Tapco HomeDry Dry Rot Treatment Epsom

We are long term members of Trust Mark and a member of the BWA. CHAS accredited contractor. In addition, all of our surveyors are trained to the high standards of the PCA (Property Care Association).

Dry Rot Specialist In Epsom

Worried about dry rot in Epsom? Get in touch with Tapco Homedry today to learn more about our dry rot eradication services. Enjoy peace of mind that your home is protected against the damage associated with dry rot with our support.

What is dry rot?

Dry rot is the name given to a type of fungus that can be found in homes where there is also a problem with damp. The damage is caused by the fungus Serpula lacrymans, which is commonly found on the forest floor. It plays an essential role in clearing away rotten timber to make way for new growth. Unfortunately, it can also infiltrate homes and cause widespread damage, including structural damage.

The fungus uses an enzyme to digest the lignin and cellulose in wood which strips it of its structural integrity. Without these essential components, the wood will become brittle and will crumble easily between your fingers. It can make its way through the masonry of your home to find timber with suitable moisture levels that will enable the dry rot to thrive.

Dry rot is commonly found in homes that are also suffering from a water ingress problem. High moisture levels are required for this type of fungus to thrive. The wood left behind will be dry and brittle, which is where dry rot gets its name. It could impact the floorboards, door frames, stairs and roof rafters of your home leading to widespread structural damage. 

Is dry rot the same as wet rot?

No, while they might have similar names, they are actually very different. They thrive in different conditions and also leave the food in very different states. Wet rot needs moisture levels to be around 50% or higher while dry rot needs lower moisture levels of around 25%.

The easiest way to tell the difference is in the damage left behind. Dry rot leaves the wood dark, brittle and dried out. Wet rot leaves behind soft and spongy wood. Both are incredibly damaging to your home and need to be dealt with urgently.

How to spot dry rot in your home

If you’re struggling with dry rot in Epsom, you might struggle to distinguish between the damp problem and the dry rot problem. This is because the first sign is often a damp and musty odour. Any new smells around your home are worth investigating further.

Upon closer inspection, you might discover a furry white growth on affected timber. As it matures, it will develop a deep orange bloom that spreads from the centre. This will cast spores throughout your home and will allow the fungus to spread to other affected wood.

If the dry rot has already caused damage, the wood left behind will be darker than unaffected wood. It will be brittle and will crumble easily between your fingers. The cuboidal cracking structure will cause it to break into small square shapes. If you spot any of these signs in your home, get in touch with our team to get the support you need.

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Dry rot experts in Epsom

If you’re concerned about dry rot in Epsom, don’t ignore the issue as it will only get worse. Get in touch with the Tapco Homedry team for expert advice and support to tackle your dry rot problem head on. We’re proud to support the residents of Epsom to help them to take control of their dry rot issues and prevent them from spreading further.

How is dry rot treated?

The treatment for dry rot is quite simple, but it is vital that it is carried out correctly to ensure the dry rot cannot return. We start by treating active fungus with a fungicidal treatment that stops it spreading further. We can then address the damp issue that is allowing the fungus to thrive. Finally, we can replace affected timber with pre-treated wood that will stop the issue from returning.

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