Wood rot, fungal growth, and moisture issues can quickly become serious problems. If these issues are left untreated, the problem may spread throughout your property. You may even experience structural damage.

Wood rot and fungal growth are often caused by excessive moisture, rising damp, or penetrating damp. The sooner you find and address the problem with the help of damp companies, the more likely you are to avoid extensive repairs to your property.

Pay Attention to the Signs of Wood Rot

Damp proofing may protect against wood rot. However, you may want to determine if your property is already experiencing wood rot or fungal growth. Both issues are typically divided into separate categories, depending on the cause of the moisture and the type of fungal spores created.

The two types of wood rot include dry rot and wet rot. Both types of rot occur in damp areas, especially when there is limited ventilation. However, wet rot requires higher moisture levels.

Wet rot can weaken the wood, increasing the risk of structural damage. However, the fungal spores that often grow on the wood are unlikely to spread through the rest of your property.

With dry rot, the spread of fungal growth is a greater risk. The fungal spores that occur with dry rot can travel from one piece of wood to another, spreading throughout your home. These spores can even travel across masonry.

The fungal growth caused by wet rot often appears light or dark. It may darken the wood and cause it to break and crack. With light fungal growth, the affected area will appear lighter.

Dry rot often causes the affected area to thicken and become darker. A reddish dust may appear. This dust is fungal growth.

Determine the Cause of the Moisture

After detecting wood rot or fungal growth, the next step is to determine the cause of the moisture. The most common causes include rising damp and penetrating damp. Damp experts can help determine the exact cause and recommended treatment.

Penetrating damp refers to leaks and moisture caused by rain, leaks, and excess moisture. You may experience penetrating damp due to roof damage, clogged gutters, and plumbing issues. A damp specialist can track the source of the leak to determine the cause.

Rising damp refers to the rising moisture from the ground penetrating your basement or subfloors. The most common cause of this issue is improper plastering during the construction of your lower floors.

Consider Damp Proofing Your Property

To address the cause of the moisture, you may need to consider damp proofing your property. Damp contractors can add a protective layer to your subfloors to prevent moisture from penetrating your masonry and timber.

At Mercian Preservation, we can easily identify the source of your moisture problems and help determine the best solution. Allow us to help protect your property.

Contact us today on 01384 250 154 to request a job quote for dependable, long-lasting damp treatment.