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Wood Rot
When carrying out a termite inspection or pre-purchase inspection, the detection of above normal moisture levels is a vital part of the report. Many building problems that will arise in the timber pest industry are moisture related. More importantly if a timber pest problem does not exist at the time of the inspection, but above normal moisture levels are detected, you can just about guarantee that further down the track a timber pest problem will arise.
The majority of fungi that can have an effect on wood will produce spores. These spores will serve a similar role as seeds of a plant. However spores are very light, microscopic in size & can potentially be produced in the millions. Because of their size & weight they can be transported great distances. Most of these spores will land on an unsuitable surface & do nothing. The spores that do land on a wood surface with a moisture content of approximately 28-30% will begin to germinate. This will initiate the complex process of fungal growth, the breakdown of cellulose &/or lignin in the timber to a more soluble compound & ultimately wood decay fungi.

The key requirements of wood decay fungi
A wood food source
Some timbers are more durable to wood decay fungi than others. But no untreated timber is regarded as completely immune.
Oxygen
In most situations the process of fungal growth leading to wood decay fungi will occur at a normal oxygen level.
Moisture
This is a key element for the growth of wood decay fungi & can be produced around the home by situations such as poor building design, lack of ventilation, faulty plumbing &/or drainage etc. It is important to note that fungal decay cannot develop where the moisture content in the timber is below 20%.
A suitable temperature
This will vary due to the differing species of wood decay fungi. The range for most species will range from 25 – 30 degrees. However one particular species of wood decay fungi has a requirement of only 20 degrees.
Some examples of fungal decay
Brown Rot Fungi
White Rot Fungi
Soft Rot Fungi
Mould Fungi
Some ways of reducing moisture related problems
Rising damp
Subfloor ventilation
Water drainage
The use of preservatised timbers
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