What Causes Wet Rot?

Wet rot occurs when excessive levels of moisture come into contact with timbers over a period of time. For wet rot fungus and spores to form a moisture content in excess of 30% is generally required. The source of this moisture can occur from a variety of sources including leaking pipe work, blocked gutters, poor pointing and raised ground levels. Timbers which are inadequately treated with preservatives and those which are in contact with masonry are at higher risk of wet rot formation.

Solid wall properties are more prone to having wet rot in timber as they do not have a cavity to prevent penetrating damp. Poor upkeep of the outside of a property is often a contributory factor with excessive vegetation growth, defective rainwater goods and raised ground levels being the most common issues.

What Does Wet Rot Look Like?

There are numerous types of wet rot which cause timber decay. Luckily there are several characteristic features to look out for to help you identify whether your property is suffering from wet rot.

• The presence of mycelium, strands or fruiting bodies on timbers
• Cuboid cracking of timbers
• Fibrous appearance of timbers
• Musty odour; mushroom/ mouldy smell
• The appearance of shrinking sections of skirting boards
• Springy sections of floors
• Timbers which easily break or crumble