Frequently Asked Questions

Luxury vinyl plank requires moisture barrier underlayment and can be installed over most existing floors without removal. Laminate needs expansion gaps and can't handle moisture exposure. Hardwood requires acclimation time and subfloor preparation. Vinyl offers waterproof performance, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and South Louisiana's humidity.

Flood restoration involves emergency water extraction, moisture detection in wall cavities, and structural drying to prevent mold growth. Regular water damage repair focuses on visible surface fixes. After flooding, hidden moisture in insulation and framing causes long-term problems if not properly dried and treated before rebuilding.

Turnover service covers move-out damage repair, drywall patching, full repainting, flooring replacement where needed, and appliance installation. The goal is returning units to rent-ready condition quickly. Property managers use this to minimize vacancy time between tenants while maintaining consistent unit quality across their portfolio.

Replace soffit and fascia when wood shows rot extending beyond isolated spots, when water damage has compromised structural integrity, or when ventilation damage causes attic moisture problems. Surface paint peeling can be repaired, but widespread rot means underlying framing may also be compromised and needs replacement.

High humidity causes wood flooring to expand and contract, creating gaps or buckling without proper acclimation and installation. Luxury vinyl plank and tile handle moisture exposure without dimension changes. Laminate swells permanently if water seeps into seams. Acadiana's climate makes waterproof materials more reliable for kitchens and high-moisture areas.

Tub conversions require removing the existing tub, replumbing drain locations, modifying framing for different dimensions, and waterproofing larger wall areas. Standard shower installations work within existing plumbing rough-in. Conversions create walk-in accessibility but involve more structural work than replacing a shower with another shower.

Backsplash installation involves surface preparation or backer board installation, thinset mortar application, tile setting with spacers for consistent grout lines, and grouting after mortar cures. Outlets require precise cuts around electrical boxes. The process takes multiple days because mortar and grout need curing time between steps.

Cabinet painting requires removing doors and hardware, thorough deglossing or sanding for paint adhesion, primer designed for slick surfaces, and multiple finish coats with drying time between each. Brush marks show more on smooth cabinet surfaces than textured walls. Proper preparation prevents peeling and ensures durability under repeated hand contact.

Replace drywall when water damage extends beyond 2 feet, when mold growth appears behind the surface, or when multiple large holes compromise structural integrity. Small holes, dents, and isolated cracks can be patched with joint compound. Water-stained drywall that feels soft or crumbles needs replacement because it's lost strength.

Plumbing relocations increase costs significantly because they require opening walls, rerouting supply and drain lines, and additional inspection requirements. Tile selection impacts material and labor costs since intricate patterns take longer to install. Fixture quality ranges widely, and custom shower builds cost more than prefab inserts due to waterproofing and tile work.

Wood fencing requires setting posts in concrete, attaching rails, and fastening pickets individually with galvanized hardware. Vinyl uses bracketed post systems and interlocking panels that snap together. Wood needs periodic staining or sealing for weather protection. Vinyl costs more upfront but requires no maintenance and won't rot in Louisiana's wet climate.

Emergency extraction involves industrial pumps or vacuums removing standing water, then commercial dehumidifiers and air movers drying structural materials. Moisture meters track drying progress in walls and floors. Quick extraction within 24-48 hours prevents mold growth and reduces damage to framing, insulation, and finishes that can be saved.