Handyman Alpharetta GA: 5 Wood Rot Prevention Practices

Wood rot is one of the most costliest problems for homeowners. Mainly because often the repairs come too late and the damage worsens. 

There are ways to prevent wood rot from happening in the first place. 

Below are 5 areas that breed wood rot and how they can be prevented. 

1. Shrubbery Coming Into Contact with Your Home 

If you let your bushes come into contact with your home overtime it can lead to wood rot. 

The reasons are first of all moisture retention. Bushes and plants that touch the exterior walls of a house can trap moisture against the surface. 

This moisture can come from rain, dew, or even watering the plants. 

When wood is constantly exposed to moisture, it becomes a breeding ground for fungi, which can cause wood rot. 

Also lack of circulation, having shrubbery too close to your home can limit the air circulation around the exterior walls. Not to mention just mere physical contact, constantly rubbing up against your home can cause damage to the protective wood layer.

Keep your bushes trimmed back away from your home. 

2. Water Trapped Under Outdoor Rugs

Water trapped under outdoor rugs can contribute to wood rot, especially if the rugs are placed on wooden decks or patios.

Outdoor rugs can prevent proper drainage and airflow beneath them.

When rain or moisture gets trapped under the rug, it can remain in contact with the wooden surface for a long time. ESPECIALLY if your deck is covered with any sort of roofing. This prevents your deck area under the roofing from drying quickly. Then what happens is this trapped moisture can promote the growth of fungi and mold, leading to wood rot.

Wood needs adequate ventilation to stay dry and resist rot. When outdoor rugs cover wooden surfaces completely, they restrict the movement of air and prevent evaporation, creating a conducive environment for wood decay.

After a good rain lift and remove outdoor rugs to allow underlying wood to dry thoroughly.

3. Wood Rot Around Windows and Doors 

Regularly inspect the area around your windows for any signs of damage, such as peeling paint, cracks, or soft spots in the wood. 

Catch early signs of decay and  address the issue before it worsens - which can be even more costly. 

Keep the paint and sealants around your windows in good condition. 

Cracked or peeling paint can allow moisture to penetrate the wood. 

Repaint and reseal as needed to maintain a protective barrier.

4. Check Under Your Barbecue Grill

Water trapped under a barbecue grill cover will contribute to wood rot, especially if the grill is placed on a wooden deck or patio. 

Regularly lift your barbecue grill cover especially during the rainy season and dry the area. 

Also consider using a grill mat beneath your barbecue grill to catch any spills or moisture. This can help prevent direct contact between the grill and the wooden surface.

5. Clean under Furniture and Toys

Basically anything that is sitting on your deck and exposed to rainy or moist conditions occasionally needs to be moved and cleaned up under to prevent future wood rot.

Call Us for Wood Rot Repair 

Did you know we are experts at wood rot repair? If you see any visible signs of wood rot it is super important to address it immediately before the damage gets worse and more costly. 

Need a Handyman in Alpharetta GA?

Give us a call! We also provide handyman services for the Lilburn, Suwanne, Buford, Lawrenceville, Duluth, Norcross, Stone Mountain, Gwinnett County, Cumming, Roswell, Johns Creek, Dunwoody, Sandy Springs, Buckhead, Midtown, and Brookhaven.