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.

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)

Your new home can be safeguarded by using preservative-treated wood and following an integrated pest management program at the time of construction. (PDF format only)

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.

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.

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.

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.

This guide highlights and clarifies the recognized minimum standards in the International Residential Code (IRC) 2006 base building codes for asphalt roof installation. Manufacturers' installation instructions requirements must be followed to ensure a quality, wind-resistant roof system. (PDF Format Only)

The Formosan subterranean termite was spread to Louisiana around the end of World War II. Described as the most important structural pest of the new millennium, the Formosan subterranean termite is now considered the most destructive insect in Louisiana. This publication includes information on how to decrease the spread of Formosan subterranean termites. (PDF format only)

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.

Rising energy prices, floods and hurricanes happen, but they don’t have to bust your budget, damage your home, rob your time or deny your comfort. (PDF format only)

This guide highlights and clarifies the recognized minimum standards in the IRC base building codes for asphalt roof installation. Manufacturers' installation instructions and requirements must be followed to ensure a quality, wind-resistant roof system. (PDF Format Only)

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.

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)

Did you know the air inside buildings is nearly always more polluted than outside air? Learn the types of indoor air pollution and what you can do. (PDF Format Only)

Many household appliances such as heaters, dryers, ranges, fireplaces and furnaces operate by burning a combustible fuel such as natural gas, propane, wood or other fossil fuel. Appliances of this type (combustion appliances) need proper venting to operate safely. Use the checklist as a starting point for safe venting. (PDF Format Only)

Exhaust fans and exhaust hoods are commonly used in commercial establishments to promote indoor air quality. A particular safety concern is fire. Safety, cost, maintenance, license, permit and inspection information included. (PDF Format Only)