What Can Cause the Cedar Planks Inside of the House to Rot?

Indoor Cedar Planks

• Cedar planks have a variety of indoor applications. For indoor use, builders use white cedar. It is light in color with dark, contrasting knots. White cedar is durable enough to be used for wall paneling and flooring. Its attractive scent makes it an excellent material for lining closets as well. Cedar planks are also used to make chests and other furniture.

Leaks

• Roof and siding leaks are responsible for interior wood damage to walls or door and window frames. Water commonly enters through damaged siding, trim, vent flashing or chimney flashing. Once it enters the home, water runs down interior walls, causing wet, rotted wood. Leaks in pipes and appliances, like toilets, dishwashers and refrigerators, are common causes of rotten floor planks. Lack of bathroom ventilation can also cause rotten wood in those areas, particularly around the tub and shower. Damaged wood becomes soft, spongy and stringy or dry and crumbly. Discoloration and odor are also common symptoms of wood rot.

Fungi

• Rot caused by fungi is difficult to diagnose in its early stages. The fungi live in the interior of the wood, sending out a network of filaments, feeding as they grow. Often, by the time rot is noticed, the damage is severe. Some types of fungi send out fruiting bodies. These structures are mushroom-like and produce reproductive spores capable of spreading and damaging even more wood. Moist conditions, such as those caused by leaks, foster the growth of fungi and can initiate the growth of an otherwise inactive fungus.

Solutions

• Diagnose the cause of the leak. Repairing the damage is pointless if the leak isn't repaired first. Water runs and pools so rot near the base of a wall may be from a roof leak. A thorough roof inspection is critical in diagnosing leaks. Inspect windows and doors for damage to frames. Inspect siding and trim as well. Warped, cracked or split siding can allow water into the interior of the home. Wet spots in the middle of a floor are likely caused by leaky pipes, call a professional for assistance if you aren't versed in plumbing repairs. Check all appliances for leaks. Remove and replace all damaged wood; in most cases damaged wood can't be repaired. Maintain good ventilation in bathrooms and laundry rooms to prevent general rot from continued exposure to moisture.