What causes wet rot?
In common with all fungi, wet rot requires moisture for germination to take place and to sustain life. So as with all wood-rotting fungi, the primary cause of wet rot is moisture. If wood is kept ‘dry’ – below 18% moisture content – it will not decay.
Wet rot is caused principally by Coniophora puteana. Poria vaillantii is another important wet rot fungus and a number of less common fungi also occur. While each fungus has its own unique features, the general appearance of wet rot is similar – as is the treatment. Wet rot is typically confined to the area of dampness because the mycelium does not spread into walls.