Wood Fungus

Cookeville: 931-372-7676 Crossville: 931-484-0085 Sparta: 931-836-1131

Wood Decay Fungus

Wood Decay Fungus

Wood Decay Fungus- Home Moisture Control

  • Moisture can be a problem in any home, even yours, and can lead to wood decay fungus.
  • Fungus can only grow where moisture contents are high enough to support the environment for life and growth.

Identifying Wood Decay Fungus

We start by taking moisture readings in all wood members subject to attack. It is very important to separate mold and mildew from wood decay fungus. Mold and mildew require only 16% to 18% moisture to live. Even though mold and mildew do not structurally damage wood, they will cause wood members to become more absorbent, which can allow moisture levels to reach critical levels of 26% to 28% or higher. Once these levels occur, decay fungus can set in.

  • Normal: 10-16%
  • Mold or Mildew: over 20%
  • Wood Decay: 28%

Crawl Space Moisture Barrier

Moisture Barriers are intended to prevent the moisture vapor from entering crawlspace area. The moisture barrier is usually compromised of sheets of 6 millimeter polyethylene (plastic). The sheets are laid in rows over the soil. The edges of the sheets are overlapped to form a continuous barrier that will trap the rising moisture. In most locations, the barrier is placed only over the soil and secured.

  • Decreases moisture from the ground.
  • This plastic is placed over 75 - 80% of the ground in your crawlspace decrease moisture from the ground.

Crawlspace Dehumidifier

A properly rated and made for the crawlspace dehumidifier will help keep moisture levels more equal all year long.

Crawlspace Encapsulation

Crawlspace Encapsulation is the ultimate way to keep your moisture levels constant all year long. This along with a dehumidifier will provide the best way to keep moisture levels were it needs to be. This is done by installing vapor barrier on the porous block foundation, pillars and crawlspace floor. Then all the seams are sealed with a specially made seam tape. The top edges are sealed with a sealant so moisture cannot go between the foundation and moisture barrier. This is a white moisture barrier and comes with options of 8mil, 12mil or 20mil. Once done it takes a dark crawlspace to a nice bright white lined one.