There is something insidious that could be lurking in your roofing, something you may have no idea is even there.
Unfortunately, it can cause a lot of damage once it starts unless it is caught and remedied as quickly as possible. We’re talking about dry rot, something that can be the bane of a homeowner's life and roofing services as well.
Dry rot occurs in the structural wood used in roofing. You may think your roof is safe; however, you can't be sure since it is caused by a fungus that can live in very low moisture conditions.
If you even suspect that your roof may be suffering from dry rot, it’s a good idea to call for roofing repair. Better yet, having regular inspections and the proper maintenance is what should be done so you don’t need to worry about this problem at all.
Yet what do you do when dry rot has already set in? Here are some tips to help you deal with this problem.
Locate and Isolate
If you think that you are experiencing dry rot in your roofing, the first thing to do is to look for the source or area of proliferation and isolate it. This will help prevent the further spread of the fungi causing the dry rot to begin with. If you don’t know how to locate and/or isolate the area, call experienced roofing services for help.
Check for Other Damage
If you find dry rot is located in the wood near your roof, be sure to check all structural and support beams for any possible dry rot issues.
Dry rot does not necessarily degrade or break down wood quite as badly as wet rot; however, it can still cause damage that can weaken wood. It’s important to replace any structural beams that have been damaged before beginning any roofing repair.
Neutralize The Fungus
Once you’ve located and isolated the affected area and made sure that no other damage exists, it's time to neutralize the fungus causing the dry rot. More often than not, you can use Ethylene Glycol which is the main or active component in many antifreeze products.
If you choose to neutralize the fungus by using this chemical, be sure to follow the steps below:
- Use a pressurized sprayer.
- Use a 1:1 mix of water and ethylene glycol.
- Spray all affected wood areas and allow it to dry.
If you are afraid to attempt this yourself, it may be a good idea to call experts for help. Once the fungus is neutralized, you can then continue with any roofing repair that might be needed. It’s a good idea to deal with any other issues concerning your roof during this time.
What Now?
Getting rid of dry rot early is essential to keeping your roofing in good condition. Never skip roofing repair that may be needed due to dry rot so you do not have to face bigger problems later on.
Of course, if you are struggling with taking care of this issue yourself, it’s always a good idea to call roofing services for help!
