Why Wet Rot Develops Under Kitchen Floors
Kitchens are one of the most common areas where wet rot occurs, especially in older homes around Macclesfield. Spills, plumbing leaks, and poor ventilation can all contribute to a damp environment beneath the floor — and timber joists are highly vulnerable to moisture damage.
Signs You May Have Wet Rot
Wet rot can remain hidden for months under vinyl or tiled kitchen floors. Look out for:
✅ A bouncy or spongy feel underfoot
✅ Cracked, uneven, or lifting flooring
✅ A musty odour
✅ Discoloured skirting boards or cupboard plinths
✅ Blackened or softened timber if exposed
If left untreated, wet rot will progressively break down the strength of the timber, potentially leading to structural damage.
How to Check What’s Happening Underneath
At Weather Wise, we use a non-invasive moisture mapping process, combined with:
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Localised lifting of flooring (if permitted)
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Sub-floor inspection via air bricks or access hatches
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PAM Ties treatment systems for confirmation and repair
If accessible, we also inspect air bricks and void ventilation — poor airflow is often a contributing factor.
Treatment Options for Kitchen Joist Wet Rot
1. Eliminate the moisture source
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Fix leaks under sinks, dishwashers, or washing machines
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Ensure splash zones are sealed correctly
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Improve ventilation under the floor with new air bricks or ducting
2. Assess timber condition
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Sound timbers may just need drying and surface treatment
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Decayed joists or wall plates must be cut back and replaced
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Use PAM Ties timber repair systems or spliced-in preservative-treated timbers
3. Apply protective treatment
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Use a fungicidal treatment to stop regrowth
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Add a damp-proof membrane or tanking if needed
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Finish with breathable, moisture-safe floor materials
Why Macclesfield Homeowners Trust Weather Wise
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Level 3 qualified damp & timber surveyors
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Trained and certified in timber repair and rot treatment
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Partners with PAM Ties for industry-standard timber treatment systems
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Members of the Damp Proofing Association
We’re a local, family-run team serving Macclesfield and the surrounding Cheshire area.
Book a Free Wet Rot Survey Here
https://weatherwiseuk.co.uk/pages/contact
FAQs
Is wet rot the same as dry rot?
No — wet rot needs a regular source of moisture and usually stays localised. Dry rot spreads more aggressively and through masonry.
Can wet rot dry out and recover?
Sometimes. If caught early, and the moisture is eliminated, timbers may be treatable without replacement — but deeper damage requires cutting back.
Will I need to lift the whole kitchen floor?
Not always. We aim to inspect and treat through access points, but severe cases may require more extensive repair.