Dry Rot

What is dry rot? 

Dry rot refers to a type of fungal decay that can affect wood and other similar materials. The fungi responsible for dry rot break down the fibres in wood, causing it to become brittle, crumble, and lose its strength. This type of rot can spread through a building, potentially causing damage to the structure if not addressed. 

What causes dry rot? 

Dry rot happens when tiny spores find wet wood with more than 20% moisture, most typically found in homes with condensation or plumbing leaks. 

These spores turn into a fungus that grows root-like strands on the wood. These strands become a cotton-like layer called mycelium, covering the wood. The fungus feeds on the wood and takes away its moisture, making it weak and compromising its structural integrity.

Can you treat dry rot? 

Depending on the severity of the damage on the timber, you may need to completely replace the structure. 

If you’ve spotted the damage at an early stage, boric acid or borate is likely your best bet. It’s a highly effective method for eliminating the fungus responsible for dry rot. It can even be applied to new wood as a preventive measure.