Dry Rot

Dry rot is wood decay caused by fungus. The fungus destroys structural wood framing and other wood components of a building. It causes the wood to become brittle and to crumble into a dry powder.

Dry rot will most commonly be found in those areas of a structure susceptible to water intrusion, such as roofs, attics, exterior stairs, balconies, and around windows. The damage can be extensive and the repair extremely costly. Once the fungus infects wood, it spreads and continues to disintegrate wood as it spreads. Usually the infected wood must be removed and replaced.

To avoid dry rot, the wood in a structure must be kept completely dry. That means instituting a regular inspection and maintenance program of repairing roofs, caulking windows and waterproofing balcony decks. In addition proper reserves must be established by homeowner associations for the replacement of major components over time.

Pacific-Coast Property Services
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