Homes require maintenance and care. And when you neglect them, they begin to show signs of distress.
One of the most common signs of distress is dry rot. This fungal infection can wreak havoc on your home, causing structural damage and making it unsafe to live in. But if you know what to look for, you can catch dry rot early before it becomes a severe problem.
What Is Dry Rot?
Dry rot is a fungal infection that can be found in many different types of wood. When moisture gets trapped inside the wood, it provides an ideal environment for the fungus to grow and spread.
The fungus can be white, brown, black, or a combination of these colors. Dry rot is most common in homes with water damage or leaks. For example, if your roof leaks and causes damage to the interior walls or ceilings above the attic space, it’s possible for mold and mildew to grow on those surfaces.
How Do You Know If Your Home Has Dry Rot?
If you think your home may be suffering from dry rot, it’s important to identify the warning signs so that you can treat it as soon as possible. Here’s what to look out for:
- Discoloration of the Wood
Dry rot causes dark spots on the wood that can be difficult to distinguish from stains at first glance—these spots form when water seeps into the wood and causes a chemical reaction. If you notice these dark spots forming on your wooden furniture or fixtures, it’s essential to have them inspected by a professional immediately.
- Dry Cracking Walls
Dry rot can also cause cracks in walls and ceilings. If you notice visible cracks in your walls, it could signify dry rot. This damage is most common in older homes with poor ventilation and moisture control systems, but even newer homes can suffer from this problem if they’re not maintained properly.
- Musty or Moldy Smell
A musty smell is another warning sign of dry rot in your home. When wood is infected with dry rot fungus, it begins to decay quickly and releases spores into the air around it. These spores cause the musty smell associated with dry rot disease infection. The smell may be more noticeable in humid weather when the air is moist, and the spores can spread more efficiently throughout your home.
- Fungus Growth
Fungus spores are everywhere, but if you see a white or brown powder-like substance on your home’s foundation or interior walls, you may be infested with dry rot fungus.
Conclusion
It is essential to keep your home well-ventilated and ensure that you do not leave any moisture or standing water in your home after cleaning. Dry rot is a very dangerous and expensive fungus to deal with, so it is important to take precautions against the spread of this disease by keeping your home dry, damp-free, and well-ventilated.
If you notice dry rot and need immediate waterproofing & leak detection & repair services, don’t hesitate to contact One Stop Plastering today. We offer free bids, no-obligation quotes, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
