Spotting and Stopping Dry Rot in Your Home
Dry rot (Serpula lacrymans) can be devastating to a property if left unchecked!
It is the silent, invisible (to the untrained eye) glutton of timber.
A property doesn’t have to be historic; the conditions are what it looks for.
It’s called dry rot because it can attack dry wood. Imagine a wall covered in Ivy, the only water source it needs is at its roots. Dry rot works in a similar way.
It needs a water source, but it can grow huge eating away at any timbers it finds, as long as it’s got its feet in water so to speak.
It can spread throughout the house unseen, under floors, behind skirting boards and door casings etc. It doesn’t like wind or draughts, so it stays out of the way. A poorly vented damp basement or floor void is perfect. You may notice it if your skirting boards look like they have long hollow indentations, or you see its fruiting body appear when its time to release its rust red spores. You may find that the floor in the living room becomes a little springy. These are a few clues, if you see any or are concerned, please call our team as soon as possible as this is the serious one.
Dry Rot – Your Questions Answered
What is dry rot and why is it dangerous?
Dry rot (Serpula lacrymans) is a fungus that feeds on timber, weakening its structure and causing significant damage if left untreated. It can spread unseen through walls, floors, and voids.
How can I tell if my property has dry rot?
Signs include hollow or sunken skirting boards, springy floors, rust-red spore dust, and large, fleshy fruiting bodies. In many cases, it stays hidden until damage is advanced.
Does dry rot only occur in old or historic buildings?
No — any building can be affected if conditions are right. All it needs is a timber food source and a steady supply of moisture.
How does dry rot spread?
Like plant roots seeking water, dry rot grows from a moisture source and can travel through timber, brick, and plaster to reach new areas to feed on.
How can dry rot be treated?
Treatment involves removing the moisture source, replacing damaged timber, and applying specialist fungicidal treatments. This should only be carried out by experienced professionals.
