How To Fix Rotted Plywood

Plywood, like most wood, is susceptible to rot. The rot in plywood can be caused by wood-eating fungi, which activate when moisture is present. Insects can also be responsible for the deterioration of plywood. Whatever the cause for the rot, when there is rot in plywood, it weakens the structure and must be fixed.

So, how do you fix rot in plywood?

In this article, you will learn two ways to fix rot in plywood and how to know when to repair or replace rotten plywood.

2 Ways To Fix Rot in Plywood

Wood-destroying fungi called dry rot are the leading cause of damage to wood. Wood rot is a catastrophic problem that must be addressed immediately. It would help if you took the necessary precautions to protect your wood from wood rot.

Cautions like treating the wood, painting it, and preventing high humidity can help protect against wood rot. However, if the plywood is already rotted, they are two ways to fix it, as explained below.

1. Using Wood Filler

Using wood filler is one of the easiest ways to fix rot in plywood. The wood filler creates a smooth surface repair to cover the area where the rot damaged the plywood. Using wood fillers has several advantages, one of which is that it is water-resistant.

Although wood filler is water-resistant, it is not waterproof, so it will eventually get soaked if exposed to excess moisture. Wood fillers are also durable as they become a hardened substance when dry. Also, it is cost-effective and saves you time as it is a mixture you can use directly on the wood.

Here’s how to fix rotted plywood with wood filler:

1. Scratch the rotten wood and remove loose rot using a claw hammer and brush.
2. Get rid of dust and dirt in the area by washing it with TSP detergent.
3. Allow the area affected by the rot to dry completely.
4. Using a scrapper or hand trowel, apply the wood filler to the affected area on the plywood.
5. Smoothen the wood filler out.
6. Allow the wood filler to sit for at least 24 hours or till it is dried thoroughly.
7. Sand the surface of the wood filler till it flushes with the plywood.
8. Paint or stain the wood filler to the color of the plywood.

2. Using 2-Part Epoxy

Another option to fix rot in plywood is a 2-part epoxy. This option is best when the rot is caused by moisture. Epoxy is a water-resistant and waterproof substance, so you can use this fix and not worry about water damaging the area again.

The challenge you may face using a 2-part epoxy to fix rot on plywood is ensuring the consistency of the mixture is correct. So, having a hand mixer will come in handy.

Here’s how to fix rotted plywood with 2-part Epoxy:

1. Remove the rotten wood from the plywood and wash off any dust and debris from the surface with a TSP detergent.
2. When the plywood is dry, paint it with a binding agent or a binder.
3. In a bucket, mix the 2-part Epoxy based on the specifications in the instruction manual.
4. With a putty knife, mold the epoxy filler on the plywood.
5. Remove any excess epoxy filler with a clean putty knife.
6. Allow the epoxy filler to sit overnight or until it is completely dry.
7. Use sandpaper to smoothen the surface.
8. Paint or stain the 2-part epoxy filler to the color of the plywood.

How To Know if the Rot in Plywood Needs To Be Repaired or Replaced?

In some cases, you may have to replace the plywood, mainly when repairing it is not viable. When the damage to the plywood compromises the stability and durability of the plywood, then replacing it is the best option. Some of the most common telltale signs of rot in plywood that needs replacement includes:

• A large portion is soft when touched.
• The plywood crumbles apart easily.
• Fungi are sprouting out of the plywood.
• Growth of mushroom-like substance on the surface.
• Off-white or yellow tinge on the brickwork.

Note that replacing plywood can be pretty expensive. So, if the area where it rots does not compromise the strength or stability of the support, it’s best to repair such damage.

The best way to test the degree of rot on wood is to poke it with a screwdriver or knife. If the knife sinks more than 1/8 inch, the chance of the wood being rotten is high, and it will need to be replaced.

Conclusion

The above methods are safe options to fix rot in plywood in your home. However, whether you should replace or repair the rotten plywood depends on the nature of the damaged area. So, take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of your home by understanding when to replace or repair the rotted plywood.