South Louisiana is no stranger to Hurricane Season. With our proximity to the coast, we frequently face the threat of severe storms. The combination of low-lying areas and an intricate network of bayous and rivers also makes the region particularly susceptible to flooding. High winds can cause structural damage to your home, down power lines, and uproot trees, further complicating recovery efforts.

Assessing Damage to Your Property After a Hurricane

After the storm, carefully check your home and property for damage. Conduct a thorough visual inspection for signs of structural damage, like broken windows, missing shingles, or damaged walls. Check for hidden damage like water leaks, mold, or electrical problems. Take photos and detailed notes to help with insurance claims and repairs. Once you have a clear picture of the damage, you can prioritize repairs and ensure the safety of your living space.

Storm Damage Mitigation and Cleanup

After assessing storm damage, take immediate steps to minimize further losses. Temporary repairs like covering roof holes with tarps, securing broken windows with plywood, and clearing gutters or debris help prevent additional damage while awaiting professional repairs. If your home suffered flooding or leaks, promptly remove standing water and discard waterlogged items like furniture and carpet, as floodwaters often contain hazardous chemicals and bacteria that pose health risks. Many insurance policies require these preventative measures and may not cover damage that could have been avoided if these actions weren't taken.

Mold Remediation and Prevention After Sustaining Hurricane Damage

Louisiana's humid climate, combined with power outages and floodwaters, creates ideal conditions for rapid mold growth. Mold can begin within 48 to 72 hours of water damage and will persist as long as moisture remains. Controlling moisture is key to stopping mold. Remove any surfaces that can't be disinfected, such as drywall and insulation, to prevent mold and stop water from spreading further up walls. Standard practice is to remove drywall and insulation four feet up from ground level if water was under two and a half feet high, or for higher water levels, remove eight feet of drywall or to the ceiling.

Cut out wet drywall and insulation, exposing your home's studs for disinfecting and drying out. While you can begin drying out your home with the use of fans and dehumidifiers to prevent the growth of mold and mildew, it's best to contact a Licensed Mold Remediator to assist in applying mold treatments and ensure your home is mold-free before moving on to repairs.

Repairing Your Home to Pre-Storm Conditions

After you have taken the necessary steps to mitigate further damage, remediate mold, and gut your home, you can begin to search for an experienced and reputable residential contractor to assist in restoring your home to its pre-storm condition. Obtain multiple estimates, check references, and verify each contractor's licensing and insurance. Be wary of scams and high-pressure tactics that often follow natural disasters.

Your storm-damaged home presents a unique opportunity to rebuild into something even better. Take the time to consider making improvements and updates to your home since it is already open and accessible for renovations. This is an excellent opportunity to enhance your home's functionality, energy efficiency, and overall value. Consider upgrading your insulation to reduce energy costs and improve comfort, replacing outdated appliances with energy-efficient models, and installing new, energy-efficient windows.

You might also explore opportunities to improve accessibility, upgrade your living space, or incorporate sustainable features. Perhaps you've always dreamed of a home office, a larger kitchen, or a master bath retreat. Use this time to turn those dreams into reality while increasing your home's value and improving your quality of life.

The experienced team at Acadian House has extensive experience in residential renovations and employs a complete team of designers, contractors, and tradesmen who can provide you with turnkey solutions for all of your home remodel needs. With several team members having encountered damage due to hurricanes, floods, or other natural disasters over our 45-year legacy, we sympathize with the challenges homeowners face during difficult times. We can also help you restore and rebuild your home with a focus on resilience and quality. Whether it's redesigning a space, repairing structural damage, or implementing modern improvements, our team is equipped to guide you through every step of the process. We are committed to delivering high-quality craftsmanship and personalized service, ensuring that your home is both beautiful and functional for years to come.