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How to Prevent Dry Rot in Texas | Wood Rot Repair

The best way to prevent dry rot is by securing your roof

Dry rot is no stranger to Texas, particularly in the months following storm season in the Texas Hill Country. Take these necessary steps to prevent dry rot now and ensure you don’t discover an expensive problem later.

What is Dry Rot?

Dry rot is a common problem that affects many homes and buildings. It is caused by a specific species of fungi (Serpula lacrymans) that digests the parts of the wood that provide strength and stiffness, causing it to dry out, crack and rot. Decay fungi are active in areas of 77° F to 90° F.

Dry rot was originally named according to the theory that it doesn’t need water to thrive. We have since learned that dry rot, or more appropriately called “brown rot,” needs very little moisture to survive compared to other types of fungi and can live off humidity in the air. It is common for dry rot to occur several months after storm season, flooding and other household water issues like a leaky roof.

Follow these handy tips to detect dry rot and stop dry rot from spreading, then call Tomlin Roofing Professionals to assist with roof repairs.

How to Find Dry Rot

Dry rot isn’t often obvious. It can lurk just under the surface of wood and paint, and it’s sometimes indicated by dark red dust. Inspect your property regularly for moisture, blistered areas and dust. Use your fingers or a screwdriver to find soft spots or splintered wood. Common places to look for rotted wood include:

  • Corners, joints, anywhere two pieces of wood or siding meet

  • Roof framing within the attic

  • Any type of support posts or beams

  • Around windows, doors, railings

  • Stair and deck attachment points

  • Any peeling paint

  • Stains on interior ceilings and around fireplaces, skylights, dryer vents, etc.

  • Near trees and shrubs that touch your roof and siding

Dry Rot Solutions

In the unfortunate circumstance you do locate dry rot, first assess the issue. If damage has occurred to any of the structural beams in the roof, those areas must be repaired or replaced before moving forward with other repairs. Call Tomlin Roofing Professionals immediately. We handle all roof repairs in San Antonio, New Braunfels and the surrounding communities.

The next step is to isolate the dry rot. If the issue is minor, many recommend treating it with Ethylene Glycol — the active chemical found in most brands of antifreeze. Ethylene Glycol neutralizes fungus without further damaging the wood. If you choose to use a commercial antifreeze, we suggest using a pressurized sprayer to apply a 1:1 mix of Ethylene Glycol and warm water. Make sure to spray the entirety of the affected area.

Once you have treated the affected wood, the next step is to repair the damage. Minor decayed areas can be filled with a special epoxy that improves the wood’s structural integrity.

Location, size and source can vary, but more often that not, we suggest calling a professional.

Dry Rot Prevention

Prevent dry rot by first evaluating your roof. Effective roof overhangs are essential to prevent wood rot in your home.

Send a text to Tomlin Roofing for a free onsite roof evaluation. We will guide you honestly toward repairs or replacements as needed.

Dry Rot vs. Wet Rot

But this is Texas — what about wet rot? Wet rot is also a fungus (Coniophora puteana), but it affects very damp wood, plaster, wallpaper, carpets and more. Wet rot spores thrive in very high moisture areas. Compared to dry rot, wet rot remains confined to only the wet areas and is less destructive. Similarly, if you see signs of wet rot, address any structural issues first, then treat the area. If your roof is affected, call Tomlin. We are your trusted San Antonio roofing company.

Best Prevention for Wood Rot

The best way to prevent wood rot is to start with a solid and secure roof. If your roof is missing tiles, shingles, or has any weak spots around your chimney or fascia, water will find its way inside. Ensure your roof is free of leaks. Make minor roof repairs and replace shingles before they create a much bigger problem.

Tomlin Roofing Company is the leading roofer in Greater San Antonio. Our expert roofing contractors provide roofing repairs and replacements in New Braunfels, Seguin, Schertz, Cibolo and throughout the Texas Hill Country. Looking for an effective dry rot solution in Texas? Call or text Tomlin today for a free onsite evaluation.

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