Difference between wet and dry rot

When increased moisture levels occur within a property there is a real risk of fungal growth developing into dry rot or wet rot. When identifying a fungal problem in damp timber it is important to understand the differences between wet rot and dry rot and take the necessary action to protect against them.

If you do recognise any of the signs of rot listed below in your property, don’t hesitate to contact your local Peter Cox branch for helpful expert advice.

Dry rot and wet rot do have some characteristics in common; they are both types of fungus which effect timber and are both aggressive enough to cause serious problems in terms of decay. Both require a significant amount of moisture to start cultivating and growing.

However, there are some clear physical differences between wet rot and dry rot as shown below.

In order to help you differentiate between the two, here is a list of the most common signs of wet rot and dry rot at various stages of their life cycle and show the damage they can potentially cause to properties.

• ‘Cuboidal’ cracking
• Wet rot fungus
• Timber darkens or lightens in colour
• Existence of damp
• Localised decay

• Damaged Timber
• Concentrated Spore Dust
• Hyphae
• Mycelium
• Fruiting bodies

Dry rot and wet rot problems in properties can be tricky to tackle but if you can spot the difference between wet rot and dry rot early enough, any wet rot treatment or dry rot treatment that is required can be done in a more efficient and cost effective manner.

Are you concerned about rot in your property? For expert advice, or  to arrange a professional survey with one of our surveyors, contact your local Peter Cox branch on 0800 633 5712 and find out more about our treatments.

Alternatively, book a survey online using the button below.