Wood rot, known as fungal decay, is a common problem in many Bay Area, CA homes. It is caused by fungi (molds) that thrive in damp conditions. The fungus grows gradually, causing the wood to decay, weaken, and break down. Once the wood has rotten, water can enter the wall’s cavity, leading to further damage.

You can successfully repair wood rot if the damage is minor and occurs in the less significant parts of your home. But if the damage has become severe—and especially if it has affected your home’s structurally significant parts, such as joists and beams—replacement is the best option.

Missing a piece of wood alone due to rot can ruin your home’s appearance and, most importantly, cause further damage to your home’s structure, depending on the root cause of the rot or how structurally significant the affected wooden part is. If you live in a wooden house or a home with predominant wooden construction or in a damp area, detecting wood rot is urgent. Regular inspections and preventative measures with minor repairs and paint can save you thousands of dollars in replacement costs.

Signs of wood rot

Wood rot can be serious for wooden structures and can lead to structural damage if left unchecked. Here are some signs of wood rot:

• Discoloration—Wood affected by rot often changes color. It may appear darker or have a stained, blotchy appearance.
• Softness—Rotting wood becomes spongy or soft to the touch. You may notice that it feels weak or crumbles easily when pressed.
• Foul odor—Wood affected by rot often emits a musty or moldy smell. This odor may be especially noticeable in enclosed spaces or areas with poor ventilation.
• Fungi growth—Visible fungal growth on the surface of the wood is a clear indication of rot. It can appear as patches of mold, mildew, or mushrooms.
• Cracks and splits—As the wood deteriorates due to rot, cracks, splits, or fissures may develop along the grain.
• Peeling or flaking—As the rot progresses, the outer layers of the wood may start to peel or flake away.
• Brittleness—In advanced stages of rot, the wood may become brittle and easily break or crumble.
• Moisture presence—Wood rot typically occurs in damp or humid conditions. If you notice persistent moisture around wooden structures, it increases the likelihood of wood rot.
• Insect activity—Wood rot can attract insects such as termites, ants, or wood-boring beetles. If you observe signs of insect infestation alongside other symptoms of wood rot, address the issue promptly.
• Structural weakness—As rot progresses, affected wood may lose its structural integrity, leading to sagging, warping, or other noticeable changes in the shape or stability of the structure.

Regular inspection and maintenance of wooden structures can help identify and address wood rot early, preventing further damage. If you suspect wood rot, it’s advisable to consult a professional for proper assessment and remediation.

How does Custom Painting, Inc. deal with wood rot?

Dealing with rot in a home is a crucial step in maintaining its structural integrity and appearance. Here are the steps our crew typically follows:

• Assessment—The first step is to assess the extent of the rot. This step involves inspecting the affected areas, possibly including exterior siding, trim, windowsills, door frames, or other wooden components. Our crew needs to identify the severity of the rot and whether it has spread to nearby areas.
• Isolation—Once the affected areas are identified, professional painters will isolate the rotted sections by removing any compromised material. This may involve cutting out the rotted wood using tools such as saws or chisels. Remove all traces of rot to prevent it from spreading further.
• Repair or replacement—Depending on the severity of the rot, the next step is to repair or replace the damaged wood. Small areas of rot may be repairable using wood fillers or epoxy-based repair compounds. However, more extensive damage may require the replacement of entire sections of wood.
• Priming—After the damaged areas have been repaired or replaced, the surfaces must be primed. Priming helps seal the wood and provides a good base to which the paint can adhere. It also helps prevent moisture from penetrating the wood, which can lead to future rot issues.
• Painting—Once the primer has dried, our crew can start painting the affected areas. They will typically use high-quality exterior paint specifically formulated to withstand the elements. Our crew may apply multiple coats of paint to ensure proper coverage and protection.
• Sealing—Besides painting, we may apply a sealant to protect the repaired areas from moisture. This step could involve applying a clear waterproofing sealant or caulking around windows, doors, and other joints to prevent water intrusion.
• Cleanup—After the painting and sealing are complete, the area should be thoroughly cleaned. This step includes removing debris or dust generated during the repair process and ensuring the surrounding areas are clean and tidy.
• Inspection—Finally, we will inspect the work to ensure the repairs have been completed to a high standard. They will look for any signs of remaining rot or other issues that must be addressed.

By following these steps, Custom Painting, Inc. can effectively deal with the rot in a home, restoring its appearance and structural integrity while preventing future problems.

Why choose Custom Painting, Inc. for your wood rot repair and paint?

Once you see signs of wood rot, choose Custom Painting, Inc. We have the skills, tools, and methods to repair or replace wood rot and paint the repaired or replaced area, restoring your home’s appearance and beauty.

• Over 40 years of experience in the paint service industry.
• A variety of services, from painting to repairs to custom installation work.
• $4,000,000 liability insurance.
• An experienced, skilled, and dedicated team of painters and carpenters
• Solid leadership from the project manager.
• A free, honest, and timely job estimate – always provided for free.
• A concise and thorough quotation.
• Thoughtful scheduling before the beginning of the project.
• Meticulous attention to detail from beginning to end.
• Use of the highest-quality paints, primers, and other coatings, as well as tools and equipment.
• Safe work practices.
• Full one-year guarantee on our work.
• A follow-visit after the completion of the project.
• Workers’ compensation covers all employees.

Contact us!

If you need a painter to repair or replace wood rot, the best painters in the Bay Area. It will help restore its former beauty and maintain your home’s safety. Call us at 925-294-8062 or fill out this online form to schedule an appointment!