Water Mitigation with Putman Restoration

On a stormy day in Shreveport, Kings Highway Church was struck by lightning, causing significant damage to the roof and creating a path for water intrusion. Thanks to the swift response of the Shreveport Fire Department, the situation was quickly assessed and stabilized. But as with any lightning strike, the aftermath left behind water damage that needed immediate attention to prevent further issues inside the historic church building.

The Impact of the Lightning Strike

The strike caused visible damage to the clay tile roof, dislodging tiles and leaving openings that allowed rainwater to seep inside. While the fire danger was quickly addressed, the real challenge was the secondary damage—water intrusion that could threaten the building’s interior, structure, and electrical systems if left untreated.

The Role of Putman Restoration

Enter Putman Restoration, a trusted local partner in water mitigation and property restoration. Their team arrived promptly to evaluate the damage and implement a plan to protect the church from further harm.

Key Steps in the Mitigation Process:

1. Emergency Tarping & Roof Protection
   Openings in the roof were secured with heavy-duty tarps to prevent additional rainwater from entering.
2. Water Extraction & Drying
   Any water that had entered the building was carefully removed. Industrial drying equipment was set up to ensure no lingering moisture remained in walls, ceilings, or flooring.
3. Moisture Monitoring
   Specialized tools measured humidity and moisture levels, ensuring the building materials were completely dried to prevent mold growth.
4. Preserving a Historic Landmark
   Because Kings Highway Church is a historic structure, every effort was made to preserve the building’s original materials while ensuring safety and long-term stability.

Community Partnership at Work

This repair effort highlights the importance of partnership and preparedness. The Shreveport Fire Department’s quick action minimized immediate risks, and Putman Restoration’s expertise ensured that water damage would not compromise the integrity of the church.

Looking Ahead

Repairs are ongoing, but the church community remains strong and hopeful. While a lightning strike is a sudden and frightening event, it has also served as a reminder of the resilience of Kings Highway Church and the importance of caring for our historic spaces.

We are grateful for the hard work of Putman Restoration, the Shreveport Fire Department, and the church members who continue to support the restoration process.