Why Wet Rot Affects Timber Floors in Bolton Homes
In many homes across Bolton — particularly older terraced properties and houses with suspended timber floors — wet rot can be a hidden but serious issue. It occurs when timber remains in contact with high levels of moisture for a prolonged period, often due to poor ventilation, plumbing leaks, or ground moisture ingress from underneath the floor.
When left untreated, wet rot weakens the structure of timber joists and floorboards, potentially leading to floor failure and costly repairs.
Common Signs of Wet Rot in Floor Joists
If you're unsure whether your home might be affected, here are the top red flags to look out for:
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Bouncy or spongy flooring in certain areas of the home
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Visible fungal growth or black/white staining on joists or boards
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Crumbling or cracked timber around the base of walls or under floorboards
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A persistent musty or damp smell in ground floor rooms
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Flaking skirting boards or paintwork lifting near the floor
In many cases, these signs go unnoticed until a floor becomes uneven or begins to sag — at which point urgent repairs are often needed.
What Causes Wet Rot in Timber Joists?
Wet rot is caused by a fungal attack that breaks down the structural fibres in the timber. For this to occur, the wood typically needs to have a moisture content above 20%. The most common causes we encounter in Bolton include:
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Poor subfloor ventilation, especially in older properties
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Leaks from washing machines, sinks, or toilets on upper floors
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Rising moisture from the ground in poorly protected floors
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Blocked or missing air bricks that prevent proper airflow under suspended floors
How We Treat Wet Rot in Bolton Homes
At Weather Wise Solutions Limited, we follow a proven approach to restoring safety and structural integrity to timber floors:
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Identify the source of moisture and eliminate it — whether it’s from leaks, drainage issues or subfloor condensation
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Remove any decayed timber back to sound, dry wood
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Replace joists or flooring where needed using pre-treated structural timber
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Apply specialist fungicidal preservatives (we use industry-trusted products from PAM Ties)
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Improve ventilation by installing new air bricks or passive systems as necessary
Where possible, we aim to repair only what’s needed and offer long-term prevention advice, not just a quick fix.
Why Choose Weather Wise for Wet Rot Repairs?
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👨🔧 Family-run business with a local reputation for honesty and reliability
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🏠 Specialists in timber and damp treatments, with CPD certification in Dampness in Buildings
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🛠️ Insurance-backed guarantees for peace of mind
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📚 Members of the Damp Proofing Association and Federation of Damp
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🔍 No pushy sales — just practical advice based on what your property actually needs
Worried About Your Floors? We Can Help.
Don’t let small signs of damp turn into a serious structural problem. If you're in Bolton or the surrounding area, book a free survey with our expert team today and get a clear diagnosis with no obligation.