Timber is a widely used material for the construction of buildings and houses. It is however very vulnerable thus requires constant protection. Dry and wet rot are major threats to structural timber. Wet rot affects wet timber. This fungus is a source of decay in wallpaper, carpets and plaster. Damp materials attract wet rot spores.

Wet rots develop when timber gets moistened from leaking roofing or plumbing, or when the timber absorbs moisture from structures like humid walls. In such scenarios, it is vital to stop the source of moisture or remove the timber from the source before commencing wood rot treatment. It is essential to also treat wood for wet rot even if it is not affected, in order to prevent any outbreaks on untreated timber in the future. Wet rot is generally found in roofs, timber around windows and cellars. If left untreated, wet rot weakens timber, and may become dangerous.

How can I Identify & Treat Wet Rot?

Recognizing wet rot may not be easy every time because the symptoms are like those of dry rot. Identification should be conferred to a professional who can distinguish it from other forms of rot in a number of ways. These include the colour of the decaying timber, and the type and size of the crack the wet rot exhibits as it progresses.

In order to tackle issues caused by wet rot, it is first mandatory to identify and stop the source for wetness. On the other hand, you can isolate the affected timber from the damp before commencing treatment. Extreme cases would require that you replace the affected timber, which can be expensive. Nevertheless, you can use a fungicide to arrest most wet rot cases. In addition, you can purchase and apply wet rot wood hardeners that penetrate and strengthen the timber. These products are best suited for windows and doors frames.

The severity of the wet rot determines the cost of treatment. At Southern Damp Proofing, we have a variety of highly effective and certified products costing between £12.50 for 5 litres and £28.50 for 1 litre of concentrate double treatment. Widespread damage would mean costly treatment. In order to determine the extent of the rot, you will need to open up the affected areas. This will mean removing flooring, plaster and lifting floorboards. You should then be in a good position to identify the infected timbers. After you identify the affected timbers, it is advised that you cut back the timber in-situ to about 500mm from the last indication of fungal growth. Note that you should also treat uninfected timber to prevent any case of future outbreaks.

Wet Rot Related services in London

  • 01Wet Rot Prevention & TreatmentsRead more
  • 02What is Wet RotRead more
  • 03What Causes Wet RotRead more
  • 04Wet Rot vs Dry RotRead more
  • 05Symptoms of Wet RotRead more
  • 06How to stop Wet RotRead more
  • 07How to Prevent Wet RotRead more

Wet Rot Prevention

Wet wood is vulnerable to wet rot, so the surefire way to protect your structural timber is to keep them dry. Although this sounds like common sense, it is also true that the simplest method isn’t possible every time.

In most cases, timber gets wetted because of plumbing problems and structural defects. You will need to check and ensure that your dishwasher and washing machine are well connected and not leaking. Similarly, check that your roof is not missing any slates and correct misplaced ones to prevent the entry of rainwater into your building. You will be required to remove any timber weakened by deep rot. You can identify weakened timber by looking out for wet, decaying and cracked timber that is frequently accompanied by fungus growth.

Consequently, timber can be wet and go unnoticed. This applies to roof voids and timbers under floors. For such cases, it is essential to get a certified timber infestation professional to evaluate it. This is especially critical when purchasing an older house, after experiencing a leak or flooding, and when maintaining a listed house.

Lastly, keep a keen eye out for any signs of recurring wet rot. You will have less work dealing with it if you catch it sooner.

Approved specialists for your peace of mind

The Institute of Wood Preserving and Damp Proofing have examined and approved us to make sure that we know our stuff when dealing with both wet and dry rot. Our assurance is the CSRT letters that come after the names of our surveyors.

Reliability and integrity are as important as knowledge is, which is where our membership in the Property Care Association comes in. Our work standards and surveys are regularly audited by the PCA. In addition, we strictly apply the Surveyors Code of Ethics mandated by the PCA, which is intended to safeguard you from poor service.

While domestic customers have the added safety of knowing that we are also registered with Trustmark, Local Authority and commercial clients can be comforted by our Construction line listing and CHAS accreditation. Our treatments consist of modern ‘green’ preservatives. Every one of our technicians is licensed and well trained in damp proofing and timber treatment, so we can guarantee that you’re in safe hands. Reach out to us if you’re in need of a dependable provider of wet rot treatment and prevention services on 020 7971 1329, or send a message and we’ll get back to you.


Frequently Asked Questions on How to Prevent Wet Rot

What are the common causes of wet rot?

Building flaws that have allowed the entry of water into your property. These can consist of rainwater getting in through a leaky roof or a burst pipe running outside your property. Defective plumbing can also cause wet rot, in the case of an ill-fitted washing machine or dishwasher.

Should I be worried about wet rot health problems?

98% of wet rot cases do not warrant any cause for alarm as far as health problems go. Nonetheless, in extreme cases, the spores from wet rot can trigger respiratory problems particularly in children, the elderly, and individuals with poor health. In terms of the health of the building, you should be concerned about the timber in the accompanying area.

Where is wet rot commonly found?

Frequently found in bathrooms (specifically the floors) and kitchens. Rooms with limited ventilation are also a common harbour for wet rot.

What does wet rot smell like?

Wet rot has a musty damp smell. The smell has best been described as earthy- like rotting soil