Dry rot is one of those problems that can sneak up on you — quietly damaging your home until it’s a much bigger (and more expensive) issue. If you live in Sacramento or any of the surrounding areas like Roseville, Rocklin, Loomis, Carmichael, or Fair Oaks, knowing how to spot and deal with dry rot early can save you thousands in repairs.
Let’s walk you through what dry rot is, how to find it, and what to do if you see the signs.
🪵 What Is Dry Rot?
Dry rot is a type of wood decay caused by moisture and fungus. Despite the name, it needs moisture to get started. It usually shows up in places like:
- Around windows and doors
- Under sinks or around leaky pipes
- In crawl spaces and basements
- Under old siding or roofing
- Around decks or exterior stairs
🔍 How to Spot Dry Rot in Your Home
Here are some common signs that you might have dry rot:
- Soft, spongy, or crumbling wood
- Wood that looks darker, cracked, or shrunken
- Peeling paint or bubbling under the surface
- Musty or moldy smell in certain areas
- Fungal growth that looks cottony, gray, or rusty orange
In older homes across Sacramento, Fair Oaks, or Carmichael, dry rot is especially common where moisture has been trapped for years.
🧰 How to Fix Dry Rot (The Right Way)
Dry rot isn’t something you can just paint over — it needs to be properly repaired. Here’s how the process works:
- Find the source of moisture
First, we identify and fix what’s causing the problem — whether it’s a leaking pipe, poor ventilation, or bad flashing around windows. - Remove all damaged wood
We cut out all the affected areas to stop the rot from spreading further. - Replace with treated, rot-resistant wood
New framing or siding is installed using treated lumber or moisture-resistant materials. - Seal and waterproof the area
We use flashing, caulk, and waterproofing membranes to keep moisture out for good. - Paint and finish
We match the finish to your home, so the repair looks like it was never there.
🏡 Sacramento Area Homes Are Especially at Risk
The combination of hot summers, irrigated landscaping, and older housing stock in the Sacramento area makes dry rot a common problem. Homes in Loomis, Rocklin, and Roseville often have wood siding or decks exposed to sprinklers, rain, and ground moisture — all of which contribute to rot over time.
✔️ When to Call a Pro
If you see signs of dry rot or suspect water damage, it’s best to call a licensed contractor with experience in dry rot repair. At Golden Valley Construction & Remodel, we specialize in identifying and repairing dry rot across the Sacramento region. We’ll inspect your home, explain what’s going on, and give you a fair, honest estimate to get it fixed right.
💬 Let’s Help You Take Care of It
Dry rot can lead to serious structural problems — but with early detection and professional repairs, it’s totally manageable.
📞 Call us today at 916-832-5332
📧 Email: goldenvalleyconstructioninfo@gmail.com
🌐 www.goldenvalleyconstruction.com
Serving Sacramento, Roseville, Rocklin, Loomis, Carmichael, Fair Oaks & all nearby communities.