How to Repair Rotted Wood in 6 Steps

Save your wood, save your wallet

Wooden summer cottage
Photo: Adrian Hillman / Adobe Stock
Wooden summer cottage
Photo: Adrian Hillman / Adobe Stock
SKILL LEVEL
Intermediate
COMPLETION TIME
240 minutes
COST
$25–$50
Get quotes from up to 3 pros!
Enter a zip below and get matched to top-rated pros near you.
Geo Icon
What you'll need:
TOOLS
  • Putty knife
  • Wood chisel
  • Screwdriver
  • Drill (optional)
  • Safety goggles and gloves
SUPPLIES
  • Wood filler
  • Epoxy wood hardener
  • Sandpaper
  • Primer or paint (optional)

Rotted wood is a common issue in homes, especially in areas exposed to moisture, such as windowsills and door frames. If left untreated, wood rot can compromise your home's structural integrity and appearance, leading to costly repairs. If you're up to the task, savvy DIY homeowners can learn how to repair rotted wood and save some money rather than hiring a professional.

How to Repair Rotted Wood

Repairing rotted wood can be time-consuming depending on the extent of damage. Here’s what you’ll need to do.

  1. Inspect the Damage

    Dry rotted wood door
    Photo: Mel Stoutsenberger / Adobe Stock

    Using a screwdriver, inspect the area to determine the extent of the damage. Gently poke the area with the tool; if it's soft or spongy, it indicates rot damage. If more than 30% to 40% of the piece of wood is rotted, replacing it would be a better option than repairing it.

  2. Clean the Area

    Clean the area thoroughly to remove dirt, debris, and loose paint to fully expose the rotted wood. Ensure the area is properly ventilated before working and wear protective gear.

  3. Remove the Rotted Wood

    Tripping paint from window with dry rot
    Photo: soupstock / Adobe Stock

    Use a wood chisel or putty knife to cut out all the rotted wood. Remove any soft or discolored material until only solid wood is left behind. If the extent of the rotted wood is deeper, you can use a drill to remove it.

  4. Treat the Remaining Wood

    Apply a wood hardener to the solid wood surrounding the damaged area to stabilize and strengthen it. Allow the hardener to cure per the manufacturer's instructions.

  5. Fill the Damaged Area

    Sealing cracks in old table
    Photo: lassi meony / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images

    Prepare the epoxy wood filler according to the package instructions. Use a putty knife to apply the filler, slightly overfilling the area to allow for sanding. Let the epoxy cure completely. Depending on the product, this can take a few hours to overnight.

  6. Sand and Smooth

    Use medium-grit sandpaper to smooth the filler. For a seamless surface, you can finish it off with fine-grit sandpaper. After sanding, sweep away any debris and clean the area before applying primer or paint.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

Repairing rotted wood is a manageable DIY project if you have basic carpentry skills and time to dedicate to the task. DIY repairs are suitable for small-scale damage or non-structural areas like window frames or trim. However, you should thoroughly remove all rot and use proper materials, as incomplete repairs could lead to recurring issues.

For extensive damage or structural components such as beams or load-bearing posts, hiring a restoration professional is the better choice. Professionals bring expertise and can complete the job more quickly and efficiently. They can also ensure that repairs meet safety standards and are built to last. Expect to pay at least $500 on the cost of professional dry rot repair, though the average is $1,400. While the upfront cost of hiring a professional is higher, it can save time, prevent mistakes, and avoid the need for future repairs.

Sometimes, mold is the cause of rotted wood or could escalate to a mold issue if it's not repaired. If you do have a mold issue, hire a professional. The average mold remediation cost ranges between $1,200 and $3,700.

Frequently Asked Questions

Expanding foam isn't a good material for filling rotten wood. It lacks the structural strength and durability required for long-lasting repairs. The material may temporarily fill gaps, but it doesn't bond well to wood or provide the necessary support for load-bearing or exterior areas. Expanding foam is better suited for insulation purposes or sealing gaps.

Avoid using wood filler for structural repairs or areas with extensive damage. Wood filler is designed for cosmetic fixes like filling small holes, cracks, or surface imperfections, and it doesn't provide the strength needed for load-bearing repairs or large gaps. Wood filler also shouldn't be used in areas exposed to heavy moisture or extreme outdoor conditions unless it’s a product specifically rated for such environments. Wood replacement or a strong epoxy resin is a better solution for severe rot or structural damage.

Homeowner’s insurance coverage for dry rot depends on the rot's cause. Most policies exclude damage caused by gradual issues like poor maintenance or long-term exposure to moisture since you can stop dry rot. However, if the dry rot results from a sudden and accidental event, such as a burst pipe or storm damage, it may be covered. Review your policy or consult your insurance provider to understand your coverage and determine if dry rot repairs fall under your plan.

Need professional help with your project?
Get quotes from top-rated pros.
Book a pro for one of these popular projects
Price shown is the national median price of minimum job size for Angi's pre-priced offering. Actual pricing may vary.
The homeowners guide to water and smoke damage repairs
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Parents playing with their son on the kitchen floor
Apr 3, 2025
Apr 3, 2025
Water damage restoration costs depend on the severity of the problem, the type of water, and the length of time the damage has been occurring.
A modern bathroom with a white marble vanity
Apr 4, 2025
Apr 4, 2025
If water destroys your home, don’t let it destroy your wallet, too. Use these water damage insurance claim tips to help get quick approval for repairs.
wood damage door frame
Apr 4, 2025
Apr 4, 2025
Knowing how to tell the difference between termites and wood rot is essential for hiring the right pro and treating the problem before it’s too late.
 white kitchen sink and beige counter
Apr 3, 2025
Apr 3, 2025
Are you in deep water and wondering who to call when your house floods? More than likely, the list includes a few different pros. Get the details in this guide.
A plumber fixing a water leak
Apr 3, 2025
Apr 3, 2025
A water leak in your house is definitely a cause for concern. So, how do you know who to call for a water leak in the wall? Read this guide to find out.
Man preparing the wall for the painting
Apr 3, 2025
Apr 3, 2025
You don’t always need a pro to clean up smoke damage. Use this simple guide on how to clean smoke damage on your walls and ceilings to DIY the work.
Share project details to get started.