Hidden Decking Rot
Hidden Decking Rot | Roof Repair | Roofing | Ten Mile
Hidden decking rot can lurk beneath shingles for years, silently weakening the structure of your home until one heavy rain or strong wind exposes the damage all at once. HEP’s specialized crews in Ten Mile know exactly how to track down decay that most homeowners never see, using moisture-mapping tools and surgical tear-off techniques to reveal only the affected areas. The result is a cleaner, quicker roof repair that preserves healthy decking, saves money on materials, and restores your home’s weatherproof barrier without guesswork.
From the first attic inspection to the final shingle, we treat every roof like it shelters our own families—because here in Ten Mile, our neighbors often do. Expect transparent photo documentation, clear timelines, and workmanship backed by industry-leading warranties. When hidden rot threatens your home’s value and safety, choose the local team that fixes the problem at its source and leaves you with a roof built to outlast the next storm.
FAQs
What is hidden decking rot and how can it affect my roof in Ten Mile?
Hidden decking rot is the decay of the wooden sheathing (decking) beneath your shingles that is not visible from the exterior. In Ten Mile’s humid, storm-prone climate, trapped moisture and undetected leaks accelerate fungal growth, slowly weakening the wood. If left untreated, the rot can compromise shingle fasteners, cause soft spots that sag underfoot, and eventually lead to interior water damage and structural issues.
How can I tell if my roof decking has hidden rot without removing shingles?
A few warning signs include: • Spongy or springy feel when walking on the roof. • Shingles that appear slightly sunken or wavy. • Persistent attic musty odors or visible mold. • Dark moisture stains on attic rafters or insulation. • Unexplained higher energy bills from lost insulation value. Professional roofers in Ten Mile use infrared cameras, moisture meters, and small test bores to confirm rot without a full tear-off.
Why is it important to repair hidden decking rot promptly?
Rot spreads quickly once fungi establish themselves in moist wood. Repairing early prevents: • More extensive structural damage that requires a full re-deck. • Shingle blow-offs because nails lose their grip in soft wood. • Interior ceiling leaks and insulation saturation. • Higher repair costs—each extra month of unchecked rot can add 10–15% to the final bill. Addressing rot promptly also preserves your roof’s manufacturer warranty and keeps your home insurance valid.
What does your hidden decking rot inspection and repair process involve?
1. Free on-site assessment: We examine attic ventilation, look for moisture paths, and scan the roof deck with infrared imaging. 2. Targeted tear-off: Only shingles over suspect areas are removed to expose decking. 3. Moisture testing: We probe the wood; any board at 20% moisture content or higher is marked for replacement. 4. Decking replacement: Rotted sections are cut out and replaced with code-approved 5⁄8-in. CDX plywood or OSB, secured with ring-shank nails. 5. Waterproofing upgrade: Ice-and-water shield is applied over vulnerable valleys, eaves, and penetrations. 6. Ventilation correction: We add ridge vents or soffit vents if airflow is inadequate. 7. Shingle reinstatement: New matching shingles are installed and sealed for a seamless look.
How much does hidden decking rot repair typically cost in Ten Mile?
Costs vary with damage extent and shingle type, but most homeowners spend $550–$1,200 for a 4’×8’ panel replacement, including labor and materials. If rot is widespread, a partial re-deck averages $7–$10 per square foot. We provide a detailed, written estimate on-site and help prioritize repairs to fit your budget.
Can I file an insurance claim for hidden decking rot damage?
Insurance usually covers sudden, accidental damage (like wind-driven rain or fallen tree limbs) but excludes long-term rot caused by neglect. We assist homeowners by: • Documenting storm events and photographing damage. • Supplying moisture readings and lab reports, if requested by the carrier. • Meeting the adjuster on-site to explain the findings. While approval isn’t guaranteed, many Ten Mile clients successfully obtain partial coverage for decking replacement when rot stems from a covered peril.