Rot and infestation
Dry Rot in North London
High timber moisture
High timber moisture contents lead to decay. Above 30 % wet rot can develop and the optimum for this type of decay is 50-60%. Dry rot can cause decay in timber at moisture cotents as low as 20% and the most rapid decay develops at 30-40%.
Dry rot fungus or Serpula Lacrymans
Dry rot fungus or Serpula Lacrymans is the most destructive fungus causing decay of timber in buildings. The mature fungus exhibits large fruiting bodies looking like mushrooms and these produce spores which are transmitted into the air initiating more dry rot .
The spores can lie dormant for years, springing to life under optimum growing conditions. Evidence of dry rot can be a mushroom small and visible white strands which will spread the fungus behind skirting boards and plaster to seek other wood hosts. Where sufficient spores accumulate they give the appearance of a fine orange dust.
Wet rot fungus requires
Dry Rot in North London: Wet rot fungus requires higher levels of moisture to cause decay in timber ( 50-60%) and the commonest is Coniophora puteana or cellar fungus. It is a common cause of decay of ground floor timbers greatly weakening the structural integrity of the space above .
Treatments consist of removing the affected parts and sterilising the area
Dry rot has the ability to travel through brick and mortar transporting its own moisture from damp areas to dry wood. It is therefore essential that a thorough and detailed survey is carried out to establish the extent of the problem. Remedial work then involves removal of all the fungal growth, along with decayed wood, followed by sterilisation and timber preservation treatment. After treament any missing timbers can be re-instated using previously treated new timbers.
Damp in Hemel Hempstead: Wet rot tends to be more localised and less destructive than dry rot requiring less replacement of infected timber.
It is essential the each type is correctly diagnosed to prevent any unnecessary expense.
Insect infestations - dry rot in North London
The most common insect species able to use wood as a food source is known as the common furniture beetle or woodworm. Others such as death watch beetle longhorn beetle or wood boring weevils are less common. Correct diagnosis and treatment are essential if they are to be eradicated and their spread halted.
Treatment is by spraying with the appropriate insecticide. However an insect attack is more likely in wood already softened by damp conditions, it is therefore necessary to remove the source of dampness as well as any decayed wood .Any new timbers used for repair are similarly sprayed.
Contact us today
Contact Johnson Ellis Ltd today to learn more about dry rot in St Albans.