What is Wood Rot?

One of the most amazing and versatile building materials available is wood. It’s a wonderful insulator and has wonderful structural abilities to accept paint, stains and varnishes.

This super material does have an Achilles heel which is rot. 

The interesting thing is wood rot is only caused by one thing, Fungi, which is the simplest of all plant life.

Microscopic fungus spores are all around us, in the breeze and landing all over our homes. Wherever they land they need exactly 4 conditions to be present in order for them to create rot.

The 4 Conditions That Wood Rot Needs to Occur:

  1. Substrate (Wood)

  2. Warmth

  3. Oxygen

  4. Moisture

What Areas of the Home are Most Effected by Wood Rot?

Wood rot usually happens in exterior corner boards first, but skirt boards and windows are also common victims.

Wood Rot in Your Home's Window Sills

If you have newer windows good news, they are designed to prevent leaks. However, all it takes is one small gap that’s not adequately sealed with caulk for rain to seep through and saturate the wood in the wall beneath the window.

When wood is not exposed to air or sunlight, it remains damp—providing optimal conditions for fungi growth. Older wooden windows are at an even greater risk, as water tends to pool on the horizontal sills, seeping through cracks in the paint.

Wood Rot Around Door Frames

Wood rot occurs when your door frame is exposed to moisture and fungus. If the fungus isn't cleaned away from your wood, it will begin to reproduce and eat away at your wooden frame, which leads to rotting.

Your door frames are exposed to the elements such as rain and snow, as a result they are more likely to experience wood rot than some other areas of your home.

Additionally, like windows, cracks and gaps between a door and the siding (or threshold) permits water to enter, making them prime spots for wood rot as many door frames are made from wood.

Wood Rot in Your Deck and Porch Area

The boards from your deck are exposed to the elements like other areas of your home. Wood rot is caused by water and dampness over time however there are lots of different reasons your deck could be showing some signs of damage. It could be caused from dry rot or galvanic wood rot.

Galvanic wood rot occurs when galvanized nails or screws are driven into pressure treated lumber. The chemicals in the wood react with the nails causing oxidation. This leads to corrosion within the boards. The only solution to fix galvanic wood rot is to remove and replace the affected boards from the deck, thus preventing the spread of the wood rot.

In any event the first sign of wood rot, it is super important you call and get it repaired otherwise you could be facing an entire deck rebuild.

Wood Rot in Railings and Banisters

Railings are in direct contact with the elements. If you're in an area whereas there is more rainfall you are very likely to experience parts of deck and porch railing having wood rot.

Failure to properly seal and finish the wood on your deck can allow moisture to penetrate the surface. Use appropriate wood sealers, stains, or paints designed for outdoor use to provide a protective barrier.

Also, wood-boring insects like termites and carpenter ants can weaken the wood, making it more susceptible to rot. Inspect for signs of insect damage and take preventive measures if you see evidence of wood rot.

But for the most part, wood naturally deteriorates or rots due to weathering.