Who Fixes Wood Rot? Hire the Right Pro for the Job

Wood rot is a common household problem that can compromise the integrity of your home, from floors and walls to the home's structure. Left unchecked, it can lead to costly repairs and safety risks. But who fixes wood rot? Learn why a water restoration company is your best bet for tackling this job. 

The Benefits of Hiring a Water Damage Restoration Company to Fix Wood Rot

Hiring a local water damage restoration company is the best solution to fixing your wood rot. Here's why they're the best pros for the job:

• Expertise: These companies have technicians trained to accurately assess the extent of wood rot, including hidden areas. They also identify and address the root cause of the water damage, such as leaks, poor drainage, or high humidity.

• Efficiency: Techs use tools like moisture meters, industrial-grade dehumidifiers, and drying equipment to restore damaged wood more quickly and effectively than DIY. 

• Comprehensive Solutions: Restoration professionals can handle water extraction, drying, mold remediation, and structural assessments. Hiring one team means you don't have to hunt for other pros.

• Safety: Wood rot can coexist with mold growth, weakened structures, or contaminated water. These pros are trained to handle these hazards safely, using proper protective equipment and techniques to eliminate risks for you and your family.

• Long-Term Savings: While hiring a professional might seem like a higher up-front cost, it saves money in the long run by ensuring the job is done right the first time.

Can I Hire a Carpenter to Fix Wood Rot?

Hiring a carpenter to fix wood rot can be a good option if the damage is limited to the wood. Carpenters can address wood rot in smaller areas, such as window frames, doors, or furniture, where the focus is on restoring individual components rather than addressing widespread damage.

Carpenters can skillfully repair or replace rotted sections, ensuring the new materials match the original structure. For load-bearing components like beams or joists, carpenters can reinforce the areas to restore durability. If you have decorative or intricate woodworking, carpenters can help preserve the aesthetic.

However, carpenters wouldn't address the root causes of the rot, such as moisture issues. A water damage restoration company would be a better option for damage involving water infiltration or mold. You can also hire a local handyperson to help you prevent wood rot.

How Does a Water Damage Restoration Pro Fix Wood Rot?

Whether they’re repairing dry rot or wet rot, a water damage restoration team will assess the extent of the damage to determine if the wood is salvageable. Severely rotted wood is removed and replaced and areas with minor damage are treated with a wood hardener or epoxy resin to restore structural integrity. The team will thoroughly dry the area using industrial-grade dehumidifiers, fans, or heaters.

Once the repair is complete, the pros will focus on how to stop wood rot from returning. Depending on the cause, the team will seal the wood with waterproof coatings, repair leaks, and improve ventilation. They may recommend installing moisture barriers or addressing grading issues to prevent water intrusion so you know how to prevent mold after water damage.

How Much Does Water Damage Restoration Cost?

You can expect to pay between $3 and $7.50 per square foot to restore wood rot caused by water damage. On average, water damage restoration costs between $1,360 and $6,280. However, the total cost can vary greatly depending on the extent of the damage and its location. 

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

If the wood rot is minor and surface-level, such as on a windowsill, DIY can be cost-effective. Address the damage with wood hardeners, epoxy fillers, and some basic carpentry skills. If you're dealing with extensive wood rot or potential structure damage, hiring a water damage restoration company is the way to go. Pros can assess hidden damage and perform thorough repairs. They're also skilled at addressing the root cause of the issue. If there are structural issues, it's always best to leave it to the pros.