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In an effort to reduce household heating costs, some homeowners have inadvertently caused household moisture problems that create conditions suitable for attack by mildew, molds and wood destroying fungi. Most homeowners in South Carolina are acquainted with mildew both inside and outside. Mildew tends to start growing at about 600 F in 60 percent relative humidity. Surface molds are frequently found on the sapwood of floor joists under houses with a poorly ventilated and damp crawl space. Wood destroying fungi attack floor joists and subfloor when the wood surface is frequently wetted due to. surface condensation, or when the moisture content of the wood member is for various reasons 20 percent or more. This publication is intended to help homeowners have a better understanding of these organisms and the range of conditions they require for growth. Description of Some Organisms
Most deterioration problems are caused by fungi and are a direct result of excessive moisture.
Fungi are small, often microscopic, plants which do not have chlorophyll and which reproduce by spores
Most fungi are beneficial and decay organic matter which would soon accumulate to unmanageable proportions. When wood in service is wetted, a succession of fungi attack the wood. If the wetting continues, decay eventually will develop and ultimately lead to the total destruction of the wood. In this regard, decay fungi are harmful and cause great economic losses each year. | 