Fungal decay can cause serious damage to structural and decorative timber in buildings. It is often linked to dampness, water ingress, poor ventilation or hidden moisture problems.
Wood decaying fungi are naturally present in the environment. Their spores are all around us, but they only become a problem when the conditions are right.
Dry rot is one of the most serious forms of timber decay. Its Latin name, Serpula lacrymans, means “serpent’s tears”, referring to the water droplets sometimes seen on the fungus. Dry rot can spread through masonry and hidden voids in search of timber, which makes accurate diagnosis essential. Treatment should always include identifying and controlling the source of moisture, not just treating visible fungal growth.
Wet rot refers to other forms of fungal decay that affect timber with high moisture levels. It is usually more localised than dry rot, but it can still cause significant structural damage if left untreated. Wet rot often occurs in areas affected by leaks, poor ventilation, defective gutters, penetrating damp, rising damp or long-term condensation.
Brown rot breaks down the cellulose in timber, often leaving it dry, brittle and cracked into a cuboidal pattern. It can seriously weaken timber and reduce its load-bearing capacity. Trace Heritage and Restoration identifies the extent of brown rot damage and provides suitable treatment, repair and moisture control measures.
We inspect the affected timber, identify the type of decay and assess the extent of the damage. Where required, we may recommend further exposure works to inspect concealed areas.
We look for the source of dampness that allowed the decay to develop. This may include leaks, poor ventilation, water ingress, condensation or defects in the building fabric.
We specify appropriate fungicidal treatments and moisture control measures to stop further fungal activity and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Where timber has lost strength, we can specify and carry out suitable repairs, reinforcement or replacement to restore stability and performance.
We help prevent future decay by addressing the root cause. This may include improving ventilation, resolving damp issues, applying protective treatments or advising on long-term maintenance..
If you have signs of fungal decay, dry rot, wet rot or damp-related timber damage, Trace Heritage and Restoration can help identify the cause and recommend the right treatment.
When timber reaches a high enough moisture content, fungal spores can germinate and begin breaking down the wood. This is why dampness and timber decay are so closely connected.
For fungal growth to occur, timber usually needs:
