Wet Rot Warminster

Wet Rot Warminster Specialists

Wet rot Warminster can occur more frequently than dry rot, however it is usually less serious. The decay is typically confined to the area where timber has become (and remains) damp for prolonged periods of time. Outbreaks of dry rot and wet rot begin in similar ways. Wet rot is not as destructive as dry rot; however it can, and does, lead to severe structural damage. Some of the most common contributing factors to the outbreak of wet rot Warminster are:

Unprotected timbers which remain in direct contact with a source of moisture;
Poor sub-floor ventilation beneath suspended floors;
Leaks generating from plumbing and/or domestic appliances.

Whilst there are a number of types of wet rot, the most commonly occurring species are Coniophora Puteana and Poria Vaillantii. Whilst each fungus has its own unique features, the general appearance and treatment often remain similar. Whilst most wet rot fungi produce strands, it is typically confined to the area of dampness. Although in rare instances, mycelium can develop extensively, it does not usually spread into the walls nor exceed further than its immediate food source, unlike dry rot.

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Identifying Wet Rot Warminster

The fruiting bodies of wood-decaying fungi can produce large amounts of microscopic spores, which, when dispersed by air circulation, can affect damp, untreated timber. These spores infect the untreated timber by pushing out a hollow tube, which grows and branches to form a mass of hyphal threads called Mycelium. This continues to develop within the timber, breaking down the wood for food. The timber will usually darken in colour and develop a cracked-like appearance. Eventually, the timber will lose its strength and stability and, in some cases, become unsafe.

Type of Decay: Dry Rot

Fungus: Serpula Lacrymans
Effects on Wood: Rotted wood shrinks and splits into cubical pieces by deep cross cracking. Generally occurs in damp conditions. Spore dust is a light rusty colour.
Visible Strands: Strands are grey, sometimes as thick as pencil, and become brittle when dried.
Other Growths: Often occurring in damp conditions, soft white cushions or silky tassels can form. In drier conditions, silver/grey sheets usually displaying patches of lemon yellow and tinges of lilac.
Fruit Bodies: Fleshy, soft but rather tough; shaped liked pancakes. A spore bearing surface with a reddish brown tinge, with wide pore or labyrinth ridges and a white, outer margin.

Type of Decay: Wet Rot

Fungus: Poria Vailantii
Effects on Wood: Rot is similar but less widespread than that of dry rot. Various species of Poria can occur in houses, most of which require more moisture than dry rot.
Visible Strands: Strands are often white or whitish; seldom thicker than twine and remain flexible when dried.
Other Growths: White or cream sheet, or fern-like growths.
Fruit Bodies: Shaped like sheets or plates and are white in colour. The spore bearing surface is also often white, showing numerous, minute pores.

Type of Decay: Wet Rot

Fungus: Coniophora Puteana
Effects on W