Your roof plays an integral part in the functionality of your property, so regular maintenance must be carried out on your roofing system to identify problems before they become costly repairs.
The combination of moisture, warmth and wood makes your roof a breeding ground for bacterial problems such as dry rot which can weaken your roof and cause the structure to break down.
This article will serve to answer some of the most frequently asked questions so you know how to deal with dry rot should it become a problem on your roof.
What is dry rot?
Dry rot is an invasive fungi which harbours in concealed parts of the roof where moisture is present. It’s persistence means it reproduces at a rate of more than five million spores per minute in just a few days and can even lie dormant for years until it comes into contact with moisture again.
Dry rot thrives on moisture as it provides everything fungi needs to accumulate at a rapid rate. Older properties in particular are at significant risk of suffering from rot damage as the wood may not have been treated.
Where should I check for dry rot?
When checking for dry rot, you must start by inspecting the areas of your roofing system where there is a water source. On the exterior of your roof, this includes:
- Damaged gutters
- Blocked downpipe
- Wooden window sills
- Any edges or corners where moisture or water can collect
Signs and symptoms to look out for which may point to dry rot include:
- Cracking
- Splits
- Discolouration
When inspecting your roof from the interior of your property, you must check for dry rot in areas where moisture or water may be present. Keep an eye out for any leaking pipes, unvented loft space or damp drywall as these can provide the ideal conditions for dry rot to form.
How do I know if I’ve found dry rot?
If you suspect that you have found dry rot, simply apply pressure to the area using a screwdriver and if it penetrates the wood or the wood flakes off easily, there is dry rot present.
What action do I take if I discover dry rot?
If you find dry rot in your roof, you must take action immediately as the longer it is left, the worse the problem will get. Rot can spread at a very rapid rate, affecting important structural components such as bricks, plastering and ceilings, causing them to quickly weaken.
First and foremost, you must deal with the source of the moisture by repairing any leaks in your roof or damaged water pipes. Although this will prevent the fungi from spreading, it’s important to note that it will only stop the problem from worsening – it won’t repair the areas of the wood affected by dry rot.
If your roof is suffering from a severe dry rot problem, you must contact a professional roofing company immediately as they can fix the problem safely and efficiently.
How do I prevent dry rot on my roof?
The best way to deal with dry rot is to prevent it from happening in the first place! Hiring the expertise of a professional roofing company to carry out regular maintenance on your roof will ensure any sources of moisture or water leaks are identified and repaired as quickly as possible to stop dry rot accumulating.
The longer a problem like this is left untreated, the more damage it can cause to your premises. The safety of your property and those inside is paramount, which is why our experts at Morgan Asphalte offer high quality roof repairs and replacements. Serving both commercial and private sector customers, we have the experience and skills to deal with any issue no matter what type of property you own. Simply get in contact with our friendly team today for a free, no obligation quote or to learn more about how your property can benefit from our services.