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Tyne Tees Dry Rot Specialists

Do you have Dry Rot damaging the joists, floor boards and timbers in your home/property in the North East of England? 

Dry Rot

Dry Rot, scientifically known as Serpula lacrymans, is a type of fungal decay that can seriously compromise joist, floor boards and timbers. Despite its name, it actually thrives in damp conditions, requiring moisture to develop and spread. Once present, it remains active in any wood with a moisture content above 20%.

Often referred to as the “cancer of buildings,” Dry Rot can originate from various sources, with common culprits including damaged roofing, faulty gutters, and even plumbing leaks from appliances like washing machines.

This destructive fungus flourishes in dark, poorly ventilated spaces such as roof voids, beneath floors, behind skirting boards, and under staircases.

Dry Rot isn’t limited to timber—it can infiltrate plaster and masonry, spreading undetected and weakening the structure of a building if not properly treated. Left unchecked, it can lead to severe structural damage.

The presence of orange, white, or grey fungal bodies, white/greyish vine type strands along the timber surface or a cotton wool-like mycelium (Hyphae).

Identifying Dry Rot

Detecting Dry Rot early can save you significant time and money. Look out for these tell-tale signs:

  • Wood Shrinkage and Cracking: Affected wood often appears dry, brittle, and cracked (It should be noted that wet rot can also display cracking).
  • Bouncy, spongy floor boards: As the fungus weakens the wood structure underneath the floorboards, it can lead to a springy or bouncy sensation when walked on, signifying a potential Dry Rot problem.
  • Fungus Growth: The presence of orange, white, or grey fungal bodies, white/greyish vine type strands along the timber surface or a cotton wool-like mycelium (Hyphae).
  • Musty Smell: A smell similar to fresh snapped mushrooms in the affected area.
  • Discoloured Wood: Timber may appear darker or lighter than usual.
  • Spore Dust: Fine orange or reddish-brown dust, almost appears like rust, around and below the main dry rot body.
Dry Rot causes rot in joists, floor boards and timbers in a Tyne Tees property in Newcastle

Tyne Tees Dry Rot Treatments

Dry Rot treatment is a highly specialised process that should only be handled by experienced professionals. Many builders and property developers rely on our expertise, as we have extensive knowledge and years of experience in effectively treating Dry Rot.

Identifying and addressing the source of moisture is essential before any treatment begins. This may involve internal or external repairs to prevent further damp issues. Once the root cause is resolved, we thoroughly treat the affected area by removing all compromised timber and plaster. Unfortunately, some companies overlook critical steps such as removing infected plaster, treating the subfloor, or improving ventilation—leaving properties vulnerable to future outbreaks.

Here is a general outline of the Dry Rot treatment process:

1. Identify and Eliminate Moisture Sources:

Locate the source of moisture and fix it to prevent further Dry Rot fungal growth.

2. Remove Affected Wood:

Cut away and dispose of all severely damaged joists, floor boards and timbers.

3. Treat Remaining Timber:

Apply the correct fungicidal treatments to surrounding wood and masonry, even if the wood does not appear to be infected, this will kill any remaining spores and help to stop new attacks flaring up. 

4. Replace Damaged Joists, floor boards and timbers:

Use new, treated joists, floor boards and timbers to restore structural integrity ensuring any cut ends/areas are treated before fixing into place.

5. Improve Ventilation:

Ensure the area is well-ventilated to prevent build-up of humidity which can cause elevated moisture levels in timbers leading to a re-occurence of Dry Rot. Ventilating of sub floor voids with additional airbricks may be required.

How much does Tyne Tees charge to treat Dry Rot?

Each Tyne Tees Dry Rot treatment is unique, and the expenses associated with it depends on factors such as the area of the size affected and the costs of necessary materials and products to replace damaged joists, floor boards and timbers.

For an accurate assessment of the costs associated with your specific Dry Rot project, contact us to book a Tyne Tees Dry Rot inspection.

We can then schedule a Tyne Tees Dry Rot timber survey conducted by one of our specialist surveyors to provide you everything you need fix your Dry Rot and turn your property into Dry Rot free and homely environment.