THE PROBLEM
There are two primary types of timber decay generally referred to in the construction industry - Wet Rot and Dry Rot. These both develop in a similar manner and the stages of their life cycles are basically the same.

Dry and Wet Rot are caused by fungi which thrive in timber in the presence of dampness, running water, poor ventilation, high relative humidity and bad maintenance or a combination of these conditions. Dry and Wet Rot can cause major structural defects in buildings, particularly to existing timbers. Rot is unsightly and unhealthy and can grow at an alarming rate in certain conditions.

The presence of timber decay needs to be carefully diagnosed in order to ensure that appropriate remedies are specified. Cannon Clarke surveyors are specially trained and are highly experienced so that they are able to distinguish between the many different types of fungal decay which may be found in buildings.

THE SOLUTION
Dry rot is the more virulent type of wood rotting fungi and specialist advice is imperative in order to identify the fungus, to determine its true extent and to make recommendations in relation to the scope of the repairs required and the necessary specialist treatments.

To successfully eradicate Dry Rot you must initially eliminate the source of moisture. The works will normally involve the replacement of decayed timbers, the removal of wall plaster to expose extent of decay, the treatment of the wall structure by masonry irrigation and the return of the area to a watertight condition.
Wet rot  is a term of general classification covering all the wet rot species of decay. Repairing outbreaks of Wet Rot generally is less involved than those associated with Dry Rot. The works will normally involve the replacement of the decayed timbers only, however it is still critical to ensure that the moisture source is eliminated or at least isolated from the timber.

Cannon Clarke can offer a variety of remedies for dry and wet rot. Our surveyors will

• identify the nature, type and extent of the dry or wet rot,
• identify the cause, usually a source of moisture, and
• propose a solution with full specification and method statement and cost of the repair.

We constantly review the treatments available for all types of fungal decay in buildings to ensure that the best products are presented to our customers. Full technical details of the many materials the we use and important notes for fungal decay treatment clients are available in the data sheets section of this site.

As well as the treatment of affected timbers with chemical treatments it may be necessary to completely replace defective timber which has insufficient residual strength due to wet or dry rot. For further information on Cannon-Clarke's provision of carpentry services see Ancillary Services.

Wet/Dry Rot Treatment work undertaken by Cannon Clarke is normally covered by our 20 year guarantee.

Our Projects and Testimonials pages will help you to understand how we have helped many customers to eradicate the problems of wet and dry rot in their property.

To request your survey now please click here or call us FREE on 0800 197 4488.