Dry Rot

A serious form of timber decay caused by the fungus Serpula lacrymans. Despite its name, dry rot only grows in damp conditions but can spread its mycelium through masonry and across dry surfaces to attack sound timber elsewhere. Signs include brick-red spore dust, white or grey sheet-like mycelium, and badly cracked cuboid timber with a distinctive musty smell. Treatment involves complete removal of all infected material, sterilisation with fungicide, and fixing the original source of moisture. Professional specialist treatment is strongly recommended.