Timeless Tips
FUNGI - Methods of Control
During the construction phase, it's important any evidence
of mold and mildew is removed. As mentioned earlier, mold
and sapstain increase the wood's capacity to hold water. A
greater absorptive promotes the pick-up of rain water, thus
increasing the chances of decay.
If mold and mildew are present, treat with the
following solution:
- 1/2 cup Trisodiurn Phosphate (found at your local hardware
store) or non-ammoniated detergent
- 1 quart of household bleach
- 3 quarts of warm water
This solution is caustic. Wear goggles, rubber
gloves, and necessary clothing to prevent eye and skin contact.
Also shield plant and shrubs from contact.
Apply the solution onto the infected area with a hand-pump
garden sprayer. Allow the solution to set for 5-10 minutes
and pressure rinse thoroughly clean with fresh water. This
treatment will kill the fungal growth as well as clean the
log surface. However, it will not prevent the future occurrence
of these organisms if conditions are suitable.
Attempt to keep the logs as mildew-free as possible while
the home is being built. Some manufacturers pretreat their
logs with a wood preservative to minimize any major outbreaks
of fungus during the construction phase. Even if they are
pretreated, when the logs are delivered, prevent them from
touching the ground or each other by placing stickers (spacers)
between them. This procedure, by allowing air circulation
between the logs, will help relieve any build-up of moisture
and heat caused by the drying logs, thus reducing the chances
of fungal attack.
During the building process, it is advised to thoroughly inspect
each log for evidence of mold and mildew. Clean any mildew-infected
logs with the bleach solution mentioned above.
This sections content was provided by The Continental Products Company. |
