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Dry Rot

Dry rot is wood decay caused by one of several species of fungi that digest parts of the wood which give the wood strength and stiffness. It was previously used to describe any decay of cured wood in ships and buildings by a fungus which resulted in a darkly coloured deteriorated and cracked condition.

Dry Rot - Types of Damp - London and Kent Specialists

What is it?

Dry rot is a type of fungal timber decay known as Serpula Lacrymans. It occurs when wood becomes too wet with a moisture content of over 20% and the wood-destroying fungus attacks the timber.

Dry rot is the most serious form of fungal decay. Dry rot fungus is very destructive as it spreads across masonry and destroys all timber in its path including structural timbers, skirting boards, door frames, and flooring. It affects all types of properties, new and old, and can be detrimental to a property if left untreated as the fungus can weaken the structural integrity of a building and cause it to collapse.

How to identify

If you see these signs, you’re probably experiencing dry rot:

  • An outbreak often produces a very musty damp odour.
  • Joinery and timbers cracking in a cubiodal manner.
  • Fluffy, cotton wool like mycelium with strands that are brittle develop under humid conditions.
  • Growths resembling large mushrooms.
  • Orange spores resembling fine brick dust.
  • Fine red/orange spore dust scattered around the fruiting body.

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You can speak to us by calling 0203 488 2954 or by sending an email to info@lkdampproofing.co.uk

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