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.

Worker inspecting roof rot

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.

roof starting to experience wood rot
estimating roof replacement

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.

Wood rotting on the siding of the home

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.

Preventing Wood Roof Rot

Ensuring your roof is in the best condition possible is vital to protecting your home. Since wood rot results from excessive moisture, you can prevent rot from forming by decreasing the amount of water that penetrates your roof. Some ways to secure your roof against moisture include:

  • Repairing shingles.
  • Fortifying insulation.
  • Improving ventilation.
  • Scheduling regular maintenance.
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Home owner and AmeriPro employee shaking hands in front a home with a roof that needs repaired

Roof Wood Rot Repair From AmeriPro Roofing

Since 2000, AmeriPro Roofing has been helping homeowners solve moisture and wood rot issues. We provide complimentary inspections, wet and dry roof wood rot repair, and roof replacements when you need them.

What Does an AmeriPro Roofing Wood Rot Inspection Include?

Our team will thoroughly inspect every part of your home and roof for wood rot, including these areas:

  • Facial boards and corner boards
  • Siding
  • Exposed framing in crawlspaces and basements
  • Window sills and door thresholds and casings throughout the home
  • Roof decking
  • Roof framing
  • Fascia

Schedule your inspection today and let AmeriPro Roofing help you improve the safety of your home.

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What Our Customers

Are Saying

“First of all, I couldn’t be happier with all the professionals at AmeriPro Roofing. For example, from the time they gave me my roofing estimate, to the way they explained every single thing they were going to do. As a result, their service was outstanding. And, the repairs went exactly as they promised, plus they stayed on schedule and answered every question I had. And I had a lot of them. Finally, they treated me like a human being, instead of a person who filled their quota.”

“We wanted to improve the look of our home with new siding. But, we had no clue what colors to use, or what materials would work best. Our contact at AmeriPro Roofing was so patient. And above all, treated us with respect and kindness. We had a lot of questions. And we got the right answers every time. I was nervous about this project, but the vinyl siding is beautiful, and the color we chose just pops like you wouldn’t believe. In conclusion, the service was worth every penny.”

“Our roof needed replacing, and I had called a bunch of other roofers near me. In the first place, some were really pushy. And others treated me like I was stupid. In contrast, the guy at AmeriPro Roofing was a total pro. In fact, he was a straight shooter, listened before he talked, and told me he couldn’t give me any kind of estimate until he did an inspection. After the free inspection, I was sold, and I figure to get another 30 years out of this brand-new roof. In any event, I couldn’t be happier with AmeriPro Roofing.”

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Explore Our Projects

Let us show you our expertise. Explore our roofing, siding, and gutter projects. Discover how we can transform your home. A new roof improves curb appeal. Plus, keep in mind, it increases its resale value!

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Contact AmeriPro Roofing Today for a Free Roofing Inspection

If you’re ready to upgrade your existing roofing, gutter or siding solution, trust the experts at AmeriPro Roofing.

Start by scheduling a complimentary roofing inspection today!

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