Dry Rot Treatment

What is dry rot?

Dry rot is a particularly harmful type of wood decay caused by a fungus known as Serpula lacrymans. What makes dry rot dangerous is its ability to spread quickly, even through dry materials like masonry. It thrives in damp conditions, feeding off timber and can cause extensive damage if not treated promptly.

Dry rot is particularly difficult to detect as it often spreads behind walls, under floors, and through cavities. If you suspect dry rot, it’s essential to act fast. Damp HQ offers professional dry rot surveys and treatments to safeguard your property.

Book a Dry Rot Survey or call us at 07795 550911 to arrange a no-obligation inspection.

What causes dry rot?

Dry rot develops when timber is exposed to moisture. The fungus needs a timber moisture content of at least 28% to grow, although it flourishes in levels between 35-45%.

Common causes include:
Although pre-treated wood has some protection, dry rot can still attack and spread over treated timber, especially in high-moisture environments. As the fungus matures, it produces rust-coloured fruiting bodies, releasing spores that travel through the air, potentially causing more damage elsewhere.

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Signs of dry rot

Dry rot can sometimes be mistaken for other types of timber decay, so it’s important to recognise the warning signs.

Look out for:
White or grey sheet-like structures spreading across wood or walls
Timber breaking into large cube-like pieces.
A strong, unpleasant odour resembling mushrooms
Skirting boards, doors, or window frames pulling away from the walls
Feeling spongy when walked on
Timbers that easily crumble or break

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If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to get an expert opinion.

Why is dry rot a serious problem?

Dry rot can cause extensive damage to the structure of your home, spreading rapidly from room to room if not treated. It attacks vital structural timber, weakening it to the point of collapse in severe cases. Left untreated, dry rot can significantly lower the value of your property, as buyers will often factor in the cost of repairs.

The faster you address dry rot, the less damage it can do. Our specialists will work quickly to identify the problem and provide an effective treatment plan.

dry rot

What does dry rot treatment involve?

At Damp HQ, we offer a thorough and professional approach to tackling dry rot. Here’s how we deal with it:
Dry rot needs moisture to survive. We begin by locating and getting rid of the source of dampness, whether it’s from a leaking pipe, poor drainage, or condensation.
The next step is to ensure the affected area is properly dried out. Without moisture, the fungus cannot continue to grow.
All infected timber will be carefully cut out and disposed of to prevent further spread. Any surrounding materials that might be affected are also inspected.
We apply an effective fungicidal treatment to all nearby surfaces to kill any remaining spores and protect against future outbreaks.
Finally, we replace any removed wood with pre-treated, rot-resistant timber, ensuring your home is protected for the long term.

How to prevent dry rot?

The best defence against dry rot is to keep your property dry and well-ventilated. Here are a few simple steps:
Proper Ventilation

Ensure sub-floor ventilation is clear and working

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Regular checks

Regularly check for leaks in your pipes, roof, and guttering

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Install DPC

Avoid timber-to-masonry contact by installing a Damp Proof Course (DPC)

For more detailed advice, Explore our Damp Proofing Solutions.

Schedule Your Free Dry Rot Property Survey Now!

Don’t let dry rot spoil your home. Book a survey with Damp HQ and our qualified experts will inspect your property, identify any issues, and provide a solution to keep your home safe and dry.

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