Timber
Dry rot investigations
Careful investigation of suspected dry rot, which can extend beyond visibly damp timber.
What the issue is
Dry rot is a specific fungal decay capable of spreading through masonry to reach further timber. It requires accurate identification and a properly considered scope of works.
Common symptoms
- Cuboidal cracking of timber
- Fine white or grey strands
- Rust-coloured spore dust
- Mushroom-like fruiting bodies
- Strong musty smell
Likely contributing factors
- A sustained water source such as a leak
- Poorly ventilated voids
- Timber built into damp masonry
- Concealed damp areas
Conditions that may be mistaken for it
- Wet rot
- Other fungal growth
- General mould growth
How the issue should be investigated
- Identify fungus type from visible characteristics
- Trace the extent of spread where accessible
- Establish and confirm the moisture source
- Assess structural implications
Potential treatment or repair options
- Eliminating the moisture source
- Removal of affected timber with an appropriate margin
- Masonry treatment where justified
- Improved ventilation and drying
- Structural repairs
When treatment may not be appropriate
- Where the fungus is misidentified and the issue is wet rot
- Where extensive masonry treatment is proposed without evidence
Factors affecting the cost
- Extent of opening up and removal
- Structural support and repairs
- Masonry treatment area
- Reinstatement of finishes
What to expect during an inspection
A detailed inspection which may require limited opening up to establish the extent, agreed with you in advance.
Final recommendations always depend on the property, the inspection findings and the confirmed cause. Elevated readings alone do not confirm rising damp, not every mould problem requires extensive treatment, and damp-affected plaster does not always need replacing.
Frequently asked questions
Next step
Not sure which inspection you need? Start with a few questions.
Tell us what you are seeing and we will set out what is likely, what is uncertain and which inspection would answer the question. Speak to us on 0333 335 6152 if you would rather talk it through.