How to Treat Rotted Wood Joists

Wood is a much-used structural material, as it's strong and reliable in many situations and usually for many years. However, it is susceptible to rot, particularly if it is older wood that was not pressure-treated with preservative. If rotted wood joists are affecting the structural integrity of a building, they should be replaced. In the case of joists with less serious rot, home maintenance expert Chris Marshall recommends a rescue package.

Screwdriver
Brush
Chisel
Mallet
Wood sealer-preservative
Ruler
Saw
Pressure-treated wood
Hammer
Nails

Instructions

- 1
  Press the tip of a small screwdriver into the joist to assess how rotted it is.
- 2
  Remove any rotted wood. Brush away loose material. Chisel away soft material until only solid wood remains.
- 3
  Paint or spray sealer-preservative over the exposed area.
- 4
  Cut a "sister joist" from pressure-treated wood. Measure the affected area and cut a piece of wood of similar dimensions to the joist and slightly longer than the affected area.
- 5
  Nail the "sister joist" in place onto the side of the affected joist to strengthen it. Re-lay the floorboards.

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