Fungus
Fungus is the cause of dry rot, which is one of the most serious defects that wood can develop. The fungus grows by consuming wood fiber, and the wood becomes soft and punky
How does wood decay happen?
Fungus is the first stage of dry rot and left untreated will create major structural damage.
Fungi reproduce by manufacturing single-celled spores, similar to microscopic seeds. Spores are tough; they’re able to resist extreme conditions of temperature and humidity and, under adverse conditions, they may go dormant for long periods. Spread primarily by air currents, they collect on horizontal surfaces.
Decay fungi feed on the cellulose and lignin of which wood cell walls are composed. Their hyphae, which are threadlike tubes that penetrate the wood, secrete enzymes which dissolve at least part of the wood cell being fed upon, changing it into a form which can then be absorbed as food. Spores require a moisture content higher than the Fiber Saturation Point (FSP) of the wood species upon which they rest, typically between 27% and 30%.
Once sufficient water and favorable temperatures are available, spores germinate and develop by extending a hypha tube. As more spores germinate, fungi multiply to form a colony. Under the right conditions, fungus can expand quickly.
The most effective and common method for moderate to severe damage is to replace the damaged wood. However, if only a small area is affected, borates and reinforcing the damaged wood are a cost-effective alternative.
Angelo Termite
Licensed as a Structural Pest Control Operator, General Contractor & Roofing Contractor, there is no job that we cannot conquer.
