Have you ever wondered if any clues could help you determine if a piece of wood has rotted? Wood rot is a common problem that can affect homes and other structures built or lived in many years ago.
This type of damage typically occurs in moist and humid areas, such as kitchens and bathrooms. The best way to avoid it is to identify the symptoms of wood rot at its early stage so it can be repaired before it gets worse.
Here’s Some Easy Ways To Identify Wood Rot
Hidden signs that wood is rotting in your house can be difficult to detect. But, once you know what to look for and how to identify rotten wood in your house, it’s very easy. Here are some hidden wood rot signs that you should look out for:
- Peeling or bubbling paint: One of the most common wood rot symptoms. If paint starts to peel or bubble, it could signify that the wood beneath is rotting.
- Warped wood: Wood can warp when it gets wet and stays in this position for a long time. If wood starts to warp, it could be an early sign of wood rot.
- Gap between wood pieces: It’s hard not to notice a gap or space between two wooden boards or beams because you can see through them! This type of damage usually occurs when the wood has been wet for a long time.
- Brown or black spots: These are usually signs of advanced wood rot and should be addressed as soon as possible.
Steps To Take To Address Wood Rot
If you notice any of these wood rot symptoms around your house, it’s important to take action right away. Wood rot can lead to bigger problems down the road if it’s not repaired, so it’s best to catch wood rot as soon as possible. Steps to take when detecting wood rot around your home:
- Remove wood rot by hand: If you find wood rot in small areas, such as a few planks on the floor or wood beams that support the ceiling, then it’s safe to remove rotted wood pieces yourself.
- Call an expert if necessary: If there is extensive wood damage around your house and holes formed because of wood rot, then it’s best to call in a professional.
How To Prevent Wood Rot
Now that you know how to identify wood rot around your house, it’s important to take the necessary steps to prevent it from happening in the first place. By following these simple tips, you can help keep your home in good condition and avoid costly repairs down the road.
- Keep wood dry: The most important way to prevent wood rot is to keep wood dry. Ensure that any wood you use in your home, such as lumber, plywood, and beams, is properly sealed and treated before installation.
- Inspect wood regularly: Check for signs of water damage or moisture buildup around windows, doors, eaves, and rooflines. If you find any leaks, fix them right away.
- Ventilate your home: Proper ventilation is key in preventing wood rot. Ensure that your bathroom and kitchen have proper ventilation to allow moisture to escape.
- Keep plants away from wood: Plants can often be the source of water damage, so make sure to keep them away from wood siding, decks, and other wood structures.
Time For A Change? Get The Best Lumber In AR
Hopefully, we have covered enough topics to give a broad overview of how to identify and prevent wood rot in your home. Despite its destructive nature, wood rot is relatively easy to deal with, and replacing the rotten wood with high-quality lumber is a good solution.
Ridout lumber is the best lumber company in Jonesboro, AR. Offering quality wood for any project necessity you may have. Don’t hesitate to reach out to learn more about the lumber types they provide.