Damp on its own is not a nice problem to have to deal with, but if left untreated it can lead to something worse. Timber infestation can occur when insects or fungi take up residence in damp timber. This can damage the structural integrity of your home, and can be expensive to fix.
You could even be living with a timber infestation without being aware of it, as one homeowner discovered. In 2012, Sheila Brough from Leicestershire told the Guardian of the woodworm infestation in the beams of her house that was only discovered when she tried to sell it. Expensive treatments were needed, which delayed the sale of the house. That’s why it’s a good idea to get a damp and timber survey if you notice any signs of infestation, or simply if you plan on selling your house and want everything to go smoothly.
Woodworm
Woodworm are actually the larvae of beetles that lay their eggs in damp wood. The larvae, once hatched, burrow into the wood and eat it. They exit the timber once they’ve developed into adult beetles, so look out for any visible exit holes in the wood as a sign that your timber is infested. If you see sawdust-like material underneath any wood beams, this may also be due to the beetles burrowing out of the wood, and could be a sign that you should get your timber checked for woodworm.
Dry Rot
Dry rot and wet rot are two kinds of fungus that can infest your wood and lead to similar problems as woodworm infestations. If wood appears shrunken, dark and cracked, this could be a sign of dry rot. There may also be visible fungus, including a greyish, mushroom-like skin that can be peeled off the wood, and cotton-wool like structures. If you spot any of these signs of rot, there are ways it can be treated, but in severe cases the timber may need to be replaced.
Wet Rot
There are many different species of fungus that fall under the term “wet rot.” Wet rots can be split into two main categories – brown rot and white rot. Brown rot can look similar to dry rot, as it can cause the wood to shrink and crack. This fungus feeds on the cellulose of the timber and damages the structure of the wood. White rot can cause a light brown sheet-like growth, and light brown threads coming from the wood. Spores of the fungus germinate in damp wood and feed on cellulose and lignin. The fungus spreads, and develops into fruiting bodies which release more spores, continuing the cycle.
All of these can be treated, but in some cases the timber may need to be replaced. You should also remember that these organisms prefer a moist environment, so in every case of timber infestation, damp can be an underlying cause. Fixing your timber infestation problems as soon as they arise will protect your home from any further damage which could become much more costly to fix.
