Dry and Wet Rot Treatment in Newcastle
Timber decay takes two distinct forms, and they need different treatments. Newcastle Barrier Damp Proofing surveys for dry rot and wet rot across Newcastle, Tyne & Wear, Northumberland and County Durham. We identify the type before recommending anything.
The survey is free. You receive a written report with photos after every visit. If your timber is sound, you get a written all-clear and pay nothing.
Book your free survey and we aim to call you back the same day.
What dry rot and wet rot actually look like
Most companies that diagnose timber decay also sell the cure. That is a direct conflict of interest. We resolve it through what you leave with: a written all-clear if nothing is needed, and a fixed-price quote only if treatment is required. The two types of timber fungus behave very differently.
Dry rot
Dry rot is caused by the fungus Serpula lacrymans. It needs only a small amount of moisture to take hold.
Once established, it can spread through plaster and masonry to reach dry timber elsewhere. The timber cracks in a deep, cube-shaped pattern.
A reddish-brown powder collects around affected areas. There is often a distinctive mushroom smell.
The moisture source is frequently hidden. Common culprits include failing roof flashings, cracked render joints and blocked airbricks under suspended floors.
Wet rot
Wet rot stays close to its moisture source. The affected timber looks dark, soft and spongy.
Press it and it gives way easily. Wet rot does not travel into dry areas the way dry rot does.
That makes the repair more contained, once the water problem is resolved.
The diagnosis drives the cost. Getting the diagnosis right first is not optional.
Why untreated timber decay becomes a structural problem
Timber carries load. Floor joists, roof rafters and wall plates all play a structural role.
Strength loss before visible damage
When rot progresses, it removes strength from the wood fibres. The timber may still feel firm underfoot while significant load-bearing capacity has already been lost.
Dry rot moves slowly and silently
Dry rot is particularly slow to show itself. A small outbreak near a bay window can travel through masonry.
It can reach wall plates or roof timbers before it becomes visible. By the time it is found, the scope of the repair has grown considerably.
The cost of delay
A contained timber repair is a relatively straightforward job. Once structural elements are involved, the cost can reach £5,000 or more.
Active damp typically extends the repair scope the longer it is left.
Get your free damp survey
A clear written report and honest advice, with no sales pressure.
How we diagnose and treat timber rot
An experienced damp surveyor assesses the affected area through a structured inspection. Whatever we find, you receive a written report with findings and photos.
The inspection
Moisture readings identify where water is present and how far it has spread. The fungus type is confirmed by its growth pattern, colour and smell.
Our surveyor traces the moisture source and assesses how far the decay has progressed, including any hidden spread behind plaster or through masonry.
Wet rot treatment
Wet rot treatment removes decayed timber and treats surrounding surfaces with a fungicidal solution. The moisture source is resolved first.
Dry rot treatment
Dry rot treatment is more extensive. Affected timber must be removed to a margin of sound wood.
Masonry in the spread zone is treated with a fungicidal solution. No new timber is introduced until the moisture source has been eliminated.
Diagnosis-driven approach
We do not apply chemical treatments before confirming the type and source of decay. That shortcut treats the symptom and misses the problem.
Our full diagnostic process is explained on our damp survey page. Woodworm treatment is sometimes needed alongside rot work, and we inspect for both in the same visit.
Book your free survey and we aim to call you back the same day.
Newcastle Barrier Damp Proofing surveys the whole of Tyne & Wear, Northumberland and County Durham.
Not sure what is causing your damp?
Book your free damp survey. We aim to call you back the same day.
Dry and Wet Rot FAQs
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