The merula is a particularly devastating wood fungus. In this article, we will tell you about the conditions that favour its development. Then we will give you tips on how to treat merula effectively.
THE MERULA: A WOOD-EATING FUNGUS
WHAT IS MERULA ?
The merula (also known as weeping merula) is a wood-eating fungus, i.e. it feeds on the wood of houses (frames, beams, etc.). All types of wood can be affected. In general, exotic wood species, which are naturally resistant to attack, are spared. The merula prefers resinous wood (pine, fir, spruce, etc.) and feeds on substances present in the wood (cellulose). Also, the merula needs calcium and iron, which is why it can develop in a second phase on metals, plaster or bricks in order to recover these nutritive elements.
HOW DOES MERULA DEVELOP ?
This wood-boring fungus no longer exists in its natural state. Wood merula grows in man-made places such as damp and poorly ventilated houses. In general, when the moisture content of the wood exceeds 20%, there is a risk that wood mould will establish itself in your wood. Merola is heat averse. Above 30° Celsius, this wood-eating fungus cannot grow.
When merula develops in wood, it makes the wood brittle and less resistant. The wood becomes darker (brown) and breaks down into small cubes. This is known as cubic rot. It is difficult to recognise the presence of wood rot in your home. It initially develops out of sight, preferring confined and obscure places (behind panelling, for example).
Merula can quickly attack other wood in your home. In order to grow, it releases substances into the air which then attack other wood.
When conditions are no longer favourable for its development (not enough humidity), the fungus will stop its growth. But beware, this wood-eating fungus does not die and can resume its activity several years later. To get rid of the fungus, a treatment is essential. This is all the more important if the fungus attacks elements that are essential to the solidity of the structure of your house (framework, beams).
TREATMENT OF MERULA
You can carry out a fungicide treatment for merula yourself or call in a professional.
On our website you will find two products that you can use as a curative treatment against wood rot : the Wood Bliss and the Wood Bliss High-C (concentrated version of Wood Bliss). These treatments are non-toxic for the environment and the applicator. They are an interesting alternative to xylophene.
Before treatment, it is important to remove infected or destroyed surfaces (brittle parts, sawdust) as well as old finishes (paint, varnish, stain, etc.).
To treat merula, the Wood Bliss is applied in 2 layers and by injection into the galleries. Depending on the extent of the attack, it may be necessary to complete the treatment by applying Wood Bliss High-C by brushing.
In addition to treating the wood, the moisture problem in the room must be solved so that the problem does not recur.
If the attack is too severe to carry out a merule treatment by yourself, we advise you to call in a professional.
PRODUCTS FOR THE TREATMENT OF MERULA
