Roof rot comes in different types and can be severe if not treated. It often is detected once the damage is severe, so you must know what to look for.
You don’t have to be an expert to detect the signs of roof rot. A few thorough inspections by you and your team will ensure a healthy and safe roof.
Roof rot usually comes with telltale signs, such as discoloration and varying weather conditions. Here’s how to check those to identify roof rot.
Dry Rot
Dry rot is a type of roof rot that results from excessive moisture and lack of ventilation in your home. Signs of dry rot are often seen in the leaky or damp areas of the house, such as around windows, under sinks, near downspouts, and on the roofing problem.
To look for signs of dry rot, remove any roofing material and check the roof trusses, layers of roof sheathing, and rafters. Wood that is soft, spongy, discolored, or crumbles is a sign of dry rot. Watch for mushrooms or other fungi growing on the wood and discolored wood grain.
Wet Rot
Wet rot is one of several types of rotting roofs, a problem that causes water damage to the roof of a structure. It occurs when water seeps through places in the top, like cracks, missing tiles, or faulty seals, and comes in contact with wood, leading to the breakdown of the roof’s strength due to the moist environment.
Wet rot can lead to wood softening, discoloration, cracking, and warping of wood structural components. To identify wet rot, check for dark spots on the roof and feel the material; a sure sign of corruption is a softness to the area. A musty smell, as well as cracked paint, is also another way to spot wet rot.
Brown Rot
Brown rot typically occurs when the roof has been wet for long periods and no air circulation is allowed to the affected area. Symptoms of brown rot are the presence of brown or black stains on the ceiling or walls and sagging in the affected area.
White, fluffy spores and dry, cracked, and curling surfaces may also be present. In advanced cases, weak wooden boards can rot completely and must complete roof repairs and replacement.
To prevent brown rot, regular roof inspection, and maintenance are necessary. You can also search for roof repair specialities. This is to ensure that you can deal with this problem efficiently and effectively.
White Rot
White breakdown occurs when moisture accumulates in wood that has been damp for an extended period. The fungus that causes white rot creates an unmistakable web of white, stringy mold (known as mycelium) covering the wood, leaving the surface damp and spongy.
Look for wet rot in your roof, indicated by soft, muddy discoloration in the wood and shingles. Additionally, you might see cracked or swollen wood or distorted boards.
Start Checking the Signs of Roof Rot Now
Roof rot can be a common roof issue for homeowners. You can catch roof rot early by being aware of the different types of roof rot and what to look for.
Act by further inspecting your roof, or seek the help of a professional roofer. Now is the time to take preventative measures to ensure a longer-lasting roof.
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