How does wood rot happen?
Wood rot occurs when there is wood and moisture. The wood acts as a source of food for different types of fungus and the moisture enables the fungus to break down the wood. Preservatives, i.e. like those used in “pressure treated” wood, will help to preserve the wood but even pressure treated deck posts buried two to three feet in the ground will rot. Wood rot is most commonly found in areas of a home that have more exposure to water. The vertical board under an exterior door is one example. This wood experiences splash back when water hits the first step below the door, and bounces back against the kickplate. Unless a home owner inspects this wood every year and insures the wood is protected with paint, the wood will rot and it may be difficult to see until several years of damage have occurred.
