CoV-2 on hard, non-porous surfaces. In addition, SERVPROXIDE™ currently has dozens of EPA-approved claims including Feline coronavirus, Canine coronavirus, Staphylococcus (MRSA), E. coli, Salmonella, Rotavirus, Swine flu (H1N1) and more.

Porous surfaces that are not water-sensitive, such as carpet and other fabric material, cannot be disinfected but can be sanitized using SERVPROXIDE™.

Communication: The Key to Success

10/11/2019 (Permalink)

communication graphic Communication is key when providing fire damage and water damage restoration.

SERVPRO of Alexandria's number one core value is communication. Communication is important to the customer, client, sub contractor, service provider and government agency or municipality. Communication keeps everyone on the same page throughout the course of the project. 

For instance, water damage from a busted pipe will require lots of daily communication since we will need to gain access each day in order to monitor the moisture levels. Also, in the case of fire damage, constant communication is required for contents that were affected by the fire because, you, the customer or client may need access to said contents. 

Keeping the insurance companies abreast of the progress is necessary to avoiding hiccups along the way.

Trust is built on good communication and SERVPRO of Alexandria is the most trusted restoration company in Central Louisiana. 

Indoor Air Quality Solutions to Alleviate Spring Allergies

5/9/2019 (Permalink)

Mold in you home or business can cause health issues if not treated correctly.

- Have your home checked annually by a certified HVAC technician. An HVAC tech knows exactly what to look for.

-Even when it is nice outside, opening windows and doors brings allergens and dust into the home.

-Having your air ducts cleaned is important due to the dust and dirt that build up there. Some things are oblivious to the naked eye but can cause health problems.

-Check seals around windows and doors as one missing seal can be the reason that pollen, dust and other debris enter the home.

-Change air filters every 30 days especially during the months where the air conditioner is used more often.

-Clean hardwood floors, carpet, door mats regularly to avoid dust collection, debris build up.

All of these things listed can lead to more serious health problems if not maintained. In people with severe allergy problems you find that something's  may need to be cleaned even more. 

Whether it's mold related or you simply need your ducts cleaned SERVPRO of Alexandria is here to help. We service most of central Louisiana. 

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https://www.cityofalexandriala.com/

https://www.natchitochesla.gov/

Odor Removal & Deodorization

3/6/2019 (Permalink)

A technician carefully removing mold

As experts in deodorization, SERVPRO of Alexandria is trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors. These odors can come from a number of sources both inside and outside a structure.

SERVPRO uses IICRC technical guidelines in the proper removal of odors. Masking and other shortcuts don't work when your odor problem is serious or persistent.

We have the training and equipment to identify and eliminate these offensive odors. By identifying the cause of the odor and determining the conditions in which it contact any surfaces, the odor can often be removed over time without a trace. Our technicians have access to several odor removal products capable of penetrating surfaces to neutralize an unpleasant odor thoroughly.

The science of identifying and eliminating odors can be a tricky thing, so give us a call, and leave the restoration to us.

At SERVPRO of Alexandria, We're Faster To Any Size Disaster whether it is mold, storm, water and fire damage in both residential and commercial properties. Call us at (318) 427-7511 if you need more details on our industry proven services. 
 
Click here for more information on the city of Alexandria.

Our Highly Trained Restoration Specialists can restore your Central Louisiana Home

3/6/2019 (Permalink)

IICRC Certified Firm

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

IICRC Certified Firms must

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

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

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

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

About SERVPRO of Alexandria 

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

At SERVPRO of Alexandria, We're Faster To Any Size Disaster whether it is mold, storm, water and fire damage in both residential and commercial properties. Call us at (318) 427-7511 if you need more details on our industry proven services. 
 
Click here for more information on the city of Alexandria.

At the first sign of mold contact SERVPRO to remediate the damage

7/13/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has a varaity of tools and equipment like this air scrubber to remove mold damage from your home.

Mold is a problem in central Louisiana. The facts are that inside any home mold can grow when it has enough moisture, food, and the right temperature. 


That means to stop mold damage in your Alexandria homes, SERVPRO restoration specialists have to find and remove the source of moisture. Mold spores can thrive in a range of 68 to 86 degrees, the range most homes try to maintain year-round. They also feed on nearly everything in a home, to include almost every building material except for iron, steel, and aluminum. 

Most mold growths in our area begin with a simple leak. Often, there is a loose pipe connection or a rusting faucet in a wall or a laundry room that is the culprit. Even just a small amount of water can start the problem if enough spores become wet enough to expand and start to grow over the nearest surface, searching for food and more moisture to further grow the colony. 

After arriving at each home, SERVPRO technicians perform a visual inspection and trace that to its source. Once they find it, our teams have two tasks: stop the leak and clean out the mold. 

If the problem is a minor one, like a loose connection or hose on a washing machine, our technicians can fix that. If it is a major issue, such as an entire section of pipe rusting out, the team leader always recommends bringing in a plumber or general contractor to make the repairs. 

Once they stop the source of moisture, our specialists spray the affected property with an anti-bacterial agent. It kills any active spores, and then the team members wipe down every surface or use a vacuum with a specially designed HEPA filter to capture them. If the mold had time to grow into a surface like wood paneling, the team carefully removes it for disposal. They dispose of all mold outside the home and according to Louisiana state requirements. 

Removing the effects of mold in any home is not easy, but SERVPRO of Alexandria works diligently to make it as easy on a homeowner as possible. If you have or suspect this problem is in your home, call us today at (318) 427-7511 to schedule a visit and inspection. We are here for you.

See all about the Alexandria, LA here.

Don't Be Too Hasty With Mold Damage In Alexandria

4/24/2018 (Permalink)

An improper response to mold damage in your Alexandria home could spread the infestation further and create a much more substantial problem.

Mold Damage In Your Home

While it is true that some types of mold damage in Alexandria can cause ill health effects to residents of the affected building over time, that does not mean you should panic as soon as you find signs of growth. Panicking only creates more problems as you look to handle the problem in a hasty or unprepared fashion and could even worsen the problem if you select an incorrect approach.

What Can Go Wrong? 
An improper response to mold damage in your Minneapolis home could spread the infestation further and create a much more substantial problem. Some homeowners attempt to sanitize and clean up mold themselves, thinking the problem to be more minute than it really is. However, without specialized equipment, spores may only be spread around the home on board your cleaning supplies. Even if you do manage to eliminate any visible patches of growth, there may be other problem areas around the home that can continue to spread and grow. Only through advanced detection technology such as those used by SERVPRO of Alexandria employees can the true extent of mold growth be found out.

What Do I Do? 
If the colony is large, you may want to leave the house temporarily. We can help with move-outs in these circumstances. No matter the size, color, or species of mold you find, the most important thing to do is to call a qualified restoration company like SERVPRO to take care of the matter. Uncertified contractors and handymen rarely have the tools and training available to handle mold growth safely and could create the same problems that may result from you attempting to take on the problem alone. Our representatives arrive on the site within hours of your first call and can start the process of recovery with professionalism, speed, and cost-effectiveness.

SERVPRO of Alexandria provides professional mold damage remediation services on a 24/7 basis and is always available to respond to your call for help. Contact us at (318) 427-7511.

Click here for more about Alexandria.

High Humidity And Mold Damage In Alexandria, Pineville and Ball

2/11/2018 (Permalink)

Molds need moisture to grow, and SERVPRO knows a remediation job is not complete until the source is found and eliminated.

High Humidity And Mold Damage

Unintended consequences of modern building methods used in areas like Alexandria, Pineville or Ball may include damage to structures and contents. Tightly sealed windows, doors, and other building materials help conserve energy. Lack of adequate ventilation in homes built since the 1970s lets moisture build, contributing to mold growth. Once established, the mold colonies need professional remediation.

If you notice an “off” or musty smell in your central Louisiana home, would it surprise you that mold damage could be the cause? In our climate, both building materials and the systems we use to heat and cool must handle extremes of temperature and humidity. Moisture levels and temperatures that get out of balance support the growth of fungal colonies out of the many mold spores always in our environment. Standard cleaning methods are inadequate to control a mold infestation. Our expert mold remediation crews contain and remove mold growth, and then sanitize the affected areas to inhibit future outbreaks.

Molds need moisture to grow, and SERVPRO of Alexandria knows a remediation job is not complete until the source is found and eliminated. In a central Louisiana home, high humidity levels can be the culprit. When ambient humidity rises above 60 percent, some species of mold absorb that airborne moisture and multiply. During our summers, the air is often sticky, and if air conditioning or dehumidifiers are not used consistently, mold takes advantage of the water vapor.

Winters also pose the risk of high interior humidity as our HVAC systems or freestanding humidifiers run constantly to battle the dryness of the heated air. Parents run humidifiers when children struggle with allergies or upper respiratory infections, often making things worse if mold develops and its byproducts irritate susceptible individuals. Consult a healthcare provider if you're worried about a mold and health status connection.

SERVPRO of Alexandria crew members test for humidity levels and seek for other hidden pockets of moisture when we respond to a mold event. All technicians work with you to reduce home humidity to safe levels between 30 and 50 percent. Calibration of the humidifier in your HVAC system may be a solution, and if mold has developed in the ductwork, we offer cleaning, sealing, and disinfection of those spaces.

The reduction or elimination of other humidifying events also helps, including running bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans, checking dryer vents for obstructions, and deemphasizing the use of room humidifiers. SERVPRO employees train in advanced water removal and drying techniques. Should our meters and scanners reveal water behind a wall, beneath a cabinet, or in any other area we deal with it. Water issues must be resolved to avoid mold problems in the future.

SERVPRO of Alexandria has the experience and training to remediate mold damage in your home. Call (318) 427-7511 to start development of a plan to assess the issues and address the problem professionally.

Click on AlexandriaPineville or Ball for more information. Also, the Central Louisiana Chamber of Commerce or the National Home Builders Association of may be able to help.

Mold Removal and The Implications as Far as Remediation

1/24/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Removal and The Implications as Far as Remediation

Mold is a very difficult agent to cope with when it becomes pervasive enough to affect people. It is an interesting living organism that usually grows out of sight, and so people don't think about it very much unless it directly affects them.

This microbial growth can look like mildew or fungus which are not particularly harmful, but mold is an entirely different story. Mold can cause health effects because it gives off spores that when breathed in can take up residence inside of us and grow.

Mold can grow in the midst of fungus and mildew, masking its presence, so when a mold cleanup and mitigation procedure is undertaken, the mildew and fungus are usually cleaned up too so as not to miss any of the moldy areas that might be hiding.

Mold does put out millions of spores as this microbial growth grows and matures. These spores float through the air until they land on an area that is conducive to its growth and then it plants itself and grows. It needs a dark area, no moving air, and a source of moisture to grow. If any one of those three items is missing, it cannot grow at all.

If a homeowner or business owner discovers any mold that is growing, they would be well advised not to attempt to clear it up by themselves, as they can endanger themselves, and probably will not be successful in getting rid of it. Many people will attempt to wipe the microbial growth away with a cloth, but all they accomplish is to wipe off the top and leave the roots. The roots penetrate into just about all surfaces except glass, and unless they are destroyed, the substance will just regrow.

mold cleanup and mitigation process must begin as soon as possible after it the microbial growth discovered, and an environmental hygienist should be involved due to the expertise of such an individual. The environmental hygienist will be able to tell the difference between the moldy areas and the mildew and fungus, and then prescribe the proper treatment for the mold cleanup operation and the mitigation procedures.

The environmental hygienist and the cleanup workers will wear protective clothing, gloves, and masks to protect themselves and they may cordon off various sections of a building to do the cleaning and removal of any items that are contaminated. Entire rooms, carpeting, walls, flooring or ceilings might have to be replaced in the process, depending on what is contaminated.

The mold cleanup and mitigation procedures are very carefully planned out by the environmental hygienist so that everything will go smoothly with no chance of error or contamination beyond the affected area. Once the offending substance is removed, and the area is sanitized, life can get back to normal for the occupants of the home or business. Visit www.SERVPROalexandriala.com for more information on mold removal and remediation.

Click on AlexandriaPineville or Ball for more information. Also, the Central Louisiana Chamber of Commerce or the National Home Builders Association of may be able to help.

What To Do When Mold Is Found In Your Alexandria Home

1/24/2018 (Permalink)

What To Do When Mold Is Found In A Alexandria Home            
                        
A Mold or microbial growth, such as mildew or fungus, may be present in a home in Alexandria and hiding where the homeowner cannot see.  Alexandria, Pineville and Ball homeowners must ensure they have taken steps to keep the house clean, and this article explains how the community may call a mitigation company for help, so they may begin mold cleanup as soon as possible.  Each step that is taken to keep the home clean will account for Louisiana weather, and it will allow for someone to ensure they are as comfortable as possible.


#1:  What Does The Environmental Hygienist Do?


There are quite a few people who need an environmental hygienist, but they do not know what the professional does when they arrive at the home.  Someone who has asked for help from an environmental hygienist will note they get a full inspection, industrial gear is used to clean 
the house and an honest assessment of the situation is offered.  After inspection, Industrial Hygienist will write a protocol to determine exactly how the house must be cleaned to remove any dangerous microbial growth. The 
company will ensure they have the appropriate crew on the scene that is capable of cleaning the house quickly, and they will offer a number of services to the homeowner that are helpful.  They will show the homeowner where the house has been affected by mold or mildew, and they will explain the nature of each growth or fungus.  Mold cleanup takes some time, and it 
may begin just after the inspection.


#2:  How Long Does The Process Last?


The process of cleanup will last more than a day in many cases, and the hygienist's report determines how much must be done for their work to be complete.  They will be honest with the homeowner, and they will take their time to ensure the house is safe once again.  Anyone who orders service in Alexandria, LA. must ensure they have accounted for the time needed for cleaning, according to the hygienist's report , and they will notice it is quite simple to 
account for the days that it takes when there is no other choice.


#3:  Testing Air Quality


Air in the home is retested to ensure it is improving on every cleaning.  The company may do quite a lot of work that will take out every spore, and they cannot know they have been successful until the air in the house has been retested. Often times, the air in the house will be fair easier to breathe because it does not have mold spores present, and the air quality test will show any spores that are still in the air.  It may be possible for the homeowner to see the results of each test, and they will know if things are improving as they should.  The evidence that is 
given to the homeowner will help them feel more comfortable with the work they have ordered, and they will see a change happening in the house that is not always visibly apparent.


#4:  Order Service At Once


Homeowners must order service from a hygienist in Louisiana as soon as possible because they cannot allow a microbial growth to sit in their home for such a long time.  They could begin to experience health troubles that are related to their home's poor state, and professional help to determine the next step is how to proceed.  In extensive cases, the homeowner may need to move out of their house until it is cleaned, and they will not be allowed in until the space is cleaned through and through.  


#5:  Listen To The Hygienist


The hygienist who comes to the house will offer quite a bit of information about how the home was affected, what must be cleaned, and how it must be cleaned.  There are many steps in the process that may be taken at any time, and the hygienist will explain each step to ensure their customers are not confused about what is to be done.  The hygienist may offer cleaning products that are to be used during the course of the year, and they will show the homeowner how simple it is to clean up any latent spores they find.  Things that will cause growths in the home are repaired or removed, and the house will become a much better environment for everyone when they walk through the door.


Homeowner's in the area can ensure that they have found a number of different ways to keep their home clean and fresh by contacting professionals when they need assistance.  Each step in the process is a help to the homeowner who is breathing in musty air and potentially harmful air. 
        
    Visit www.SERVPROalexandriala.com for more information on mold removal and remediation.

Click on AlexandriaPineville or Ball for more information. Also, the Central Louisiana Chamber of Commerce or the National Home Builders Association of may be able to help.

Saving your Home from Black Mold

5/31/2017 (Permalink)

Mold in your central Louisiana home can be a very serious issue!

Mold in a Louisiana home can be a very serious ordeal. While there are several things that can affect whether your home has mold growing or not, the development of mold comes down to just a few things.

If you are diligent about your problems and take immediate action, most of the time you can prevent mold from occurring. However, if you don't take care of the problem, you may never be able to get rid of the mold. Mold if not remediated properly will continue to come back, even if you repair the area that was moldy or decayed. This is why it's crucial to take care of the issue in a timely fashion to ensure that your home isn't the cause expensive repairs.


Where Does Mold Come From?


Mold damage in Rapides Parish doesn't just come from nowhere. There are mold spores all around you. They come from outside in. Mold spores can float in through an open door or window or even be brought into your home from your clothes. Once mold spores settle if they find a wet area in your home it can start to grow.

The best way to deter microbial growth is by, eliminating any leaks on the siding, roofing, and windows that might let moisture into your home. Check and repair leaky sinks immediately to prevent moisture build up, and turn on exhaust fans when you're steaming up the house. Poor ventilation and airflow cause microbial growth as well. When areas are well ventilated, mold spores have a difficult time sticking to counter tops, walls, and floors.

What To Do If You Have Mold In Your Home


Never address the mold yourself, because it can make you sick. Call our service professionals at SERVPRO of Alexandria immediately, so that we can assist you in your time of need. SERVPRO of Alexandria is equipped and ready to handle all of your concerns 24-7. 

Give us a call today at (318) 427-7511

Click on AlexandriaPineville or Ball for more information. Also, the Central Louisiana Chamber of Commerce or the National Home Builders Association of may be able to help.

What Is Black Mold?

1/30/2017 (Permalink)

Stachybotrys Chartarum or Toxic Black Mold. Call SERVPRO of Alexandria if you see this.

Stachybotrys chartarum is the type of mold often called “black mold” or “toxic mold”. Sensational news reports warn about the dangers of black mold and these stories can be alarming and confusing. Any mold in your home should be treated with caution – stay out of affected areas and don’t touch or disturb the mold.

Please refer to our Mold Damage Tips to learn more about mold and what to do until help arrives. 

How Do I Tell If It’s Black Mold?

Since many types of mold can produce allergens and irritants, you should contact a qualified mold remediation company regardless of the color or type of mold. In many instances, multiple types of mold can exist in the same house or structure. If you suspect that you have a mold problem, contact SERVPRO of Alexandria immediately.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call SERVPRO of Alexandria Today at 318-427-7511

Understanding Mold

When water intrudes into your property, mold growth can start in as little as 48 hours. Consider the following mold facts:

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