Dry Rot Specialist In Guildford

Concerned about dry rot in Guildford? If you think you’ve spotted the signs of dry rot in your home, get in touch for expert advice and support. Tapco Homedry are your local experts in dry rot treatment in the Guildford area. Don’t risk further damage to your property; get in touch with our team today to book your home survey.

What is dry rot?

Dry rot is the name for a type of fungus that can find its way into your home. It is more commonly found in forests where it plays an essential role in breaking down fallen timber to make room for new growth. However, it can also find its way into your home, working its way through the masonry to find damp timber in your property.

Under the right conditions, the fungus secretes an enzyme that digests the lignin and cellulose in the wood. Once this has been removed, the leftover material is brittle and dry. This fungus is more common in older properties, particularly those with a damp problem. It can also be found in newer homes if the conditions are right.

When left untreated, dry rot can cause widespread damage to your home. It can cause structural problems, particularly if it impacts the floorboards, staircase or roof rafters. If you’re worried about what dry rot might do to your home, get in touch with our team today to arrange your home survey.

How to spot dry rot in your home

One of the best ways to protect your home against the threat of dry rot is to learn how to spot the early signs of this condition. In most cases, you’ll need to use your sense of smell to detect dry rot, as it often isn’t visible. It is marked by a characteristic earthy or musty smell. If you notice a damp smell in your home, it’s always worth investigating further.

Further inspection may reveal a furry white growth on the wood. This will develop a rusty orange bloom that spreads from the centre as it matures and spreads its spores. These spores may look like brick dust when they settle on surfaces around your home.

Once the fungus has spread through your home, the damage it leaves will be quite distinct. The wood will be darker than surrounding wood and it will have lost its structural integrity. The cracking structure will also cause it to break into small cubes.