Defibration
This breaking down of the fibrous nature of the timber is evidenced by something that looks like a fur or hair covering of the timber surface, often orange/red in colour.

Found in coastal areas and areas where manufacturing processes release chemical fumes and gases. Infact, fumes released from slow combustion stoves when discharged into roof caverties, cause a faster rate of this de-fibering effect than salt air. Because Douglas Fir and radiata pine timbers are most often affected this way, we expect the occurrence of this problem to increase significantly in the future because these timbers have been used widely in buildings over the last 20 years. However it occurs both in pored and non-pored wood.

What causes it?

The chemical breakdown and separation of cell calls until the cell structure collapses. This can result in the integrity of structure being compromised. Early recognition of this defibration is important.

What do I need to do?

Contact Heritage Pest Control to discuss options and identification. here

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