How To: Fix Wood Rot

Being a homeowner comes with lots of responsibilities, enjoyment, and sometimes headaches from repair work and odd jobs that have to be done. One of those hurdles to overcome may be rotten wood. Surprisingly enough, wood that has begun to rot can actually be repaired without fully replacing the boards. Our crew at Handyman Connection of Boise has a few tips to help you fix that pesky rotten wood.

Many reasons can cause wood to rot, with the most common being exposure to water and water damage. If this is the case, it’s possible to remove the section that is beginning to rot or has rotten and filling the hole(s) with wood filler. It’s also important that once you decide to fill the holes, that you reduce the contact with moisture to ensure a long-lasting solution.

First up, gather your materials. You will likely have the tools such as screwdrivers, hammers, wax paper, sandpaper, a paint brush, a drill, a putty knife, and etc. you need at home, besides a good wood hardener and a wood-patching compound.

Next, be sure to determine the exact and precise location and source of the rot. You can easily identify a rot if it’s a darker shade than the rest of your wood, if it’s green, if the area is soft, and etc. Once you’ve located the rot or rots, remove the rotted wood using the chisel on your hammer or the screwdriver. Be sure to get the area around the rot as well. You may have to use a power tool for those portions. If it’s soft and easy to get out without a power tool, you’ve found the rot. While the wood is exposed, apply protective products like the wood hardener we mentioned above. You can also consider investing in sealants designed to prevent fungi.

After the area is completely cleared of the rot and is completely dried out, fill the damaged area with the patching compound substance. It’ll dry fairly quickly within about 10 minutes. As you are applying the substance with a putty knife, be sure you fill the hole up completely with a little overflow. This will ensure that the wood will be completely sealed and good as new. Place wax paper over the top to secure the substance in as it dries. Lastly, remove the wax paper, and sand down the area once it’s dry. You’ll be safe to start this process within about 30 minutes of applying the wax paper. Finish the wood with a stain or other finishing products to match the surrounding wood.

It’s as simple as that to repair rotting wood in your home here in Boise. Remember, the crew at Handyman Connection of Boise is always here to help with any and all of your home maintenance needs. We can help you tackle any project around your home, no matter how big or small that task may be. Fill out a form or call (208) 504-1235 to schedule an estimate!