Dry Rot

Dry rot is a destructive fungus that feeds on cellulose and hemicellulose - two important ingredients which make wood strong and resilient. The decaying fungi leave the timber weak and vulnerable. Dry rot cannot thrive unless it has access to damp conditions with moisture levels over 20%, so eliminate any sources of moisture whenever possible for maximum protection against dry rot. How does dry rot spread? The dry rot fungus produces spores, which are spread through the air. These will germinate if they land on wood that has had too much exposure to dampness. The location of the wood is an area of the home with excess humidity. There has been direct contact with large quantities of water, for example, flooding from a burst pipe. How to identify dry rot. Look at the wood. At first, the fungus appears like cotton wool and may have water droplets if conditions are too moist. Check for any sunken or shrunken wood pieces. Observe any cracks in the wooden structure. Check for any damaged wood that has been dried out and will peel off easily.