Dry Rot Monitoring

Stronghold Preservation can provide a dry rot monitoring service, to either;

-ensure dry rot has not returned, particularly useful in damp prone areas (especially in old and heritage buildings); or

-observe the moisture and possible dry rot attack in areas which have not been subject to dry rot, but areas which could have a tendency to be damp (eg timbers embedded in walls).

We provide a range of options, but which can generally be classified into 2 groups, the best option for your building would be dependent on the level of confidence and works required.

Electronic Monitoring of Dry Rot and Damp

These systems enable us to remotely monitor parameters such as the moisture content of the 'at risk' timbers; dry rot needs moisture to survive, so if the moisture content rises, then it allows for building failures and defects to be quickly detected at any early stage, before dry rot can prosper.  

Chemical Monitoring of Dry Rot

Dry rot sensors can be used to prevent unnecessary opening up of the structure to check on 'at risk' timbers.  A sensor is placed in predrilled 7mm holes, at specific locations.  Once exposed to dry rot (usually a 14 day time frame), the sensor changes colour.  The sensors can be left in position, but need to be checked visually on a regular basis to ensure dry rot has not prospered in the timbers.  These sensors are a discreet solution, are less disruptive to install than the electronic monitoring, but cannot be checked remotely.