Coldwell Banker Realty - Sudbury
Vera Oliveira, Coldwell Banker Realty - SudburyPhone: (617) 620-5658
Email: [email protected]

What homeowners should know about damage from rotted wood

by Vera Oliveira 10/03/2022

Among the various maintenance issues you may encounter as a homeowner, rotted wood is one of the most common. In regions with high humidity and wet weather, your home runs a greater risk of sustaining damage from wood rot.

However, if you find rotted or damaged wood, don’t worry. There are options for replacing or repairing rotted wood to keep your home safe.


Preparation & patching

Removing rotted wood involves two steps: preparation and patching. Throughout the prep phase, you should take out all the rotten wood as much as possible. During the process, consider whether the wood can be restored or if it should be replaced completely. 

To patch the wood, you’ll need to coat problem spots with a two-part elastomer. First, an epoxy wood gel is applied to clean wood. The second step involves molding epoxy to fill in the missing wood. 

After drying and polishing, the patch should match the wood surface texture. However, you may need to paint or stain.


When should I replace rotting wood?

When rotting wood is found on an old porch, decking or siding, it is important to know if it needs repairs. Rotted wood poses potential health risks and liability issues if not addressed. You’ll know wood should be replaced if at least 15% of the mass is rotten.

Rotted wood may be repaired with the removal of rot on the original boards and beams. Afterward, you may apply wood or polyester filler. 


Should I replace or repair rotted wood?

In some cases, it’s easier to just replace damaged timber instead of trying to repair it. 

However, if aspects of your home have personal or historical significance, you might prefer to repair rather than replace. The comparative cost can vary greatly depending on the wood and its purpose - for example, whether it’s structural or cosmetic. 

To keep your home safe and structurally sound, it’s crucial to address rotted wood as soon as possible. While it’s possible to repair and replace rotten wood on your own, you should always consult a professional engineer or contractor before getting started.

About the Author
Author

Vera Oliveira

I am focused, self motivated, dream big and am committed to act in the best interest of my clients!

  

As an incredibly driven and self-motivated Realtor®, my utmost passion lies in serving your best interests and guiding you through one of life's most significant decisions. With a deep understanding of the importance of a comfortable and nurturing home environment, I strive to help families create lasting memories in their ideal living spaces. My clients are my top priority, and I am committed to providing a seamless, stress-free experience from start to closing.
Originally from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, I have called Massachusetts home since 1988, immersing myself in the region's rich natural beauty and historical heritage. Over the years, I have cultivated strong relationships within the community and acquired an intimate knowledge of the local residential markets. This unique combination enables me to offer invaluable insights and act as a dependable resource, skillfully matching clients with properties that perfectly suit their needs.
With over 22 years of experience in real estate and a background of 30 years in sales, I bring a wealth of expertise to the table. I approach each transaction with meticulous attention to detail, taking the time to listen and truly understand my clients' goals. By employing a contemporary marketing approach, leveraging strong negotiation skills, and maintaining constant communication, I provide a high-end service that ensures buyers find their dream homes within their budgets and sellers effectively market their properties for optimal returns. Witnessing the overwhelming joy of clients at a successful closing is immensely rewarding to me.
My dedication to personalized service and strict adherence to confidentiality are the cornerstones of my professional competency. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned seller, my warm and caring approach makes me the perfect agent to guide you through the process. As a testament to my track record of results, I have proudly achieved recognition as an award-winning Realtor, ranking among the top producers year after year.
Beyond real estate, I have a profound love for travel, enjoy golfing and participating in fitness classes. I am actively involved in volunteering with organizations such as "We all Volunteer", JFS, and I passionately support the life-saving work of St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital. Additionally, I nurture a deep interest in studying architectural characteristics during my travels.
It brings me tremendous joy to know that I am positively impacting people's lives through the life-changing decision of homeownership. Whether you are seeking to buy or sell your home, I am genuinely thrilled and honored to guide you along the journey and contribute to your success story.