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Archived Why SERVPRO Blog Posts

The Least Invasive Mold Removal Tactics for Monroe Homes

5/4/2023 (Permalink)

cabinet mold Don't let mold take control of your Monroe property. Call SERVPRO today!

SERVPRO Has Efficient Mold Removal

Mold is an underrated and underappreciated developing threat in your home in moist areas. Removing this growth can be challenging depending on factors like the colonies' severity, the damage's location, and the needed repairs to resolve the penetrating moisture concerns. You desire rapid solutions to get life back to normal, so we first prioritize the least invasive remediation methods.

There are no methods of mold removal for Monroe homes and businesses that are effective the longer that you wait to secure professional remediation services. However, our professionals respond quickly to these emergencies, making it possible to preserve and protect many of the exposed hosting materials from permanent marring. 

Surface Cleaning Solutions 

One of the least aggressive and invasive methods of removing active mold growth in your home is surface cleaning products. Antimicrobial and sporicidal agents from our inventory work to eradicate and destroy spores on organic surfaces hosting colonies. These products can also deter future growth, as these cleaning products act as inhibitors.

Dry Ice and Soda Blasting 

Sometimes it is impossible to utilize the least invasive and aggressive measure of mold removal. Instead, more abrasive methods can effectively protect the impacted host material and preserve the substrate from removal and replacement. Media blasting with dry ice and sodium bicarbonate is often the preferred approach when this abrasive cleaning is necessary. If media blasting is ineffective or will not provide the desired results, there are other potential solutions based on the degree of damage, including: 

  • Sanding
  • Emergency Repairs
  • Controlled Demolition


While the options for mold removal and remediation might vary by the unique circumstances, our SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe team is ready to help how you need it. We understand the urgency of development and can work tirelessly to rid your home of compromising mold growth. Call us at (318) 345-5121.

How SERVPRO Responds When Monroe Properties Have Mold Damage

4/5/2023 (Permalink)

Containment barrier set up in a hallway of a school with mold damage Containment barriers protect unaffected areas of your Monroe home from mold damage.

Why Is Inspection Essential in Monroe Homes Before Mold Restoration Procedures?

Mold is an insidious problem, especially when it proliferates in hidden areas rather than openly. The response needed to counter such contamination is unique to the affected individual or property. SERVPRO tailors solutions to meet the expectations of the Monroe homeowner while ensuring we address all aspects of mold damage.

Once your Monroe home develops mold damage, the outcome depends on your efforts to remediate the problem. For instance, leaving the contamination unaddressed for long creates the perfect opportunity for it to spread throughout your home. Once we arrive at your property, expediting the remediation is one of SERVPRO's main objectives. 

Inspection is crucial for faster remediation because it helps identify: 

  • Moisture sources and contamination spread patterns
  • Level of soiling from mold
  • Deterioration levels in materials

It is easier to avail sufficient resources for the job with the right information. For example, if there is an active leak causing water stagnation in open or hidden areas, a restorer can avail appropriate extraction equipment. Our SERVPRO technicians use powerful extractors to remove surface water. Special extractors such as drying mats are necessary for water trapped in concealed areas beneath tiles or wooden floorboards. Otherwise, demolition is required to open up such spaces.

Timing Mold Remediation

An inspection helps improve the scheduling of the different mitigation tasks necessary to combat mold. Remediation involves several procedures. Some can run concurrently, while others have to be scheduled consecutively for the best outcome. For example, cleaning before doing demolition is a waste of effort. You can only plan for a task if you know it is necessary.

Everyday mold remediation tasks:

  • Setting up containment 
  • Controlled demolition of materials
  • Cleaning mold colonies and residues
  • Drying and deodorization

Containment is necessary when contamination is significant in one area of your home. Containment takes different forms, including sealing HVAC ducts, setting up plastic sheet barriers, and establishing clean rooms or decontamination areas. The inspection done by our Applied Microbial Remediation Technicians helps establish which of these tasks to do or what to omit. 

Clean rooms are essentially mold-free zones that you can safely occupy while the rest of the house is undergoing remediation. When our SERVPRO technicians set up barriers isolating the contaminated areas from the rest of the house, we establish negative air pressure to keep all residues within the contained area. We also use manometers to inspect the barrier to ensure airtight seals. We also use an air filtration device with HEPA filters to remove particulate matter that might cause problems in the clean rooms.

After containment, we can do the necessary demolition and cleaning. We make precision cuts to remove drywall, insulation, and other heavily contaminated porous materials during demolition. Cleaning requires a thorough method that does not introduce moisture in the structure. Methods like vacuuming or damp-wiping with antimicrobial detergents are sufficient since mold colonies are usually limited to the surface. If we need to clean semi-porous surfaces such as the solid wood within the structural supports, we can opt for more aggressive alternatives like wire brushing or sanding. The extra effort is necessary since the mold has root-like hyphae that leave it embedded in surfaces.

SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe can help find the right solutions for your property after mold damage. Call us at (318) 345-5121. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Appropriate Mold Remediation for Monroe Properties

12/2/2022 (Permalink)

mold inspection form on a clipboard From inspection to remediation--Rely on SERVPRO to protect your Monroe property "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Matches Mold Mitigation to Monroe Property Needs

In most cases, you realize there is mold in a property when surfaces like walls and ceilings start discoloring. However, the colonies can proliferate without visible signs. Such hidden infestations cause severe deterioration because they take longer to notice, thus giving the fungus time to consume organic materials such as cellulose, leaving wood frail. Only comprehensive mold remediation by a professional team like SERVPRO restores your property to its preloss state.

It would be best if you did not wait to schedule mold remediation at your Monroe property. Early signs can alert you that there is a problem, thus ensuring you do not carry out the exercise in futility. Some reasons why SERVPRO may recommend remediation include the presence of a musty smell or the aftermath of a water intrusion incident. Such remediation starts with an inspection to identify affected areas.

Common Mold Hotspots Include:

  • Showers and bathrooms
  • Ceiling corners
  • Tile grouts in often wet areas
  • Cabinets and other enclosures

When mold is not visible on surfaces, inspecting the suspected areas helps reveal the actual conditions in the concealed areas. Inspection can be non-invasive or invasive, thus causing significant damage to the structural areas. SERVPRO opts for methods that cause the least destruction, if any.

Typical Non-invasive Inspection Procedures

  • Drilling exploratory holes
  • Checking for hidden moisture
  • Probing structural surfaces with hand tools

Executing the Remediation

The information gathered from the inspection determines the appropriate remediation procedure. For light infestations, a bit of cleaning and drying resolves the problem. If the problem is advanced, material removal and biocide application are some of the necessary procedures. Our SERVPRO technicians can perform the required controlled demolition to remove wall panels or disassemble cabinets and countertops to reach the hidden colonies.

SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe can help identify all areas affected by mold and execute appropriate mold remediation procedures to halt further development. Call us at (318) 345-5121. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

The Basics of Mold Damage Remediation in Monroe

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

mold stains on white wall, wood floor We remediate mold damage for our Monroe neighbors. Call SERVPRO.

SERVPRO Acts Fast to Remove Mold Colonies and Prevent Future Mold Growth

Mold growth in your Monroe home need not lead to panic. Respond quickly when you suspect mold is a problem by engaging the services of a skilled and experienced remediation firm. We use proven protocols developed by the Environmental Protection Agency for the best results, and we can recommend strategies to inhibit mold damage in the future.

Mold damage in Monroe stems from the intersection of two agents -- mold spores and moisture. Mold spores are present both outdoors and indoors at all times. Homeowners do not notice them as they are minuscule, invisible to the unaided eye. Without exposure to moisture, mold spores cause virtually no problems.

SERVPRO knows that when a spore encounters and absorbs water its life cycle begins, and your home may become infested with mold colonies. Within only 24 to 48 hours a musty smell and the beginnings of feathery or leathery growths emerge. The water is often from a small leak in the plumbing or a roof that goes unnoticed. Condensation or unmopped spills can give mold a boost. Even high humidity in excess of 60 percent supports some strains of mold in their growth and multiplication.

When we assess your need for remediation, we first locate the mold colonies and then contain the area. Following the IICRC guidelines, we use physical barriers such as heavy-duty plastic sheeting as well as advanced technology such as air scrubbers that employ negative pressure to direct the air in contaminated spaces through vents and filters. Our employees don personal protective equipment (PPE) to begin the removal process.

We use EPA registered disinfectants to treat affected areas, and sponge or scrape the mold off surfaces. If the hyphae (mold root-like structures) have not infiltrated porous surfaces too deeply, building materials restore well using these methods. Other options include soda blasting, similar to sandblasting but with sodium bicarbonate. SERVPRO employees then bag and dispose of the moldy materials following local hazardous waste rules.

The crew removes the remaining residues with HEPA filtered vacuums. In some cases, thermal or ULV fogging with antimicrobials helps clear the air of lingering spores and tiny contaminated particles. Our SERVPRO team has received certification in the use of these essential tools for mold remediation.

Our efforts take care of the current mold overgrowth. Managing mold issues in the future requires eliminating the moisture that activated the spores. SERVPRO can help identify potential moisture issues. We advise you to take the steps needed to remedy these problems by yourself or through the work of a contractor.

SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe is your resource for highly qualified mold remediation services in our community. Call (318) 345-5121 as soon as you suspect mold is a problem to schedule a consultation.

Avoid DIY in Monroe – Opt for Professional Mold Damage Cleanup

5/3/2022 (Permalink)

hallway with poly containment barriers SERVPRO offers skilled technicians using the latest equipment, device, and products for mold damage remediation in Monroe.

SERVPRO Has Mold Damage Assistance for Monroe Residents

There is a lot involved in mold cleanup, which is why this is never a task to tackle as a DIY project. Hiring trained technicians for mold remediation gets the job done faster and eliminates the risk of possible health effects. SERVPRO is available for commercial and residential mold cleanup services so that you can ensure it gets done right the first time.

Why not grab mold cleaning products from the store? SERVPRO wants all area clients to know that mold removal products leave you open to spores getting left behind or moving into unaffected areas of your home. With our mold damage team in Monroe, you will have skilled, IICRC-certified technicians with the training, cleaning products, and equipment to ensure no stone gets left unturned.

Some of the steps that we take to handle mold on the surface may include:

  • Wiping with a cloth damaged with anti-microbial agents and cleaning solutions
  • Vacuuming areas carefully to remove loosened debris (fungal particles and spores)
  • Drying and dehumidification to air out your property
  • Agitation with the help of sanding and wire brushing

When it comes to a mold outbreak, no home or business owner wants to encounter a repeat infestation after cleaning is complete. SERVPRO always puts in extra effort to ensure all areas are free of excess moisture and visible mold. Our team uses moisture meters, sensors, and thermal imaging that tell us where moisture is hidden so we can eliminate it. We also target the root cause of the mold infestation to keep it from recurring.

Why SERVPRO of Monroe/West Monroe when you have mold damage? We strive to ensure your property gets left with our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned seal of approval. Call us at (318) 345-5121 to schedule our mold remediation service.

Faulty Wiring and Monroe Fire Damage

5/3/2022 (Permalink)

fire at electrical outlet on wall SERVPRO is Here to Help when an electrical fire damages your Monroe home

SERVPRO Remediates Fire Damage in Monroe

It is not always easy to tell when the electrical wiring inside your home has been installed incorrectly, but it is essential to understand that a poor job can lead to fire damage. Fires caused by faulty wiring can be dangerous, as they can be burning inside of your walls for hours or even days. When they find a pocket of oxygen, they ignite incredibly fast and have the potential to burn down entire sections of your home. When the blaze is extinguished, it can leave you feeling overwhelmed and anxious. However, the quicker you contact professional restoration help, the better it is for your home.

A blaze breaking out in the bedroom of your Monroe home and causing fire damage can be daunting. Even if caught early, the fire can negatively impact your space in more ways than just burning up the side of your walls and some of your furniture. Fire damage comes hand-in-hand with smoke damage. The clothing, decorations, and bedding inside your bedroom can become stained and odorous. Even if soot never touched them, the smell alone can leave your belongings unsatisfactory.

When you call SERVPRO, we make it our priority to arrive at your home as fast as possible. We understand that successful remediation relies on addressing the damage in a timely fashion before discoloration and other unfortunate factors can set in. SERVPRO techs are IICRC-certified and can arrive at your home with all of the tools that they may need to remediate the fire damage.

Here at SERVPRO, we use tools like hydroxyl generators to address the odorous smell while we work. We can use abrasive, chemical, or lubricative cleaners to remove soot stains. If any drywall was permanently damaged, we can tear it down and clean it up before recommending a contractor to you who can remodel the space.

If faulty wiring inside your bedroom causes a fire, do not hesitate. Dial (318) 345-5121 to contact SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe. The sooner you call us, the quicker we can get to your home.

Why Trust SERVPRO to Restore Flood Damage in Monroe?

1/14/2022 (Permalink)

a man sitting on his couch on the phone in his flooded living room Has your home been dealing with flooding? Contact SERVPRO for effective water removal and flood damage remediation services. We are standing by 24/7.

SERVPRO Offers Fast, Reliable, and Efficient Flood Damage Restoration to Monroe Homes

One of the immediate hazards of flood damage to your Monroe home is the risk of developing microbial contamination. Professional restorers like SERVPRO use professional water damage restoration products to control the situation.  

SERVPRO techs use products like disinfectants and sanitizers to prevent the development or limit microbe growth after flood damage to your Monroe home. However, application of antimicrobials is performed only after achieving the following-

  • Removal of the moisture by drying the environment 
  • Removal of the contaminated material 

What professional products do SERVPRO techs use during flood restoration of Monroe homes?  

Most common products that SERVPRO techs use to control the microbial contamination in your flood-damaged Monroe home include- 

  • Quaternary ammonium compounds
  • Phenols
  • Alcohols
  • Chlorines 

Although many chemical agents are antimicrobials, most of them won’t kill all types of microbes encountered in an average flood situation. SERVPRO techs are trained in using these chemicals and understand the risks and benefits associated with the use of these products. The goal is to control the growth of these microbes and not to eliminate them completely; microbes always exist within our indoor environments.   

Are chemical products always necessary after water damage? 

When water is present due to a water damage incident like ceiling leaks and burst pipes, microbes always grow given enough time and proper conditions. Even sanitary water situations can get contaminated if left unmitigated for two to three days. SERVPRO only uses antimicrobial products when they are warranted according to the IICRC guidelines as put forth by the EPA.

If you need assistance with water damage restoration of your residential or commercial property, call SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe at (318) 345-5121.

Need Fire Damage Mitigation in Monroe? Call SERVPRO

1/9/2022 (Permalink)

fire and smoke billowing from the windows of a house on fire Fire damage cleanup needs to be done after an event. Contact our certified team for effective fire damage remediation technicians 24/7.

Fire damage mitigation happens fast in Monroe homes, with SERVPRO in charge.

Fire damage mitigation of your Monroe property is a complex job that is best left to professionals. Restorers like SERVPRO have the necessary skills, training, and knowledge to get the job done efficiently and safely.  

SERVPRO is one of Monroe's few fire damage mitigation services with experience in tackling all size disasters. Our fast response time means the restoration can start immediately, limiting the extent and scope of damage to your property due to smoke and soot residue. Our goal is to get your property restored “Like it never even happened.” 

What is a photocatalytic oxidizer used during house fire cleanup of your Monroe home?  

Combating the odors after a fire damage incident in your Monroe home can be an uphill battle for the restorers. SERVPRO technicians sometimes have to employ multiple procedures involving various professional products and equipment to produce the desired results. 

A photocatalytic oxidizer is a piece of special equipment that shines ultra-violet rays on a surface of titanium dioxide to produce hydroxyl radicals. The hydroxide radicals thus produced are very reactive and instantaneously oxidize the odor-causing particles to carbon dioxide and water. As the photocatalytic oxidizer alters the chemical structure of the odor-causing particle rather than just masking it, it is a more permanent solution than other deodorizing methods.  

What are sealers that are sometimes used after smoke damage? 

Sealers (also called sealants) are applied to surfaces to encapsulate remaining residues when odors persist even after other deodorization procedures. Many sealer products are alcohol-based shellac or acrylic compounds.

Call SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe at (318) 345-5121 for any assistance with fire damage mitigation of your residential or commercial property.

We Have State Of The Art Equipment To Rid Your Richwood Home Of Mold Damage

12/22/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO vehicle outside a job site. Controlled demolition from mold is a job for SERVPRO. Our mold remediation specialists have the know how and equipment for every service.

Why Highly Trained Teams from SERVPRO Offer Long-term Solutions to Mold Damage Problems in Richwood 

Mold is a common problem considering spores occur freely in the air. Mold can also fester unnoticed in concealed areas of your Richwood home for a long time before discovery. Left undisturbed, the root-like hyphae from mold penetrate deep into organic materials as mold colonies seek nutrients causing significant deterioration. Mold issues can also keep recurring, which is why it is crucial to seek long-term results when such a problem develops.

Every time there is a flare-up of mold damage in your Richwood home, it signifies an unaddressed moisture problem since it is the main driving force. If the mold develops after a water damage incident, it means the drying process is not done completely. Our SERVPRO team includes WRT, Water Restoration Technicians, who use advanced equipment to find wet areas in hidden sections of the property. Apart from locating moisture, the equipment also minimizes the level of demolition needed. They include:

  • Thermal cameras
  • Borescopes
  • Manometers
  • Penetrating Moisture Meters

The solution to mold damage depends on the growth extent and the materials affected, among other things. Substantial growth on porous materials cannot be reversed through cleaning or the use of antimicrobial agents because the hyphae penetrate deep into the materials. Removing such materials is the only way to deal with the issue properly. Controlled demolition is also essential when growth spreads over expansive areas of your home. Our SERVPRO team includes AMRT, Applied Mold Remediation Technicians, who apply their expertise throughout the removal process, including creating containment and using negative air pressure around the areas we demolish.

One of the telltale signs of mold development is patches on surfaces such as walls and ceilings. After cleaning and removing some building materials, there is a need to refinish all affected surfaces to restore the preloss state of your home. Our SERVPRO technicians can repaint or apply other finishes. We also ensure to match the new and old finishes.

Problems with mold can linger. Call SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe to help with remediation. You can reach us at (318) 345-5121 any time. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

How Can Monroe Homeowners Get Safe Mold Removal Services?

8/3/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO logo over mold Mold spreads quickly when the conditions are right. Contact SERVPRO to investigate the cause and remediate the damage in your home.

SERVPRO Mold Removal Specialists Remediate Mold in Monroe with Commercial-Grade Tools

While all buildings and outdoor spaces contain some level of mold, excess moisture in a Monroe home can accelerate growth. Professional mold removal ensures that homeowners do not risk potential health effects from microbial exposure.

SERVPRO professionals are ready to perform mold removal for Monroe homeowners 24 hours a day, seven days a week. These remediation professionals coordinate with property owners and insurers to streamline the claim filing process and provide services per a homeowner’s insurance policy.

SERVPRO Equipment Eliminates Monroe Mold Accumulation

SERVPRO mold remediation specialists have access to a sophisticated suite of inspection and remediation tools for microbial remediation, including the following:

  • Calibrated penetrating and non-penetrating sensors and meters for assessing moisture levels that can indicate the source of microbial contamination
  • EPA-registered fungicides, which can be applied via manual cleaning, agitation, fogging, injection, or spraying
  • HEPA-filter vacuums and air scrubbers to prevent the spread of mold spores and eliminate odor-causing particles
  • Hydroxyl generators, which utilize ultraviolet rays for odor control of salvageable porous items
  • Centrifugal air movers and dehumidification units work together to eliminate moisture and dry humid or water-damaged spaces

Homeowners can call SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe at (318) 345-5121 for remediation and restoration that makes homes look “Like it never even happened.”

What Is A Rover And How Does It Dry Your Water Damaged Monroe Home?

7/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO vehicle and equipment outside job site. Water removal services by SERVPRO are second to none. We use the latest technology in every disaster.

The Equipment We Use to Dry Monroe Homes

Part of the work we do for Monroe homeowners is responding quickly to water damage incidents that affect their property. We are loading up our Green Fleet with the appropriate tools and equipment to make short work of the emergency threatening your home from the moment we get your call. With water damage incidents, we have to work quickly to extract the excess and to dry up the moisture to prevent secondary effects like mold growth from occurring as well.

While drying your water damaged home in Monroe might not seem like a complicated procedure, you should consider how your house is inaccessible or challenging to reach. With wall cavities, subflooring, ceiling spaces, and more, we have to provide our customers with effective drying solutions that work quickly despite the difficulty of accessing these areas. That is where our impressive and industry-leading equipment comes into play.

Extractors for Water Removal

The machines and equipment that we use for all of our restoration work define our team, as it helps save our customers money while providing a polished final product that makes emergencies and disasters “Like it never even happened.” Our process begins with extraction when it is necessary to recover a water damaged property. We have many options, from ROVER weighted extractors, which can pull moisture from carpeting and subflooring to wet-vacs with extraction wands ideal for challenging areas of the property.

Drying Mats to Remove Water Damage

Once this excess gets removed, our SERVPRO technicians can work on the crucial drying portion of the process. To access moisture in wood flooring and concrete surfaces, we can use our drying mats. Our Injectidry system can help to remove the water trapped in wall cavities to prevent lingering moisture here to allow for mold growth. Traditional drying techniques occur with our high-powered air movers and industrial-strength dehumidifiers.

Our equipment is at the heart of the work we do and plays a critical role in recovering a home that suffers from widespread water damages. You can trust our SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe rapid response team to arrive quickly with the tools to make a difference fast. Give us a call at (318) 345-5121.

Why SERVPRO for Mold Remediation Services in Monroe

6/17/2021 (Permalink)

mold growing on ceiling by curtain Mold can grow on any type of organic surface in a Monroe home--For best results--Call SERVPRO for mold remediation

SERVPRO Technicians Thoroughly Remediate Mold Damage

Discovering mold growing in your Monroe home might lead you to question how it developed in the first place. While there are many misguided ideas about how mold growth can occur, the process is quite fundamental. Spores exist in the environment both inside and out of our homes on a microscopic level. To colonize and sit on surfaces in our homes, these spores require a food source via moisture and dampness and organic materials to infiltrate.

Taking care of the mold damage in your Monroe home might also seem like something you could do on your own, but you should know that conventional cleaning methods are virtually ineffective against mold colonies. This is because the cleaning process does not penetrate deeply enough into the organic materials to remove the entire organism thriving inside of it. You are only scratching the surface of the problem.

Trained Mold Inspections, Remediations, and Removal Specialists

Our SERVPRO technicians, on the other hand, get specially trained to combat all varieties of mold and fungal growth to residential and commercial structures. Our team familiarizes themselves with the latest mold remediation methods and the most effective strategies to handle the kind of mold growing in your house. From the moment that our team arrives, we assess the full scope of the damage and utilize negative air chambers and air scrubbers with HEPA filters to isolate this affected area from the possibility of spreading.

Sanding the organic surfaces of the construction materials of your home and structural components can remedy the colonization process, but that is only part of the problem you are facing. Identifying the source of the moisture is a critical element to the remediation process because repairing this damage can prevent recurrences after a short time.

Finding mold inside of your home is nothing that you should attempt to resolve on your own. With the health effects attributed to exposure to fungal organisms, it is always a better and safer choice to trust the certified mold remediation specialists at SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe. You can reach us anytime you need us at (318) 345-5121.

Recovering after a Monroe Flood

3/12/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO appliances working to fix a flood damaged room Flooding can be quite overwhelming. SERVPRO can help with both remediation services and filing your insurance claim.

SERVPRO Restores Flood-Damaged Monroe Homes

A thousand things may go through your mind after your Monroe home experiences a flood. The overwhelming task of recovering after a flood does not need to be tackled on your own. Professionals like the team at SERVPRO can help set your mind at ease and prioritize tasks while restoring your home.

Our trained emergency response team can assist in repairing flood damage in your Monroe home. SERVPRO takes action to ensure your family's safety and well-being while working on your home after a flood.

Our technicians take the following steps:

  • Set a staging area as a work area to ensure a safe space to work on restoring items.
  • Make sure residents and workers are all safe.
  • Establish engineering controls.
  • Remove water and materials requiring disposal.
  • Begin the drying and humidity control process.
  • Clean and decontaminate salvageable items.
  • Dispose of unsalvageable items. 

For 24/7 assistance following a flood, contact SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe at (318) 345-5121. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Looking to Repair Your Monroe Home Following a Fire?

3/7/2021 (Permalink)

a fire damaged room with soot covering everything and debris everywhere Regardless whether the fire damage was minor or extensive, team SERVPRO can help. Contact our certified technicians for services.

SERVPRO Plays an Instrumental Role in Fire Damage Restoration in Monroe

Monroe is the parish seat of Ouachita Parish. It is a small city of approximately 50,000 people in Northern Louisiana. West Monroe, across the Ouachita River, is called Monroe's twin city. West Monroe has a smaller population of fewer than 15,000 people. Fort Miro was the first name of the town which then became Monroe after the steamboat James Monroe. Interestingly enough, the steamboat was named after James Monroe, the fifth president, so the city was indirectly named after him as well.

In 1913, Joseph Biedenharn moved to Monroe. Biedenharn was the first bottler of Coca-Cola, which revolutionized the soda industry. He began bottling in 1894 but moved his business operation to Monroe. With Biendenharn's ingenuity, Coca-Cola made its way into more rural areas. Before bottling, candy shops clerks manually mixed Coca-Cola at the soda fountain. Early distribution of Coca-Cola into rural areas required careful transportation of the bottles holding carbonated beverages by horse and carriage.

Biedenharn was an entrepreneur and businessman. According to family legend, Biedenharn family members bought candy stores that did not sell Coca-Cola simply to promote the product. Another one of his more famous ventures was founding Delta Air Lines with his son, then known as Delta Dusters. Biedenharn was a city commissioner in Monroe and was personally responsible for paving the roads for the city.

Biedenharn's home and gardens are now open to the public under the name. The Biedenharn Museum and Gardens is open to the public. One of the standing exhibits is Coca-Cola memorabilia. Included is a Model-T delivery truck, signs, and bottles that showcase its progression. Bottles range from 1899 to 1981. The bottles in the exhibit are from various parts of the world and showcase varying designs. There are even several bottles carrying the Biedenharn name.

Other Features of the Biedenharn Museum and Gardens of Monroe include:

  • The historic home is filled with family relics and artifacts from the time.
  • Formal English Gardens
  • A Bible Museum stemming from Emy-Lou Biedenharn's personal collection, including Bibles from the 1400s and 1600s. 
  • Other rotating exhibits

Repairs and Restoration after a Fire in Monroe

Historical buildings in cities like Monroe have a greater risk for extensive damage from a fire. When a fire occurs, it is essential to seek professional assistance to ensure proper fire damage restoration in Monroe. Older buildings often have porous and unfinished surfaces.

Technicians clean the following surfaces:

  • Unsealed wood requires a dry cleaning sponge for light residues and heavier soils clean with denatured alcohol. 
  • Plaster surfaces require a very gentle touch or may need replacement if too fragile. 
  • Acoustical Tiled walls should be pre-cleaned with a dry sponge and then clean with peroxide.
  • Concrete and masonry require a variety of cleaning techniques and products depending on the porosity of the surface.

For 24/7 assistance after a fire, contact SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe at (318) 345-5121. We make it, "Like it never even happened."

Why is Containment Vital During Mold Remediation?

2/18/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO vehicle parked in front of home SERVPRO professionals are trained to handle every level of mold damage, Including the odors that come with it. Call us today, we are always available.

SERVPRO Helps Reduce Spore Spread

Many homeowners have discovered that mold can be hard to deal with. You think you have got rid of it, and then it comes back. This is because mold spores are tiny and can quickly spread throughout your home.

If you need mold remediation in West Monroe, SERVPRO is here to help. Although we cannot eradicate spores because they are present in nature, we can take steps to prevent them from spreading.

During containment we:

  • Set up thick plastic sheeting around the affected area
  • Seal off all ducts and vents
  • Use negative air machines or air scrubbers to suck in mold spores
  • Make sure our staff have a staging area so they can move between containment and the rest of your home without increasing the risk of mold spreading
  • Give staff appropriate disposable PPE

Containment means fewer spores escaping into the rest of your home, which reduces the risk of a recurrence. We combine containment with a thorough cleaning and drying for maximum effect.

If you need a mold remediation service you can trust, call SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe at (318) 345-5121.

Why Should Only Restoration Technicians Handle Fire Debris?

10/20/2020 (Permalink)

House Fire SERVPRO has the experienced technicians with the equipment and expertise your home needs after a fire mishap. Give us a call right away.

SERVPRO Technicians Carefully Remove and Dispose of Debris from Your Monroe Home During the Fire Cleanup Process.

After a house fire, the debris, soot, lost contents, and mess from water extinguishing the flames become overwhelming. While your initial thought may be to start poking through the debris and tossing items, your best bet is to have skilled restoration technicians come in to handle this cleanup. SERVPRO has years of experience and understands that many things are salvageable with care and the right methods. Once you call us to your Monroe home, you can count on our crew to get started quickly so that your home will be back to preloss condition, just “Like it never even happened.”

Why Should I Call SERVPRO?

With any job involving fire cleanup in Monroe, you need to remove debris quickly and get to work on cleaning corrosive soot and smoke residue. We understand best practices for removal, how to sort items, and where to bring all of the debris to be disposed of according to local guidelines. We have a team of specialists made up of:

  • Fire and smoke restoration technicians
  • Odor control technicians
  • Water damage restoration technicians
  • Upholstery and fabric cleaning technicians

Prompt removal of debris during the cleanup allows us to eliminate a significant amount of odor-causing matter. When a homeowner tries to tackle fire cleanup with DIY methods alone, the cleaning usually only passes visual inspection. There are hidden molecules that settle in nooks and crannies that must get addressed carefully. Otherwise, malodors creep up over time and create a constant reminder of the fire that took place. We utilize powerful HEPA filtration tools, air scrubbers, thermal fogging equipment, and EPA-registered cleaning agents and deodorizers that help us to reach our cleanup goals.

We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster at SERVPRO of Monroe/West Monroe, which means we can be on-site and ready to work within hours of your call. If you need assistance with professional fire cleanup, call us at (318) 345-5121 for 24-hour emergency service.

Who Needs a Mold Damage Company in Monroe with the Right Equipment?

9/26/2020 (Permalink)

mold growing on ceiling If you need help with mold damage, call SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe at (318) 345-5121.

Monroe Homeowners Need Effective Mold Damage Remediation

Keeping on top of home care in your Monroe home is an ongoing challenge. It seems like there is always a maintenance task to take care of. Thrifty homeowners want to carry out as many jobs themselves as possible, but sometimes you need extra help.
There are some tell-tale signs of mold damage in your Monroe home:

    •    Patches of mold growing in damp areas – patches might be black, deep green, gray, brown, or even pinkish
    •    Watermarks and stains on ceilings and walls
    •    A distinctive moldy smell that does not go away

It is a good idea to call SERVPRO as soon as you notice any signs of mold. The fungus can quickly spread, so it is better to deal with it quickly.

I was under the impression that cleaning mold just meant wiping it away?
It is a common misconception that wiping mold with a cleaning solution or some bleach is enough to fix the problem. However, that is not true. Cleaners and especially bleach can add moisture, which helps fungus to thrive. The mold might come back worse than before.

There is also the problem of microscopic mold spores escaping from the colony and becoming airborne. Once they come loose, spores can travel through your home and find new places to grow.

What equipment does SERVPRO use to remediate mold damage?
We train our technicians to use the best industry-standard equipment in the fight against mold. Our arsenal includes:

    •    Moisture meters, moisture probes, thermo-hygrometers, and thermal imaging for building up a clear picture of the extent of moisture in the affected area
    •    Air movers, fans, portable heaters, and dehumidifiers for drying out the room once mold remediation is complete
    •    HEPA filters to pull mold spores from the air and prevent them from re-entering your home
    •    Air scrubbers, carbon filters, odor eating pellets, and wet fogging machines to deodorize your home and leaving it smelling good
    •    Media blasting machines for basements, attics, and crawl spaces

Using the right equipment means better results and decreases the likelihood of mold regrowth.

If you need help with mold damage, call SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe at (318) 345-5121.

For more about Monroe click here.

How Do I Know if the Floodwater in My Home is Contaminated?

9/7/2020 (Permalink)

flooded room with green recliners and a coffee table Regardless of how flooding made its way into your living space, team SERVPRO can help. Call right away for water removal efforts.

SERVPRO technicians can test and remove flooding in your Monroe home

When flood water enters your Monroe home, it brings a distinctive, musty odor. However, there is no way to ascertain if the water contains contaminants visually, and groundwater can contain a host of them, including sewage, chemicals, bacteria, and pathogenic elements. SERVPRO technicians have access to equipment and the training to scope the work-site through the use of:   

  • Inspection cameras and borescopes to look within cavities for contamination without the need to remove structural pieces  
  • Luminometers test surfaces for organic contamination  
  • The use of a local, certified industrial hygienist (IH)

How Can Flood Damage Get Cleaned Safely?  

SERVPRO technicians use a wide array of extraction equipment to clean up flood damage in Monroe properties. They test the water on arrival to determine the extent of the existing contaminants or harmful elements in the water and apply the appropriate water treatments to make it safer to handle during the mitigation process. 

The amount of water on-site can determine, in part, the type of removal equipment that the techs choose to use. Frequently, the flood water recedes before the cleanup starts; however, elevated moisture levels remain under flooring, behind walls, and migrate downward once in the home. The techs use their moisture detection equipment such as:   

  • Penetrating and non-penetrating moisture meters
  • Infrared cameras to locate water within the property without opening walls 
  • Thermo-Hygrometers to measure water vapor in the air

When chemicals, pathogens, or sewage are present in the water in the home, the techs adhere to the highest safety standards and wear head to toe protective gear. This type of water damage needs disposal as a biohazard, and the techs observe local regulations to make sure they work within municipal guidelines.

What is a Controlled Demolition?  

Flood Water in your Monroe home can be one of the most destructive events that can happen, and unfortunately, if the water shows through testing to contain contaminants, anything that absorbs the water requires disposal. Typical things that need removal in this way are sheetrock that wicks moisture into walls or ceilings on lower floors where the flood water enters the home. The techs try to remove the least amount necessary by measuring just over the waterline by several inches and cutting above it.

Although carpet usually has restoration potential after exposure to water damage that begins cleanup within 24-hours. The absorption of floodwater generally renders the carpet without the possibility of reuse in the home. There is no way to bring it to a sanitized level after exposure to contaminants such as harmful bacteria or sewage so that it can remain in the home. The techs extract the water and cut the carpet into strips for disposal.

SERVPRO technicians may be able to restore hardwood flooring on a case by case basis. Determinants for restoration include the materials used in making the floorboards, the length of time the boards got exposed to water and if warping, cupping or crowning has occurred.  After extraction, the techs use a combination of air mats and air movers to force the boards.

Under all types of flooring, there can be a subfloor or concrete slab substrate. When seepage from flood water occurs, the carpet, tile, or wood floorboards require removal to dry the area underneath.

Prevention of Mold  

The techs undergo extensive training in mold remediation and know the early warning signs of a mold infestation. During the cleanup and restoration services from floodwater, they keep a careful watch on the structure for signs that spores have germinated and spread. The techs have access to professional-grade antimicrobial cleaning solutions to wipe down surfaces and discourage mold growth.  

In situations where colonies established themselves due to the presence of high moisture conditions from the floodwater, the techs can dry the mold and remove it using manual methods such as scrapers and hand vacuums fitted with HEPA filtration. For large-scale removal, particularly on wood beams and studs, the use of soda or ice blasting is beneficial. Afterward, the use of a sealant ensures no return of the problem.  

Final Steps For Restoration  

Before the needed repairs can happen, the property needs to get verified as dry through the use of the scoping equipment as well as odor-free. SERVPRO techs have a diverse selection of odor control methods depending on the level of scent control needed. It is not uncommon for a multi-layered approach to get used to ensure that both airborne and embedded odors get eradicated. 

When flood damage is the problem, call SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe at (318) 345-5121. The certified, trained technicians arrive promptly and are available 24/7 to handle any amount of floodwater in your home.

What is the Best Way to Dry Out a Wet Garage?

5/22/2020 (Permalink)

sandbags stacked to prevent flooding at garage doors When water breaks through the sandbags at your Monroe home's garage--Call SERVPRO for extraction and restoration

SERVPRO has the professional equipment to extract the water and dry out quickly a Monroe garage

It can be overwhelming to see standing water in your garage, and the problem can get amplified in the case of an attached garage where the water can easily penetrate the rest of your Monroe home. The cleanup of the water needs to begin quickly, or the loss can increase.

What Tools Do I Need for Water Cleanup in My Garage?

A pipe break in a Monroe garage can need water cleanup on a significant scale rapidly. Unless you have environmental monitoring in the area, it is likely a pipe break that occurs after the household goes to sleep can gush all night. The concrete substrate that makes up most garage floors allows water to pool, and the majority of garages have no set drainage beyond through the garage door. The problems can mount quickly, including:

  • Items stored on the ground or bottom shelves get water exposure
  • Anything in a cardboard box gets saturated
  • Water can wick rapidly into sheetrock
  • Appliances like washers and dryers may become damaged

SERVPRO Brings the Right Equipment Every Time

Extracting and drying a garage often means moving out items to another area for drying. Many homeowners use this time to consider new ways to get organized in their garage and use shelving with the lowest levels a couple of inches off the ground to avoid this scenario in the future. The exaction equipment makes quick work of removing the water, and the air movers assist in pulling any remaining embedded moisture out of the concrete floor.

SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe at (318) 345-5121 can handle any size water cleanup needed in local properties. The technicians are available 24/7 and arrive quickly to return properties to their preloss condition.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

5/20/2020 (Permalink)

Table tent signs describing the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program on top of a wooden table. Our defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward by providing your employees and customers ongoing safety and assuredness.

Let us help you get back to business

As our communities re-open in Monroe, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Extensive training and specialized products

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.  Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities. 

From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.

  • Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touchpoints, foot traffic and congestion points.
  • Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. 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 hazardous materials.  In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible. 
  • Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.

Call SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe today at (318) 345-5121 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

* #1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based Commercial Attitude & Usage Tracking study. Polling 816 commercial business decision makers on first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. Study conducted by C&R Research: October 2019

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience.  Each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

Is There a Service That Can Perform Pandemic Cleaning for a Monroe Essential Business?

5/15/2020 (Permalink)

hands spraying a liquid on a black office phone Remind employees to clean things on their desks. SERVPRO does the rest.

SERVPRO Professionals Apply Approved Disinfection Materials To Maintain Public Health

Essential businesses in Monroe can contain a wealth of touchpoints that can put workers and customers at risk. Door handles, elevator buttons, railings, counter-tops, and even the concrete beneath your feet can spread a virus without proper cleaning and or without the means to properly apply a disinfectant.

Did you know that SERVPRO's pandemic cleanup for businesses extends to every step of the cleaning process?

  • Customers in Monroe are provided with new nitrile gloves to sign agreements on mobile devices.
  • All tools are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected before arriving on your property.
  • Technicians wear extensive amounts of personal protective equipment (PPE), including N-100 respirators and disposable suits as required for the specific job being performed.
  • For extra precaution when needed, we know how to contain areas to prevent viral spread properly using advanced equipment and technology.
  • SERVPRO observes U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines for viral mitigation.

For Your Peace of Mind

Before SERVPRO begins the mitigation process, technicians go over cleanup needs. We make sure to address any concerns you may have regarding cleaning measures at your property. We can assure you that the specialty cleanup services performed by our trained and experienced professionals will provide an added safeguard for people who use your service and give both you and the public additional peace of mind.

SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe stands behind our promise to be Faster to Any Size Disaster. Call (318) 345-5121 for services that start today.

Advice from the medical and scientific community regarding how to deal with the coronavirus is based on present knowledge, which is subject to change as the situation continues to develop. There can be no assurance that disinfectants alone will be adequate to fully eliminate the virus. We are not physicians or infectious disease professionals. Consult your medical professionals for individual medical advice.

SERVPRO Uses Mechanical Agitation in Fire Cleanup for West Monroe Residents

12/26/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO employees standing inside a burned out home SERVPRO fire and smoke restoration technicians conduct a thorough inspection of this home after a fire.

West Monroe Fire Cleanup Essentials

Fires are not only frightening but can leave behind significant amounts of staining, soiling, and odor. A blocked chimney or closed flue can result in ash pouring out of your fireplace and onto clean carpets, upholstery as well as furniture. An out of control fire can burn the upper edges of your fireplace and release hot smoke into your home. This smoke can result in staining on the high walls and ceilings of your home. Sifting through the debris and qualifying which items are restorable and which are not, requires an in-depth knowledge of how materials burn and the chemicals they release. Sometimes, resurfacing your home can be a cost-effective option that removes the need for wide-scale replacements.

The job of fire cleanup in your West Monroe is essential to getting your home back to its preloss condition. While some materials may be beyond restoration, there are a great many that respond well to the various cleaning techniques and equipment SERVPRO provides. Our fire and smoke restoration technicians (FRST) conduct thorough inspections of materials left after a fire. We may also pre-test and pre-clean carpets during inspection to ensure that materials respond well to the following cleanup.

At high temperatures, smoke particles can physically bond with surfaces that they come into contact with and require solvents to remove. In high-pressure fires, soot may buildup into thick deposits but remain possible to dislodge. SERVPRO use agitative cleaning equipment to dislodge thick soot and smoke. Agitative cleaning equipment usually using mechanical cleaning to get the job done. We can mobilize water pressure, air pressure, sandblasting and rotating brushes to loosen soiling from materials before applying industrial vacuums to the area to remove soot. 

Different materials suit different methods of agitative cleaning. Water pressure, for example, may satisfy the exterior of your home or unfinished areas like garages. However, for your indoor environment, these may not be suitable. Sandblasting equipment is useful for removing charring from structural elements of the home, leaving behind a smooth finish for repainting. Once the removal of fire debris is complete, SERVPRO restorers can refinish surfaces using wood varnishes and odor retardant paints.

Clearing soot is essential to ensuring that your home completely recovers from fire. Contact SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe at (318) 345-5121.

Click here for more information about West Monroe.

Ultimate Solution for Water Damage After a Scenario in West Monroe

12/16/2019 (Permalink)

burst water pipe with water leaking Regardless whether the water damage started from an inside or outside source, contact SERVPRO for trained and certified technicians to remediate.

How Air Movers Can Help Dry West Monroe Homes 

The equipment to move air and displace moisture is a vital component to the work that West Monroe homes need after a water loss incident. Air movers, for example, can help with evaporation and the drying of surface level moisture. Even though these units can only help a moderate-sized area, we have hundreds of these tools available to ensure that we offer the appropriate number of air movers and dehumidifiers to maximize the efficiency of the drying process. 

Regardless of the severity of the water damage to West Monroe homes, air movers can help to manage moisture and saturation quickly. We have two types of these tools to choose from, including centrifugal and axial. Depending on the needs of your property and the affected materials and contents, we can use a combination of these air movers to meet the demand of your house. Centrifugal units have a more direct approach with higher static pressure, allowing drying to get directed at a specific point. Axials offer a more extensive range of drying but cannot target specific points. 

Centrifugal units have their pros and cons of use, such as their direct drying approach but at the cost of higher power demand. Our SERVPRO professionals must assess the conditions before we deploy drying equipment to determine if a general moisture displacement is better than a focused blast of dry air at a specific spot instead. Scoping the necessary work can determine which areas of the house require which type of air mover. 

As you might expect, these units are most effective when combined with moisture and vapor collecting equipment like our refrigerant dehumidifiers. Finding the balance between evaporative drying and the collection devices can maximize the effectiveness of drying for your household. 

Water loss incidents can be a considerable challenge for area homeowners, but our SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe team can help. We have hundreds of air movers and drying equipment to manage loss incidents and make these effects “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call today at (318) 345-5121.

Click here for more information about West Monroe.

Our Professionals Are Available 24/7 To Handle Your Monroe Water Damage

11/7/2019 (Permalink)

Our drying equipment inside a home drying the floor after water damage struck We have the state-of-the-art water inspection, extraction, and drying equipment to return your home to pre-damage.

Animals Can Cause Water-Damaged Monroe Crawlspaces

Crawlspaces are a vital part of the construction and function of your Monroe home. After substantial water loss incidents, or worse yet natural flooding threats that are common to the region during the rainier season spanning from June to September. Drying out this affected area after any loss incident requires experience and efficiency, as lingering moisture beneath the main floor of your home can lead to mold and microbial threats within 48 hours. 

Because this space beneath your property is the hub for your utilities, plumbing breaches can require water removal in Monroe crawlspaces. As so many connections come together underneath the house to the main supply line headed out to the service tap in the municipalities main line underground, several unforeseen circumstances can damage your pipes to the point of a full separation or steady leak. 

Animals are a common concern with crawlspaces, especially areas where access to this space beneath the household is open. While you might think that snakes and rats are the most common animals to find their way into the crawlspace, you also have to contend with squirrels, raccoons, groundhogs, and other creatures. Once rodents and other animals make nests or homes out of portions of your crawlspace, it can be challenging to get rid of them, and they can cause many problems to your plumbing. 

Many animals, especially those in rodent families, chew on pipes to prevent their teeth from overgrowing and to access water when it is challenging to find it otherwise. Once through a portion of your plumbing, water loss can happen quickly. Our SERVPRO team has a dedicated water removal division to deal with drying out this affected area after extraction. We can utilize our high-velocity air movers, desiccant dehumidifiers, and even use mold inhibitor solutions on the exposed framework, supports, and flooring above. 

Understanding the substantial risk that exists with an open crawlspace beneath your home, it is essential to find lasting solutions that can prevent nesting creatures and reduce damage to your plumbing as well. Give our SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe team a call to make any water loss scenario “Like it never even happened.” You can reach us 24/7 at (318) 345-5121.

See more about Monroe.

Keys to Success with Fire Damage Remediation in Your Monroe Home

10/31/2019 (Permalink)

inside of room burnt by fire Don’t let fire damage destroy your Monroe home. Call SERPVRO to mitigate damages a fire might have done.

Monroe Residents Combating Fire Damage

Making the right decisions after a fire occurs in your Monroe home involves dealing with the odors that exist long after the flames subside. You need access to a restoration company that can supply you with the personnel, equipment, and resources necessary to make it happen.

With that said, we have everything you need, along with experienced technicians, to make recovering from fire damage in your Monroe area home better than you might think possible. We provide quality cleanup and restoration services throughout our local community, offering solutions designed to adjust to your needs.

The first step to deodorization that SERVPRO uses involves removing the source of the odor. In some cases, effective deodorization requires the use of multiple methods, since one deodorant may not work on all odors that exist. We have specific production guidelines for three deodorization processes: dry fogging (thermal or hot fogging), wet fogging, and activated oxygen.

SERVPRO uses a variety of machinery, including direct sprayers, ULV foggers, thermal foggers, venting box fans, and air scrubbers, as well as safety equipment when dispersing a fog or gaseous deodorant. Our technicians clear everyone out of the area while using personal protective equipment (PPE) such as respirators, gloves, eye protection, and protective clothing to keep everyone safe. Some chemicals used during your deodorization service require following state or local guidelines for disposal. 

The use of activated oxygen (ozone) should not occur in damp environments. Ozone reacts with moisture, causing a bleaching action to occur. It can also react to rubber, such as seals on your refrigerator or freezer. So, technicians need to take adequate precautions or use alternative deodorization methods if carpets or upholstery remain damp after cleaning. 

Deodorization agents used for thermal fogging are solvent-based and flammable. We contain or eliminate all sources of flash or ignition, such as pilot lights on your stove or water heater, before performing services. Fog can also set off fire or security alarms, which makes turning them off or contacting appropriate agencies before operation a must.

SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe stands ready to assist whenever necessary. Regardless of the time, 24-hours a day, 7-days a week, we are available to provide expert fire damage restoration services to you, call today. (318) 345-5121

Click here to learn about the city of Monroe.

Why Do West Monroe Property Owners Rely on SERVPRO for Restoration Services?

6/24/2019 (Permalink)

From Zipper Lock Barriers to Trailer-Mounted Desiccant Dehumidifiers--SERVPRO Answers the West Monroe Call Fast and Equipped

Turnkey Service: Why SERVPRO Is the West Monroe Community’s Disaster Restoration Industry Leader

Residents of West Monroe who face threats to the comfort, safety, and quiet enjoyment of their home require premium restoration services to relieve worry and stress. We seek and retain employees with diverse backgrounds that complement the skills needed for high-quality restoration as part of the equation. Refining those skills through mastery of Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) coursework is why we can provide solutions for your most challenging disasters.

Water Damage
Plumbing leaks or appliance malfunctions are common reasons why our team of talented and trained technicians arrives to provide water removal in your West Monroe home. Significant quantities of water can invade your residence and damage structural components and contents after a pipe breaks or a pump or hose fails, particularly if the event occurs unnoticed during the workday or overnight. Rapid removal of unwanted water is crucial, followed by efficient structural drying.

Our SERVPRO water restoration crews are highly-skilled and successful in removing water fast, operating the commercial-grade pumps and extractors expertly and using thermal scanning and moisture detection devices to locate pockets of moisture that migrated into building materials and cavities.  If needed, we employ controlled demolition methods such as flood cuts to release water and enhance the action of the air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers we depend on for structural drying.
 
The modern home contains a myriad of electronics, from “smart” appliances to audio and video equipment and computers to multiple mobile devices. Our IT Coordinator/Trainer is an Electronics Restoration Technician and supports other crew members using the SERVPRO® DryBook™ system, capturing and tracking each step in your restoration project according to industry best practices and standards.

Fire Damage
The water, smoke, soot, charring, and odors left by fire damage in West Monroe create a complicated restoration scenario best managed by SERVPRO’s full-service restoration team. Seamless transitions from the removal of the firefighting chemicals and water to the cleanup of charred materials and soot residues to deodorization using innovative technologies to repair and restoration of damaged structural components avoid the need to subcontract any part of the fire restoration project.

The residues deposited after a fire are highly corrosive and toxic. They drift in the air with the potential to soil surfaces far from the ignition site and to contaminate your HVAC system and ductwork. Our fire restoration crew members hold multiple certifications from the IICRC, including Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician (FSRT) and Odor Control Technician (OCT), and are experienced in duct cleaning. Technicians match cleaning products and techniques with the varying range of soots found in your home, switching out tools, methods, and cleaning agents depending on the characteristics of the coatings.

Odors can linger well after all visible evidence of the fire damage disappears through appropriate restoration. If thorough cleaning, debris disposal, and HEPA-filtered air scrubbers leave a persistent smell, we employ methods like thermal fogging or hydroxyl generation to neutralize odor-bearing particles at the molecular level.

Mold Remediation
Mold damage in West Monroe is more prevalent than you might believe. The spores that cause mold growth are always in the environment, indoors and out. They are tiny, hardly visible, and float on air currents and settle on surfaces. When dry they cause little harm, but when a spore encounters even a small amount of moisture, it absorbs it and begins growing and multiplying into a colony of mold organisms.

Homeowners might notice a leathery or feather-like growth or stain on a surface or smell a distinctive musty smell as first indications of a mold infestation. Mold needs only a surface made of or covered in organic material, moisture, and oxygen to grow. Light is not needed so that it can multiply undetected between walls or above ceilings. When we arrive, we trace the mold back to the source and make arrangements to fix the water problem fueling the mold growth.

SERVPRO mold remediators use a protocol developed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) during abatement. We locate the mold and then contain the infestation area with physical barriers or negative pressure air scrubbing equipment that seals the area during remediation to prevent spread to unaffected areas. Technicians don personal protective equipment (PPE) for safety and to avoid tracking debris through your home.

We scrape, brush, or use gentle abrasives like soda blasting to remove the mold mechanically. Technicians bag the mold and any materials too contaminated to save for disposal following local hazardous waste regulations. HEPA-filtered vacuums suction up any residues left on floors or other surfaces. An EPA-registered antimicrobial treats the affected area to inhibit future mold damage.

Storm Damage
Fierce winds together with heavy rains and other forms of precipitation can cause severe storm damage to your West Monroe home. The violent disruption can rip holes in roofs, destroy the integrity of siding, break windows and doors, and send water flooding into your dwelling. You need help with securing the building from the elements as well as assessment, mediation, and restoration of flood damage.

SERVPRO is positioned uniquely to assist you will all aspects of recovery from storm damage. Our crew arrives, the chief inspects the scene and devises a plan, and the technicians put the plan in play. We tarp and board up exterior breaches and then begin removing the flood waters.

Flood waters are by definition contaminated, mixed with decaying organic matter, dirt and chemicals, or sewage. Containing the water and disposing of it according to local regulation is part of the protocol. We clean the flood-damaged area and apply EPA-registered disinfectants to inhibit the growth of pathogens.

Building Services
Build back services needed after our remediation procedures are handled by SERVPRO’s sister company, 318 Construction, LLC. Whether your project needs drywall installation after flood cuts, replacement of burned through building materials or mold-infested porous surfaces, or repair of storm damage we can offer reconstruction. Having our team carry on throughout the process permits us to complete a true reconstruction, with no need to halt the project near the end and engage the services of a different contractor.    

When water, fire, mold, or storm damage requires professional restoration services, count on the comprehensive response from SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe. We offer proven professional help from assessment through the rebuilding touches that make it “Like it never even happened” with one call to (318) 345-5121.

https://westmonroe.com

Is Water Creeping Into Your Monroe Crawlspace?

2/15/2019 (Permalink)

Each vehicle in our Green Fleet is stocked with water extraction equipment.

Effective Water Removal for Monroe Crawlspaces

Monroe homes can experience many natural disasters and potential hazards from groundwater sources throughout their lives, but knowing how to handle these emergencies as they occur can be the difference between costly repairs and affordable restoration. With areas like your crawlspace, reducing moisture and extracting pooling water can help to protect your home above this area from structural weaknesses and secondary effects like mold growth.

A problem with the need for water removal services for your Monroe crawlspace is that many homeowners do not understand what this crucial area of their property requires. Without ever getting down and inspecting it on your own, you can remain oblivious to pooling water, lingering dampness, and even extensive mold growth. Our SERVPRO Franchise professionals offer a fast response with industry-leading equipment designed to extract excess water quickly from this affected area of your house.

With water removal equipment that we have stocked on our Green Fleet of service vehicles, we can approach every extraction job with efficiency and effectiveness. Our truck-mounted and gas-powered pumps offer the fastest extraction of all of our equipment, but there are other options such as portable sump pumps and extraction wands that can help to provide more focused attention to specific problem areas.

After the water has gotten extracted and drying efforts for this area of your property has begun, our SERVPRO team can work on providing the customer with effective long-term solutions to avoid pooling water recurring in this area. From crawlspace encapsulation which covers all exposed areas with thick plastic sheeting to equipment installation like sump pumps or permanent dehumidifiers, our team can help you to prevent this same threat to your home from happening again.

Your crawlspace serves an essential role for your house, so make sure that it gets the attention that it needs to last and protect your property. Give our SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe water restoration specialists a call anytime that your crawlspace can use our industry-leading equipment and experience at (318) 345-5121.

Read more about Monroe here.

Eliminate Mold In Your West Monroe Home

1/25/2019 (Permalink)

Our professionals want to take your stress away and remove mold.

Removing Mold Quickly from Your West Monroe Home

Upon the discovery of mold or microbial growth in your West Monroe home, you often want to find out the most efficient method of removal to ensure that your home does not suffer worse damages and the occupants of that house are no longer at risk for potential health effects. For as overwhelming as this organism can be, the right response to the situation can have trained professionals like ours there quickly with the tools and equipment to make a difference fast.

While you might understand what this growth is, many homeowners do not fully understand the mold damage in West Monroe can result from allowing the organism to spread. That is what makes containment strategies so vital, and from the moment that our SERVPRO applied microbial remediation technicians arrive at your home, we work quickly on identifying the spread of the colonization and effective containment solutions to keep the situation from getting worse.

Our response team is available 24/7 to help every customer to protect their homes against this devastating organism that can spread quickly throughout the property. Removal is effective for preventing further damage and protecting the occupants of the house, and there are many ways that our highly-trained technicians can go about this. From sanding to soda blasting, we have modern techniques to protect structural elements like studs and framing, but damaged materials like drywall and carpeting often need replacement.

The equipment available to our SERVPRO team on site helps to quickly remove affected materials and works to clean up the air where mold spore activity is at its greatest. Equipment like our air scrubbers and ozone machines can help to provide a cleaner breathing environment for technicians involved in demolition and remediation.

Finding the right team to help you overcome and eliminate mold colonization throughout your property is easier than you might think. Our SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe team gets comprised of highly-trained and certified technicians ready and able to help at a moment’s notice. Please give us a call anytime you need us at (318) 345-5121.

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Eliminate The Damage To Your West Monroe Home After A Fire Call

12/21/2018 (Permalink)

Act Fast and Call SERVPRO when a fire hits your home.

Why SERVPRO Fire Odor Control West Monroe

House fires are always destructive. No matter the size, they leave the homeowner overwhelmed trying to piece their lives back together. Not only do you have to deal with burnt valuables and damaged electronics, but your home also needs repairs. Apart from damage to your valuables and belongings, you also have the unpleasant smoke odor to remove.

Fire damage in your West Monroe home leaves unpleasant odors deep-rooted in your curtains, furniture fabric, carpets, and rugs. To get rid of the unpleasant smoke and other odors, you need the help of certified fire odor control experts.

Why choose SERVPRO specialists?

IICRC certified 

SERVPRO fire odor control specialists are IICRC certified. What this means is that they have undergone rigorous training in fire damage and deodorization. Not only that, they have passed the qualification exams, and now proudly wear the IICRC certified badge. By hiring an IICRC technician, you get to benefit from high-quality services. Also, we get the job done right the first time.

Well equipped
Identifying and eliminating smoke odor in your home can be difficult without specialized equipment. At SERVPRO, we have specialized equipment that enables us to identify and eliminate the offensive odors from your home. Some of the equipment we use includes ozone, ultra-low volume foggers, and thermal foggers. By using the odor removing equipment, we ensure that we can leave your home smelling fresh.

Competitive rates
As a locally owned company with national resources, we offer competitive rates to our customers in need of fire odor control in their homes. We adopt a competitive pricing strategy and offer free quotes.

Fast emergency response time

In case of a fire in your home, getting in touch with the local fire department saves your home and belongings. Calling your insurance adjuster should be the next. As an expert, he or she takes time to assess the damage and evidence provided to fast-track the claims process.

Last but not least, call SERVPRO fire odor control technicians. As IICRC certified experts, we offer unrivaled emergency response time. As such, we remove the unpleasant stench in your home fast to ensure you and your family move into a pleasant and odorless home. 

At SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe, We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster. We can put an end to the unpleasant smell in your home. For timely fire odor control services, call our emergency 24/7 line at (318) 345-5121.

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Drenched Belongings after a West Monroe Tropical Storm? Call SERVPRO for a Full Recovery

11/27/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Provides Quantity and Quality Equipment for Flood Restoration Equipment in West Monroe

Why SERVPRO Suggests Pack Outs In Some Flood Damage Scenarios In West Monroe

Flooding is a frightening and chaotic situation to West Monroe residents. Trying to manage many different priorities during the flood mitigation process adds to the stress for both homeowners and the flood restoration crews. Moving furnishings and personal possessions out of the flooded areas have several positive effects. Finding a flood damage restoration company comfortable with a significant move in addition to attending to water removal, cleaning, sanitizing, and structural drying is crucial.

West Monroe property owners may overreact to visual evidence of flood damage to stored items, including documents and heirlooms. The strengths of IICRC-trained technicians are the broad range of strategies mastered. Our commitment to initial and continuing training for our crews is why SERVPRO can surprise customers with the positive results of water damage cleanup and odor elimination completed on scores of household goods and personal treasures.

The inventory SERVPRO employees create as we pack up and evaluate your possessions helps when your insurance company considers your claims. Be aware that not all policies include flood damage, but if your contract allows, our documentation supports your request for coverage.

As our production technicians work through your packed out possessions at our warehouse, the crews back at your home have room to remove water, clean up the debris and residues that are always part of flooding, and sanitize the areas. The full-spectrum recovery and restoration service offerings are reasons why SERVPRO is an excellent choice for a complicated flood damage recovery.

Among our team members are experts in many different flood restoration disciplines. Our crew gets a chance to shine while rescuing items you thought were lost. For example, we have access to freeze-drying techniques that rejuvenate documents and pictures. Clothing and linens, and even those precious stuffed animals children mourn, recover function and appearance when we utilize special washing techniques and equipment. Our team is the answer to why SERVPRO delivers success even with tough tasks and odors.

When the heartbreak of flood damage inflicts its stress and frustration on community member, SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe comes to the rescue. Contact us at (318) 345-5121 for a swift and sure response both inside your home and for packed out items.

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Don't Touch Mold! Call The SERVPRO Heroes To Come To The Rescue!

10/26/2018 (Permalink)

Mold is something you don't want to tackle on your own. Our team is available 24/7 to assist with mold remediation services.

Never Get Stuck When Mold Damage Strikes your Monroe Home, Learn Your Options

Nothing is standard when it comes to mold damage remediation since different sites have different contamination levels. If it is a small section of your business premises that have the contamination, we have to contain the area to ensure the spores do not disperse to uncontaminated areas. If air vents are supplying and returning from the site, we have to block them. Putting the site under negative pressure can also limit the movement of spores in your Monroe property. 


The type of material or surface the mold is growing on determines the remediation technique we use to remove the mold contamination from your Monroe home. If our SERVPRO technicians notice there is active mold on porous items such as insulation, carpeting, fabrics, and drywall, we have to remove the material from the site. If carpets and some of your upholstered furniture are not extremely contaminated, we may perform steam cleaning with the aim of cleaning them. We do not perform wet vacuuming on porous items since some mold fragments can remain within the item.

The type of material or surface the mold is growing on determines the mold damage remediation technique we use to remove the contamination. We can damp-wipe nonporous materials such as metals, glass, and plastics using a disinfectant. If the mold is not firmly attached to such items, we can clean them using HEPA vacuuming.

Our SERVPRO team can scrub wooden floors and use a wood floor cleaner when cleaning wooden floors. Some of the methods we use when cleaning semi-porous materials such as concrete and wood include wire brushing, damp wiping, and sanding. Wood that has undergone rotting weakens and should be removed and replaced. Once we complete cleaning, we give the mold spores time to settle before we can repeat the cleaning process. Also, cleaning takes place from the upper parts of a structure towards its bottom parts.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources


SERVPRO of Monroe / West Monroe responds Faster to Any Size Disaster and make your property "Like it never even happened." We are always available to respond to your concerns, call us at (318) 353-8948 to know your options.

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