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Check Your Home for Dry Rot This Winter Season

Cracks in stucco caused significant dry rot damage from water leaking in
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Check Your Home for Dry Rot this Winter Season

Roof dry rot

While the wet winters and cold temperatures provide much-needed snow and rainfall across California, for some homes it can cause significant damage to the structure including dry rot. Dry rot is one of the most common damages caused by winter weather. If you are a homeowner with any type of wood built in the structure of your home, take the time to look for signs of dry rot this winter.

The Root of Dry Rot

Dry rot, also known as brown rot, refers to the wood decay that is essentially caused by fungi that can easily ruin any wooden structure. When wood is continuously exposed to moisture, whether that be from rain, sprinklers, or a leak, it slowly forms this destructive fungus that spreads like a disease, even wood that comes in contact with it. As a result, the damaged wood becomes rotten and weak. Dry rot can appear in areas such as decks, roofs, doors, windows, siding, and trim.

Spotting the Rot

siding and frame damaged by dry rot

Here are some ways to help identify dry rot throughout your home. Inspect the wood for any discoloration specifically any darkening areas. Check for any shrinking, cracking, or sunken wood. Smelly odors, typically found in bathrooms or kitchens In some cases, affected wood could also have mushroom-like fungal growths.

Treating Dry Rot

If you find any dry rot damage in your home, save yourself time and money and treat it right away. Depending on the level of damage, the treatment will vary. In some cases, the infected area can be treated with a fungicide, which is a pesticide chemical used to kill or prevent the growth of fungi and their spores. This treatment not only kills the rot but strengthens the wood’s structure too. Other cases might require the complete removal of any affected wood. However, since dry rot is unique damage that spreads like a disease, it could now be present around the surfaces or any surrounding wood. Because of this, it is best to treat all surrounding areas to prevent further damage, including any new wood that is replacing the old wood.

The rapid spread of dry rot can lead to a spiral of damages to your home, so do your best to maintain your home all year. If you notice any signs of dry rot or you are unsure of how to treat it, call a local professional to help inspect your home. Assess the problem early to protect your home and save you money on additional repairs.

Good Life Construction specializes in dry rot repair serving homeowners and residents across the Sacramento region. If you would like our skilled professionals to check the condition of your home or you are in need of dry rot repairs, we are here to help. For a quote or inspection information, call us today at (916) 884-6132 or visit our website at www.GoodLifeConstruction.com for more details.

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