Wood Rot Causes & Fixes | Kansas Home Repair Experts

Understanding the Basics: What Is Wood Rot?

Wood rot is a fungal condition that damages timber by feeding on the wood fibers. It’s a silent destroyer in homes across Kansas, especially in humid or poorly ventilated areas. Once started, it spreads quickly, weakening the structure and appearance of wood.

Learn more about Identifying the Differences between Wet rot and Dry rot

What Causes Wood Rot?

The root cause of wood rot is excess moisture. Fungi like Serpula lacrymans (dry rot) and Coniophora puteana (wet rot) thrive when wood is consistently damp.

Common sources of moisture:

• Leaky roofs or gutters

• Poor drainage or grading

• Condensation from HVAC systems

• Window and door frame leaks

Homes in Leawood and Lenexa with older siding or poor ventilation are especially prone.

How Does Wood Rot Start?

Rot begins when spores land on damp wood. If the wood remains wet for 20%+ of its weight over time, fungi activate, consuming cellulose and lignin—the compounds that give wood its strength.

Does Rotting Wood Always Mean Mold?

Not necessarily. Mold and wood rot are both caused by moisture but are different:

• Mold is a surface fungus

• Wood rot actually eats and breaks down wood fibers

Both need moisture, so drying the environment is key to prevention.

Learn more about the difference between wood rot and mold

How Do You Stop Wood Rot?

• Identify the moisture source and fix it

• Cut away rotted wood

• Treat with a borate-based wood preservative

• Rebuild using treated lumber or epoxy wood fillers

Professionals like Bernard Exteriors offer full repair and sealing services to keep rot from returning.

What Speeds Up Wood Rot?

• Consistent rain or humidity

• Poor attic ventilation

• Damaged flashing or siding

• Unsealed wood in contact with soil

In Shawnee, where weather swings are common, routine maintenance is crucial.

What’s the Best Thing to Put on Wood to Keep It from Rotting?

• Exterior sealants or paints

• Borate wood treatments

• Stain-blocking primers

Waterproofing exposed wood annually can extend its life dramatically.

Where Does Wood Rot Commonly Occur in Kansas Homes?

• Fascia boards and soffits

• Window sills and door trim

• Deck posts and rails

• Basement joists and sill plates

Bernard Exteriors: Your Local Wood Rot Repair Specialist

"Project wood rot repair by Bernard Exterior"

• Serving Overland Park, Leawood, Lenexa, and Shawnee

• Experienced in both wet and dry rot remediation

• Seamless repair, repainting, and waterproofing

Check our services page for more info.

FAQ: Wood Rot Causes and Prevention

Q1: Is wood rot always visible?
A: No. It can be hidden behind paint or drywall.

Q2: Can pressure-treated wood rot?
A: It's more resistant, but not immune—especially if cut and unsealed.

Q3: How fast does wood rot spread?
A: With consistent moisture, it can spread in weeks.

Q4: Do new homes get wood rot?
A: Yes. Poor installation or ventilation can lead to rot in any home.

Q5: Can homeowners insurance cover wood rot?
A: Usually not unless it stems from a sudden covered event.

Get a Free Quote from Bernard Exteriors in Overland Park, KS

If you see signs of rot or suspect hidden moisture damage, act fast.
Contact Bernard Exteriors today for a free inspection and estimate throughout Overland Park, Leawood, Lenexa, and Shawnee.