Learn how to identify fungal decay, or wood rot as it's commonly known, and why it can be as destructive as termites.
Read MoreTimber post severly damaged by wood rot (fungal decay).
This highlights the damaging affect of fungal decay (commonly known as wood rot) on timber.
This post at the bottom of a staircase is severely structurally compromised as the fungus breaks down the timber structure.
This post was very fragile and could easily be broken into pieces by hand.
This was found during a termite inspection, many people do not realise how important it is for timber to be protected against fungal decay by sealing it. Although not as quick to act as termites are, ultimately it is just as destructive as it causes structural failure of the timber. It is also a conducive condition for termites.
The best fence shouldn't be termite food!
Fences are often made of timber, it's important to keep an eye on these as they can often attract termites and become a target in themselves.
Read MoreIs this Termite damage?
Some damage in buildings looks like termite damage. But how can we tell? Here are some examples of Fungal decay.
Read MoreWood rot - timber in garden areas.
A rotting landscaping timber - due to constant moisture being present.
Quite often, wood rot is overlooked as a timber pest. But fungal decay can be a great cause of timber damage, as well as a sign that timbers are susceptible to termite attack.
It's important that any timber that is in ground contact is treated, and if it's not in ground contact that it's sealed. Otherwise it will easily rot especially if the climate or environment around the timber allows a constant supply of high ambient moisture to feed the fungus.
His timber post wasn't even in contact with the soil, but it's exposure to the elements have allowed it to rot significantly.