What’s the difference between Wet and Dry Rot?

What are the signs of Dry & Wet Rot?

Both wet rot and dry rot are forms of timber decay caused by fungal growth, but they behave very differently.

Wet rot develops when timber remains damp due to leaks, condensation, or poor ventilation. It stays confined to the wet area and causes the wood to soften, darken, and lose its strength.

Dry rot, on the other hand, is far more aggressive. Once established, it can spread beyond the original damp source, travelling through masonry and across dry areas of a property. It breaks down the wood’s structure entirely, leaving it brittle and flaky.

At Brighton Damp Proofers, we accurately diagnose whether your property is affected by wet or dry rot and treat the problem at its source — controlling moisture, eradicating fungal growth, and restoring the integrity of your timber.

Earthy Odour

A lingering musty or earthy odour is often one of the earliest warning signs of dry rot. Even if the timber appears dry on the surface, this distinctive smell indicates hidden fungal activity and trapped moisture within the wood.
Shrinking and Darkened Timber

Timber affected by dry rot often becomes darker in colour and begins to shrink or warp as the fungus breaks down its structure. The surface may feel soft, brittle, or cracked, signalling that the wood is losing its strength and stability.
Shrinking & Colour Change

Timber affected by dry rot often becomes darker in colour and begins to shrink or warp as the fungus breaks down its structure. The surface may feel soft, brittle, or cracked, signalling that the wood is losing its strength and stability.
Signs of Fungal Growth

Dry rot can produce a white, cotton-like or thread-like growth known as mycelium, which spreads across affected timber and nearby surfaces. Its presence indicates active fungal growth and that the decay is continuing to develop..

How We Treat Dry Rot

At Brighton Damp Proofers, we specialise in dry rot surveys, treatment, and prevention across Brighton and Hove. Our process starts with a comprehensive damp and timber inspection to determine the extent of fungal decay and identify its root cause — whether that’s leaks, poor ventilation, or penetrating damp.

Early detection is vital, as dry rot spreads quickly and can cause serious structural damage if left untreated.

Once the survey is complete, our damp specialists take immediate steps to eradicate the dry rot fungus. We use professional-grade fungicidal treatments to kill spores and prevent regrowth, followed by the replacement of any weakened or decayed timber.

Our goal is to restore your property’s integrity and prevent future outbreaks through lasting moisture control and damp proofing solutions.

What Are the Signs of Wet Rot?

Damaged and rotting wood pieces on a work table with tools nearby, indicating woodworking or carpentry work.

Soft Timber

If timber feels soft, springy, or gives under light pressure, it’s a strong indication of wet rot. Excess moisture has weakened the wood fibres, causing decay and loss of structural strength.
Discolouration

Wet rot often causes timber to darken, stain, or develop patchy discolouration, particularly around window and door frames where moisture is most common. These visual changes are early signs of fungal decay and damp penetration.
Foul Smell

A musty, damp, or earthy odour is a key indicator of wet rot. The fungal decay releases a distinctive smell that lingers around affected areas, signalling excess moisture and timber deterioration.
Damp Areas

Ongoing moisture around timber is one of the clearest signs of wet rot. Spaces affected by water ingress, leaks, or poor ventilation are especially prone, creating the perfect conditions for fungal decay to develop.

How We Treat Wet Rot

At Brighton Damp Proofers, we provide professional wet rot treatment and prevention services across Brighton, Hove, and East Sussex. Our comprehensive approach not only removes existing fungal decay but also tackles the underlying damp issues that cause it.

The process begins with a detailed damp and timber survey to assess the extent of the wet rot and identify its root causes — such as leaking roofs, plumbing faults, water ingress, or poor ventilation.

Once the source of moisture is found, we carry out the necessary repairs and damp proofing treatments to stop further damage. This can include fixing leaks, improving ventilation, or applying specialist waterproof coatings. We then use professional-grade fungicidal treatments to eliminate the wet rot fungus and prevent regrowth.

If any timber has been severely affected, our damp specialists will replace it with pre-treated wood to restore the property’s structural integrity.

For long-term protection, we also provide tailored advice on ventilation improvements, moisture control systems, and preventative maintenance — helping to safeguard your home against future timber decay and damp problems.