At Timberwise our surveyors are experts in identifying various forms of fungal decay from well know rots such as Dry Rot and Wet Rot through to less well-known varieties.
The photographs below are from one of our Timberwise London surveyors were taken during a survey of an establishment in South London where we were called in to survey and identify the cause of a dampness problem.
The photo above shows some salt contamination on a wall which is normally a tell tale sign of a damp problem – in this case a penetrating damp problem caused by a leaky down pipe. For any form of damp proofing to be a success the source of the penetrating damp has to be located and stopped.
In another part of the building our surveyor discovered another problem related to the penetrating damp problem – fungal decay, in this case Plaster fungi. The surveyor identified the plaster fungi to be of the Peziza species – these tend to be found on damp brick work or plaster. This type of plaster fungi feeds on surface detritus or on organic material that is part of the walls – for example hair within old types of plaster.
This close up of Peziza ssp shows clearly the flesh coloured fungi. It has a cup shaped fruiting body that when fresh is very flexible but over time can harden and become brittle.
What should I do if I find fungal decay in my property?
The most important thing is to correctly identify the type of fungal decay and only then can the correct remedial action be taken to ensure the problem does not come back. Timberwise are experts in fungal decay identification and have been treating properties for over 4 decades.
To arrange a survey call 0800 288 8660.
3 thoughts on “Surveyors Fotofile: Plaster fungi in a South London pub”
Hi, The above picture is the same Fungi my son has growing in his garden. Directly outside his back door on the mat and an old pair of trainers he used when doing the garden. Can you please advise me if this type of Fungi is poisonous as he has 2 children aged 3 & 1 who play in the garden all the time.
Many Thanks
Carolyn Oldfield
Peziza spp Plaster Fungi, grows and feeds on detritus on wet things like plaster, wood, or as you have discovered trainers and doors mats.
Although it is not believed to be poisonous we would suggest that it is removed and not left it as a temptation to the children.
I live in West Yorkshire in a house built in 1888. The 5ft high basement has flag stone flooring & because we live in the Calder Valley it is pretty damp down there. I’ve seen these popping up a lot down there. Initially thought it was Pasta bought in by Rats from a nearby takeaway. Other than telling the land lady is there any product such as salts that we can put down to keep them at bay? All best wishes, Bob.