Signs your roof timbers have wet or dry rot

Roofing is a vital part of any property, shielding it from the various elements we face here in London and Surrey. Your roof isn’t just made up of tiles, slates, or what you see on the outside, but internal roof timbers too. If the wood gets affected by rot that deteriorates the material, it can lead to major structural damage and costly repair work.

Want to understand more about wet and dry rot in roofing timbers? Here’s everything you need to know.

What is wet rot?

Wet rot is a type of fungal decay occurring when timber is persistently exposed to high moisture levels (such as hidden roof leaks). It weakens the wood by feeding on the cellulose within the timber, causing soft and spongy areas that appear discoloured. It’s common in roofs with leaks around guttering, loose tiles and flashing, where rainwater has found its way into internal areas. Unlike dry rot, wet rot tends to stick to the patch of timber it has dampened.

What is dry rot?

Dry rot is more severe than the problems of wet rot. It’s caused by a type of fungus that spreads across timber, even affecting plaster and masonry surrounding the wood. It tries to find any source of moisture it can, thriving in poorly ventilated, damp spaces, which fits the brief of attics and lofts. Dry rot can lead to significant structural concerns if left to spread so it must be addressed as soon as possible after discovery.

Does it matter if roof timbers get wet?

Yes! While timber can withstand getting wet as a one-off event, continual moisture exposure creates the ideal conditions for rot to take hold, leading to sagging, cracking or collapsed roofing. Rot can also spread beyond the roofing structure, impacting the overall safety of the property.

What are the signs that your roofing has wet or dry rot?

So, what are the red flags of wet and dry rot you can look out for? If you head up into your attic or loft, check for signs like a musty odour, discoloured timbers, flaking or cracked wood, warped and spongy timber, or paint peeling and bubbling. These all indicate moisture issues. You may also be able to spot the actual fungal growth. For example, wet rot appears as a black fungus, while dry rot produces white, cotton-wool-like mycelium or rust-coloured spores.

How can you check for dry and wet rot in your roof?

While some signs of wet and dry rot are visible, every roof structure is different. Some are difficult to access, and it takes a trained eye to understand the extent of the issue. The problem of wet and dry rot in UK properties can be handled with professional roofing inspections. Your roofer will conduct a thorough assessment, identify wet vs dry rot, and recommend solutions like targeted roof repairs, roof timber replacement or roof ventilation improvements.

Get a free roof inspection and quote

We complete regular roof surveys and inspections across London, Surrey and nearby locations, including Banstead and Kenley. Contact Collier Roofing today.