Having any kind of rot in any property will have a negative effect on the structure and the occupants. Rot is a timber damaging fungi that must be treated by a specialist, such as Richardson and Starling, as soon as you suspect its presence. Although damp rot is not directly harmful to humans, it does signify that there is at least one location of high moisture in the property. This could lead to further problems such as woodworm and mould growth. Dampness and condensation are known to cause or worsen respiratory issues, which will be detrimental to the health of residents at a care home, who are likely already suffering from multiple ailments and weak immune systems. To learn more about damp rot and the detrimental effects it can have on a care home, continue reading.
Details on Damp Rot
Wet or damp rot requires an environment with a high moisture content, of approximately 50% and higher, in order for it to develop. There are various types of damp rot, however, you can use the following list of signs to judge if you have any form of it in your property:
- A damp and musty smell
- Discolouration of wood
- Paint appears damaged
- Cracks in the wood
- Mycelium strands on the wood
- Wood feels soft or spongey to touch
Richardson and Starling
Richardson and Starling is a first-rate property preservation and maintenance company based in Scotland. This nationally renowned business has been delivering property care since 1935 and specialises in the identification, removal and prevention of damp, rot and woodworm. Richardson and Starling are experts in their field and to give you peace of mind, offer a 30-year guarantee with every project they manage. If you are to sell your property, the guarantee will automatically be transferred to new owners. On top of that, all work carried out by this Scottish company is covered by the Guarantee Protection Insurance Scheme and the work itself is safeguarded by this contractor’s membership of the Property Care Association. Richardson and Starling offer expert advice and repairs across the whole of Scotland and the North of England.
How to Treat Damp Rot
The first stage in the eradication process is to identify where the moisture is coming from, as mentioned earlier damp rot relies on a high moisture content to flourish. Once the source has been identified, the issue will be addressed. For example, if it is a damaged gutter that is causing the high moisture, then the gutters will be fully investigated and a plan for resolution created. Next, the team will strip out the entire affected area. This can include any decaying wood, damaged linings, panelling, skirting, ceilings and flooring. All the wood in the area will be prepared, plus a prevention solution will be applied. Richardson and Starling achieve this by applying a fungicide which will form a protective chemical barrier from further development of damp rot. Once this is complete, the area will be fully restored.