Rot is a common problem for wood that can affect the integrity of any wooden structure, especially older ones. Understanding the importance of repairing rotten wood, we have created this blog to discuss the reasons for wood rot, the different types of rot, and the repair process.
Stick around to explore the advantages of repairing over replacing.
What is Wood Rot and How it Occurs
Fungi typically cause wood rot. When wood becomes damp due to exposure to rain, moisture in the air or leaks, it creates the ideal atmosphere for fungi to thrive. The fungi then grow and decompose the fibres within the wood – this process is known as wood rot. Any kind of rot can weaken a piece of wood, which causes it to crumble or become structurally unsound.
Different Types of Wood Rot
There are two types of wood rot:
- Dry Rot: This type of rot is hazardous because it can occur even in wood with a moisture content as low as 20%. Dry rot spreads rapidly and can cause significant structural damage. Common signs include a musty smell, growth of fruiting bodies resembling mushrooms, wood crumbling, and mycelial growth.
- Wet Rot: Wet rot requires a higher moisture content (above 50%) to thrive. It mainly occurs in areas with poor ventilation or when the wood is constantly exposed to moisture. Signs of wet rot include a damp smell, linear or cuboidal cracking, and a darker colour to the wood.
Importance of Using the Correct Process for Repairing Rotten Wood
Repairing rotten wood is not as simple as patching up a wooden surface. You must employ a careful and systematic approach to ensure the rot is addressed correctly and the wood stays protected.
Skipping any steps or using inappropriate materials will not only waste your time, as the rot will occur again, but may also require more extensive repairs in the future.
Process for Repairing Rotten Wood
1. Remove Affected Timber
The first step is to carefully remove the rotten wood and clean the affected area using a chisel or a similar tool. While doing this, make sure you cut enough to remove any remaining signs of rot.
If you’re unsure how much the rot has spread, it’s always better to be cautious and remove a slightly larger section than necessary. This ensures a thorough clean because even if the section surrounding the rot appears solid to the naked eye, fungi might have spread deep within the wood fibre.
2. Assess the Damage
Once you’ve removed the rotten wood, inspect the surrounding area for any signs of rot or damage. Typical indicators you should look for include soft spots, discolouration or crumbling wood. If you find any of these signs, it could signify a rot. In that case, continue to remove the affected wood until you have reached a solid, healthy section.
3. Treat the Exposed Wood
Apply our Smith’s Clear Penetrating Epoxy Sealer (CPES) to the exposed wood and allow it to cure. This sealer penetrates deep within the wood, preventing further damage and providing a solid foundation for the repair. It also makes the wood waterproof and protects it against future rot.
4. Fill the Void
Once the CPES is cured, use our Smith’s Fill-It Epoxy Filler to fill in the void created after removing the rotten wood. Take Part A and Part B of Fill-It Epoxy Filler in a 1:1 volume ratio and combine them on a flat surface using a paint scraper or a stiff putty knife.
Mix using a smear-scrape-fold motion until a uniform colour is achieved. Once the filler is prepared, apply it evenly in the void and ensure it adheres well to the surrounding wood. Allow the filler to cure overnight before proceeding to the next step.
5. Sand Down the Wood
Once the filler is completely dry, sand it down using sandpaper to match the surrounding wood surface. This step in repairing rotten wood ensures a smooth surface for painting.
6. Prime the Repaired Area
Covering the repaired area in primer creates a uniform surface for the final finish. If you have applied our Smith’s CPES to your wood, you won’t need to use a primer in that area, as it doubles as a primer for wood and helps the paint or varnish to stick.
7. Paint or Stain
If you are applying a primer, allow it to dry completely before you move on to the last part. Whether you want to apply paint, stain or a combination of both to the repaired area, choose a finish that matches the existing finish on the rest of the structure. Let the paint dry entirely before using the repaired area.
The Advantages of Wood Rot Repair
- Cost-Effective: Repairing rotten wood is more economical than replacing the entire structure. By addressing the rot promptly and restoring the affected area, you won’t have to spend money on demolition, construction, or buying new materials.
- More Convenient: Complete replacement is a lengthy process that may disrupt your daily routine. Repairing rotten wood, on the other hand, is comparatively simple and requires less time to complete.
- Environmentally Friendly: Repairing rotten wood is a more sustainable choice than replacing it. It eliminates the need for new materials and also reduces waste. Also, preserving the existing structure is often more money and energy-saving than building a new one.
Conclusion
Repairing rotten wood presents a far better and more eco-friendly option than complete replacement. By understanding the reason for rot and employing the steps mentioned in this blog, you can effectively address the issue and protect the structural integrity of any wooden structure. Remember to cut out the entire affected section; otherwise, the rot may set again, making the process futile.
Find the Best Products for Repairing Rotten Woods Only at Make Wood Good
Do you want to repair your rotten wooden door, window, or other structure? We have the best products for it. At Make Good Wood, our Smith’s Clear Penetrating Epoxy Sealer (CPES) is the ultimate wood rot fighter, penetrating the wood, stopping the rot, and restoring strength.
Pair it with our Smith’s Fill-It Epoxy Filler and paint; you will have all you need to repair rotten wood. You can also buy our Waterproof Rotten Wood Repair Kit, which includes both products.
To learn more about our products, visit our website today!