Call to Book a Survey 0800 0121 437 or Contact Us Online
What is Wet Rot?
Wet rot is one of the most common forms of timber decay. It is a wood-destroying fungus that grows on very damp timber. Compared to dry rot, wet rot requires a significantly higher moisture volume to grow. Thriving in environments with moisture content between 30% - 60%, wet rot can cause serve structural damage if not adequately treated.
If you have concerns your home or business could be experiencing issues with wet rot, arrange a thorough wet rot survey with our experienced team, contact us today on 0800 0121 437 or click the button below to book a survey online.
What Causes Wet Rot?
Wet rot fungus needs a continuous source of moisture to germinate and thrive, as a result, wet rot will only effect internal timber if there is a significant damp problem. Common property maintenance issues that can lead to wet rot include structural defects, broken plumbing or guttering and leaking pipes.
Other damp issues can result in wet rot growth. It is not uncommon to find wet rot where you find rising damp, penetrating damp and condensation.
Where Does Wet Rot Grow?
Wet rot thrives in damp conditions so any timber that comes into contact with excess moisture is at risk from wet rot. However, it is a common problem in rooms like the bathroom and kitchen due to leaking pipes and appliances. Wet rot will also grow in lofts or basements where leaks or humidity are an issue.
Does Wet Rot Spread?
Wet rot cannot spread across masonry and it will only grow on timber where the conditions are suitable, so it is fair to say it is a localised problem that is unlikely to spread. This makes it less of a problem than dry rot, which can spread through a property, but wet rot can still cause significant structural damage wherever it grows. This makes early identification and treatment essential.
How to Identify Wet Rot?
-
Damp Musty Smell - A common sign of damp in properties
-
Darkened Spongy Timber - Affected timber will appear discoloured compared to neighbouring timber
-
Loss of Timber Strength - The texture of effected timber will be soft and spongy, almost bouncy when pressed
-
Localised Fungus Growth - Fungal growth will appear next to the moisture source as the fungus does not spread into the masonry
-
Water Ingress Problems - If your property has experienced issues with damp or leaks in the past, there is a chance wet rot could have contaminated timber under the floorboards or in the wooden beams
How Much of a Problem is Wet Rot?
Wet rot is not as damaging as dry rot, a different fungal timber problem, and the two should not be confused as they require very different treatments. However, wet rot problems can still cause significant structural damage.
Any timber that is affected by wet rot has the potential to weaken to the point that it breaks and the severity of this can vary from damaged floorboards to the collapse of structural beams.
Any home or commercial property can suffer from wet rot if enough moisture is present and the timber is untreated.
The Differences Between Wet Rot and Dry Rot
Wet rot and Dry rot share many similar characteristics. They are both wood-destroying fungi that can impact the structural integrity of your property if left unchecked. Both require a significant amount of moisture to start growing. While dry rot, contrary to the name, does require a source of moisture wet rot requires a continuous source of moisture in comparison.
While dry rot spreads in search of more timber to decay, wet rot remains localised to the source of the moisture, making it a lot easier to treat.
Can I treat wet rot by myself?
Like anything, if you know what you are doing, wet rot can be treated with DIY solutions. However, wet rot treatment can be a time-consuming and risky job for anyone that does not have the right experience, training, fungicide and tools. Also, while cutting out rotten timbers and replacing them can vary in difficulty, the real benefit of a professional treatment is that the root cause of the water ingress will also be fixed and all the work will be guaranteed. This ensures the wet rot problem does not return and offers complete peace of mind.
Wet Rot Treatment
Before wet rot treatment can begin, the source of the moisture is identified and fixed first before treatment on the affected timber to prevent reoccurring outbreaks. During our wet rot treatment plan, our team of expert surveyors and technicians aim to:
- Remove the moisture source and promote rapid drying
- Repair and replace any damaged timbers
- Kill off the existing infestation
- Prevent further attack
To find out more about the professional wet rot treatment on offer from Rentokil Property Care click the button below.
Contact the Experts in Property Care
If you suspect or are unsure if your property could have wet rot problems, we are here to help. Our team of locally-based experts are experienced in identifying, removing and treating against wet rot of any size.
Get in touch with our team by giving us a call on 0800 0121 437 or complete our click on the button below to book a survey online.
