Water Damage Can Lead To Wet Wood Rot

Wood rot is often the result of extensive water damage to a home. But you don't have to have been slammed by a flood or a broken water main to damage the basic structure of your house. Even a small amount of moisture within your home can be the perfect breeding grounds for rot. With some quick treatment and repair, you can help save your home and wallet.

What is wood rot?
Fungus loves to eat moist wood and will colonize if the conditions are right. Once a fungus settles, it can spread indefinitely. It doesn't take much to develop a colony. As little as 20% is a suitable enough environment for a fungus such as serpula lacrymans to grow. Most infections require a greater amount of wetness, which makes recently flooded homes at a greater risk if not treated for water damage.

Can it be reversed?
Because fungus is alive and the wood in your home is essentially dead, there is no way to turn back the clock. Once the damage has been done there is no reversal. You can, however, stop it from progressing further. This will involve treating damaged areas or removing them entirely and replacing them with pieces without water damage.

What does it look like?
The appearance of rot will depend on the specific fungus infection. Visible cracking is common with most forms, and some will even crumble. Traces of red dust can sometimes be seen and may resemble small stains on the surface of the wood. Phellenius contigus, coniophora puteana and serpula lacrymans are types of fungus that both grow fruiting bodies, which can look like fan-shaped mushrooms. Other signs of rot are when the wood grain takes on a soft, fibrous look and an unpleasant smell.

How can it be treated?
If the wood has been greatly weakened, it may be necessary to replace for safety reasons. If there isn't significant damage, you may be able to save the wood but will need to treat it and surrounding areas with a fungicide. You need something that not only prevents rot, but also kills any existing, so when you go shopping be sure to read instructions carefully.

How is it prevented?
Keeping your wood dry is a way to prevent wet rot, but there is such a thing as dry rot as well. However, removing moisture sources can greatly increase the durability of your wood and decrease the chance of another fungal infection. If in a home, improve ventilation and check for leaks that may be dripping onto wood. If you live in a humid area, you may want to consider a dehumidifier or other methods to help you control indoor climate more efficiently.

Can I treat it myself?
For minor rotting issues, you may be able to get them under control if you are able to diagnosis it properly and successfully identify the source of moisture and remove it. For considerable damages, it is better to call a professional. You will likely not be able to determine the extent of the harm or remove all traces.