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 Annual, or semi-annual, pest and dry-rot inspections are important for keeping up the value of your home. Done properly, inspections will reveal potential damage before it becomes unmanageable and expensive.
Damage by the dry rot fungus, caused by excessive wood moisture, is the leading cause of wood failure in homes. This is not the same fungus that has made headlines recently as a health concern. It is the fungus that destroys the structural integrity of wood.
Wood damaged by dry rot fungus is often described as "alligator skin" because of the cracked, blocky appearance of the surface. Dry rot causes weakness in the wood fibers which will eventually fail if placed under load. Rotted wood must be replaced after the source of moisture is found and eliminated. Impregnating the wood with borate will stop fungal growth.
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House foundation, siding and foundation vents (black). Inspect for insect activity and water infiltration on the foundation between soil and siding. "Perimeter" treatments should be applied where the siding overlaps the foundation. Photo by JD DeAngelis.
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