Wet rot

A type of fungal decay affecting timber

Wet Rot

Coniophora puteana, a common cause of wet rot

Wet rot is a form of wood decay caused by fungi that thrive in damp conditions. It is a significant issue in the preservation of timber structures, particularly in buildings where moisture control is inadequate.

Causes

Wet rot occurs when wood is exposed to excessive moisture, typically above 20% moisture content. This environment allows certain fungi, such as Coniophora puteana, to colonize and break down the cellulose and hemicellulose in the wood, leading to structural weakening.

Identification

Wet rot can be identified by the following characteristics:

• A damp, musty smell
• Discoloration and darkening of the wood
• A spongy or soft texture
• Cracking or crumbling of the wood surface

Common Fungi

Several species of fungi are known to cause wet rot, including:

• Coniophora puteana (the cellar fungus)
• Paxillus involutus
• Poria vaillantii

Prevention

Preventing wet rot involves controlling moisture levels in buildings. This can be achieved by:

• Ensuring proper ventilation
• Repairing leaks in roofing, plumbing, and guttering
• Using damp-proofing measures

Treatment

Treatment of wet rot involves:

• Removing the source of moisture
• Replacing or repairing affected wood
• Applying fungicidal treatments to prevent recurrence

Related Pages

• Dry rot
• Wood preservation
• Fungal decay in buildings