 | Ron Long
is manager of the Ace Hardware Store in front of the Wichita Mall at 4183 E. Harry in Wichita. Ron has over 30 years experience and has been with this Ace store for 20 years. He has extensive training in plumbing, electricity, lawn & garden, paint, construction, window repair and much more. He has always enjoyed helping people with their projects and answering their questions. He is available to answer any of your home repair questions. You may contact Ron at the store by e-mail at a09476a@acehardware.com, by fax at (316) 685-4994, or by phone at (316) 685-7201. |
Home Improvement
2002-12-01 09:46:00
Wood rot and mildew
: Wood rot and mildew... where does it come from? How do you deal with it?"
ANSWER: Wood rot and mildew are both caused by excess moisture and/or high humidity situations. Both are common problems around the home and can be corrected.Wood rot is commonly found on the exterior of the home on areas such as window sills, trim boards around the windows and doors, wood porch railings and support posts, and trim behind rain guttering. Moisture, whether it be from rainfall or lawn sprinklers seeps behind and underneath these areas. Areas like this are not exposed to light or moving air which help dry the wood. The wood fibers absorb this moisture and stay damp or wet for long periods of time. Eventually the surface fibers of the wood begin to break down or decay exposing more fibers deeper in the wood and the cycle continues.When a wood rot problem is located drill or chisel into the affected area and determine the extent of the damage. In many cases it is best to replace the wood with a new piece. However, if the damage is minor or in an area that is not practical to replace there are several "wood hardeners" available that allow you to repair damaged areas. With these products you remove the surface wood rot, apply the hardener and allow it to dry. Then fill the effected area with an exterior wood filler, sand, prime and paint the area. When replacing the complete board with a new one be sure to prime and paint the back, underneath side and edges that are not seen also. This seals the wood and helps prevent future wood rot. Once the wood has been repaired or replaced be sure to caulk and seal all areas that allow moisture to go behind and underneath these areas. Periodical inspection of the caulk and sealers, and replaced as needed will help ensure the wood rot does not return.Mildew is caused by repeated exposure to moisture and/or high humidity. The high humidity greatly slows down the drying process of the affected areas or surface, promoting bacteria growth that causes mildew. These areas are usually found inside the home but mildew is sometimes found on the exterior. Areas inside the home most commonly affected are the tub/shower area and in the basement. These areas usually have poor ventilation which keeps the humidity high. Installing an exhaust fan in the bathroom with approximately 100CFM will greatly reduce the humidity. Run the fan approximately 30 minutes after each shower. Smaller CFM fans are available but will require longer run times. Also wiping down the shower walls with a shower squeegee or dry towel after each use will also help. This small step will help reduce mildew growth.On slight mildew affected areas there are a number of mildew removers available. Most often on tiled surfaces the grouting will need to be sanded down or removed and regrouted and sealed. On painted surfaces wipe down the affected areas and apply a primer/sealer. When this is dry mildew proof paints are available to top coat this. In the basement installing a de-humidifier will reduce the humidity level. Also leaving a furnace/AC vent open to the basement will help.
