Of the wood rotting fungi found in buildings, the true Dry Rot (Serpula lacrymans) fungus is the most intrusive and destructive. Often the first sign of the presence of a Dry Rot attack, is the appearance of a mushroom like growth called a Sporophore or Fruit Body.

The Dry Rot Sporophore releases spores or fungal seeds, these spores can often be seen as large deposits of a red rust coloured dust in the vicinity of the attack. The appearance of the Sporophore is an indication that there is an advanced attack present and immediate action is required.

Dry Rot has the unique ability to spread rapidly through buildings and materials from which it derives no nourishment, it does so by the growth of fungal strands. This enables the fungus to spread extensively and largely undetected until a Sporophore appears, by which time damage can be extensive.

Protectahome Surveyors are skilled and experienced in tracing the extent of attacks which have to be considered as three dimensional due to the ability of the attack to spread through building materials. It is essential when dealing with an attack of Dry Rot that the source of moisture responsible for the outbreak is identified and remedied.

We are experienced in working with conservationist’s and building historians to find the most sympathetic but effect solution to the problems being experienced. In recent years Dry Rot monitoring has become an essential aid in providing a planned defence against this most secretive and destructive wood rotting fungi. Protectahome offer a full range of services to deal with an outbreak from survey, diagnostic analysis and monitoring, exposure, treatment and all associated reinstatement works.