Brown rot, which is also referred to as dry rot, results from fungi and moisture. The wood-destroying fungi are attracted to the moisture, leading to wet rot or dry rot damage. The spores only develop if all the conditions are right for the formation of the decay. Have a look here on how to identify dry rot.
Preventing or Removing Dry Rot
Brown rot can be stopped. It can also be treated or removed. When the rot occurs, the fungi have already broken down the elements that strengthen wood. These components are known as hemicellulose and cellulose. In turn, the timber is left brittle and weak and features a blocky look. Dry rot affects only damp timber with moisture content over 20%. As a result, anyone eradicating the problem must address the moisture issue first.
How the Moisture Develops
Dry rot fungi create spores that also spread throughout the air. The spores automatically germinate if they settle on moist wood. This moisture may develop from one of the following sources.
- Timber that has not been kiln-dried correctly before its use as a building material
- Timber that is located in a space that has a high amount of humidity
- A burst pipe or a flood that has affected the timber
To grow, spores that form dry rot in Hinckley must have moisture and a source of food (timber) as well as warm temperatures and oxygen. Usually, the climate is ideal if the temperature is around 20 degrees Celsius. If you do not eradicate dry rot, the wood can decompose.
Identifying Dry Rot
To identify brown rot, a dry rot professional will look for the following:
- A fungus that resembles cotton wool. It may also feature water droplets.
- Shrunken or sunken timbers.
- Cracks or darkening in the structure of the timber.
- A skin-like growth that resembles a mushroom with greyish or silvery hues. The growth often peels easily and is patterned with a patch of pale yellow or purple.
Preventing Moisture in the Home
After a dry rot treatment, homeowners can prevent the formation of moisture by taking the following measures:
- Make sure that exterior wood is entirely primed before it is painted.
- Have the roofing checked annually to confirm and repair any water damage, dry rot, or mould.
- Gutters should be inspected and in good shape.
- Brown rot often forms from plumbing leaks. Make sure that your pipes and toilets are not leaking.
- All areas of the home should receive a good amount of ventilation to remove excess humidity.
- If you have a deck, have it sealed. Also, if you build a deck, make sure that it slopes slightly to direct excess water away from your home.
- Position the sprinklers in your yard, so the water spray does not reach your home’s outside trim.
Take Immediate Measures Today If You Have a Dry Rot Problem
If you have a problem with brown rot, you need to take measures now to have the problem eradicated. Take preventative measures to reduce the moisture that leads to the formation of the decay. The more you know about brown rot, the easier it will be to end the problem permanently.