Dry rot is infamous for two things: how much damage it can cause, and how fast it spreads. This makes finding it in your home a real worry, because it only takes a short amount of time for a small patch to grow into a much bigger issue.

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed once dry rot has taken hold, but don’t worry – your home isn’t doomed! With quick action and the right approach, you can stop dry rot in its tracks. You just need to know how.

How to stop dry rot from spreading

Stopping dry rot from spreading means treating the affected area and fixing the root cause. Read on for a breakdown of the steps you need to take!

Important note: Dry rot is one of the most damaging types of wood decay, and fixing it often takes advanced equipment and know-how. If you don’t have those available, it’s usually best to call in a damp and rot specialist who can handle the job for you.

1. Identify and remove the source of moisture

Dry rot is a type of wood decay caused by fungi that thrive in damp, humid environments. The fungi responsible for dry rot, most commonly Serpula lacrymans, break down the structural integrity of wood, leading to weakening and eventual decay.

Despite its name, “dry” rot actually needs moisture to grow and spread. It does this by releasing tiny spores that float through the air and can infect other parts of your home if not stopped.

To prevent dry rot from thriving, the first step is to figure out where the moisture is coming from. Some common culprits are:

• Leaky roofs, gutters, or pipes
• Poor airflow in spaces like lofts or basements
• Water seeping in from the ground
• Failed damp proofing

Once you’ve found the source of the moisture, it’s important to have it fixed right away. Repairing any leaks, improving drainage and damp proofing, and making sure there’s good ventilation to keep the area dry will stop new moisture from sneaking in.

2. Remove affected wood

Next, it’s important to remove any wood that’s been affected. This might mean cutting out the damaged parts and replacing them with treated wood that resists fungal growth. Be sure that all the decayed material has been removed, as dry rot can keep spreading if any infected wood is left behind.

If the dry rot has reached non-wood materials like plaster or masonry, those areas will also need to be removed or treated to stop the rot from spreading further.

3. Treat surrounding wood

Once the infected wood is removed, it’s important to treat the surrounding area with a high-quality fungicidal treatment, especially in spots where moisture might return. This will help kill any remaining spores and protect the wood from future fungal growth. Applying a wood preservative afterwards can give the wood extra strength and protection against decay.

4. Improve ventilation

Dry rot tends to grow in areas with poor airflow, so improving ventilation is another measure to keep it from returning. Make sure enclosed spaces like basements, lofts, and crawl spaces are properly ventilated. You can install fans or use passive ventilation options, such as vents, to help keep the air circulating and reduce humidity. You might also consider using a dehumidifier to keep moisture levels in check.

5. Monitor the area

Dry rot can be stubborn, so even after treatment, it’s important to keep a close eye on the area for any signs of dry rot coming back. Regular checks will help you catch any new infestations before they have a chance to spread.

Stop dry rot in its tracks with expert treatment from Prokil

Dry rot can cause serious damage if not dealt with, but by acting quickly, you can stop it in its tracks and keep your home dry rot-free for years to come.

Since 1965, Prokil has been delivering top-quality damp, mould, and rot treatments across the South. We specialise in eliminating dry rot, even in severe cases, by identifying and addressing the root cause, treating and replacing affected wood, and using methods like wood preservation and improved ventilation to protect your home. No matter how extensive the infestation, you can rely on us to prevent further spread and restore your home to its best condition.

Don’t let dry rot take over – book a survey online or call us on 01202 515566 today!