Timber Treatment
Wet & Dry Rot
These two fungi are very destructive to timber and dry rot is more damaging because it only requires 20-30% moisture to thrive and grow, whereas wet rot needs at least 50% moisture content and is usually confined to moist areas. There are key differences; dry rot is able to traverse through masonry, while wet rot requires a constant source of moisture to survive. If you are unsure as to which type of fungus is present, book our independent damp survey and let the experts inspect the building. We work closely with the best damp-proofing contractor in London.
Wet Rot
As mentioned above, wet rot needs a constant supply of moisture of at least 50% and can only grow in damp areas, while it cannot spread through dry masonry. A common cause of wet rot is a leaking roof, water pipe or damp penetrating external walls and damaged or blocked guttering. Treatment includes stopping the source of moisture, drying out affected areas and the use of waterproof plaster/render. The affected timber needs to be replaced and a fungicidal wash used to eradicate the fungus. Wet rot gives off a damp and mouldy odour and it causes timber to crack and crumble when touched.
Dry Rot
This species requires less moisture than wet rot, yet it can spread quickly through dry masonry and brickwork, looking for more timber to consume. Dry rot is typically found in still, damp areas with a high level of humidity; from a professional point of view, dry rot is considered to be more difficult to eradicate than wet rot. Dry rot produces a white fluffy coating and a musty mushroom-like smell, with rust-coloured spores that rise from fruiting bodies and the timber is dry to the touch and quite brittle.
Treating Wet & Dry Rot
Moisture is always an issue where wet and dry rot are present; therefore, it is essential to source the origin of the moisture and carry out remedial work prior to dealing with the fungi. Badly affected timber needs to be replaced, while all timber in the building should be sprayed with an effective water-based fungicide, which should completely eradicate the issue.
Woodworm
There are two species of beetle that are a threat to London homes; namely the Common Furniture Beetle (Anobium Punctatum) and the Death Watch Beetle (Xestobium rufovillosum). Both are very destructive, causing timber to degenerate and decay. The insects burrow into wood and lay their eggs, which turn into larvae that consume wood pulp and unless the cycle is interrupted, it will continue. Woodworm thrives in still, damp conditions, where there is a lack of ventilation, which woodworm needs in order to multiply.
Tell-Tale Signs of Woodworm
The common signs of woodworm infestation include the following:
- Tiny holes with small dust piles nearby
- Cream coloured eggs near the affected timber
- Dead adult beetles in the vicinity
- Brittle and cracked timber
- Musky smell in the affected area
Woodworm will not go away on its own, the cycle will continue until action is taken and if you notice any of the above signs, it is time to book an independent damp survey from London Damp Specialists. We can recommend the best damp-proofing company in London.
Best Treatment for Woodworm
The best treatment for woodworm involves the use of a water-based insecticide that should be applied to all timber in the building, even wood that has not been affected by the insects. We do not recommend a DIY solution, as this is unlikely to totally eradicate the problem; book a survey with us and we can recommend the best long-term solution from London’s leading timber treatment specialist.
Our independent damp survey is designed to find damp, mould, woodworm and timber rot; if you are planning to make an offer on a London property or you have noticed a few signs of timber rot, don’t delay, contact us on the number below or complete the online survey booking form and we will get in touch soon.