Damp and Timber Specialists for 50 years

Why Timber Rot Poses a Risk to Property Safety and Value

Fungal timber decay is one of the most common structural issues affecting homes and buildings across the UK. Both wet rot and dry rot thrive in damp conditions and can compromise the strength of timber over time.

Wet rot develops when wood is consistently exposed to moisture, typically due to leaks in pipes or inadequate ventilation. Dry rot, caused by Serpula lacrymans, is more invasive than other types of rot. It can spread across masonry, affecting large areas before it becomes visible.

If left untreated, rot may lead to floor movement, ceiling sag, or roof instability. It is most common in older buildings with suspended timber floors or traditional roof frameworks. It is essential to inspect early, especially when timbers are concealed behind finishes or integrated into structures.

Why Choose Prokil for Timber Rot Treatment?

  • Over 50 years of timber preservation expertise
  • PCA, TrustMark and BS 8417:2011 aligned practices
  • Certified Surveyors in Remedial Treatments (CSRT) and Timber & Damp (CSTDB)
  • 20-year Prokil Guarantee for eligible works
  • Detailed reports suitable for insurers and mortgage providers

How Our Experts Diagnose & Treat Timber Rot

Qualified, experienced professionals lead Prokil’s timber surveys. We specialise in diagnosing the causes and extent of timber decay. A CSRT or CSTDB-accredited surveyor conducts every inspection in line with current PCA standards.

Our Treatment Procedure

All jobs are completed by trained technicians. They adhere to British Standard BS 8417:2011 for preservative-treated timber. Where dry rot is present, we also follow PCA treatment guidance.

  1. Locate & Remove the Source of Moisture: This may include repairing defective plumbing, leaking roofs, or high ground levels near external walls.
  2. Cut Back Affected Timber: All decayed material is removed, extending at least 500mm beyond visible signs of rot to prevent reoccurrence.
  3. Sterilise Surrounding Areas: For dry rot, masonry, subfloors, and wall surfaces, a PCA-approved fungicidal biocide is used for treatment.
  4. Treat Retained Timber: All retained wood is treated with a deep-penetrating, industry-approved fungicide. This is compliant with COPR regulations.
  5. Install Replacement Timbers: New timbers are pre-treated and have sealed cut ends. These are fitted to match the original load-bearing specification.

You get a report that includes photos, moisture readings, and a complete list of suggested repairs. Reports are useful for insurance claims, mortgage lending, and planning property maintenance.

All work is completed with minimal disruption and backed by a Prokil 20-year Guarantee where eligible.

Real-World Example: Wet Rot Timber Decay in Bournemouth Roof

Nettleship Sawyer, the commercial property consultants, approached our Bournemouth team. They noticed wet rot in a section of the exposed ridge roof timber.

Our CSRT-qualified specialist conducted an external inspection and an internal survey. They confirmed that historic wet rot is affecting the timber and that the ashlar plaster is cracked. Moisture readings were taken using calibrated meters. The earlier problem of water ingress was addressed through roof repairs.

To fix the affected area and shield the nearby timber, we did these tasks:

  • Removed damaged skirting and cracked ashlar plasterwork from the affected wall and ceiling
  • Treated exposed timbers with a dual-purpose fungicidal solution
  • Installed new plasterboard and applied a full multi-coat plaster finish
  • Fitted new skirting to reinstate the room’s appearance
  • Cleared all waste and prepared the area for redecoration

This project shows our complete service, from diagnosis to reinstatement. Like all our work, our team delivered it in accordance with PCA guidance and BS 8417:2011.

What You Can Expect from a Timber Rot Treatment with Prokil

Every Prokil treatment is built on structure, clarity, and compliance. From your first call to the final guarantee, we offer a professional service based on evidence, customised for every property.

In addition to clear communication, you can expect:

  • A qualified timber and damp surveyor to carry out your site visit
  • A written report including moisture readings, photographs, and remedial recommendations
  • Honest, technical advice with no commission-based sales tactics
  • Timely updates and coordination from a named point of contact
  • Reports formatted for mortgage lenders, insurers, or property managers

Following treatment, we provide detailed aftercare information and issue your 20-year Prokil Guarantee. This document outlines the work done, the areas treated, and the biocidal product used. It offers long-term reassurance and evidence of compliance should the property be sold or revalued in future.

With us, there are no commissioned salespeople, only clear, professional advice. Our team works with homeowners, landlords, surveyors, and property experts in the South of England and Wales. Every project is handled with the same care, precision, and professionalism that has built our reputation over the decades. Are you concerned about timber decay, or do you require a formal assessment?

Call 0800 048 9488 or book a survey with a Prokil specialist today.


Book a survey today

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

What to expect from your survey

1

Book a survey

Book a survey from any of our locations, at a time that suits you.

2

Our experts give a quote

One of our damp & timber experts will arrive to survey the work.

3

We complete the work

Based on a quote, we carry out the work guaranteed for 20 years.