Lowcountry Real Estate
Dawn Yerace, Lowcountry Real EstatePhone: (843) 441-6518
Email: [email protected]

What to do if your home has rotted wood

by Dawn Yerace 01/18/2023

Among the various maintenance issues you may encounter as a homeowner, rotted wood is one of the most common. In regions with high humidity and wet weather, your home runs a greater risk of sustaining damage from wood rot.

However, if you find rotted or damaged wood, don’t worry. There are options for replacing or repairing rotted wood to keep your home safe.


Preparation & patching

Removing rotted wood involves two steps: preparation and patching. Throughout the prep phase, you should take out all the rotten wood as much as possible. During the process, consider whether the wood can be restored or if it should be replaced completely. 

To patch the wood, you’ll need to coat problem spots with a two-part elastomer. First, an epoxy wood gel is applied to clean wood. The second step involves molding epoxy to fill in the missing wood. 

After drying and polishing, the patch should match the wood surface texture. However, you may need to paint or stain.


When should I replace rotting wood?

When rotting wood is found on an old porch, decking or siding, it is important to know if it needs repairs. Rotted wood poses potential health risks and liability issues if not addressed. You’ll know wood should be replaced if at least 15% of the mass is rotten.

Rotted wood may be repaired with the removal of rot on the original boards and beams. Afterward, you may apply wood or polyester filler. 


Should I replace or repair rotted wood?

In some cases, it’s easier to just replace damaged timber instead of trying to repair it. 

However, if aspects of your home have personal or historical significance, you might prefer to repair rather than replace. The comparative cost can vary greatly depending on the wood and its purpose - for example, whether it’s structural or cosmetic. 

To keep your home safe and structurally sound, it’s crucial to address rotted wood as soon as possible. While it’s possible to repair and replace rotten wood on your own, you should always consult a professional engineer or contractor before getting started.

About the Author
Author

Dawn Yerace

 As a seasoned real estate agent with an unwavering commitment to excellence, a deep well of local knowledge, and a proven track record of satisfied clients, I bring a unique blend of expertise and passion to every transaction. With years of experience navigating the intricate landscape of the Beaufort real estate market, I possess an acute understanding of trends, neighborhoods, and property values, allowing me to provide invaluable guidance to my clients.

What truly sets me apart is my unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. I understand that buying or selling a home is one of the most significant decisions you'll ever make, and I strive to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. My personalized approach ensures that each client receives the attention and support they deserve every step of the way.

So, whether you're looking to buy, sell, or invest in real estate, trust in my expertise, dedication, and local knowledge to guide you through every aspect of the journey. Let's turn your real estate dreams into reality together.