© 2026 New Orleans Handyman, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Twenty years ago, Hurricane Katrina changed our city and how we think about readiness. As we mark the anniversary, we’re pulling together the best takeaways from our past hurricane tips and updates into one practical checklist you can act on now. You can also browse our earlier storm-prep posts here: Hurricane Preparation: How a Handyman Can Help Secure Your Home Storm-Prep Timeline: What to do and when Do these now (pre-season or today) Roof & exterior check: Look for missing/loose shingles, cracked caulk around flashing, soft or sagging soffit/fascia, and loose siding. Schedule repairs before peak season. Gutters & drainage: Clean gutters and downspouts; make sure water discharges 4–6 feet from the slab. Clear yard drains and any debris around curb inlets. Windows & doors: Have rated shutters or pre-cut plywood ready for each opening. Label pieces and store the hardware with them. Flood readiness: Keep 10–20 sandbags on hand. Consider door flood dams for low entries. If you have a backflow preventer, verify it operates smoothly. Power plan: Test your generator and cords. Portable units must run outside—never in a garage or near windows/doors. Documents & inventory: Photograph each room, appliances, and serial numbers; back up to the cloud. Keep IDs, insurance, and deed in a waterproof pouch. Emergency kit: At least 3 days of water (1 gallon/person/day), shelf-stable food, medications, pet supplies, flashlights, batteries, and phone power banks. 72–48 hours before expected impact Stage shutters/plywood and hardware at each opening; pre-drill if needed. Trim small branches near the house; secure or store furniture, grills, planters, and tools. Lower pool water if recommended; secure automatic cleaners. Test sump pumps and clear any debris from yard/curb drains. Refill prescriptions and top off vehicles. 24 hours before Install shutters/plywood. Move vehicles to higher ground if you’re in a flood-prone area. Sandbag low doors/garage. Elevate valuables and small appliances. Freeze bottles of water (they double as ice). Set fridge and freezer to their coldest settings. Charge devices and power banks; confirm generator placement and cord plan again. During the storm Shelter in an interior room away from windows. Keep shoes on; use flashlights rather than candles. Run generators outdoors only, at least 20 feet from doors and windows. After the storm Photograph damage before cleanup. Watch for downed lines, gas odors, and hidden water damage. Start drying immediately: ventilation, fans, and dehumidifiers. Discard porous materials that were submerged. Document all repairs and save receipts for insurance. Home Hardening: Where prep pays off most 1) Roof & attic Re-secure lifted shingles and ridge caps; reseal flashing at chimneys, vents, and valleys. Seal exposed nail heads. If you’re already renovating, ask about hurricane straps/clips. In the attic, look for pinholes of light, water stains, damp insulation, and moldy odors. 2) Siding, soffit, and fascia Refasten loose vinyl or wood siding; replace damaged panels and corner pieces. Reinforce soffit panels under eaves—wind often starts damage here. Prime and paint exposed wood to shed water. 3) Windows, doors, and garage doors Install rated shutters or use pre-cut 5/8-inch exterior-grade plywood with proper fasteners. Replace worn weatherstripping and door sweeps; check thresholds for a tight seal. Add vertical bracing kits to garage doors; they’re common failure points. 4) Flood mitigation Sandbag or use door dams at low entries. Elevate appliances/air handlers in low areas; strap water heaters. Improve grading around the slab. Add downspout extensions or splash blocks. 5) Power & communications Size your generator for essentials (fridge, a few outlets, fans). Keep CO detectors with fresh batteries. Label a “dark power” kit (heavy-gauge cords, multi-tap, tape) and store it with the generator. Quick, Printable Checklist Exterior Roof inspected; flashing and nail heads sealed Loose siding/soffit/fascia repaired Gutters/downspouts cleared; discharge extended 4–6 ft Yard/curb drains cleared Openings Shutters or labeled plywood for every window/door Weatherstripping and thresholds intact Garage door bracing installed Flood Readiness 10–20 sandbags and/or door dams on hand Appliances elevated where needed Backflow preventer checked (if installed) Power & Safety Generator tested; outdoor placement planned Heavy-gauge extension cords (12- or 10-gauge) CO detectors with fresh batteries Docs & Supplies Photos/inventory backed up to the cloud IDs, insurance, and deed in waterproof pouch Water, food, meds, pet supplies, flashlights, batteries, power banks Further Reading from Our Blog We’ve covered shutters, sandbag placement, drainage tune-ups, and generator safety in earlier posts. Browse all hurricane tips: https://www.nohandyman.com/?s=hurricane Need a hand before the next storm? New Orleans Handyman can help with: Roof, soffit, fascia, and siding repairs Shutter installation or plywood cutting and labeling Gutter cleaning and downspout extensions Door seals, thresholds, and flood-barrier setup Generator setup (outdoor pad, cord kit, safety review) Get help: Call us at 504-358-0399 or request service at nohandyman.com/contact.
Whether you’re a homeowner looking to maintain curb appeal or a business owner aiming to create a positive first impression, pressure washing is one of the most cost-effective and efficient ways to keep your property looking clean, fresh, and damage-free. In fact, regular pressure washing can save you money, increase property value, and prevent long-term wear and tear. At Nohandyman.com, we understand the importance of keeping your surroundings in top shape—and we’re here to make it hassle-free. 🏠 For Homeowners: More Than Just Aesthetic Appeal Your home’s exterior is constantly exposed to the elements—dust, mold, mildew, bird droppings, and more. Over time, these contaminants not only make your house look dirty but can also cause permanent damage to siding, brick, concrete, and wood. Benefits of Pressure Washing for Homes: Prevents long-term damage caused by mold, algae, and grime. Boosts curb appeal, especially useful when preparing to sell your home. Increases lifespan of exterior surfaces like decks, patios, and driveways. Improves air quality by removing allergens and pollutants. A quick wash from New Orleans Handyman can make your home shine like new—without the need for harsh chemicals or expensive renovations. 🏢 For Businesses: Cleanliness Means Credibility First impressions matter. A well-maintained exterior reflects professionalism and attention to detail. Whether it’s storefront signage, sidewalks, parking lots, or building facades, pressure washing ensures that your business presents a clean and welcoming image. Why Businesses Should Invest in Pressure Washing: Attract more customers with a neat, tidy appearance. Reduce slip hazards from oil, grease, or mold buildup on walkways. Comply with health and safety standards, especially for food and retail businesses. Save on maintenance costs by preventing early deterioration of surfaces. Using Nohandyman.com, businesses can schedule quick, efficient service that won’t disrupt day-to-day operations. 🌎 Eco-Friendly & Efficient Cleaning Modern pressure washing techniques use significantly less water than traditional methods and eliminate the need for harmful chemical cleaners. At nohandyman.com, we use eco-friendly equipment that’s safe for your surfaces and the environment. ✅ Final Thoughts Pressure washing isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity for protecting your property, maintaining its value, and leaving a great impression. Whether it’s your cozy family home or your commercial storefront, routine cleaning helps you avoid costly repairs and keeps your environment looking its best. Ready to freshen up your property? Visit nohandyman.com today and book a pressure washing service you can trust.
First Priority: Seal Up Drafts with a Handyman When utility bills start climbing, many homeowners immediately think about upgrading appliances or adjusting thermostat settings. But one of the most effective and affordable ways to reduce energy costs starts with something simple: sealing up drafts. Why Drafts Cost You Money Gaps around windows, doors, and even baseboards allow outside air to leak in—and your conditioned air to escape. Whether it’s summer heat or winter chill, these air leaks force your HVAC system to work harder, driving up your electricity or gas bills. Here’s the good news: A skilled handyman can identify problem areas and quickly seal those gaps using materials like caulking, foam insulation, and weatherstripping—often in just one visit. What a Handyman Can Do to Stop Energy Leaks Install Weatherstripping: Keeps out drafts around doors and windows. Apply Caulking: Seals small gaps and cracks where air sneaks in. Check Attic Access & Baseboards: Often-overlooked sources of heat loss. Inspect and Fix Door Sweeps: A small fix that makes a big difference. These simple upgrades can reduce your energy bills by up to 20%, and even more if combined with other efficiency measures. More Smart Ways to Save on Utilities Once your home is sealed up, here are a few other energy-saving ideas: Upgrade to LED bulbs Install a programmable thermostat Fix leaking faucets and running toilets Add insulation to your attic or crawlspace Use ceiling fans to improve airflow Need Help? Call Your Local Handyman At New Orleans Handyman, we specialize in energy-efficiency upgrades that pay for themselves. Whether you need a quick seal-up or a full weatherproofing consultation, our team is ready to help. Contact us today to schedule a home energy check and start cutting your utility bills the smart way.
Living in New Orleans comes with charm, culture, and character—but also with unique weather patterns, older homes, and specific upkeep challenges. While it might be tempting to wait until something breaks before addressing it, proactive home maintenance can save homeowners thousands of dollars in emergency repairs and structural damage over time. Here’s how regular maintenance pays off in the long run, especially in the Crescent City. Prevent Costly Water Damage With New Orleans’ high humidity, frequent storms, and aging drainage infrastructure, water damage is a constant threat. Simple tasks like cleaning gutters, sealing windows, and inspecting the roof regularly can prevent leaks that lead to mold, rot, and structural decay. What to Maintain: Gutter and downspout cleaning (every 3–6 months) Roof inspections (annually and after storms) Caulking around doors and windows Savings Potential: Avoiding water damage can save you $5,000 to $15,000 in repair costs. Extend the Life of Major Systems Your HVAC system works overtime in the heat and humidity of New Orleans. Without maintenance, it’s more likely to break down, run inefficiently, or wear out early. Regular filter changes and seasonal tune-ups ensure smooth performance and lower energy bills. What to Maintain: HVAC filters (replace monthly) Professional servicing (twice a year) Insulation and duct sealing Savings Potential: Preventing a premature HVAC replacement can save $4,000 to $10,000. Avoid Foundation Problems Many New Orleans homes sit on shifting soil, which can lead to foundation movement if drainage is poor or tree roots intrude. Regularly checking for cracks, grading the landscape away from the home, and managing excess moisture can prevent serious structural issues. What to Maintain: Foundation inspections (annually) Drainage systems and grading Tree root barriers Savings Potential: Foundation repairs can cost $10,000 or more, making prevention crucial. Increase Property Value and Curb Appeal Small updates like painting trim, power-washing siding, or keeping your yard tidy not only extend the life of your home’s exterior but also increase its market value. A well-maintained home signals to buyers that the property has been cared for, often leading to higher offers. What to Maintain: Exterior painting (every 5–10 years) Lawn and landscaping Driveway and sidewalk maintenance Savings Potential: Homes in excellent condition sell for 10–20% more on average. Catch Issues Before They Become Emergencies Most major repairs start as small problems. A leaky faucet, flickering light, or loose tile might not seem urgent—but left unchecked, they can become expensive disasters. Regular home walkthroughs with a handyman or maintenance checklist help spot and fix these early. What to Maintain: Plumbing and electrical checks Flooring, tiling, and cabinetry Pest prevention and sealing gaps Savings Potential: Early fixes often cost 80–90% less than emergency repairs. Final Thoughts When you invest in regular home maintenance, you’re not just avoiding big bills—you’re protecting your home’s safety, efficiency, and value. Especially in a city like New Orleans, where weather, age, and wear take a toll, the benefits are huge. Need help keeping your home in top shape? At New Orleans Handyman, we offer maintenance packages and on-demand services that save homeowners money and stress. Contact us today to set up a seasonal maintenance plan tailored to your home. 504-358-0399.
As the vibrant seasons of New Orleans usher in warmer weather, it’s the perfect time to rejuvenate your backyard. Whether you’re preparing for lively gatherings or seeking a serene outdoor retreat, New Orleans Handyman is here to guide you through a thorough backyard cleanup and enhancement process. Inspect and Prepare Your Tools Begin by checking the condition of your gardening tools. Ensure your lawnmower, garden hose, leaf blower, and other equipment are in optimal working order. Regular maintenance not only extends their lifespan but also ensures efficiency during your cleanup. Design Your Landscape Vision Consider the layout and elements you desire in your backyard. Planning ahead allows for a cohesive design, incorporating trees, shrubs, flower beds, and other features that reflect your personal style and meet your functional needs. Clear Debris and Weeds Remove any dead plants, fallen branches, and accumulated debris from your yard. This not only improves aesthetics but also promotes healthy plant growth. For extensive cleanup, consider enlisting professional yard waste removal services to handle the heavy lifting. Prepare Garden Beds Spring is an ideal time to till your garden soil, enhancing its texture and nutrient content. This preparation sets the stage for successful planting, ensuring your new additions thrive in a well-aerated environment. Prune and Rake Trim overgrown branches and prune perennials to encourage new growth. Rake fallen leaves and consider composting them to create a natural fertilizer, enriching your soil for the upcoming planting season. Clean Hard Surfaces Power wash decks, patios, and walkways to remove grime and prevent mildew buildup. Regular cleaning not only enhances appearance but also extends the life of these structures. Applying a protective sealant can offer additional durability against the elements. Fertilize and Mow the Lawn Apply a suitable fertilizer to nourish your grass, promoting a lush, green lawn. Mow the grass to an appropriate height, ensuring it receives adequate sunlight and air circulation, which are vital for healthy growth. Plant New Flora Introduce new trees, shrubs, and seasonal plants to add color and vitality to your backyard. Choose species that are well-suited to the New Orleans climate, ensuring they flourish throughout the seasons. Compost Yard Waste Utilize yard waste such as grass clippings, leaves, and plant trimmings to create compost. This eco-friendly practice reduces waste and produces a nutrient-rich amendment for your garden beds. Protect Outdoor Furniture Shield your outdoor furniture from the elements by using weather-resistant covers. This protection helps prevent damage from rain, sun, and humidity, extending the life and appearance of your furnishings. Winterize Water Features As colder months approach, take steps to winterize fountains, sprinklers, and hoses. Drain water from these systems to prevent freezing and potential damage, ensuring they’re ready for use when warmer weather returns. Clean and Store Equipment Before concluding your cleanup, thoroughly clean your tools and equipment. Store them in a dry, sheltered location to prevent rust and deterioration, keeping them in prime condition for future use. Need Assistance? New Orleans Handyman is dedicated to helping you achieve the backyard of your dreams. Whether you require assistance with landscaping, deck maintenance, or general repairs, our team of professionals is ready to provide top-notch service tailored to your needs. Contact Us Today! Phone: 504-358-0399 Email: nohandyman1@gmail.com Website: nohandyman.com Let us help you transform your backyard into a beautiful and functional outdoor space you’ll enjoy year-round.
Our experienced handymen are highly trained in all aspects of construction. We welcome small residential and commercial jobs throughout the New Orleans area.
© 2026 New Orleans Handyman, LLC. All Rights Reserved.