• Establish the size and the significance of the attack. In particular if structural timbers are affected, carry out or arrange for a full structural survey to determine whether structural repairs are necessary.
• Locate and eliminate sources of moisture.
• Promote rapid drying of the structure.
• Remove all rotted wood and cut back a minimum one metre beyond the last indication of fungus.
• Chemical treatments are then used to prevent further spreading.
• Surrounding areas and replacement timbers are also treated.
• Support measures are put in place to isolate sound timbers from wet brickwork or masonry. Ventilation needs to be improved if possible DPC membrane or joist hangers are used between timber and wet brickwork. Alternatively brick piers may be constructed for independent support.

Latin Name: Serpula Lacrymans
Common Name: Dry Rot
Habitat: Mostly softwoods
General: A brown rot which typically occurs on wood embedded in, or in contact with wet brickwork. Sensitive to high temperatures (e.g. 25 C) and drying, therefore rarely found on exposed timbers. Able to grow through bricks and mortar, strands transport moisture from the source of the dampness allowing spreading of the fungus to sound and dry wood. It pre-wets the timber and then attacks it.