Dry rot can commonly be confused for what is in fact wet rot, as the untrained eye sees the decay and ‘strands’ and jumps into panic mode. The defining difference can be found in the moisture content of the affected timbers, or the historical effects of moisture penetration.
The fruiting bodies of ‘dry rot’ are significantly different to that of wet rot, and are often the first indication that a problem is in motion. Strands carrying moisture to the food source (timbers) may also been seen, along with ‘sheets of mycelium’ (white candy floss/cotton like).
To stop further growth you need to cut off the food source – i.e. remove the decayed timbers, improve the ventilation, and allow the area to dry out fully. This process can take many, many months to achieve the stable environment required before reinstalling the new timbers, that is why most preservation companies choose to treat the affected areas with a fungicidal solution, which prevents the dry rot returning, and ensures that the treatment (fitting of new timbers etc.) can be carried out a lot quicker.
Examples of Dry Rot treatments carried out: Dry Rot Examples
If you suspect your property is affected by dry rot, then please get in touch with us by:
Calling 07793680185 (Aberdeen based)
Email: info@mcknightbuildingpreservation
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