Discover Why Homeowners Should Hire a Dry Rot Specialist

Dry rot can be devastating to a home. If neglected, it can spread quickly and cause irreparable damage to any wood structure it infects. If treated incorrectly, dry rot can be a reoccurring problem that may spread throughout the house.

Here are a few reasons why homeowners hire dry rot specialists:

Dry rot can reoccur

Treating dry rot isn't as simple as removing an infected piece of wood and replacing it with new timber. It's a problem that can reoccur if the proper steps aren't taken. Dry rot is a fungus that targets wood and causes it to darken and crumble into dust. Contrary to its name, the primary cause of dry rot is wood's exposure to moisture.

The water issue must first be identified and addressed to eliminate dry rot. Not doing so will result in the fungus returning. First, find the source of the infection before beginning any further treatment.

Dry rot spreads quickly

Dry rot spreads rapidly. To fully treat the fungus, remove all infected materials to prevent it from contaminating other parts of the home.

Common signs of dry rot

Dry rot can be hard to identify as the infection usually occurs inside wooden structures. However, there are a few common signs, like discoloration and traces of water damage. If wood crumbles or flakes, it's a sure sign of dry rot.

Collections of spore dust can also be a sign of dry rot. Since dry rot is a fungal infection, evidence of spores can indicate that it's infecting the wooden structures within the home. Small hair-like strands growing out of wood are also a sign of fungal growth.

Another sign of wood rot would be a musty smell. Damp wood is a breeding ground for the infection. Therefore, any moist odors can be a tell-tale sign of the fungus.

Where can dry rot be found?

Since water is the primary catalyst for dry rot, any area where wood comes into contact with moisture is a good candidate for infection. Places like window sills, door frames, sidings, and trims may show signs of rot.

The eaves and leaking gutters can be another place where rot can start on your roof. Regarding the house's interior, the bathroom and kitchen should also be checked regularly due to the constant presence of water.

Hire a dry rot expert

Due to the complications of treating dry rot, hiring a specialist is the most effective course of action. Experts know what signs to look for, and they can also gauge how far the infection has spread.