Timber is resistant to decay provided it remains dry. Inadequate ventilation and prolonged wetting as a result of, for example, faulty rainwater goods, rising damp or poor maintenance diminishes this resistance, although the vulnerability to decay varies between timber species.

Wet Rots

There are numerous Wet Rots some of which are white rots and some of which are brown rots.

There are many fungal species causing Wet Rot. Some, such as Fibroporia Vaillantii attack softwoods others such as Donkioporia expansa will attack hardwoods, whilst others such as Coniophora puteana can attack both. The same remedial measures however are required for them all.

Dry Rot

The True Dry Rot Fungus, Serpula lacrymans (formally Merulius lacrymans) is a brown rot, which attacks mostly softwoods and is significant for its ability to grow over inert surfaces and spread extensively behind plaster and through wall surfaces. Once established it can quickly cause collapse of structural timbers, making correct identification and treatment imperative.

Whilst properties of all ages can be affected by Dry Rot, older properties are more susceptible due to the window frames, joist ends, wallplates, timber grounds and timber lintels being in direct contact with the masonry.

The appearance of a fruiting body or a fine layer of reddish-brown spores may be the first indication of Dry Rot and exposure works are often required to determine the full extent of an outbreak. Such exposure works may involve stripping plaster, lifting floorboards, removing sections of ceiling and removing skirting boards and architraves.

Our Surveyor will determine the scope of the necessary remedial works. Such works are likely to include timber renewals, the application of a masonry biocide and specialist re-plastering which should all be undertaken by the same Company to avoid a split responsibility should a claim arise under the terms of the guarantee.

N.B. Even following treatment it is imperative that the property remains in a sound and watertight condition at all times.