Dry Rot Treatment Huddersfield

Dry rot has become more prominent in areas like Huddersfield, where moisture levels are very high. This is because the fungus (serpula lacrymans) that causes dry rot, thrives in environments with poor ventilation, high moisture levels and organic materials such as timber. 

In Huddersfield, where older buildings are common, dry rot is found more often and can be more prevalent.

Left unchecked and untreated, dry rot can cause severe damage to wooden floors, walls, and other structural components, compromising the safety and stability of the building. If you suspect any dry rot in your property, it is important to contact a dry rot specialist who can effectively assess and address the issue before it gets more severe.

What Causes Dry Rot in Huddersfield?

There are various reasons why dry rot could be present in Huddersfield. These are most likely a combination of conditions within a property, the architectural design in the area, and general maintenance-related factors.

Here are the most common potential causes of dry rot in Huddersfield:

High humidity levels – Fungal decay occurs when wood becomes excessively wet, typically with a moisture content exceeding 20%. Many properties in Huddersfield suffer with water ingress; this moisture, if left untreated, provides sustenance for fungi such as dry rot to flourish.

Poor Ventilation – Places where there is poor ventilation and inadequate airflow can lead to trapped moisture and humidity, which builds up over time and creates a suitable environment for dry rot. Commonly, standing water beneath timber floors is one such cause of that humidity, and it is beneath floors where dry rot is most commonly found.

Condensation – Condensation is another common reason for dry rot. When warm air comes into contact with cold surfaces, condensation forms. Over time, the condensation eventually builds, and this moisture is absorbed by timber, which then becomes an ideal source of sustenance for dry rot.

Water LeaksWater ingress from leaking pipes, roofs, or gutters can penetrate and create excess moisture in the building structure, providing an optimal environment for dry rot fungi to thrive.

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Consequences of Dry Rot

If left untreated, dry rot can lead to severe consequences for both the structural integrity of the building and the occupants’ health. 

As the fungus gradually consumes the cellulose in wooden structures, it affects the structural integrity, potentially leading to significant instability and safety hazards. Dry rot can also easily spread to adjacent materials, causing extensive property damage, influencing the value of the property.

If your property has suffered damage from dry rot, or you suspect it might have, get a free online quote from us today or contact us so we can help you!

Yellow and brown dry rot developed on a white wall

How to Spot Dry Rot

It is crucial to be able to recognise the key signs of dry rot so you can prevent any further damage to your property. However, make sure you contact a dry rot professional who can inspect your property and correctly assess the situation. 

Some key signs to look for include: 

  • Discolouration – Affected wood may appear darker or discoloured, with a reddish-brown hue in advanced stages.
  • Presence of Fungal Spores – Fine powdery deposits or dust-like spores may be visible around the affected wood or in the surrounding area.
  • Hollow Sound –  When tapping or knocking on wood affected by dry rot, it may produce a hollow or papery sound, indicating decay within.
  • Crumbling or Soft Wood – Wood affected by dry rot may feel soft or spongy to the touch, and it may crumble easily under pressure.
  • Earthy or Fungal Smell –  As dry rot spreads, it may produce an unpleasant earthy or fungal odour. 

Yellow dry rot developed on a wall

Dry Rot Treatments in Huddersfield

If discovered in time, dry rot can be treated without having to spend a lot of money. Treating it typically involves a combination of moisture control, fungal eradication, and repair of damaged materials. Here’s a general outline of the treatment process:

  1. Identify and Address the Moisture Source – Determine the source of moisture that is causing the dry rot and remove it. This could involve fixing leaks, improving ventilation, or implementing moisture barriers to prevent further water ingress.
  2. Remove the Affected Materials –  Remove any wood or other materials affected by the dry rot. This may include parts of flooring, walls, or structural timbers that are significantly damaged. 
  3. Apply Fungicidal Treatment – Treat the remaining surfaces with a fungicidal solution to kill any remaining fungal spores and prevent regrowth by following the manufacturer’s instructions.
  4. Repair and Replace Damaged Materials – Replace any removed or damaged wood with a new one. Reinforce any structural components if needed to restore the stability and integrity of the affected area.
  5. Monitor for Recurrence – Regularly inspect the area for signs of recurrence, such as new fungal growth or moisture issues. Address any issues as soon as they arise.
  6. Maintain Proper Ventilation and Control the Moisture – Implement measures to maintain proper ventilation and control the moisture levels throughout the property. This helps prevent future outbreaks of dry rot and other moisture-related issues.

However, if the dry rot is spreading already and cannot be addressed by yourself alone, make sure to seek professional help from our experts at Allerton Damp, by contacting us today!

Brown dry rot on a white wall

Reviews

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Allerton were exceptional at keeping in touch with me from the first phone call, right through to the quality control visit after work was completed. All the team were friendly, professional and ensured the disruption to the rest of my home whilst works were ongoing were kept to a minimum. They cleaned the site daily and ensured we were happy with progress throughout the project. Pleasure to work with.

Rebecca T

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Allerton provided a highly professional service from start to finish and did a quality job. Their expert visited the property and explained the proposed solution to condensation in a clear way. The information provided on e-mail was clear and comprehensive with an efficient e-payment system.

Richy M

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Allerton’s carried out damp treatment work on our property. They were quick, efficient and tidy. Changes to our requirements were dealt with well and nothing was too much trouble. Indeed we appreciated the hassle free way we were dealt with, the fixed quote with no “hidden extras” or later additional costs that we weren’t expecting. A great service and good work.

David H

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Very professional and reliable company to deal with, after being let down by others not turning up, it was refreshing to deal with Allerton, from arriving to survey and quote through to the finished job. The team of two who carried out the work, were very professional, polite and friendly and did a great job of the work itself and cleaning up afterwards.

Jane H

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Me and my partner cannot recommend Allerton enough. From day 1 they were professional and the level of communication from the start of the job to the final day was exceptional. Constant messages asking questions and for reassurance. A great Company for all damp proofing works but also for the additional works as well, like plastering, boarding, electrics etc.

Greg M

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Excellent service all round! We had damp proofing and a new floor installed. The communication via email beforehand was very useful. Also, the team arrived on time every day and got the job done with great results. I would recommend! Thanks again

Angela P

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Our Process

01

SURVEY

An experienced and professional Allerton Surveyor will visit your home to see the problem and discuss your needs

02

REPORT

Your Surveyor will provide a clear, plain English report to you describing the problem, showing what we propose to do about it and telling you what it’ll cost

03

YOUR PROJECT

Your project is handed over to our knowledgeable Project Management Team who’ll hold your hand from the start to the finish of the work

04

AFTERCARE

Our service doesn’t end when our damp solution Technicians have left. We issue a 20 Year Guarantee with our qualifying work!

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At Allerton Damp, we have always taken our responsibilities to the environment seriously. In pursuit of becoming net zero we moved our Headquarters to a new, purpose-built and energy efficient facility, we upgraded our fleet to the cleanest vehicles possible and we have even funded clean energy projects!

In Huddersfield, as part of our commitment to our local habitat, we have helped create green spaces where wildlife and humans can mutually benefit.

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Whatever your needs, a member of our Customer Care Team will be happy to hear from you. They are trained in all areas of our work from damp proofing to cellar conversions and will aim to help you as far as possible at the initial stage. They’re friendly, approachable and they always have time to discuss your property needs.

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