While steel and other materials are present in Queensland architecture, the prevalent material for both homes and businesses continues to be timber. From traditional Queenslander homes to modern "plyscrapers," you'll find no shortage of timber structures. This is why it is important to understand the importance of preventing, identifying, and treating timber rot.
The threat of timber rot to structures
There are two types of rot that home and business owners must contend with: dry rot and wet rot. Both are devastating to structures and must be addressed in different ways. Fungus causes both types of rot, but you must approach and treat each one differently. It's important to correctly identify the type of timber rot you are dealing with. This can help you get it under control before it threatens the structure. Timber rot is costly and dangerous, and it must be treated.
Dry rot
Dry rot (Serpula lacrymans) is a destructive fungus that attacks wood. While it attacks growing trees, it primarily targets timber buildings and ships. This happens when the moisture level in the wood exceeds 20%. Dry rot is the most prevalent and destructive form of wood rot. Because it does not require much moisture to spread, the damage can be devastating. Once it takes hold, it is very important to apply fungicide and ensure that you have fully eradicated the fungus, or it will continue to spread.
What to look for
Dry rot is distinguished by the appearance of deep cracks in the wood and a telltale dry, greyish appearance. Even on a painted surface, the significant cracking is a giveaway. The interior of the wood will have discolouration, and there may be the presence of fruiting bodies that shed a reddish dust.
Oftentimes, these types of issues may cause you to ask, "Why has this happened?" - read more about finding the root cause here.
How to treat dry rot
Boric acid (borate) is one of the most effective ways to kill the fungus that causes dry rot. It can also treat new wood to prevent dry rot. Depending on the progression of rot, a simple treatment may be used to stop the rot in its tracks before significant damage takes place. But when there is significant damage already, the wood will need to be replaced. Sometimes, treating the rot by killing the fungus and utilising wood fillers can be sufficient to treat and repair the timber.
It's also important to enlist the help of a professional to ensure that dry rot is rooted out and treated and that any damage is repaired.
Wet rot
Wet rot occurs when wood becomes too wet and takes on damage to its structure as a result of moisture and fungus. While there are multiple varieties of fungus that contribute to wet rot, the most common is Coniophora puteana. This fungus feeds on the wet wood, eventually destroying it. While still bad, wet rot isn't technically as bad as dry rot. It doesn't spread as quickly or as widely.
What to look for
Wet rot is identified by wood that is darker than the surrounding wood, visibly damp, spongy, and cracked or distorted. Wet rot will cause shrinkage and deterioration, as well.
How to prevent wet rot
One of the best ways to prevent wet rot is to prevent the most frequent causes. Leaky pipes and roofs are a major culprit. Have your home or business inspected regularly to catch invisible leaks before they cause a problem. The sooner you catch it, the better.
How to treat wet rot
Professionals can treat wet rot with fungicides and by drying the wood. Wood hardeners can be used to restore integrity, but sometimes wood will need to be replaced, depending on the extent of the damage. The good thing about wet rot is that the fungus needs moisture to survive, so drying the wood will end the problem.
Both wet rot and dry rot can wreak havoc with timber structures. Once the structure's integrity is compromised, the building may be deemed unsafe. The cost involved with repairing and replacing the wood adds up depending on the level of damage. The best course of action is to catch wet rot and dry rot before it happens, or as early in the infestation as possible, to minimise damage and the costs of treatment and repair.
A professional inspection for wood rot should occur regularly or if you suspect that wood rot may be taking place. For example, if you have a leaky roof or discover a plumbing issue that has caused moisture to collect and drain into the floors or basement, it's important to have a professional come out to inspect and evaluate the condition of the wood. They can ensure that no rot has taken place and that there is no threat of rot in the future.
Professional treatment is a must in order to ensure that the problem has been resolved. Wood rot can take place out of sight and with no visible signs of trouble until a great deal of damage has been done. It's best not to take chances, so contact us here at First Response Maintenance Solutions to learn more today.