The Invisible Threat to

Your Home…
Wood Rot

By the time you notice wood rot, the damage has already been done

Most people don’t see or notice wood rot until it’s too late. Maybe you’re getting ready to paint a window sill, do some trim work, or decking and then notice wood rot damage. Or, perhaps you are having your roof repaired or getting work done in your crawlspace, and the contractor comes and tells you there’s a problem. Depending on where the wood rot is located, will determine the type of damage that can occur if left untreated. But wherever the damage may be, there’s one thing you can be sure of…wood rot is going to allow excess moisture in, and that moisture brings with it serious problems.

What Is Roof Rot?

Roof rot occurs when wood parts of the roof, such as the decking, are exposed to excessive moisture for extended periods of time. The decking connects the roof to the rest of the home, supporting the weight of shingles and other roofing materials. If the decking absorbs too much water, it will start to decay and rot.

Rotting wood can lead to significant issues, such as a collapsed roof or the spread of wood rot to vital structures that keep your house standing. If you suspect water is penetrating your roof, you’ll want to have a professional roofing company inspect your home right away.

What Causes Wood Rot?

Several factors can cause wood rot on your roof, including the following:

Clogged or misaligned gutters
Poor or nonexistent roof ventilation
Damaged roofing materials
Ice dams

It’s important to understand what problems can make your roof at risk so you can seek repairs and protect your home from further damage. Any issue that could allow moisture to enter your roof or attic is cause for concern. Be sure to check your roof after a storm. Hail and wind can cause shingles to crack or curl, creating holes for water to flow through.

Signs of Roof Rot

There are two main types of wood rot to look for:

Dry rot: Wood with dry rot will appear cracked, dry and crumbly. It will smell musty and may have gray, white or brown growths.
Wet rot: This damp-smelling rot will feel spongy and weak to the touch. You might see black, white, yellow, brown or gray discoloration, and it will appear darker than the wood around it.

Check for both types of rot while inspecting your home. Some other signs that may indicate roof rot include:

A sagging or bulging roof: Your decking may have wood rot if you notice parts of your roof rising or sinking. The new shape can cause shingles to malfunction, letting even more moisture in.
Granules in the gutter: Gutters clogged with granules could indicate your shingles are aging and letting extra moisture enter your home.
Damaged shingles: If you notice cracks, curls or other types of damage to your shingles, they’re most likely allowing water into your attic space.

Is Wood Rot Localized or Can It Spread?

If your home has wood rot in one area, there’s a chance it may be in other areas as well. Before starting on repairs, AmeriPro Roofing will conduct a thorough assessment of your home in order to determine if wood rot exists anywhere else and how to best address and resolve it.

How Does Roof Venting Help With Minimizing Wood Rot?

Your roof is more than a barrier from moisture. It also allows the house to breathe, releasing moisture like a bathroom or attic fan would. A properly vented roof expels the water vapor that builds up in the home, decreasing humidity and condensation levels to keep your wood protected and dry.