Dry Rot Specialist In Finchampstead

Worried about dry rot in Finchampstead? Trust Tapco Homedry to help protect your home against this damp-related problem. Following a home survey, we can deliver an accurate quote to help you better understand the extent of the problem and the steps required to put things right. Get in touch today to start the process of banishing dry rot from your home.

What is dry rot?

Dry rot is a type of fungus that can work its way into your home through any material, including masonry. Once it finds its way into your home, it can cause widespread damage to timber structures such as flooring, roof rafters and staircases. The fungus is more commonly found on the forest floor where it plays an essential role in breaking down fallen timber to make space for new growth, but when it finds its way into your home, the results can be a disaster.

Dry rot is nearly always seen as secondary to a damp problem. Despite the name, dry rot actually needs quite damp conditions to be able to thrive. The fungus attaches to suitable timber and then secretes an enzyme which digests the lignin and cellulose in the wood, leaving it brittle and crumbling.

If this issue goes untreated, you could be looking at widespread structural damage. Homeowners often don’t know about this issue until it is too late, as the effects are often out of sight. If you’re concerned you might have dry rot in your home, get in touch with Tapco Homedry to arrange a home survey and quote.

Spotting the early signs of dry rot

You can protect your home against damage by learning how to spot the signs of dry rot in your home. There are often multiple stages to the spread of dry rot, and the first is often not visible, but you will be able to smell it. In the early stages, you might notice a musty or earthy odour in your home.

Upon further inspection, you might discover a furry white growth on wooden structures. You might need to venture into your basement or your attic to find these issues. As it matures, it will develop a rusty orange bloom that spreads from the centre. This lurid growth will cast brick red spores around your home.

Once the fungus has digested the wood, it will be left dark and brittle. The dry wood will crumble easily between your fingers. You’ll know that dry rot is to blame, as the wood will break down into small cube shapes due to the cuboidal cracking structure.