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Dry and Wet Rot Treatment

16/09/2017

Dry and wet rot treatment can sometimes be required to save the fabric of the wooden structures in a property. Dry and wet rot are two of the major causes of timber decay in old and even modern buildings. They are caused by fungal decay and spread by millions of airborne spores. Due to the devastating damage this defect can cause and the costs involved in eradicating it, home buyers are well advised to get a thorough inspection from a RICS surveyor to highlight any of its signs within their property.

You may even find that this defect is spotted by your mortgage lender and as such the mortgage lender won't agree to lend, without an inspection from a dry and wet rot specialist. The report will state:

"There is evidence of dampness to ground floor walls and timber in contact may be defective. You should instruct a damp and timber treatment contractor to investigate the full extent and carry out necessary work."

"Sub-floor ventilation is inadequate and may have allowed defects to occur. You should instruct a timber treatment contractor to investigate the full extent and carry out any necessary work."

If dry or wet rot is highlighted in your mortgage valuation then most mortgage lenders require a specialist in Damp and Timber specialist to attend the property - and this is not a RICS surveyor!

Need a Damp & Timber Specialist? We have national coverage so Call 0333 344 3234 (local call charges apply).

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What is wet rot?

Wet rot occurs more frequently than dry rot but is less serious. It typically only causes decay where timber has become and remains wet.

Signs

Distortion, discolouration, softness and cracking
Loss of strength in the timber
Visible fungal growth may be seen
There may be a damp, musty smell

What is dry rot?

This is caused by serpula lacrymans and is the most serious form of fungal decay in a building. It can spread onto and destroy much of the timber.

Signs

Distinct mushroom smell
White fungal growth with yellow and lilac tinges
Deep cracks appear within the wood
Both soft and hardwoods can be damaged

How much can dry and wet rot cost to remedy?

You need to hire a damp and timber specialist surveyor and, depending on the dry and wet rot treatment needed, the cost can be anything from £200 to more than £3,000 and upwards, simply because you may have to completely replace structural timber.

The most expensive treatments are normally accompanied by an insurance-backed 30-year guarantee.

What does dry and wet rot treatment involve?

Dry Rot Treatment

The source of moisture maintaining the rot has to be located and eliminated. This may involve repairing existing defects such as damaged or overflowing gutters, missing slates, blocked air bricks and so on.
The specialist removes all damaged linings and decayed wood and panelling, skirtings, plaster and celings to ensure there is no further spread of the fungus.
Visible and accessible fungal growth is eliminated.
Remaining timber and brickwork is treated with fungicide to form protective chemical barriers.
Preservative-treated timbers replace all removed beams.

Wet Rot Treatment

The source of damp or water is remedied so that timber moisture is kept to a safe level, below 20%.
Weakened wood is removed.
Remaining timber which might be at risk is treated with fungicide.
Preservative-treated wood is used to replace all removed timber.