Wood Rot

Cause

Wood Rot: comes in two forms Dry and Wet. (see wet rot)

Dry Rot. The term implies that the timber is in a dry condition but it would normally have a moisture content reading of approximately 28%.

This along with a damp humid environment can lead to fungal growths forming on the timber.

Once the fungi spores /growths are established even though the moisture content of the wood has dropped and the cause remedied, the spores can still survive if the moisture content in the timber is still around 20%.

The fungi feeds on the wood and extracts the moisture/water which results in the wood structure becoming dry and brittle.

Remedy

The affected areas should be treated as soon as possible as the fungi spores can quickly spread. In domestic situations dry rot can often be found under floorboards at ground level where the air bricks are blocked. Other areas can be unvented cellars and roof spaces.

In these cases the assistance of a specialist wood preserving company should be sought.

For further information and specific advice contact:

https://www.rentokil.co.uk or search for local contractors

For wood repair systems: www.repair-care.co.uk  windowcaresystemsang

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Lichen/ algae organic growth

There many Types of Lichen and  can be present in different colours including grey, orange, red, black, yellow or green. Lichens normally form a crust like surface on the surface.

Algae is normally green in colour although can also be black, red, orange or yellow  and forms a matt- like film on the surface or streaks down the surface.

Fungi colours can be black, orange, yellow,  red or brown and form as a film or spots.

Cause

Generally occurs in conditions where the surface remains damp and to the northerly and westerly elevations.

Textured surfaces are more prone to holding moisture than smooth surfaces

When present on exterior surfaces, it is most likely to be associated with moisture in the substrate and lack of air flow; close proximity to trees can also be the cause.

Lichen on interior walls is due to heavy condensation and the lack of air flow

Solution

For exterior walls power wash to remove all mould / algae back to a clean surface. It may be necessary to pressure wash or light sand blasting.

Apply two coats of recommended fungicidal wash, allow 24 hours drying between coats and allow the surface to dry out.

Apply selected manufactures masonry finish in accordance with their recommended instructions.

For interior walls remove by heavy scrubbing and washing with a solution of bleach and or a proprietary fungicidal wash back to a clean surface. Once the surface has dried then apply the selected wall finish strictly in accordance with manufactures instructions.

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