Who Fixes Wood Rot? Hire the Right Pro for the Job

This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

A water damage restoration company is the top answer to who fixes wood rot because these teams assess hidden decay, stop moisture at the source, and restore affected areas safely. Hiring a pro ensures trained technicians use specialized tools to dry, repair, and prevent future problems without risking your home’s structure.

Benefits of Hiring a Water Damage Restoration Company to Fix Wood Rot

Hiring a local water damage restoration company is the best way to fix wood rot. Trained technicians accurately evaluate visible and concealed decay and pinpoint causes like leaks, drainage issues, or high humidity. With professional drying equipment, they complete repairs faster and more effectively than DIY. One coordinated team manages extraction, drying, repairs, and safety, improving long-term outcomes.

Consider these advantages of hiring a water damage restoration company:

• Finds hidden decay and maps moisture across affected areas

• Traces and corrects the source of water causing rot

• Uses moisture meters, dehumidifiers, fans, and heaters to dry thoroughly

• Handles water extraction, structural checks, and mold remediation

• Works safely around weakened framing and contaminated water

• Reduces the risk of repeat damage with prevention steps

• Consolidates multiple services under one coordinated team

• Delivers repairs that protect your home’s structural integrity

• Minimizes future costs by fixing the problem correctly once

Can I Hire a Carpenter to Fix Wood Rot?

A carpenter fits when the problem is limited and localized, such as a windowsill, door frame, or furniture component. They repair or replace rotted sections and match the original look, and they can reinforce load-bearing elements like joists when needed. However, carpenters do not address moisture sources. Choose a water damage restoration company for water infiltration or mold. If you need help with minor repairs or prevention, you might want to consider a handyman near you to ensure the job is done safely and conveniently. A handyperson can help with prevention tasks, not full remediation.

How Do Pros Fix Wood Rot?

Here's how pros fix wood rot:

1. Assess the extent of rot and determine if wood is salvageable.

2. Remove and replace severely rotted material.

3. Treat minor damage with wood hardener or epoxy resin to restore integrity.

4. Thoroughly dry the area with industrial dehumidifiers, fans, or heaters.

5. Implement prevention: seal wood, repair leaks, and improve ventilation.

6. Recommend moisture barriers or grading corrections to stop intrusion.

How Much Does Fixing Wood Rot Cost?

Restoring wood rot caused by water damage costs $3 to $7.50 per square foot. Total water damage restoration generally ranges from $1,1380 to $6,360. Your price depends on the extent of damage and where it is located. Larger or harder-to-reach areas require more labor and materials and can cost $16,000 or more.