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WET ROT Although of a far less serious nature, Wet Rot is often a problem in older properties where there is rising dampness or other persistent sources of moisture, including rainwater penetration, faulty plumbing, or some similar major leakage into the Fabric. Affected timbers usually show a moisture content in excess of 50%, and the wood characteristically splits along the grain where decayed. Fruiting bodies and Mycelium are rarely apparent, affected timber tending to adopt a dark brown appearance, with in some cases sheets of fine dark brown or black hyphae evident on the surface of the timber . Unless treatment is carried out an attack of Dry Rot may develop should the moisture content fall to an appropriate level. Our Surveyor will first confirm the type and source of decay. The fullest extent of affected areas will be ascertained and exact Specifications given in our Report. All decayed timber is cut out. All replacement timber is fully fungicidally treated by pressure spray or heavy-bodied paste. In addition to such treatment work all sources of moisture should be eliminated, i.e. the addition of sub- floor ventilation etc. and exact details of requirements in this respect should be given in our Report.
DRY ROT Given suitable conditions the growth of True Dry Rot fungus decay can prove to be one of the most serious hazards facing any building structure. This fungus causes timber decay primarily under damp, unventilated conditions, the optimum moisture content for decay being 30-40%. However, Dry Rot can remain active in timber down to 20% moisture content. Under suitable conditions the fungus can grow throughout the fabric of a building. It can penetrate through brickwork and masonary , and behind plaster, decaying any timber in its path. Decayed timber develops "cuboidal" cracking, and is usually overgrown by masses of grey-white Mycelium. Plate-like fruiting bodies produce millions of rusty-red spores (seeds) as a reddish dust. These spores spread the fungus infection to other sites.
It is imperative therefore that the presence and fullest extent of this fungus be correctly diagnosed, and that subsequent treatment completely eradicates the problem. Our Surveyor will first confirm the type and source of decay. the fullest extent of affected areas will be ascertained and exact Specifications given in our Report. All decayed timber and 450mm beyond is cut out. Exposed masonary and brickwork is then chemically sterilised or isolated by irrigation treatment. All replacement timber is fully fungicidally treated by pressure-spray or heavy-bodied paste. In addition to such treatment work all sources of moisture should be eliminated, and exact details of requirements in this respect shall be given in our Report.
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