Wood decay, also known as wood rot, can create major problems for the structure of a building if left untreated. But what is wood decay, and where are you most likely to discover it in your home?
What is wood decay? It is a kind of wood-damaging fungus that thrives in warm, damp environments, although it can also survive many conditions. It should not be confused with termites or carpenter ants that can also damage wood, so it is best to have the problem diagnosed by a professional.
What areas of the house are you most likely to discover wood decay? As the name suggests, areas of construction that involve wood are at risk. These areas include:
Roof penetrations that have damaged flashing.
Any wood in direct contact with concrete, soil, or masonry.
The wood beneath windows or sliding doors that have been improperly fitted.
Subfloors of bathtub and toilet surround, or areas where plumbing fixtures and pipes have leaked.
Decks, particularly ground floor decking and support posts.
Cracks in foundations or areas where water gathers due to lack of sufficient grading.
If not taken care of promptly, wood decay can cause a lot of damage and cost you a lot of money to repair. So, if you are wondering whether your home has any wood decay, why not schedule an inspection and find out if it is something to be concerned about?
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