The Invisible Threat
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.
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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 roof rot 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 roof wood rot 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.
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.
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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See MoreRoof Repair FAQ
How long does vinyl siding usually last?
Your vinyl siding should last as long as 50 or 60 years, depending on the quality of the installation. Make sure you choose a vinyl siding replacement company with a lot of experience.
How long does it take to side a house?
Most residential siding jobs can be completed within one or two weeks. However, the length of time depends on the size of the house and how much damaged substrate needs to be replaced before the new siding is installed.
How long does it take to replace the roof of a house?
Most residential roof replacement jobs can be completed in one day. However, this depends on the house size and whether you are paying for a reroof or roof replacement.
How long does a roof replacement last?
An asphalt shingle roof replacement lasts 15 to 20 years. However, this depends on the quality of the job and materials and how well the roof is maintained. Some roof replacements last longer than 20 years.
How do you know when it’s time to replace a roof?
A leaking roof is one obvious sign that it might be time to replace (or repair) a roof. However, there are additional signs that it might be time to reach out to your local roofing contractor:
- Sagging roof
- Missing or damaged shingles
- The roof is covered with moss, algae, or mold
- Missing or damaged flashing
- Increased energy usage
- Your roof is 15-20 years old
How do you know if your siding needs to be replaced?
Your siding will show signs of wear when it is time to be replaced. Here are signs your siding needs to be replaced:
- Cracked, warped, or rotting siding
- Blistered or bubbling siding
- Siding covered with fungus, mold, or mildew
- Faded siding
- High energy bills
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