HOW TO TREAT WOOD FLOORING THAT IS STARTING TO ROT
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ROT
Rot is a decay that starts to eat away any organic material. This problem is associated with several microorganisms and fungi that feed on wood and cellulose under the favorable conditions provided by moisture. But hardwood can be more durable than any other flooring material when well maintained.
TYPES OF ROT First, dry rot needs low moisture content and can generate more moisture by digesting wood. Also, this type of rot is the most severe form of fungal decay in timber and similar materials. In this context, one of the most lethal species is Serpula lacrymans since it attacks both soft and hardwoods. It is a fungus that develops with a humidity level of just over 20% (although it can thrive at higher humidity levels). Therefore, it may be the most dangerous dry rot fungus that leaves the wood cracked in advanced stages of degradation. On the other hand, wet rot is less aggressive than dry rot as it only spreads to parts of the wood with high moisture levels.
REMOVING ROTTEN WOOD
First, remove the rotten wood with a carpenter’s hammer with the claw part. Remove as much damaged material as possible without forcing the wood and preserving good areas. A characteristic of rotten hardwood is its soft consistency which is easy to remove. You can then remove the remaining rotten wood using a router with a v-shaped bit until you reach an area of solid material. It will be more difficult for the router to cut through the healthy wood.
SAND THE AFFECTED AREA
Sand the rotten surface and remove any existing paint. You can use coarse sandpaper to remove any residue on the wooden surface. Then remove any dust and debris before applying the wood restorer.
WOOD RESTORER
Apply several wood restorer coats on the affected area and wait for the product to set and dry between coats. Then paint the wood with a bonding agent and apply the epoxy resin.
Finally, prepare the epoxy resin and apply enough product to fill the rotten area with an applicator gun.
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