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Treat damp timber.
Wood rot, woodworm or wet rot — timbers treated, replaced or strengthened where structurally needed.
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Top tips
Hiring a damp proofer, without the regret.
Four moves that separate a smooth job from a nightmare.
Source not fixed
Treating timber without fixing moisture source means rot returns. Always identify and fix water source.
Dry rot underestimated
Dry rot hyphae spread invisibly through brick walls. Visible area is tip of iceberg. Always have specialist assess full extent.
Generic preservatives
Cheap surface sprays don't penetrate. Use specialist brands with proven penetration.
Active vs dormant woodworm
Old worm holes don't always indicate active infestation. Specialist identifies fresh frass and recent damage.
Costs & timeline
Know what it costs. Know when it ends.
Indicative UK ranges and what affects price.
Cost range
By job type
Inc. VAT · 2026
Source: NMT quotes
Source: NMT quotes
Timber survey + reportPCA-qualified
£120–£400
Wet rot treatment per areaLocalised work
£200–£800
Dry rot treatment per areaExtensive due to spread
£600–£3.5k
Woodworm spray treatment per m²Floor or roof timbers
£15–£40/m²
Joist replacement (per joist)Including sister-rafter
£200–£700
Lintel replacementStructural work
£500–£2.5k
!
Quote spread is typically ± 18% — always get 3 quotes.
At a glance
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Damp Proofer explained
Damp wood is vulnerable to rot and woodworm. Untreated rot can spread structurally. Expect to pay £300–£4,500 for UK timber treatment depending on extent and rot type.
What Does the Work Involve?
PCA timber & damp specialist diagnoses rot type: dry rot (Serpula lacrymans) spreads via fungal hyphae through brick — most serious. Wet rot (Coniophora) localised to wet wood only. Woodworm (Anobium) small holes, larvae tunnel through wood. Treatment: address moisture source first, remove affected timber, treat surrounding wood with preservative (Cuprinol, Soudal, Sika), structurally repair joists/lintels.
Typical Costs
| Item | Low (£) | High (£) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Timber survey + report | 120 | 400 | PCA-qualified |
| Wet rot treatment per area | 200 | 800 | Localised work |
| Dry rot treatment per area | 600 | 3,500 | Extensive due to spread |
| Woodworm spray treatment per m² | 15 | 40 | Floor or roof timbers |
| Joist replacement (per joist) | 200 | 700 | Including sister-rafter |
| Lintel replacement | 500 | 2,500 | Structural work |
| Whole-house treatment | 1,500 | 8,500 | Multi-area dry rot |
| Insurance-backed guarantee | 200 | 500 | 20–30 year cover |
How Long Does It Take?
Wet rot localised: 1–3 days. Dry rot extensive: 1–4 weeks. Woodworm spray treatment: 1 day. Structural repairs: 1–2 weeks.
DIY or Professional?
Diagnosis: PCA-qualified specialist. Treatment: specialist for dry rot (it spreads invisibly through brick). DIY OK for woodworm spray treatment if no structural damage.
Choosing the Right Tradesperson
PCA timber & damp member. Insurance-backed guarantee mandatory for dry rot work. Brand-name preservatives (Cuprinol, Soudal Soudaflex, Sika Permagard).
UK Regulations
PCA Code of Practice for timber treatment. Listed buildings need consent. Pesticide regulations on preservatives. Some boron-based products require specific applicator certification.
Common Problems
- Source not fixed: Treating timber without fixing moisture source means rot returns. Always identify and fix water source.
- Dry rot underestimated: Dry rot hyphae spread invisibly through brick walls. Visible area is tip of iceberg. Always have specialist assess full extent.
- Generic preservatives: Cheap surface sprays don't penetrate. Use specialist brands with proven penetration.
- Active vs dormant woodworm: Old worm holes don't always indicate active infestation. Specialist identifies fresh frass and recent damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dry rot vs wet rot — what's the difference?
Dry rot (Serpula lacrymans): fungus spreads through brick, attacks dry timber, most serious. Wet rot (Coniophora): localised to wet wood, easier to fix. Identification by specialist essential.
Will the rot spread?
Dry rot: yes, aggressively — can travel meters through walls if moisture present. Wet rot: localised to wet area only.
Active woodworm — how to tell?
Fresh exit holes (clean edges, light wood inside), powder (frass) at the hole, sometimes adult beetles visible May–August. Old infestation: dark holes, no fresh damage.
Does treatment guarantee no recurrence?
If moisture source addressed and proper treatment applied: yes, 20–30 year warranties typical. Inadequate moisture control = repeat.
Will my insurance cover dry rot?
Buildings insurance: rarely. Considered maintenance issue. Exception: sudden leak causing immediate rot may be covered.
Listed building rot treatment?
Specialist heritage treatment using lime-friendly products. SPAB or PCA heritage member required.
This guide was written with AI assistance and is intended for general information only. Prices are estimates based on UK averages and may vary by region. Always get at least three quotes and consult a qualified professional before starting any work.
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