Understanding & Treating Wood Rot: Our Complete Guide

Wood rot can be an inconvenient yet common problem that many of us will encounter. Our blog is here to help you understand the signs to look out for and the preventative measures you can take to protect your wood. To find out more, keep on reading!

Wood Rot & Timber Decay: What Is It & How Does It Happen?

Wood rot and timber decay are common problems that many homeowners or building owners will face at some point. Wood rot and decay are generally caused by moisture, fungi or small insects which attack the cell walls in the wood. If this is left untreated, the wood can become damaged, unhealthy and cause severe structural damage to properties.

The early signs of wood rot can be subtle, such as bubbling paint, sagging or slight structural problems. If you spot signs that something is wrong, it’s best to check it out before the problem worsens, as the repairs can end up being more costly later on down the line.

Dry Or Wet Rot?

Two important terms to know about are dry rot and wet rot. These are both threats to your wood’s health, however they can impact your wood in different ways.

Wet rot is the more common of the two, and is the type of rot that will affect wood in your home or your garden. Wet rot needs moisture to thrive, so any leaks or rain damage to your home could create the perfect conditions for wet rot to thrive. When the wood is damp, fungus is able to eat away at wood cells, which is what causes the decay. Early signs that appear are usually discolouration, dark patches, sponging and bubbling or visibly damp spots. If left untreated, this decay worsens, leaving you with yellow and brown mould. You may also notice an unpleasant, musty odour, which is a tell-tale sign of wood rot. Severe wet wood rot can leave you with pretty bad damage and expensive repairs, so it’s best to have it checked out as soon as possible.

Dry rot is also a threat to your wood, however it can be less obvious than wet rot. Because dry rot doesn’t need moisture to thrive, it can spread and damage dry wood much faster and more discreetly. The cause of dry rot is often a brown fungus called Serpula Lacrymans. This fungus causes the wood cells to decay, meaning it loses its strength and structure. Unlike wet rot, which is more obvious to spot, dry rot will usually result in cracking and crumbling wood. The tell-tale sign for dry rot is fugal mushrooms, some damp patches, gaps in between wooden boards and a musty smell. If dry rot is eft to spread, it can be tricky to fully eliminate.

Causes Of Wood Rot & Decay

These are some of the main causes of wood rot and decay that you should look out for.

●     Moisture - Moisture and damp conditions are perfect grounds for rot and decay to occur. If wood is repeatedly exposed to moisture, or your outdoor wood is constantly exposed to moisture, be wary of the impact this can have.

●     Poor Ventilation - Poor airflow in buildings or wooden structures can lead to stagnant moisture, which creates the perfect breeding ground for fungi and furthermore, decay.

●     Temperature - The fungi that is the cause of wood rot is usually found in mild temperatures. Extreme hot or cold temperatures can slow down the growth of the fungi, however mild, warmer temperatures are where fungi will thrive.

●     Poor Maintenance - Neglecting your wood can also be a cause of rot and decay. There are a range of different treatments and preventative measures you can take to protect your wood from harmful fungi. Also, regular check ups and inspections can help you spot problems with your wood sooner rather than later.

●     Exposure To Soil - Any outdoor wood that comes into contact with soil will be more at risk from decay. The soil will keep the wood constantly damp, and hold a range of insects and fungi that will then eat away at your outdoor wooden items.

●     Wood Type - Not all wood types are susceptible to rot, and some are more vulnerable than others. Cedar and Redwood naturally contain high amounts of oil and resin which makes them naturally resistant to fungal decay. Woods with a higher cellulose content, like pine or fir will be more susceptible to rot and decay.

Effective Wood Treatments Against Decay

To prevent your wood from rotting, there are some preventative measures you can take! These are some of our suggestions to help you take care of your wood and keep it healthy for longer.

Wood Paint

This can be an opaque, coloured finish of your choosing. Wood paint will completely cover the wood, leaving it with a nice fresh finish. Because the paint creates a barrier between the wood and external elements, it is a good protective measure. Pigments and binders found in the paint will help to shield the wood underneath from any moisture or further problems.

Your paint job may need to be regularly maintained and touched up to ensure it is still working, as paint can chip or peel over time. If you notice bubbling paint or strange stains, this could be an indicator of wet wood rot.

Wood Stains

Wood stains are a coloured, semi-transparent finish that leaves the grain of the wood still visible. Wod stains are specially designed to penetrate the surface of the wood, providing a deeper level of protection against rot and decay. It seeps into the pores of the wood, protecting it from moisture and UV rays. If you regularly apply wood stain to your items, it will help it to maintain its protective qualities and keep it healthy.

Wood stains are very effective and can be applied to both indoor or outdoor items. They also come in a range of different colours. You can browse our range of wood stains here to find out more! 

Wood Oil

Wood oils are usually made from natural ingredients and are used to enhance the natural look of wood. While they are effective, they can also be less durable than other products. Some common oils you may treat your wood with are linseed oil or tung oil, which penetrates the wood and gives it more moisture-resistance. Regularly applying oil to your wood will also help to keep it healthy and maintain its natural beauty.

Wood Wax

Wood wax is another common and effective treatment used for moisture prevention. Wood wax consists of natural waxes such as beeswax or carnauba wax. This is then mixed with oils or solvents and applied to the wood.

It forms a protective layer, sealing the wood and keeping it safe from moisture or other environmental factors. A wood wax barrier can help to protect against dirt, dust and scratches, as well as against moisture. The appearance of wood wax also gives it a rich, warm look, making it a popular treatment for indoor furniture and hardwood floors.

When To Call A Professional

If your DIY wood treatments aren’t doing the trick, it may be a sign that the decay is quite severe. These are a few examples of situations where calling a professional is the best course of action.

●     If the decay has spread over a large area or various wooden items, you may need specialist equipment for repairs or removal.

●     If the moisture affecting your wood is prevalent, you may need to call an expert to investigate the source of the moisture.

●     If the decay has spread to walls or internal structures, a professional team will need to deal with the removal. This could result in demolition of interior walls.

●     Certified professionals should be called in to remove mould, especially if it is a severe case.

Treatex

Here at Treatex we offer a range of wood treatments, paints and much more. Our range of water repellent oils and natural waxes are just what you need to keep your timber looking healthy all year round. To view our range of products, you can visit our website!

For further queries about our products or advice regarding your timber, feel free to get in touch today. Our friendly team will be happy to help you find exactly what you’re looking for.