Your home is one of the largest financial and emotional investments you are likely to make. Advanced planning and preparation can reduce flood damage to your home and belongings in times of disaster.

Check out LaHouse seminars and events -- horticulture Lunch and Learn, Master Gardener Training, Lead Certified Renovator Training, other best building practice seminars, seasonal Saturday events and more.

FEMA released a Levees Brochure during the Spring 2011 Floods, explaining NFIP coverage behind levees, for protective measures and the waiting period. This page is copied directly from that brochure and includes a PDF of the original document as an attachment.

From this page, you will be able to access information on a variety of issues related to flood recovery.

See and connect to the websites of LaHouse Key Contributors, Partners, Allies. Also see a table of Product and Service Donors by product category.

This article describes the importance of reading to your baby and child.

A research-based showcase of solutions and educational programs to help you shape the future with homes that offer MORE benefits with LESS ....

Whenever you build, remodel or buy a home, you have the power of choice. Use this science-based guide to take control of your investment and enjoy a high-performance home that offers so much more than shelter and style alone.

The LSU AgCenter will be partnering with the Junior League of Baton Rouge for a second year to educate and motivate new parents in their role as their baby’s first and most important teacher.

Vital preparation steps include developing an evacuation plan, preparing an emergency supply kit and preparing your home for the impending disaster.

From 15 to 40 percent of businesses fail following a natural or manmade disaster. Getting your business back in operation after a disaster often depends on emergency planning done today. A commitment to planning will help support employees, customers, the local community, the local economy and even our nation. It also protects your business investment and gives your operation a better chance for survival.

(Distributed 08/29/08) Adults are urged to assemble a “grab-and-go” box of important papers in case of a hurricane evacuation. How about making a “to-go kit” for your child? Assembling a few treasured items can help your child in times of disaster, according to LSU AgCenter family development professor Dr. Rebecca White.

(Distributed 09/07/08) You probably can’t avoid the stress coming in the wake of Hurricane Gustav, but you can manage it, says LSU AgCenter family and consumer sciences specialist Becky White.

These publications are designed to help Louisiana residents recover from floods, storms, extended power outages and other stressful, dangerous events.

The Green Project is a nonprofit organization located in New Orleans that salvages, collects, and recycles building materials. Materials in usuable condition are then re-sold to the public at a fraction of retail costs. The Green Project also provides a recycling center for the public and takes cardboard, paper, aluminum cans, and household electronic waste.

Identification, biology and treatment of pavement ants

Identification, biology, and treatment of Little Black Ants.

Electrical power may be disrupted for hours, sometimes days. Among the first things affected by the loss of electricity is the food in refrigerators and freezers. There are certain precautions you should take before you begin using food from refrigerators and freezers that have been off for more than a few hours. In fact, there are some things you can do before the power goes out.

Ants range from mildly irritating to highly annoying. Knowing the species, its biology and potential control methods can help you manage them. This is a useful reference for pest management professionals, extension personnel and homeowners. A key to ants, color photographs, diagrams and a glossary are included. Spiral-bound copies are available for $12.50 each. To purchase using a major credit card, click on "order publication."

It’s time to pull out your family disaster plan. Even if you don’t have one, there are still things you can do! Find tips on what to do when preparing for a hurricane and Emergency Management Office telephone numbers for selected Louisiana parishes (most affected by hurricanes and tropical storms). It is designed to print on legal-sized paper. (PDF Format Only)

Hurricane season is right around the corner, officially starting on June 1. Are you ready?

A sudden reduction in family income due to a disaster can be financially and emotionally traumatic. Hardships can be reduced by taking positive action.

Tips to restore flood or water damaged books, documents and papers after a disaster.

After a disaster, many poeple are surprised to find out what their homeowner's insurance policy does and does not cover. Important tips are offered.

If the structure in which you live is damaged by a disaster, your landlord has a legal obligation to make needed repairs so the premises are useable. A summary of post-disaster repair, rent, lease, and personal property information is provided.

Most people are aware of the damage fire and severe weather can do to their homes, but many overlook the threat of termites. Photos of termite damage and signs of termite infestation are included in this publication, which covers Formosan subterranean termites and other subterranean termites.

Whenever a disaster strikes, volunteers are often the first to respond. Because the needs vary with each disaster, volunteers must be flexible in responding to a disaster. This document helps prepare volunteers to work with disaster victims as well as meet the needs that arise as a result of the disaster.

Information about preparing a child's evacuation to-go kit in anticipation of a disaster and possible family evacuation. Parents can help their child be a part of the preparation to evacuate prior to an approaching disaster and assemble this critically important material.

Most disaster checklists include a recommendation for a three-day food supply for each occupant of the household. Here are some things to keep in mind when you’re choosing those foods.

Properly identifying the ant species is the first step in determining whether and how to control them. In this publication there are options for managing various kinds of imported fire ant problems.

Parents can help their children to cope with disasters. There are actions parents can take that will help. This information features tips that parents can use during and following a disaster.

Heads of the types of termites in Louisiana are shown.

This article provides an overview of integrated pest management of subterranean termites in Louisiana.

Several communities in Louisiana have participated in federal grant programs for which on-site protection of private property is an eligible activity. These programs fund elevation or relocation of floodprone buildings, purchase of floodprone properties and, for non-residential buildings, dry floodproofing. Drainage improvements are also eligible.

The Little Bookshelf Program is designed to help parents foster a love of reading in their child from birth.

LaHouse opens it doors to the public on one Saturday per season.

Most disaster checklists include recommendations to keep a three-day food supply on hand for each person, but just exactly what does that mean? LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames has some of the answers.

A Southern IPM Center publication. When choosing a broadcast bait to control imported fire ants, consumers and professional pesticide applicators face a confusing array of brand names and active ingredients with varying product performances. This guide addresses common concerns about broadcast baits to help consumers and professionals choose products that best fit their needs and situations. (PDF Format Only)

River Stages and Forecasts - Louisiana and Lower Mississippi Valley

Spring floods came early to Louisiana with a mid-March record rainfall in Acadiana. This site directs you to information you can use to understand how predicted flood levels may impact you, how you can reduce flood damage and how you can recover and rebuild once the floodwaters recede.

The LSUAgCenter Flood Maps portal displays Flood Insurance Rate Maps, used for rating flood insurance and as a basis for regulating development in identified flood hazard areas. The portal can be useful in estimating your risk when flooding is anticipated. This page tells you how and explains what you can and cannot do with the information provided on the portal.

As the flood crest moved down the Mississippi River and as hurricane rain and surge threatens Louisiana many people want to compare their ground elevation to a predicted flood crest at their property. This page gives detailed instructions for using the two LSU AgCenter interactive mapping systems to assess flood risk.

Louisiana faces serious flood threats during tropical storms and hurricanes from a combination of surge and inland rain. This site directs you to information you can use to understand how predicted flood levels may impact you, how you can reduce flood damage and how you can recover and rebuild once the floodwaters recede.

Louisiana is facing serious flood threats, primarily on the Mississippi River but affecting many streams that flow to and from it. As the flood crest moves down the Mississippi River, levees are being challenged, spillways are being opened, and people are evacuating. This site directs you to information you can use to understand how predicted flood levels may impact you, how you can reduce flood damage and how you can recover and rebuild once the floodwaters recede.

24-hour course provides information, building science insights and methods for safe and effective mold removal and control in buildings.

Contractors are now required to be lead-certified for the EPA Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule (RRP). You play an important role in preventing lead poisoning. Are you ready?

List of donors to LaHouse project.

Categorical table of LaHouse Products and Services, listing donor sources, the specific items or services and their location in LaHouse.

For both parents and children, visitation is critical to maintaining a sense of connectedness both during and after a divorce. Tips for smooth visitations, constructive parenting goals and a list of visitation do's and don'ts. (PDF Format Only)

Some lawns were lost to the flood waters and some were only hurt in spots. Dead areas will have to be replanted, or a weed patch will result. Some forethought before planting may save time, effort and money.

You may not be able to prevent hurricanes and storms that interrupt your routine or destroy your home, but you can make plans to keep them from disrupting everything, according to LSU AgCenter family economist Dr. Jeanette Tucker.

Stocking up on disaster supplies is a smart move for families living in disaster-prone areas and especially important as Louisiana's hurricane season approaches.

After any disaster, children are most afraid that the event will recur, that they or someone they love will be hurt or killed, that they may be separated from those they love and be left alone. Here are strategies to help caregivers help affected children.

Children's reactions to disaster depend on their age and maturity. Their responses also are affected by how close they are to the event, their level of exposure to it through TV and how they see their parents react.

Repetitive flooding affects thousands of Louisiana homes and businesses. In this publication and its companion videotape, a procedure to demonstrate a non-invasive method to flood proofing is explained as it was demonstrated by a Michigan contractor. Special attention is given to adapting the technology for use in Louisiana’s floodplains. (PDF format only)

Much of the damage and loss of life associated with hurricanes can be prevented or reduced by planning, preparation and evacuation.

The Louisiana Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness and parish emergency managers have emergency response plans to help residents survive hurricanes. They can help you, but remember... the person most responsible for your safety and well-being is YOU!

Water-inflated tubing is a new and effective emergency method of closing a gap, temporarily raising the height of an existing levee or putting a barrier around a building.

Donate an inscribed brick to be permanently installed on a walkway or trail of the scenic LaHouse landscape exhibit.

The new master site plan creates a portrait of the vision for Louisiana House – Home and Landscape Resource Center. It shows the long-range plan for its seven-acre site on Gourier Lane, west of Nicholson Drive and adjacent to the LSU golf course and shop.

This guide discusses the common physical, mental, social and emotional characteristics for high school youth. Keep in mind that no two children develop according to the same schedule and the transitions are gradual. By accepting youth at their current developmental stage and offering challenging growth opportunities to help them make the transition into the next stage.

Imagine walking through beautifully landscaped grounds and seeing a brick paver with your name permanently engraved on it.

You probably think of an air conditioner as something that puts cool air in your homes, but what it really does is remove heat from your home. So an understanding of how heat gets in your home is the key to choosing the most cost-effective ways to cut summer utility bills while staying cool and comfortable.

You probably think of an air conditioner as something that puts cool air in your homes, but what it really does is remove heat from your home. So an understanding of how heat gets in your home is the key to choosing the most cost-effective ways to cut summer utility bills while staying cool and comfortable.

The flood insurance policy provides limited coverage for expenses you incur trying to protect insured property from flood damage.

A description of the procedures for disinfecting a water well after a flood.

If it is necessary to complete the repairs, however, it is important to receive good quality work, or major deterioration may appear later. Outside contractors and companies will enter the area to offer their services. Some are honest and will do an adequate job, but be careful in working with outside contractors.

LaHouse is open to walk-in visitors Monday - Friday.

General tips for parents on reading to babies and young children and creating a reading-friendly environment at home.

Many believe that providing character education for all our children at home, in school and in our communities can help our nation. In keeping with this growing recognition that character education is critically needed for our young children and youth, Character Critters was developed by the LSU AgCenter for preschool and kindergarten children.

Louisiana House Home & Landscape Resource Center

Replacing an air conditioning unit can be a daunting experience for some people. But, for those who know what to do, this task can be a chance to upgrade the existing unit and install more modern equipment that will prove worthwhile in both comfort and cost.

Neighbors nicknamed Warren Lawrence’s home in Plaquemines Parish Fort St. Lawrence. Lawrence added special features to his home such as walls constructed of insulated concrete form. His home is outside of levee protection and vulnerable to storms.

(TV News For 11/21/05) Added safety measures can make a difference on a home when a storm threatens. The proof stands on a corner lot in a development in Plaquemines Parish.

Track the progress of reconstruction in Katrina and Rita recovery, learn about the successful projects of you Louisiana neighbors, become more aware of fraudulent activities and scams. Tell us about successes and scams that should be shared with others involved in rebuilding a safer ,stronger, smarter Louisiana.

Use of renewable fuels, fuel cells, and photovoltaics can help homeowners achieve energy efficiency.

Energy prices are volatile. Consumers can take control of their energy bills by make adjustments to their homes for the winter. One way to save energy is by curbing air leakage inside the home. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

With rising energy costs, energy efficiency is now on the minds of many homeowners. Homeowners and potential homeowners can see examples of simple methods, as well as high-end methods of reducing the energy consumption of a home by visiting LaHouse, the LSU AgCenter's demonstration home. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

Taking steps to increase the efficiency of your heating and cooling systems could help reduce your utility bills, and increase your comfort at home. Make Energy Star® smart decisions when it comes to your home’s heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, read here for important details.

Lighting can account for 15% of a home’s yearly electric bill. Lights not only use energy to operate, they produce heat that must be removed by the air conditioning system. Energy-efficient lighting saves on electric bills, helps keep the home cooler and lasts longer than traditional incandescent lighting.

R-value is standardized measure of a material’s resistance to heat flow — the higher the R-value, the greater the insulating ability. However, the actual R-value of a wall or ceiling can be a lot less than the R-value of the insulation material in it, depending on the installation.

Read this article to find out which windows to install in your home to help save on energy costs.

An energy-efficient home lets you control the indoor climate and how much you'll pay for it. It is not only more comfortable, but also protects you from being at the mercy of unstable future energy costs. In many cases, you'll be able to save enough on downsizing your heating and cooling system to pay for the higher-efficiency products and features you need for an energy-efficient home.

In a hot-humid climate, moisture flows from outside to inside most of the year. In a mixed-humid climate, moisture flow changes direction in cooling and heating seasons. Using the proper wall assembly in your home is important for controlling moisture.

Construction gaps and resulting air leakage can increase heating and cooling costs, create comfort and moisture problems, draw in pollutants, reduce fire safety and serve as an entry for rodents and insects. Homes should have a continuous air barrier system that surrounds all conditioned space — a combination of materials linked and sealed together to create a tight building envelope with little air leakage.

Look for ENERGY STAR water heaters and compare EnergyGuide labels to invest in water heaters with low life-cycle costs. In addition to saving money on operating costs, energy-efficient water heaters give off less waste heat than standard models, keeping rooms cooler and lowering air conditioning needs and costs.

Look for Energy Star appliances and compare EnergyGuide labels to invest in appliances with a low life cycle cost.

A passive solar home is designed to admit and store energy from the sun in winter for solar heating.

Houses can be designed so that occupants can get the most or least light and/or heat generated by the sun.

Credits for renewable energy apply for systems in place by December 31, 2016. Other credits were for improvements in place by December 31, 2010. These one-time tax credits still apply only to improvements to the taxpayer’s primary residence (not rental property). (Editor's Note: Stuart Broussard contributed to this report.)

When Craig Lee began planning the construction of his Vermilion Parish home, he learned he would be required to elevate his new house more than 8 feet above grade in order to receive a building permit. He did not understand the parish’s requirement to elevate because his brother’s house was on-grade, on the same piece of land, and in 25 years had never flooded. In September 2005, Hurricane Rita provided the unfortunate answer to his question.

The concept, messaging, materials and Web presence for Do it Right...Get the Facts...Make the Choice. Build Safer, Stonger, Smarter were developed for hazard mitigation during recovery from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. These products were developed by FEMA for and with the state of Louisiana, with leadership for the state being provided by extension educators at the LSU AgCenter.

After the passage of federal welfare reform legislation in 1996, faculty from land-grant universities organized to conduct a study of the legislation’s impact on rural families. The project began in 1998 and runs through 2008. The intent was to provide policymakers and program directors with up-to-date information about the ability of rural, low-income families to be economically self sufficient. The objectives of this project are included in this publication. (PDF Format Only)

It is important to keep a variety of factors in mind as you attempt to cope with job loss. This document provides tips and strategies for coping.

The LaHouse Teaching Center and House are available for your next event. Click above for details.

Spending time in the landscape with children, especially young ones, requires adults to pay careful attention. Just as you would childproof an indoor room, it’s important to take safety precautions in the yard to keep young ones safe.

Welcome from the LSU AgCenter's chancellor.

Browse this photo gallery to see progress from the current stage of construction to groundbreaking, highlighting special features, products and techniques used.

Concrete tile is very long-lasting, yet more hail-resistant and less expensive than clay or slate.

People who work or play outdoors are often attacked by numerous species of insects, ticks and mites. If you choose or are required to be outside when insects are active, use a repellent. This publication explains how repellents are chemical substances that protect people from insect attack by making the body unattractive or offensive to insects. A repellent does not have to kill insects to be effective, although it may. (PDF Format Only)

Homeowners have shared with Extension some of the common misconceptions about flood insurance that caused them to suffer financial losses greater than they expected.

Homeowners have shared with Extension some of the common misconceptions about flood insurance that caused them to suffer financial losses greater than they expected.

Guide to information about emergency measures you can use to protect property from flooding (rising water). Includes links to Web pages, fact sheets (PDF files) and videos.

Elevation provides the best protection for flood damage, short of relocating the house to an area that is less prone to flooding. Raising a structure does not remove it from the special flood hazard area (SFHA); therefore, it does not exempt the owner or the mortgage company from flood insurance mandates.

Our predecessors in Louisiana, the Indians and the early Europeans, avoided floods by vacating the floodplains during the flood season or by building their homes on higher ground and, even then, on piers. Determining flood risk is important before buying property, building a home or office, or planning a flood protection system.

This is a picture gallery of different types of back-flow valves. Three are automatic and two are manual, requiring someone to be home to close them when floodwaters rise.

There is an alternative to blocking the common sewer line. The alternative is to block each drain line where it enters your home - also known as the points of entry - using plugs and caps.

Repetitive flooding affects thousands of Louisiana homes and businesses. In this publication and its companion videotape, a procedure to demonstrate a non-invasive method to flood proofing is explained as it was demonstrated by a Michigan contractor. Special attention is given to adapting the technology for use in Louisiana’s floodplains. (PDF format only). This is the 2005 archived version of the original 1996 publication.

If an evacuation or other emergency separates family and friends, you’ll want to find each other. Fill out a card for each close friend and relative. Carry it with you wherever you go.

Louisiana House Floor Plans

Moving and evolving with LSU’s campus master planning process over the last year, the third and final Louisiana House location, master site plan and house design were officially approved by the LSU Board of Supervisors in April 2002

Great appreciation and a heartfelt welcome go to the newest Key Contributors for their generous gifts to the LSU Foundation for Louisiana House.

Portal page for information about obtaining a building permit.

Detailed Instructions for using FEMA's Map Search tool to find your house on the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM).

When you go to get building permt, you will need to provide certain information about your construction project. This page lists the most common items.

When seeking a building permit, you may need addition documents. This page describes the Flood Zone Determination, Elevation Certificate, Foundation Plan, Damage Inspection Rating and an On-Site Waste-Water Treatment Permit.

To obtain a building permit you'll need a description and drawings of your construction plans. This page describes some minimum plan requirements.

Local communities have adopted codes and floodplain regulations that govern building construction and development in floodplains. These requirements, which can apply to both new construction and repair of existing buildings, differ in different flood zones. This document details the minimum regulations.

Manufactured Homes are the buildings we have, in the past, referred to as mobile homes or trailers. While other factory-built homes are built to the codes of the area where they will be installed, manufactured homes are built to a special HUD-code and installed in accordance with HUD guidelines. Thus they are sometimes referred to as HUD-Code homes.

Portal page for information about building industry professionals, the licenses and certifications they should have and how consumers know their hired and contracted professionals have appropriate licenses and certifications for the work they are doing in Louisiana.

Following a Presidential Declaration, disaster assistance is made available to help residents and local governments in the declared parishes recover from the effects of the disaster.

A floodwall is a self-supporting barrier to floodwater. It may look like a garden wall or privacy fence, but it has more internal reinforcing and a more substantial foundation.

A levee is a barrier that holds water away from the building. It can protect your home from flooding as well as from the force of water, scour at the foundation and impacts of floating debris.

Sandbags can be used to fill gaps in a permanent protection system, to raise an existing levee or to build a complete emergency levee.

Sealing a building so water will not enter is called dry floodproofing. The interior spaces, equipment and contents of the building stay dry.

The following is a description of basic features and components used in conceptual design of the house.

More than 100 Contributors, Partners, Allies, team members and friends participated in the July 15, 2003, Louisiana House – Home and Landscape Resource Center (LaHouse) groundbreaking ceremony and recognition reception on the LaHouse site.

A summary of Landscape Topics Relating toHurricane Damage and Recovery, including: Wind Damage to Trees, Determining if Large Wind Damaged Trees Can be Salvaged, Wind Damage to Shrubs, Wind Damage to Herbaceous Plants, Flood Damage to Landscape Plantings, Food Crops, Flood Damage to Lawns, Loss of Shade Trees, LA One Call, and Soil Testing.

A floodwall is a self-supporting barrier to floodwater. It may look like a garden wall or privacy fence, but it has more internal reinforcing and a more substantial foundation. This heavier construction keeps the wall from tipping or sliding. The foundation also blocks seepage of water under the wall. This publication includes information on the cost, considerations and construction of floodwalls. (PDF format only)

The LaHouse operations staff, issue leaders, and the professional contractors and consultants involved in its design or construction.

Series of articles covering various topics that address issues relating to people caring for themselves and their elderly loved ones. Topics covered include: Care for the Caregiver, Caregiver Burnout, Communicating with Parents About Growing Older, Employment and Caregiving: Is There a Balance?, Helping an Elderly Loved One with Personal Care, and The Dynamics of Sibling Relationships While Caring for an Aging Parent.

Articles addressing various topics relating to health and nutrition for the elderly. Topics covered include: Bone Up on Osteoporosis, Eating Well as We Age, Food Label: Nutrition Facts at a Glance, Seniors and Food Safety...Preventing Food-borne Illness, and Vegetable Purchasing and Storage Tips.

Precautions to take to avoid dehydration while cleaning up after a disaster.

If your home was flooded, it must be disinfected and dried thoroughly to prevent mildew and future damage by wood rot.

Provides information and tips for using a generator for emergency power.

Ways to determine seafood safety after an oil spill: detecting taint, the sniff test, and the smell test.

Use this checklist to explore and select features and components of an earth friendly home in Louisiana.

Follow design guidelines to make your home functional for life...

Benefits of low-maintence materials...

Learn the latest home landscape and garden best practices at the monthly LaHouse Lunch and Learn Seminars.

Following design discussions with technical experts and feedback from the extended House Design Advisory team, the original concept design was premiered at the 2001 Earth Day Festival. The new site offers a wonderful opportunity to nestle the house within a group of beautiful, shady live oak trees – so the house design is now being modified to fit the new site and its features.

Quality child care involves a variety of factors that should be considered when parents are searching for child care for their children. While cost and convenience are important considerations, parents should also consider their children’s ages, abilities, interests and personalities. Beliefs and attitudes about education, training, child guidance, nutrition and health are also major considerations.

12 monthly fact sheets about reading to your baby during the first year of life. Each fact sheet shares the importance of reading to your baby as he/she develops.

Hurricane Katrina refugees needing medical attention are treated at both the Field House and the Pete Maravich Assembly Center.

Winter is the perfect time to prune trees so they will be healthy and better able to resist storm damage, according to experts with the LSU AgCenter.

Building systems that integrate the five criteria for Gulf Region conditions.

LaHouse is open to visitors Monday - Friday and special events.

The LSU AgCenter Coastal Area Research Station is located near Port Sulphur in lower Plaquemines Parish. This aerial photo was taken the day after Hurricane Katrina struck southeast Louisiana and the Mississippi and Alabama coasts.

This report summarizes the estimated damage caused by excessive rains in September and October 2009.

The LSUAgCenter has provided the following images taken by staff members for informational purposes. Please check back often as this page is updated.

The animal shelter was set up in Parker Coliseum in response to Hurricane Katrina recovery efforts.

AgCenter employees pitch in at the Baton Rouge River Center, which is housing 6,000 refugees from Hurricane Katrina.

Description of building systems and features on the west wing of LaHouse.

A room-by-room description of the systems and features of LaHouse.

Description of building systems and features of the East Wing of LaHouse.

Browse this photo gallery to see progress from the current stage of construction to groundbreaking, highlighting special features, products and techniques used.

Although your policy may not cover flood damage to your home, it does offer some protection from loss caused by natural disasters, such as hurricanes.

Stories are hitting the media saying bleach doesn’t work in mold cleanup and prevention. An LSU AgCenter expert says there are reasons for some of the confusion but that bleach is effective at killing mold.

Typically, providers require that children be kept from care for a minimum of 24 hours or until symptoms disappear.

Conflicting information and media coverage about hazards of mold and how to handle mold problems have left many people confused, concerned and sometimes frightened. If you have or suspect a mold problem in your home, this fact sheet will help you make well-informed decisions about how to fix the problem and prevent its return.

Descriptions of building features thoughout LaHouse.

Description of the building systems and features of the Mid-section of LaHouse.

List of professionals who have earned the Gulf Region High Performance Home Professional designation.

The Smart Choices Nutrition News for Seniors is an informative newsletter designed to address specific nutrition and health-related issues for adults over 50.

In the right conditions, molds multiply and can release enough spores in the air to cause health problems.

These tips will help you benefit from your good credit and to ensure that your credit record is not harmed in the wake of disaster.

Horses that survived the onslaught of Hurricane Katrina still may need special attention to assure their continued health.

A variety of factors should be considered when parents are attempting to find quality child care for their offspring.

A flood-damaged building requires special attention to avoid or correct a mold population explosion.

A flood-damaged building requires special attention to avoid or correct a mold population explosion.

A flood-damaged building requires special attention to avoid or correct a mold population explosion.

As a 4-H club member and a caring person, you are probably wondering what you can do to help people your age that had to move away from their home town into a different home and a new city and school. Here are some suggested activities to help new students in your schools or at other schools:

A quality caregiver makes all the difference during the early years of a child’s development, so parents need to look for indications of quality when entrusting their children to others, says LSU AgCenter specialist Dr. Becky White.

Federal Emergency Management Agency officials came to an LSU AgCenter educational site Wednesday (Nov. 9) to stress that rebuilding "stronger, safer and smarter" is the way to go for those affected by this summer’s hurricanes. Such construction is a major theme behind the LSU AgCenter’s Louisiana House Home and Landscape Resource Center.

Storms may damage turf directly by flooding or indirectly by wind debris. "In either case, this is not a good time to regrow grass," says LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dr. Tom Koske.

Request more information about contributing to the Louisiana House Home & Landscape Resource Center

Louisiana families impacted by disaster often experience a sudden reduction in income that can be financially and emotionally traumatic. Reduce this hardship by taking positive action.

This fact sheet provides basic steps for homeowners and volunteers to use in safely cleaning up mold in their homes and preventing its regrowth. It is focused on mold resulting from flooding but is applicable to other causes as well.

Identification, biology and treatment of the elongate twig ant.

A child-care center director's work is critically important as well as exhausting, not to mention complicated, so it is paramount that a dedicated, knowledgeable person oversees these operations. This article will explore some of the many qualifications needed to be an effective child-care center director.

Preschool and kindergarten character education resources. Use this link to access the following Character Critter materials all at once: Bookmarks, Hand Puppets, Masks, and Hat patterns.

Preschool and kindergarten characer education resources. Use a garden glove to create storytelling finger puppets that will add life to your Character Critters story experience.

This guide provides details on creating a home that keeps comfort affordable with high energy efficiency; is protected from mold, termites, storms, floods and other hazards; is healthy, safe and convenient for a lifetime; is a smart investment that pays dividends; and protects our environment for future generations. Cost: $15 plus tax and shipping. You can order this 88-page, sprial-bound book through our online store by using the Order Publication link below.

Print out and share Character Critter bookmarks featuring the Critters' favorite sayings.

Preschool and Kindergarten character resources - fun Character Critters coloring sheets along with interactive drawing pages.

Create fun masks and hats to wear featuring your favorite Character Critters.

Quality Child Care. Parents should make sure their child is receiving quality child care. One way to check on the quality of care your child is receiving is to plan a surprise visit to your child’s child-care center to observe the conditions. Listerd are a few things to consider looking for and inquiring about on such a visit.

More and more grandparents are responsible for getting their grandchildren back to school. While this means the smell of new uniforms, shoes and notebooks, it means potentially lots of dollar bills flowing away from some grandparents who may be on a tight budget! Use this time as a teaching tool.

Fire ants can be a serious problem after hurricanes – particularly in flooded areas, according to experts with the LSU AgCenter.

Those who survive hurricanes and other natural disasters are at risk for behavioral and emotional readjustment problems. Most child and adult survivors experience one or more normal stress reactions for several days after a natural disaster.

If you rent or lease an apartment, house or business building and the structure is damaged in a natural disaster, read your lease carefully to determine what you need to do regarding damages, terminating the lease, securing temporary housing and other matters, advises LSU AgCenter family economics professor Dr. Ann Berry.

As hurricane evacuees are allowed to return to their homes, LSU AgCenter family economics professor Dr. Ann Berry makes several recommendations for filing insurance claims.

Many people are surprised about the extent of protection their homeowner's insurance policy offers. Although your policy may not cover flood damage to your home, it does offer some protection from loss due to natural disasters, such as hurricanes, according to LSU AgCenter family economics professor Dr. Ann Berry.

Many people are surprised about the extent of protection their homeowner's insurance policy offers. Although your policy may not cover flood damage to your home, it does offer some protection from loss due to natural disasters, such as hurricanes, according to LSU AgCenter family economics professor Dr. Ann Berry.

Aftera Disaster - Lesson Plan for youth Educators sometimes feel unprepared when new students arrive as a result of disaster they experience, and current students sometimes have difficulty feeling empathy for the new transfer students. This lesson plan can be used with groups of youth in junior high and high school who need guidance in dealing with a change in their social environment, i.e., their school, following a disaster or even after positive changes in their life situation.

Identification, biology and treatment of the crazy ant in structures.

The aftermath of hurricanes Katrina and Rita is a wake-up call for all whose homes were spared. It’s a vivid reminder of the importance of making your home stronger, safer and smarter.

The aftermath of hurricanes Katrina and Rita is a wake-up call for all whose homes were spared. It’s a vivid reminder of the importance of making your home stronger, safer and smarter.

Many lawnmowers, string trimmers, leaf blowers, and other lawn and garden equipment with small engines were inundated during the flooding from hurricanes Katrina and Rita. In many cases, that equipment can be salvaged.

Every forest owner has questions and decision needs when faced with salvaging timber after a storm.

Questions about logging downed timber from the hurricanes and wet yard locations.

Thousands of Louisiana residents are facing home rebuilding or repairs in the wake of hurricanes Katrina and Rita. "Selecting a competent contractor to make home repairs is one of the most important things you will need to do to put your home and life back in order," says AgCenter family economics professor Dr. Jeanette Tucker.

When disasters happen, dedicated volunteers and professionals swing into action to help those affected by the tragedy. But who takes care of the "helpers"?

Infants and toddlers need child care environments that are welcoming and responsive.

Some of the most stressful times children experience come when they move from one classroom to another. There are many things parents and caregivers can do to facilitate a smooth move from one classroom to another.

Outdoor playground areas for children are important to consider when choosing a child-care facility. It is just as important to visit the outside spaces as it is to tour the classrooms. Playing outdoors provides the opportunity for young children to use and develop their large muscles and cognitive abilities.

One of the most important roles parents and caregivers serve is to ensure that the children entrusted to them thrive in healthy and safe environments.

Child-care environments play an important role in the healthy growth and development of infant and toddlers. Since infants and toddlers spend a large portion of their day in routines such as saying hello or good-bye, getting dressed, diapering, toileting and mealtime, the child-care environment should reflect these important shared learning times. The environment provided for infants and toddlers should be welcoming and responsive to both children and their families.

By following a routine and providing a predictable einvironment, children can feel secure in their child care environment and learn that they can trust their caregivers to meet their needs.

Child care and preventing sickness. Parents who depend on child-care centers need to know the policies of their center and to keep in mind that those policies are designed to keep disease outbreaks from spreading to all children.

A supportive, nurturing, inviting environment for preschool age children is extremely important in encouraging them to explore and learn. Children learn through their own experiences of trial and error, repetition and imitation. Adults may encourage learning by ensuring that the classroom or day-care environment is appropriate and supports an array of experiences and choices.

Most injuries to young children in school or child-care environments occur outdoors, so playground safety definitely should be a concern in a child-care setting. Approximately 40 percent of the outdoor injuries to children are due to poor adult supervision," says LSU AgCenter child-care associate Cheri Gioe. "That means supervision is an essential component of playground safety."

Temper tantrums aren’t uncommon in young children. The key for adults is learning how to deal with them, says LSU AgCenter child-care associate Cheri Gioe.

Parents and grandparents often face the challenge of deciding what toys are appropriate for their children or grandchildren. The same thing is true of child-care providers seeking new toys for their child-care centers.

Temper tantrums aren’t uncommon in young children. The key for adults is learning how to deal with them, says LSU AgCenter child-care associate Cheri Gioe.

To help educators and caregivers help youth cope with the aftermath of hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the LSU AgCenter 4-H Youth Development program is reviewing and recommending curriculum materials that emphasize hands-on activities.

Click the image to read a cute story to your child that teaches preschool children about fairness.

Click image to read a cute story that teaches preschoolers about citizenship and good character.

Click image to read a cute story that teaches preschoolers about caring and good character.

Click on image to read a cute story that teaches preschoolers about respect and good character.

Click image read a cute story that teaches preschoolers about responsibility.

When you think about teaching your children to be trustworthy, you must remember it does not happen overnight. Instead, trustworthiness and good character are something you should model for your children every day because you are the most important teacher your child will ever have.

You are the most important teacher your child will ever have. Your children will learn by the example you set for them. This means that the ways that you are respectful of others will influence the ways your child is respectful of others.

You are the most important teacher your child will ever have. Your children will learn by the example you set for them. If your children see you being responsible, they will want to act responsibly, too.

Young children are very impressionable, and you are the most important teacher your child will ever have. One way you can help your child learn to be fair is by example. If your child sees you following rules, sharing with your family, listening to others and not placing blame, he or she will be likely to follow your example.

You are the most important teacher your child will ever have. Your children will learn by the example you set for them. If your children see you acting in a caring way, they will want to act in a caring way, too.

Being a good citizen is something adults may do every day. Adults might practice good citizenship by: obeying traffic laws, paying taxes, helping a neighbor, volunteering or recycling. Your child will develop good citizenship habits by following your good citizenship practices.

When you think about teaching your children to be trustworthy, you must remember that it does not happen overnight. Instead, it is something you should model for your children every day because teachers are an important influence on young children.

Teachers are an important influence on young children. The children in your classroom will learn by the example you set for them. This means that the ways you are respectful of others will influence the ways the children are respectful of others.

Teachers are an important influence on young children. The children in your class will learn by the example you set for them. If your children see you being responsible, they will want to act responsibly, too.

Young children are very impressionable, and teachers are an important influence on young children. One way you can help children learn to be fair is by example. If the children see you following rules, sharing, listening to others and not placing blame, they will be likely to follow your example.

Teachers are an important influence on young children. The children in your class will learn by the example you set for them. If your children see you acting in a caring way, they will want to act in a caring way, too.

Being a good citizen is something adults may do every day. Adults might practice good citizenship by: obeying traffic laws, paying taxes, helping a neighbor, volunteering or recycling. The children in your class will develop good citizenship habits by following your good citizenship practices.

Use this checklist to explore components and features of your sustainable Louisiana house.

Louisiana 4-H’ers are doing their part to help victims of Hurricane Katrina find at least some bits of relief and sparks of hope.

Louisiana Commissioner of Agriculture Dr. Mike Strain toured the state to assess the Hurricane Gustav damage to agriculture. This presentation is a result of his tour and was presented to a joint Agriculture Task Force at Louisiana Farm Bureau on September 11, 2008.

The link below takes you to the USDA-FSA Disaster Assistance Page which lists information and links to all current USDA disaster assistance programs.

Louisiana’s sweet potato harvest had not really begun before the storm – with only a few producers conducting any part of their harvest.

The pecan industry in the state was extremely hard hit by Hurricane Gustav.

After more than two weeks of poor weather from Hurricanes Gustav and Ike, Louisiana is assessing the impacts on agriculture and the effects are quickly adding up.

Most of the state’s corn crop was harvested prior to Hurricane Gustav, but damage still is $45.8 million or nearly 11 percent of the crop value.

Commercial timber and forest damage associated with Hurricane Gustav in 2008 was neither as widespread nor as acute as was damage associated with Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005.

The temporary shelter at Parker Coliseum on the LSU campus, set up to handle pet animals evacuated from hurricane-affected areas of southeast Louisiana, is bursting at the seams and accepting no more animals at this time.

Here are some toll-free numbers set up to provide disaster assistance:

Estimates of losses to Louisiana agriculture, forestry and fisheries resulting from Hurricane Gustav and Hurricane Ike now place the totals as high as $950-plus million and climbing. The totals include up to $763 million in lost revenue to Louisiana farmers, ranchers, foresters and fishers, as well as another $175 million to $200 million in damage to the industries’ infrastructure – farm equipment, barns, processing facilities and so forth.

As the cleanup from this summer’s hurricanes continues, LSU AgCenter agents are helping coordinate the work of people who are coming to the rescue. Among those were 30 students from The Ohio State University who arrived in Louisiana earlier this week (Dec. 11-17) ready to roll up their sleeves and pitch in to clean up parts of hurricane-ravaged South Louisiana.

The LSU AgCenter’s efforts to help with the cleanup and recovery in New Orleans continue to take on national dimensions. One of the latest projects targeted Bayou Metairie in City Park and included 200 volunteers. Although most were local, some came from as far away as Boston.

Only a small percentage of the state’s soybean crop was harvested prior to Hurricane Gustav, and damage to the crop so far is estimated at more than $115 million or nearly 28 percent of this year’s anticipated value.

Active listening means paying careful attention to what others are saying. Follow these steps to improve active listening skills. (PDF Format Only)

Treatments for termites must be integrated with proper maintenance. Eliminate as many conditions conducive to termite infestations as possible by following the five general categories of rules.

Tips on portable ladder safety including general guidelines for step and extension ladders.

The LSU AgCenter’s “LaHouse” is designed to hold up against strong winds and flooding and serve as a model for how to build homes with hurricane-resistant features in Louisiana.

Maintaining your air conditioner can save up to 30 percent on operating costs, protect it from early failure, prevent mold from developing in the system, and help it perform at its best. Follow these tips to save money and protect your health. They'll also keep you cool and comfortable this summer.

This summary of a study of the subfloor moisture levels of south Louisiana, raised-foundation homes with six different insulation systems includes the resulting recommendations – all intended to help homeowners, builders, architects, insulation contractors, home inspectors and others balance energy efficiency, comfort and durability issues.

This summary of a study of the subfloor moisture levels of south Louisiana, raised-foundation homes with six different insulation systems includes the resulting recommendations – all intended to help homeowners, builders, architects, insulation contractors, home inspectors and others balance energy efficiency, comfort and durability issues.

In the wake of a disaster, home rebuilding or repair is crucial for putting a family's life back in order. Selecting a competent contractor is important to the recovery process.

Gifts and letters of commitment for in-kind donations should be addressed to Chancellor William Richardson and mailed to this address.

Proper construction techniques help to keep your roof where it belongs in a storm...

Louisiana House will support programs and interests that seek to engage citizens in taking responsibility for a sustainable future by using appropriate methods and technologies to protect their environment, property and families.

Representing Entergy Louisiana, Renae Conley (CEO) was honored for becoming the first corporate LaHouse Diamond Key Contributor.

After a disaster, if personal items and furnishings have been lost, rent-to-own purchase contracts may seem like a quick and easy option for replacements. Get the facts.

Steps to take to file an insurance claim following a disaster.

Children's reactions to disaster depend on their age and maturity. Their responses also are affected by how close they are to the event, their level of exposure to it through TV and how they see their parents react.

Parents can help their children experience school success by fostering social and emotional maturity, language skills, creative thinking skills, good health, problem-solving abilities and a general knowledge of the world.

Shopping for quality child care? There are things you can do to become a better consumer of quality child care and at the same time help your children by providing the very best in caregiving.

The widespread educational outreach of LaHouse will create ongoing, high exposure and promote related interests -- throughout Louisiana and the southern region.

Unfortunately, hurricane season does not end with the busy start of school each fall. There are LSU Ag Center on-line resources available to aid you in planning and preparing your family.

Disasters often bring an influx of con artists. Consider these tips to protect yourself and your money.

Those who survive hurricanes and other natural disasters are at risk for behavioral and emotional readjustment problems. Most child and adult survivors experience one or more normal stress reactions for several days after a disaster or major trauma.

With more and more parents working and the need for child care increasing, parents need to plan carefully for quality child care for their children. You can do many things to become a better consumer of quality child care, according to LSU AgCenter specialist Becky White.

Single parent families have hectic lives. Most single parents feel they have too little time and too much to do. The first step to making the most of your time, however, is thinking about your goals. Follow these tips to help you determine and reach your goals.

Parents can help children prepare for kindergarten by taking several actions before the first school bell rings.

It happens often when children receive a gift. The youngsters often are happier playing with the box than the present. Although amused at first, the gift-givers may soon suspect that their money was ill-spent.

This article provides a brief overview of ACQ, one the most common treatments for wood used in residential and commercial construction.

A report that illustrates the LSU AgCenter's response to the devastation of hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

Parents want their children to be successful in school and in life. Starting early can give children a foundation for success.

Things to consider when constructing or renovating a home to protect your house from termites.

Considerations on integrated pest management of termites and other wood attacking organism are presented in depth.

This summary of a study of the subfloor moisture levels of south Louisiana, raised-foundation homes with six different insulation systems includes the resulting recommendations – all intended to help homeowners, builders, architects, insulation contractors, home inspectors and others balance energy efficiency, comfort and durability issues.

Help discover locations where the Formosan subterranean termite is not known to exist.

A series of informative fact sheets designed to help grandparents caring for their grandchildren.

Certain insect problems increase dramatically after flooding, windstorms and other disasters, according to entomologists with the LSU AgCenter.

One important key for successful management of a pest is to identify it. This publication can help you differentiate between ants and the dry-wood and subterranean termites that are pests in Louisiana. It also contains specific information on Formosan subterranean termites.

Suggestions for preventing the spread of Formosan subterranean termites.

Damage by termites can be very expensive. A comparison of costs of using treated wood, concrete or steel in construction is presented.

Information on why the elderly are more at risk for frauds and scams, along with helpful tips and tools for managing finances and protecting your privacy.

Precautions to take to avoid dehydration while cleaning up after a disaster.

Precautions to take to avoid dehydration while cleaning up after a disaster.

Precautions to take to avoid dehydration while cleaning up after a disaster.

As you and your child join the 4-H program, you’ll want to make the most of the experience. The success of your 4-H club and the kind of experience your child depends greatly upon your parental involvement. 4-H has so much to offer your child through educational programs, contests and special events. Through active participation in 4-H, your child will develop skills that will last a lifetime.

When disaster strikes, people everywhere want to help those individuals in need. To ensure that this compassion and generosity are put to good use, it’s important to know what stages victims go through disaster recovery.

For higher levels of protection and possibly discounted property insurance, consider these options...

The original LaHouse development team.

Portal Page for Getting Started. To help people organize their thoughts and affair and begin to approach their restoration or rebuilding project.

Portal Page for information that would be helpful to people getting started with a project to build a new home on the same site as their storm-damaged home.

An arborist can help you keep your trees healthy and give you peace of mind. Their professional services can help you with an array of other tree care practices, including transplanting, pruning, fertilizing and managing pests. Most arborists are also skilled in tree removal and value appraisals. You will want to read the questionnaire provided in this article to help you decide if you need any of these special services.

In simplest terms, a residential contractor constructs or renovates a building, or supervises the construction or renovation of a building. The contractor provides labor for the job, as well as schedules each phase of the job and the professionals involved.

Portal Page for information about the building industry professionals involved in buying and selling property, including real estate, banking and legal services.

A checklist of recommendations from the Louisiana Licensing Board for Contractors to use when hiring a contractor.

A building designer designs residential and agricultural light frame buildings, such as single family homes. A designer also might design decorative facades for larger structures.

This section has information about people who provide special services related to homebuilding. These include home inspection, homeowner construction representatives, energy rating, pest control, landscape and flood and wind resistance.

Civil engineers are concerned with the design, construction, and maintenance of an altered physical or natural man-made environment. For instance, civil engineers may design bridges, roads, dams, and buildings.

This article informs the consumer what a residential electrician does, what licenses are required, if any, in the state of Louisiana in order for the electrician to work on your home, how to verify any licenses, and how to become an electrician.

Louisiana law requires all real estate agents working in the state to have a license. Information on who has a license, how one can get a license, as well as information on filing a complaint can be found at the Louisiana Real Estate Commission's Web site.

Real estate agents facilitate the buying and selling of property, such as land and buildings. These agents serve as representatives/negotiators for buyers and sellers. Real estate agents can serve as a “buyer’s agent” or as a “seller’s agent.”

Lenders usually require a termite inspection and mechanical equipment inspection. A more complete inspection is a good idea. Getting a thorough inspection before you buy a home can save you thousands of dollars.

This checklist provides a list of items to look for when you inspect a new or existing house before you purchase the home.

Knowing what questions to ask can save you lots of money and help you find the best contractor to build your house. The Capital Region Builder's Association has provided the attached information to help you ask the right questions.

Structural engineering is a sub-specialty of civil engineering, but can also be a stand-alone degree. Structural engineers design the systems that ensure that buildings and other structures are safely supported and able to resist forces against them, such as hurricane winds.

A home inspector inspects the visible exterior and interior systems and components of a residential structure for condition, safety issues, and evidence of potential problems. It is important to note that a home inspection is different from an appraisal that determines market value, from a code-compliance inspection, and from a warranty evaluation.

An energy rater assesses a house to determine the home’s level of energy efficiency. This audit , called a rating.

The role of a residential landscape architect is varied and can be complex. In very broad terms, a residential landscape architect generally develops and provides design plans for a homeowner’s property that utilizes both landscape and hardscape (built structures or constructed elements such as patios or arbors) elements to provide beauty and function for the homeowner, as well as to solve any related issues.

The residential building inspector examines residential projects under construction to ensure they are being built according to the building codes adopted by the state and/or local municipality. In so doing, the building inspector helps protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public. Residential inspectors are typically employees of the local jurisdiction, but may be third-party providers.

An architect is a design professional who designs environments in which people live, work, and play.

You can reduce your expected damage from hurricanes by taking some steps to prepare.

Almost everyone who lives in the 15 coastal parishes that...

Proper cleanup and disposal will prevent future health and injury risks and may save time and money. Debris removal will reduce the potential for nesting by rodents, snakes and insects, or at least keep those infestations in a concentrated area away from the home.

This discussion of different methods of counseling and different factors to use in finding a counselor can help the consumer make good choices in selecting a mental health professional service.

Since November 2005, home building and home restoration in Louisiana are subject to the provisions of the International Residential Code.

This article explains what the words "licensed, bonded, and insured" mean in the context of construction professionals. In explaining these terms, the article also states why hiring someone who is licensed, bonded, and insured is important.

Wind affects different homes in different ways, depending on their design, location and neighboring structures.

Resources used in gathering information about wind resistance.

An interior designer works on the interior and is specially trained in this area. Interior designers follow much of the same design steps and procedures as architects do, only the work of interior designers is specific to the interior.

Land surveyors determine legal property boundaries. They also establish subsurface mineral boundaries to determine the distribution of mineral rights.

This article describes what a plumber does and why you might need one; how a plumber gets licensed; and how the homeowner can verify the license.

As you attempt to restore your life and home after a storm, the availability of local companies and individuals to perform the necessary services will be limited. It often may be advisable to do temporary repairs and wait for local contractors who will be there to guarantee their work long after the storm is over.

If the recent hurricanes have landed trees on your property, Dr. Hallie Dozier of the LSU AgCenter cautions you to hire only Louisiana-licensed professional arborists remove the trees.

Use this checklist to explore and select features and components of an eco-friendly house in Louisiana.

“Should I repair or should I teardown?” “Should I rebuild here or should I rebuild somewhere else?”There are so many factors that play a part in answering these questions that it must seem overwhelming.

Making every day decisions is not always easy. It came be even more difficult to make a decision after a catastrophic event such as a hurricane, tornado, fire, flood windstorm. Some people may believe they don’t have any options. While there are always options, it’s not always easy for some people to decide what to do.

This page defines some terms used in home construction, repair and maintenance. It is not a comprehensive list but will provide a quick reference for homeowners who are unfamiliar with building terminology. Based on the Housing and Urban Development's 1996 Glossary, but expanded to include terms related to flood and wind resistance, energy, new technologies and architectural terms.

Living in a mobile homes is one option you can consider when planning for your future housing needs. In the past, mobile homes typically were considered starter homes. But today, many people are choosing to make mobile homes their permanent dwelling.

Mobile homes have been steadily growing in popularity as a temporary and permanent primary residence for many Louisiana residents. Mobile homes can provide years of comfortable and convenient living, while giving you the most for the dollar you spend on electricity. Using the following energy conservation tips will help you to make the least of your electric bill.

Homeowners in South Louisiana and elsewhere in the Gulf South who are building homes should add termite protection in the process. Combining termite protection with proper strapping for wind resistance and anchoring to prevent floatation present some challenges for maintaining the integrity of the barrier..

Factory built homes are nearly undetectable from the street and, often, people cannot recognize, from appearance alone, the difference between a factory built home and a site built home. In New Orleans, manufacturers have been dedicated to creating stock designs that are specific to the New Orleans region. The architectural style of a typical New Orleans “shotgun” style house has been adopted and modified to create new home styles that fit seamlessly in their environments.

For those who need fast, affordable and reliable solutions for their housing problems, modular homes might be the best solution. In contrast to what many people think, modular homes are quite different than manufactured or trailer homes. In fact, they are very similar to site-built homes.

"Factory-Built Home” is a generic term that refers to any home that has been predominately designed and constructed in a controlled factory or plant environment. Factory processes are extremely efficient with materials and, thus, are considered more environmentally friendly. In addition, the factory environment can provide a much greater degree of quality control, compared to on-site construction.

If you're thinking of rebuilding in a new location, and would consider moving to a new community, you can do some "long distance" research on the Internet, but visit the new community before making a decision.

Portal page for information about the advantages and disadvantages of site-built vs factory built homes or home components.

Many homes and other structures that were severely damaged in the Katrina and Rita hurricanes had been built on concrete slabs. The question that is on many homeowners’ minds is “Can I reuse the slab?” This answer will require homeowners to ask other questions that are explained in this article.

Introductory segment from the LSU AgCenter "Ready for Rain" video with overview of flood damage reduction techniques.

Use this checklist to explore and select features and components of a house in Louisiana with healthy indoor air.

Use this checklist to explore and select features and components of a hazard-resistant house in Louisiana.

This "Hurricane Edition" is a guide to flood, wind and water resistance features you can see at the Louisiana House Home and Landscape Resource Center (LaHouse). It was developed during the summer of 2007 for use in mid-construction open houses. Pages will be updated when features become less visible as the house is completed.

Air sealing can be one of the most cost effective ways to reduce energy costs and increase comfort in your home. This fact sheet provides information on the most common places where air leaks in homes and how to fix these leaks.

Garages are great places for vehicular, seasonal, and recreational equipment. A well-organized garage space allows for extra storage capabilities. There are several great ways to fill your garage with ample storage while still maintaining room for vehicles, bikes, barbecue grills, and other large equipment if necessary.

Well-designed bedrooms and bathrooms help lead to happier and more positive attitudes. They are the usually the first and last places you visit in your day and should be designed to be relaxing and comfortable.

Kitchens, laundry areas and home offices are three types of workspace commonly found in the home environment. Despite many differences between the three, all should be designed for efficiency and productivity. Try to avoid spaces that are poorly lit, inconveniently located or overly cramped.

Use this score sheet to rate the efficiency of your kitchen – as it is now and with any planned modifications. It will help you design a more convenient and functional kitchen. Compare your “before” and “after” scores with the rating at the end of this fact sheet. (PDF Format Only)

A majority of home-buying and building decisions are made people are in the prime of life and health. Often, primary considerations are safety for children, budget, color, floor plan, neighborhood and school districts. In a society where people live longer and where many medical conditions are treatable, planning for future lifestyles and physical limitations can be very important. This article gives some suggestions on how to design for future accessibility.

A variety of costs -- not just the construction cost -- should be considered when planning a coastal home. Owners should be aware of these costs and consider how siting and design decisions will affect these costs. This information is part of FEMA's Home Builder's Guide to Coastal Construction Technical Fact Sheet Series (FEMA 499).

The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) has requirements for repairs, remodeling and additions. This fact sheet provides recommendations for exceeding those minimum requirements and it lists opportunities for retrofitting in coastal flood hazard areas. SOURCE: Home Builder's Guide to Coastal Construction FEMA 499: Technical Fact Sheet 30.

In inland areas, experience has shown that floods damage areas of buildings not elevated above the flood level and destroy contents of those areas. In coastal areas, wave action causes even more damage, often destroying enclosed building areas below the flood level (and any building areas above the flood level that depend on the lower area for structural support). Source: Home Builder's Guide to Coastal Construction Technical Fact Sheet Series: Fact Sheet 4.

Our predecessors in Louisiana avoided floods by vacating the floodplains during flood season or by building their homes on higher ground and, even then, on piers.

The durability of a coastal home relies on the types of materials used to construct it. Materials and construction methods should be resistant to flood and wind damage, driving rain, corrosion, moisture and decay. SOURCE: Home Builder's Guide to Coastal Construction FEMA 499: Technical Fact Sheet 8.

Many factors affect and limit a home builder's or owner's ability to site coastal residential buildings. Building failures are often the result of poor siting. SOURCE: Home Builder's Guide to Coastal Construction FEMA 499: Technical Fact Sheet 7.

Universal design means creating spaces that meet the needs of all people, young and old, abled and disabled. From the arrangement of the rooms to the choice of colors, many details go into the creation of accessible spaces. Some general guidelines are listed here.

As foam insulation becomes more popular, more an more products are making their way to the market. Often, the proper use of a foam insulation product is very specific, and spelled out in the building code. This page provides links to ICC-ES Evaluation Reports for several foam insulation products.

Energy efficiency can be improved by upgrading several systems on the home. There are a variety of incentive programs. This page provides links to building information and incentives for each of the home systems.

An accessible home incorporates adaptation and accommodation preparations and installations in living and work areas that can make a dwelling safe and functional to the residents for a lifetime. Making a home more accessible for life is a good investment on every level.

It is no secret that the bathroom is the site of many home accidents. Many people take measures to reduce the possibility of injuries—most notable by reducing “slipperiness” with higher friction mats, coatings and by attaching “safety tread” type materials. This is a good start, but, it is only the beginning.

A kitchen is often thought of as the “heart of the home.” For generations, families and friends have gathered in the kitchen to make and break bread and to engage in a wide range of social activities. Today, we live longer than our predecessors did and as a result, are less likely to be as dexterous as we once were and significantly less mobile.

Gerald Brennan was 84 years old when he observed, “Old age takes away from us what we have inherited and gives us what we have earned.” He was referring to those physical capacities we are born with, but, if some of the things we have earned over time such as our unique identities and our homes, then circumstances and old age may well take those away from us also.

Trees and shrubs can provide a valuable buffer zone that can reduce storm damage to homes and property. Trees can be classified as hurricane survivor trees or hurricane victim trees.

New homes in flood prone areas are protected from flood damage by building living space above expected flood levels. Learn more about elevated foundations and development regulations.

Knowing how the sun moves over your particular site will enable you to design more energy efficient and livable spaces.

Structured wiring, upgradeable packages and accessible installations can make a home adaptable to advances in telecommunications and automation without major renovation. Special baseboard and crown moldings designed to route cabling behind it are available. Plan ahead!

Universal design is design for life. The goal is safe and independent living for just about anyone, any age, any size and any ability. With thoughtful planning and product choices for a new home, universal design can be achieved at little or no extra cost.

Information in this section will help you maintain good indoor air quality in your Louisiana house by minimizing health hazards such as mold, dust mites, combustion pollutants and other common indoor air contaminants.

Use this list of guidelines to develop a convenient (family friendly and functional) kitchen plan.

Plan your home with dual purpose rooms and ample storage, room to maneuver, designed to grow with your family.

A functional, accessible and adaptable home will give you and your family room to breathe, room to work, room to play and the potential to expand. It will have adaptable spaces and systems for your changing needs, including advanced wiring so you can take advantage of today's technologies. If you employ universal design techniques, your home will be more visitable - perhaps fully accessible - by family and friends who have impaired mobility.

Landscapers have not been greatly affected by subterranean termites, but they are increasingly challenged by the Formosan subterranean termite. The actions of landscapers impact the risks of subterranean termites. Landscapers should educate themselves on this and other subterranean termites and alter their practices to reduce the risk of subterranean termites entering structures and to slow the spread of the Formosan subterranean termite.

Formosan subterranean termites are more aggressive and cause more damage than native subterranean termite species because of special biological attributes.

Adjusting certain elements of architecture, construction and landscaping can help in Integrated Pest Management.

Many homeowners who own a property built of wood have had problems with wood-destroying organisms. In United States, termites, and decay fungus cause more than $2 billion in damage to buildings every single year. In order to protect their home from these organisms, homeowners need to know what to look for, how to treat problems that arise, and how to keep their homes free of decay and termites.

Here is a checklist you can use to take steps to make your home termite-resistant.

Use this checklist to explore and select features and components of an energy-efficient house in Louisiana.

When calm returns after the storm, it’s time to assess the damage and begin repairs. A number of factors should be considered, and the following information may be helpful.

Hiring a qualified contractor for mold remediation is not required, but is generally safer and more effective than a “do-it-yourself” approach.

Although it is uncommon in most homes, toxic mold, also known as black mold, has become a major issue for some home builders and homeowners in the United States. The effects have run the gamut from disposal to litigation. An understanding of the mold issue from these points of view can aid private companies, public policy makers and extension professionals in developing and disseminating unbiased, useful information to these and other groups.

Each year about 300 deaths and 175,000 serious injuries occur in the United States because people don't properly use ladders. This article lists some "Do's and Don'ts" for using a portable ladder.

Cleaning up wood debris after a hurricane or other severe wind storm can inadvertently spread one of Louisiana’s most destructive pests – the Formosan subterranean termite. The highest concentrations of this termite in the continental United States are in Lake Charles and New Orleans, cities flooded following Hurricanes Rita and Katrina.

Cleanup after a disaster can be a major problem. Debris from trees, shrubs and buildings may be everywhere. Even though extra resources may be provided, it may be some time before collection is possible. Debris removal will reduce the potential for nesting by rodents, snakes and insects, or it will, at least, keep those infestations in a concentrated area away from the home.

Hurricane season is right around the corner, officially starting on June 1. Are you ready?

Preserving and maintaining the great benefits of having an older home will take time, commitment, and money.

Restoration of a home may afford a good opportunity to change the way you use existing space in the home.

This part of the web site will present information related to clearing a demolition site or a new building site in preparation for building a home.

In this section we describe the construction process from getting bids, to contracting, to closing out the project.

Read the following articles on safety and take all necessary precautions when rebuilding your home.

Portal page for information about managing a construction project so building officials can and do inspect the work at appropriate times and with successful outcomes.

This section of the web provides information about designing the landscape to serve the needs of the homeowner, whether for children playing or moments of quiet reflection. Information also relates to landscape designs based on maintenance requirements and needs for shade or shielding from the wind.

The healthy and eco-friendly home is designed and built to protect both the indoor environment and the outdoor environment, by reducing indoor pollutants, conservation natural resources, managing waste and waste-water and using materials that reduce pollution in their fabrication and transportation to the site.

Seek out incentive programs that could help you create a high performance home. When you “build green,” you not only get a home that is earth friendly and healthy, you are doing your part to help our nation and preserve our way of life for the coming generations.

More does not always mean better. Learn the importance of building a house that is marketable, cost-efficient, and will keep its value for years to come.

Your ideal house will remain only a dream if it is not practical, cost-effective and reasonably easy to maintain. Build with locally available materials using labor-saving methods. Consider not just the purchase and installation cost of materials and systems, but also their life-cycle costs; lower operating costs off-set higher initial investments. Consider also the future marketability of your ideal home.

Low maintenance surfaces and products can enhance and add value to your home.

Portal to information about selection of building materials on the basis of aesthetics, strength and other performance characteristics.

Portal page for the section on Housing Industry Professionals, including Real Estate, Insurance, Code Enforcement, Banking, Surveying, Design Professionals and Contractors.

Portal Page for information about preparing yourself and your family financially for a home purchase or home restoration project.

Debris can be hazardous. It often has sharp or rough edges. It may cause falls. Some debris may contain hazardous material such as asbestos, lead or fiberglass, or it may have been contaminated with chemicals or germs by the flood or storm.

This 2-day course will acquaint participants with FEMA’s Coastal Construction Manual and involve discussion of best practices for the design and construction of residential buildings built in coastal environments.

As we track the progress of reconstruction in hurricane recovery and as new products, systems and technoglogies come into the state, we will add to this section. Learn about current educational efforts that may be useful as you build, rebuild or restore your home - and tell us about innovations and educational opportunities we haven't heard about.

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A great deal of moisture can move from the ground into and through a foundation and floor system, which can lead to decay, mold under flooring and high indoor humidity. To prevent these problems, keep rainwater away from the foundation with a 5% slope (6 inches/10 feet) of the grade around the house, prevent materials from absorbing water, drain groundwater with underground drainage before it gets to the foundation and allow the moisture in a foundation to escape.

Homes in Flood Hazard Areas require special foundations to ensure stability. This article addresses foundation requirements for homes built in wave-action areas.

Your goal for home design and construction is to create a house that meets your immediate and long-term needs for space, function and aesthetics; keeps you comforable and safe by managing heat and humidity; drains and dries when water gets in; and resists damage from floods, high winds, freezing conditions, flying debris and termites. Your home will be more marketable if it ahcieves these goals while being practical and convenient. Includes links to checklists

To overcome the forces that wind places on a building, construction of the walls with connectors and sheathing is important.

Preventing wind damage involves strengthening areas where things could come apart. The walls, roof and foundation must be strong, and the attachments between them must be strong and secure.

The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) provides Increased Cost of Compliance (ICC)coverage to pay up to $30,000 for the cost of compliance with State or local floodplain managementlaws or ordinances (II1.D of the Standard Flood Insurance Policy (SFIP)). In the event the requiredmitigation measures are not completed within two years from the date of the state's or community'sdeclaration of substantial damage and order that mitigation measures be taken, the ICC claim cannotbe paid a

With few exceptions, if you live in Louisiana you should have flood insurance. Flood damage is not covered under your homeowner's insurance policy. A flood without insurance is a terrible financial setback.

Since November 2005, home building and home restoration in Louisiana are subject to provisions of the State Uniform Construction Code, which is adpated from the International Residential Code. These codes contain provisions that address resistance to flood, wind and rain damage, termite infestation, and decay. Whether you are bound by code, or simply because you recognize these threats to durability, there are things you can do to reduce your vulnerability.

Integrated pest management (IPM) may be defined as the intelligent selection, integration and use of actions to manage a pest while attempting to achieve favorable economic, ecological and sociological consequences.

Building safer, stronger, smarter means your home is built to last. It will withstand the challenges of being in a hot-humid, rainy climate and resist damage from flood, wind, fire, and other natural hazards. It uses multiple methods to prevent destruction by Formosan subterranean termites and other damaging pests, and optimizes sun, shade, technologies and construction methods to provide indoor climate control with minimal consumption of energy. It is both durable and energy-efficient.

This article traces the origins of raised floor home construction back to its vernacular form and questions why we do not build this way anymore. It shows the architectural diffusion of this building style and then introduces the ranch, or slab on grade, house. The article explains why a shift in building practices was made in Louisiana, the pit-falls of having made such a change, and gives recommendations for the future.

If you have a problem with rising water, there are six approaches you can take to preventing damage in future floods: elevate the building, block the water in the yard, seal the building, use materials that water won't hurt, and elevate appliances and systems.

Flooding affects everyone in Louisiana, if for no other reason than the reality that management of flood risk and response to flood events consumes public resources (tax dollars).

Not all jobs can be done safely with a ladder or by one person with a ladder. Serious falls are common; every year about 300 deaths and 175,000 serious injuries occur in the United States. Read this article for safety tips when using a ladder.

This page will connect you with hurricane, weather and stream data resources for Louisiana.

One sure vestige of a hurricane or bad blow is a large, dead area of the lawn. It usually is located near curbside, or anwhere yard debris is piled up for many days. Some spots can be avoided by careful debris management; others are inevitable and will require restoration.

Articles in this channel contain information you can use to construct a new lawn that will compliment construction work on your home.

Hurricanes and heavy rains can create excessively wet soil that, when combined with high temperatures, can create stressful, and potentially destructive, conditions for bedding plants, perennials, vegetables, shrubs and even trees. If floodwaters have covered any part of your landscape, here are a few tips...

Ornamental grasses are an often overlooked group of herbaceous perennials that thrive in the Louisiana climate and will grow beautifully with minimal effort. It’s time to get beyond lawn grasses and take a look at this other category of grassy plants. You’ll really appreciate what they can add to your landscape.

A lawn can be as functional as it is beautiful if planned properly. Recommended varieties, degree of shade, planting and establishment and other site considerations are included. (PDF Format Only)

It's best to get professional cleaners to work on carpets and floors, but this may not be possible. In any case, begin cleanup as soon as possible.

This is a guide for flood and hurricane recovery information, including financial assistance.

Steps to rid your refrigerator and freezer of noxious odors after a power outage.

Appliances made wet by floodwaters or by rainwater after roofs were damaged will need extreme care before reuse. This care will be important to protecting the life of the appliance and your safety.

Preliminary repairs are meant to keep damage from getting worse. Any temporary structural repairs that can be made will require some creativity since there’s likely to be a shortage of materials.

Not all jobs can be done safely with a ladder or by one person with a ladder. Serious falls are common; every year about 300 deaths and 175,000 serious injuries occur in the United States. Read this article for safety tips when using a ladder.

Structures damaged by the storm are particularly attractive and provide easy access for rodents. The unwelcome pests can damage property and, in extreme cases, pose a potential health problem.

Many snakes, like other residents in the path of a major storm, have been displaced and left homeless. As a result, it is commonplace to find these animals seeking shelter and food in areas close to people.

Floodwater may be contaminated. Includes information on health and safety concerns, using caution with floodwater and other safety tips.

After a major storm or flood, you must assume that all water sources are contaminated until proved safe. Food that has been contaminated by floodwaters should also be handled carefully.

Even when the disaster has passed, major health and safety hazards remain. Serious injury can result for anyone dealing with the aftermath of a major storm, so it's wise to be overly cautious.

The Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) is a tool developed by, or under contract to, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to rate flood insurance policies sold through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

Flood Insurance Rate Maps, or FIRMs, are used to determine flood insurance rates and premiums. This fact sheet explains the use of FIRMs. SOURCE: FEMA 499: Home Builder's Guide to Coastal Construction Technical Fact Sheet Series Technical Fact Sheet 3.

Floodwalls and levees are self-supporting barriers to floodwater. They keep the building dry and protect it from, unequal water pressure on building walls, erosion at the foundation and damage by floating debris.

Oil began spilling into the Gulf of Mexico from a broken drilling structure at the Deepwater Horizon site on the gulf floor nearly a mile underwater 50 miles off the coast of Venice, Louisiana on April 20, 2010.

If you rent or lease an apartment, house or business building and the structure is damaged in a natural disaster, read your lease carefully to determine what you need to do regarding damages, terminating the lease, securing temporary housing and other matters.

The following steps should be taken to file an insurance claim for disaster damage to your home.

LaHouse is a showcase for best practices and code-plus construction. Its flood- and wind-resistance features meet or exceed the criteria of the Fortified for Safer Living program of the Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS). LaHouse showcases multiple solutions across a range of price points, integrating durability with other goals of sustainability: resource efficient, healthy, practical and convenient. (PDF Format Only)

Installation of any of these back-flow valves below in an existing sewer line is dirty work, but not technically challenging. View a photographic sequence of installing a simple flap valve.

“You got some bones to get some kicks.” “Backup your grill, you got the dragon.” “Boo, let’s go flossin.” Do these phrases seem like a foreign language? If you answered yes to this question, get the lowdown on teen lingo.

Drinking enough fluids is important during our hot summer weather – especially for senior citizens, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames.

The wind hazard zones for Louisiana are shown in the Wind Speed Map. Minimum design standards for wind loading have been developed by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), and are referenced in the International Building Code and International Residential Code at the International Code Council (ICC) website http://www.iccsafe.org.

Natural disasters often bring an influx of con artists looking for ways to take advantage of the suffering and confusion. Consider these tips to protect yourself and your money.

Books make great holiday gifts for your preschooler. They can be fun and engage your child’s developing mind.

Louisiana residents can learn how to operate chainsaws more safely through workshops offered by the LSU AgCenter.

LSU AgCenter coastal resources agent Mark Shirley had hoped to bring a group of students back to a plot near Holly Beach where they had planted marsh grass during the 4-H Marsh Maneuvers program in July. But, after driving for several miles on La. 82 between Holly Beach and Johnson’s Bayou last weekend, Shirley gave up on his hope to find the transplanted grass, which apparently fell victim to Hurricane Rita’s wrath.

The rains brought on by hurricanes and tropical storms can lead to more mosquitoes. That means Louisiana residents have even more reasons to protect themselves from mosquito bites and the diseases mosquitoes can carry if storms head our way.

Camp Grant Walker is one of the shelters for people seeking refuge from Hurricane Katrina.

When home heating costs get uncomfortable, there is a lot you can do to control how much energy you need to use to stay warm.

Volunteers are needed to assist with a variety of tasks.

It’s not necessary to buy all the equipment you need for your lawn and garden – especially for short-term use like storm cleanup.

After the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, Global Green USA made a dedicated commitment to sustainable building in New Orleans and the Gulf Coast. As part of that commitment, Global Green, in partnership with Brad Pitt, sponsored an international design competition during the summer of 2006. The result is a zero energy affordable housing development in the Holy Cross Neighborhood of the Lower 9th Ward.

This house, completed in May 2008, is one in a series of prototypes designed and built by Tulane University's URBANbuild. This house meets the new 3-feet advisory base flood elevation, and is built for 140 mph winds, which exceeds the wind-resistance requirements of the state uniform construction codes for this area.

LaHouse Resource Center is a Gulf Region Healthy Homes Training Center partner of the National Healthy Homes Training Center and Network. Lessons taught at the Center promote practical and cost-effective methods for making homes healthier.

The Louisiana State Uniform Construction Code Council has developed a Web site filled with valuable information concerning the Louisiana Uniform Construction Code.

LaHouse showcases four types of construction: Standard 2 x 4 Framing, Advanced 2 x 6 Framing, Structural Insulated Panel Systems (SIPS) and Insulating Concrete Forms (ICF).

Capital Region Builders Association featured this Model Home on in Prarieville, in the 2007 Parade of Homes. This home is designed and built to meet code requirements for 120 mph wind speeds and the energy efficiency requirements of the International Residential Code.

LaHouse is committed to be a key resource for contractors, designers, code officials and homeowners in shaping the future with sustainable, high performance homes. We will continue to build upon this Online Training Center to assist the gulf region.

The Rebuilding Information Station was an outreach center at the New Orleans Lakefront, set up to assist homeowners in managing the rebuilding of their hurricane damaged homes through information, education and outreach. Partners in the Station were the LSU AgCenter, University of New Orleans Center for Hazards Assessment, Response and Technology, Tulane City Center and The Road Home program. it closed August 31, 2009.

LaHouse is a showcase for best practices and code-plus construction. Its flood and wind resistance features meet or exceed the criteria of the "Fortified...for Safer Living" program of the Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS). Many of the water-resistance techniques are best construction practices; some are required by code.

Windows and doors at LaHouse are selected and sized to meet the cojde-specified design pressure rating for a 130 mph wind zone. Where windows and doors are not impact rated units, they are protected by shutter, panels or screens. Windows and doors are flashed so water drains to the outside, not into the wall cavity.

The roofs at LaHouse are predominantly hip-style for greatest wind resistance. Both metal and simulated clay tile are demonstrated with high-wind installation.

LaHouse has a flood protection level 3 feet above Base Flood Elevation, using three elevated foundations on the house and dry-floodproofingon the non-residential building (garage/classroom). Wind and moisture protection are also addressed.

Walls at LaHouse are wind and water resistant. Sheathing and hardware contribute to shear, lateral and uplift resistance. Layering and taping of housewraps and flashings provide resistance to water and moisture penetration. Drainage planes exclude water that penerates exterior finishes.

LaHouse has several features for flood and wind and water resistance that are not captured in the building component descriptions. These include a Safe Room, Dry Floodproofing, anchoring of the flat roof of the breezeway, porct protection and closets, ground sloping away from the foundation, back-flow protection and elevated utility systems.

Good performance of the HVAC systems depends on eliminating leaks in the plenum and ducting system and reducing friction within the ducts themselves. This 3-part video shows how to accomplish these goals, which also reduce attic air infiltration into the system.

Construction techniques used by Cameron Parish residents rebuilding their homes will be featured during a tour of homes on September 23, 2007, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

As many Louisiana residents struggle to rebuild their homes and their lives in the aftermath of hurricanes Katrina and Rita, homeowners, builders and code officials need help building safer, stronger homes that will resist hurricane damage. They also need help understanding and implementing the newly adopted residential building code. The Capital Region Builders Association (CRBA) has been at the forefront of educational efforts, offering a series of code workshops and model homes.

Through the talent, dedication and generosity of Remson-Haley Architects, Inc., Louisiana House now has two designs.

Character education art activities and resources including hats, masks, bookmarks, puppets, etc.

LaHouse will have the benefit and notoriety of being a Dept. of Energy Building America (BA) Partner, receiving free technical assistance from not just one, but two renowned BA teams.

The third and final Louisiana House location, master site plan and house design were officially approved by the LSU Board of Supervisors in April 2002.

The LaHouse designs and plans are the culmination of an amazing collection of local and internationally recognized expertise – all offered gratis to the cause.

On November 21, 2000, about 100 supporters and interested stakeholders gathered at the site of the Louisiana House Learning Center (LaHouse) for the Site Premier. LSU AgCenter Chancellor Bill Richardson unveiled the site plan showing what is planned for the fully developed six-acre tract.

Since the inception of the idea for Louisiana House, landscape and horticulture features have been an integral part of the project.

Paula Manship was honored with a ceremonial tree planting at the Louisiana House Site Premier for her generous contribution of $100,000 to support landscaping the six-acre Louisiana House Learning Center site on November 21, 2000. With this gift to the LSU Foundation for the LaHouse Project, Mrs. Manship became the first Louisiana House Diamond Key Contributor.

Lead poisoning is not just a problem in crumbling housing in inner cities. It's a common tragic result of remodeling older homes and other sources. Small exposures, once thought harmless, can cause serious, permanent damage to the brain.

Use this checklist to explore and select components of a "high performance" home in the southern region -- one that provides the benefits of durability, energy efficiency, healthy indoor air, comfort, convenience and more.

We offer online interative, video education on best building practices AND the Gulf Region High Peformance (GRHP) Home Professional designation to recognize professionals who have completed a core GRHP educational program and passed a test to verify knowledge.

Even though Louisiana falls are usually dry, rain eventually comes. After long, extended wet periods, a sinister looking fungus or slime may appear, attacking lawns in the cooler season ahead.

Even though Louisiana falls are usually dry, rain eventually comes. After long, extended wet periods, a sinister looking fungus or slime may appear, attacking lawns in the cooler season ahead.

Hurricanes put a lot of limbs and whole trees on the ground in various areas of the state, and many people already are working on cleanup efforts. An LSU AgCenter forest safety specialist says safety should be a major consideration during those efforts – particularly when it comes to use of a chainsaw.

After taking a firsthand look at the needs of New Orleans, officials with investment banking firm Goldman Sachs decided to lend some helping hands plus cash to the recovery effort.

It is wise to periodically review your important papers. The following guide to record keeping will help you work out a personalized and efficient system for preserving and safeguarding important family papers. Moreover, it will provide a handy reference for deciding what items to keep, why you need to keep them, how long to keep them and where to keep them.

Whether you are just replacing a few shingles or have damage that requires you to strip your roof down to the rafters, you can take steps at every stage of work to minimize future storm damage. In addition, for new construction and substantial remodeling or repair, you’ll have to meet residential building codes designed to reduce potential roof damage from storms.

Any home repair or remodeling work you do presents an opportunity to help your home fare better in the next storm. Whether you are just replacing siding or you have damage that's requiring you to completely remove all the wall coverings – inside or outside – you can work to minimize future storm damage at every stage of the project.

Any home repair or remodeling work you do presents an opportunity to help your home fare better in the next storm. Whether you are just replacing siding or you have damage that's requiring you to completely remove all the wall coverings – inside or outside – you can work to minimize future storm damage at every stage of the project.

If you live in Louisiana, your primary objective in raising a home is likely to be flood avoidance, even if you’re not in an identified flood hazard area. Elevation is the most effective on-site method of reducing future flood damage.

Whether you are just replacing a few shingles or have damage that requires you to strip your roof down to the rafters, you can take steps at every stage of work to minimize future storm damage. In addition, for new construction and substantial remodeling or repair, you’ll have to meet residential building codes designed to reduce potential roof damage from storms.

LSU AgCenter faculty members are working on plans to put the Formosan subterranean termite research project in New Orleans’ French Quarter back on track after the recent hurricanes.

LSU AgCenter faculty members are working on plans to put the Formosan subterranean termite research project in New Orleans’ French Quarter back on track after the recent hurricanes.

Asthma is a disease that makes it difficult to breathe during an attack. Asthma attacks are set off by triggers,which are different for different people.

The Character Critters storybook is ideal for parents or grandparents to read to their children or grandchildren. The storybook includes six separate stories that talk about being fair, trustworthy, responsible, respectful, caring and a good citizen. Cost: $7 plus tax and shipping. You can order this book through our online store by using the Order Publication link below. Visa, MasterCard and American Express credit cards accepted.

Those popular Character Critters are back, learning new lessons about good character! It is a story-and-activity approach to teaching character featuring stories of six charming critters learning about good character. There are six individual stories told on 30 storytelling posters with story illustrations on one side and the story script on the other. Implementation guide also included. Cost: $40 plus tax and shipping. Click on the Order Publication link below.

Teaching children about good character can be fun! Kit 1 is designed for early childhood educators and others who work with 4-year-olds and 5-year-olds. There are six individual stories told on 30 storytelling posters with story illustrations on one side and the story script on the other. Implementation guide also included. Cost: $40 plus tax and shipping. Click on the Order Publication link below. Visa, MasterCard and American Express credit cards accepted..

LaHouse's landscape features are designed to be both practical and adaptable.