WET & DRY ROT There are two primary types of timber decay generally referred to in the construction industry - Wet Rot and Dry Rot. These both develop in a similar manner and their life cycle process is also the same. THE PROBLEM Dry and Wet Rot are usually caused by dampness, running water, poor ventilation, high relative humidity and bad maintenance, or a combination of these conditions. • Dry and Wet Rot can cause major structural defects in buildings, particularly to existing timbers. • It is unsightly and unhealthy, and can grow at an alarming rate in certain conditions. • Fruiting bodies of the fungi release millions of spores into the atmosphere. • They are omnipresent (constant, everywhere) waiting for suitable conditions to germinate. • If sufficent moisture becomes present, the spores will germinate initiating fungal development. • From this point the fungi will use the timber as its food source, causing the timber to deteriorate. • Eventually the timber will lose its structural integrity. THE SOLUTION Dry Rot (Serpula lacrymans) Dry rot is the more virulent type of wood rotting fungi, and specialist advice is imperative in order to identify the fungus and determine its true extent, and to make recommendations in relation to the extent of the repairs required, and the necessary specialist treatments. Wood Rotting Fungi UP & UNDER WILL: • Identify the nature, type and extent of the dry or wet rot. • Identify the cause, source of moisture • Propose the solution with full specification and method statement and cost of the repair. • Ensure the works are carried out effectively, safely and to your satisfaction. To successfully eradicate Dry Rot you must initially eliminate the source of moisture. The works will normally involve the replacement of decayed timbers, removal of wall plaster to expose extent of decay and mycelial growth; and the treatment of the wall structure by masonry irrigation and returning the area to a watertight condition. Up & Under's specialist team of experts can successfully eradicate timber decay Wet Rot (eg: Coniophora puteana) Wet rot is a term of general classification covering all the wet rot species of decay. Repairing outbreaks of Wet Rot generally is less involved than those associated with Dry Rot. The works will normally involve the replacement of the decayed timbers only, however, it is still critical to ensure that the moisture source is eliminated or at least isolated from the timber. Please do not hesitate to request further information. Freecall: 0800 4581052 or email sales@upandunda.co.uk website designed and constructed by www.outhousemedia.net