How to Prevent Dry Rot

SANTA CLARA — Dry rot can result from a variety of factors, but the most common is neglected maintenance. Many homeowners fail to maintain the paint and coatings on exterior wood components like siding, trim, and decks. When these components aren’t properly sealed, it leaves them exposed to moisture, which, if able to penetrate the wood, will often develop into dry rot. If allowed to develop unchecked over a long period of time, dry rot can cause substantial damage that requires repair and/or replacement of the affected wood components.

The best way to prevent this is to be diligent about maintenance like touching up paint and recoating. Paint should be touched up every five years, and decks should be resealed every two to three years. By investing time and money into maintaining your home’s wood components, you’ll extend their lifespan and avoid the need for expensive repairs, which will save you money in the long run.