Where do I look for exterior dry rot damage?
Most owners have a good idea about whether or not they have dry rot and water damage to their home or business. The area of wood is soft, falling apart, or even missing. When it is discovered, you wonder how you missed seeing it for so long. I’m often asked,
“Where should I look for dry rot damages?”
If you’ve ever seen a home inspection or termite report, rotted wood can happen anywhere water and wood meet. Wood that is exposed to water will eventually lead to a problem. There are areas that this is more likely to occur, and that is near the ground.
That’s right, the bottom of the trim boards, the first row of siding, the bottom of the door can all be problem areas. Why is this? Several reasons….
- This is where the soil is most likely to reach the wood.
- Water is able to splash under the wood.
- Trim boards may be cut and unpainted or primed on the bottom.
- The lower portion is more likely to be sprayed by irrigation system.
- The bottoms of doors often get overlooked when it comes to painting.
- The heat that radiates off of the concrete takes a toll on the wood.
If we are aware of these areas, dry rot and water damage can be detected early and repaired.
If you are not comfortable looking for these problems, have the property checked for signs of decay by a professional in your area. Some contractors may be willing to do this at no charge to the property owner. Wood damage, left untreated, will only get worse.
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