dry rot vs. wet rot

How to Spot Dry Rot in Your Seattle Home: A Free Checklist

Living in Seattle means contending with a damp climate—155 rainy days and 37 inches of rainfall annually make dry rot a real threat to your home. At Seattle Trim Repair, we’ve spent over 10 years helping homeowners in neighborhoods like Ballard, Capitol Hill, and West Seattle protect their properties from this silent destroyer. Spotting dry rot early can save you from costly repairs, and we’re here to help with a free checklist tailored to Seattle homes. Download it below and take action today! For a free inspection, call us at (425) 517-1751 or visit our contact page!

Why Early Detection Matters in Seattle

Seattle’s wet environment, influenced by Puget Sound humidity and frequent rain, creates ideal conditions for dry rot (Serpula lacrymans) to thrive. This fungus attacks wood in window frames, decks, and rooflines, often hiding behind siding or in crawlspaces. In neighborhoods like Queen Anne with older homes or Alki Beach with exposed wood, dry rot can go unnoticed until it weakens your home’s structure. A dry rot inspection in Seattle is the best defense, but first, let’s equip you with the tools to spot it yourself.

Free Checklist: How to Spot Dry Rot in Your Seattle Home

Use this checklist during your next home walk-through, especially after heavy rain. Check off each item and note any concerns:

  • Check for Cracked or Peeling Paint
    • Where: Window frames in Greenwood or exterior trim in West Seattle.
    • What to Look For: Blistered or peeling paint exposing soft wood underneath.
    • Action: If found, call (425) 517-1751 for an expert evaluation.
  • Sniff for Musty Odors
    • Where: Attics in Capitol Hill or crawlspaces in Fremont.
    • What to Look For: A mushroom-like smell indicating fungal activity.
    • Action: Detect an odor? Visit our contact page for a professional inspection.
  • Test for Soft or Crumbling Wood
    • Where: Decks in Magnolia or door frames in South Lake Union.
    • What to Look For: Wood that feels spongy or turns to powder when pressed.
    • Action: If crumbling, schedule a visit to our contact page immediately.
  • Look for Darkened Wood or Fungal Growth
    • Where: Siding in Ravenna or rooflines in Ballard.
    • What to Look For: Dark spots or grayish-white fungal strands.
    • Action: Spot this? Call (425) 517-1751 for a free inspection.
  • Inspect for Shrunk, Warped, or Distorted Wood
    • Where: Window sills in Queen Anne or fascia boards in Alki Beach.
    • What to Look For: Wood that’s shrunk, warped, or causes sticking doors/windows.
    • Action: If noticed, contact (425) 517-1751 for a detailed assessment.

Why Trust Seattle Trim Repair?

With over 10 years of experience and a 99% five-star review rating, Seattle Trim Repair is Seattle’s go-to for dry rot solutions. Our process includes:

  • Thorough Inspections: Using moisture meters to detect hidden dry rot in Downtown Seattle attics or Greenwood decks.
  • Expert Repairs: Addressing dry rot window sills in Capitol Hill or siding dry rot in West Seattle with durable materials.
  • Prevention Advice: Offering tailored plans to keep your home safe.

Don’t let dry rot catch you off guard. Schedule a free dry rot inspection in Seattle by calling (425) 517-1751 or visiting our contact page. We serve all Seattle neighborhoods, from South Lake Union to Magnolia.

Take Action Today

Dry rot can silently damage your Seattle home, but with this checklist, you’re one step ahead. If you find any signs, acting quickly with a professional inspection can prevent expensive repairs and protect your property’s value. Trust Seattle Trim Repair, your local authority, to handle all your dry rot needs. Contact us at (425) 517-1751 or our contact page for a free quote, and let’s keep your home dry rot-free!