Wood is a material that has always been essential to new housing development. While the wood framing market is down 23% in 2020 due to Coronavirus, it still supports a $15-billion-dollar industry. For those who own a wood-framed home, maintenance becomes essential to structural integrity. As wood is the most widely used building material, it’s important to learn about the hidden dangers of wood rot. So, can wood rot be fixed with a roofing repair? Let’s find out.
What Is Wood Rot?
Wood that is exposed to moisture for long periods is in threat of wood rot decay because of microscopic growth in the air and soil. Most times, property owners do not even realize wood is rotting because the structural, roofing, flooring, or siding damage is beneath other building materials that promote structural safety or aesthetic features. There are a few signs to look for.
What Causes Wood Rot On A Roof?
Wood rot on a roof can develop in several ways. Here are a few problems you should watch for.
- Roof Damage
- Ventilation Issues
- Gutter Complications
- Attic Temperature Fluctuations
- Weather-Related Humidity Changes
While roof and gutter damages are easier to locate, ventilation and temperature fluctuations can affect multiple areas in a home that are made from wood such as the structural beams, window frames, or baseboards. As the roof protects the home from rain and snow, it is at a higher risk for roof damage because of issues like clogged gutters, standing water, and porous roofing materials.
If moisture-related access to your home or business is not repaired quickly, it will eventually cause a structural failure. When roofing repair is not completed in time, it will lead to sagging rooftops as the wood rot increases. When mold grows and spreads, it eats away at the wood. Left unchecked, it will lead to higher home repair costs, including the need for a roofing replacement.
How Does North Shore Roofing Inspect For Wood Rot?
Knowing where to look is half the battle. It’s important to perform an inspection for any soft, blistering, or decaying wood rot in places such as the attic, roof framing or decking, fascia, window sills, and the basement or crawlspaces. It’s also vital to note how the rot has advanced.
How Can A Roofing Repair Prevent Dry Rot?
Prevention and maintenance procedures are critical to avoiding wood rot in a home or business.
- Having annual inspections is one way to prevent wood rot.
- Maintaining the gutters will prevent moisture access to wood framing.
- Performing roofing repairs will ensure moisture does not spread.
- Inspecting windows and doors will block moisture from wood components.
- Ensuring the roof’s ventilation is working protects the attic from moisture and mold.
While the structural framing is the backbone of a home or business, it is the roof that protects it from harsh weather. While most property owners are mindful of these issues, it isn’t always easy to maintain these areas when you work full time or have a lot of household upkeep to perform. That is why North Shore Roofing highly recommends annual inspections and roofing repair.
As the weather will soon change, right now is the perfect time to schedule inspections and roofing repair by calling (978) 977-3816 or at www.facebook.com/NorthShoreRoofingMA.
