Maintaining your home well is the key to avoiding expensive home repairs later on. While some repairs jobs seem obvious, others might not be so apparent. One area that a home owner should be aware of is the possibility of wood rot also referred to as wood decay. Not to be confused with the damage caused by carpenter ants or termites, wood rot is caused by a fungus that flourishes in warm, damp environments. However, it is pretty hardy and can survive in even more extreme temperatures and humidity.
What are some areas of the home that would be more susceptible to wood rot? Well, lets think about what it needs to survive: oxygen, moisture and a food source. Many areas of a home can provide these things. Here is a few of the places you might find wood decay:
What are some areas of the home that would be more susceptible to wood rot? Well, lets think about what it needs to survive: oxygen, moisture and a food source. Many areas of a home can provide these things. Here is a few of the places you might find wood decay:
- Underneath sliding glass doors (if they have been incorrectly installed) and windows.
- Ground floor decking or deck support posts.
- Around corroded plumbing fixtures and sub flooring that surrounds toilets and tubs.
- Roof penetrations which have incorrect or damaged flashing.
- Plumbing leaks
- Wood which directly comes into contact with soil, concrete or masonry.
- Foundation cracks
- Inadequate grading. This can cause water to start pooling around a building’s foundation.
This is just some of the places around a home where you should look out for signs of wood rot. As a homeowner, perhaps you are worried about this being an issue in your home. In order to help you identify possible signs of wood decay, why not have a home inspection performed? In this way, you can know what you should look out for and be advised on what to do if you do find it.