
Timber that is cracking and beginning to soften. When looking for wet rot, what should you check for? If a programme of timber treatment is not implemented, wet rot can cause structural failure, especially if it infects structural timbers. If dampness raises a timber’s moisture content above 20 per cent, wet rot spores will germinate and grow. The fungi break down the wood’s cell walls and feed on its nutrients. Water feeds and attracts this rot fungus that affects damp timber (decks, around windows, etc.), plaster, wallpaper, and carpets. Simply put, wet rot occurs when high moisture leads to the natural decay of wood. Dry rot will likely require a professional. Address both wet and dry rot as soon as it’s found. Dry rot does not need a source of water ingress because it generates moisture through its digestion of timber. Serpula lacrymans is the scientific name for dry rot. Coniophora puteana or wet rot is a cellar fungus. Wet rot will stop growing if you can remove the source of moisture. Wet rot is less destructive than dry rot. We’ll explore more below, but you might be interested to know that: While both can be damaging, they’re actually quite different. There are two primary types of wood rot: wet rot and dry rot. Thus, remain vigilant and on the lookout around the deck and around the home for rot. Unfortunately, rot is often not discovered until larger issues emerge. #Rottenwood how to
This article covers why it’s essential to be aware of the dangers of rot, how to identify it and what to do if you find it. We also recommend regular inspections of your wood to avoid wood rot and to take proactive measures. Repeated moisture exposure may be lurking beneath your beautiful boards, causing dangerous deterioration.Īt Trex Protect, we fight the rot problem before it starts by covering your joists, bearers, rim joists, and ledger board with waterproof butyl tape.
Rotten wood can be an invisible enemy when it comes to the structural integrity of your garden deck.