What is Dry Rot?

This term can be confusing as it implies decay occurring without
the presence of moisture.  “Dry” refers to the “dry” wood used in
construction as opposed to “wet” wood  -  the wood in living or
newly-felled trees. 

Dry rot is the decay of building timbers used in the construction of wooden structures.  Most of the homes in this area are constructed using wood.  Even though these homes have brick or stucco or stone exterior walls, the basic structure – the frame – is made of wood.  The trim on most houses is also made of wood. 

Dry rot is caused by a fungus which changes the composition of the wood, making it brittle.  Over time, the decay can cause instability and eventually the collapse of the house. 

Again, the term “dry rot” can be misleading in that the fungus requires an elevated moisture content of 28-30% in order to start growing on the wood.  Both continued dryness and continued saturation with water will inhibit dry rot. 

The first step in handling dry rot is to correct the condition that led to the initial growth of the fungus. 
Eliminate the cause of dampness in the area and increase ventilation to the site. 

Letting the affected wood dry out will kill dry rot since it is a fungus and requires water in order to live and grow.   

Depending on the extent of the damage, you would then want to repair or replace the wood that was weakened by this fungus growth. 

Signs of Dry Rot 

Inside: 
Water spots on walls, ceilings or carpets; discoloration of vinyl floors, carpets or shelf under sink; warping of flooring (usually in kitchen or bathroom); wrinkling, sagging or crumbling of sheetrock on walls or ceilings. 

Outside: 
Warping or swelling of siding; bubbling or lifting of paint; ends of fascia boards are soft or crumbling; any wood with areas of softness where a screwdriver can be pushed in easily.

If you discover any of the above symptoms of dry rot in your home, Rocha Construction can easily repair the damage and stop the dry rot from spreading.  Dry rot repairs done early can save thousands of home repair dollars.  

Give Gilbert Rocha a call at 310-484-4256 for a free in-home estimate today!

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