Exposed Beam Restoration - Abaton Products
I have researched past posts on beam restoration - I am thinking about using the Abatron product that has been endorsed by several of you in past posts.
I have two 12' exposed beams in my atrium (4" x 12") that have about 1" to 2" dry rot on the top.
From past posts - it appears that everyone recommends digging out the dry rot prior to applying the Abatron LiquidWood and reforming the beam using the Abatron Wood Expox.
I called Abatron yesterday. They recommend NOT digging out the dry rot.
They recommend drilling 1/4" diameter holes on 2" centers approx. 2" deep and then filling those holes with Abatron LiquidWood and then using the Wood Expox for any fill. Apparently, the LiquidWood makes the dry rot solid again and a strength member.
NOT digging out the dry rot seems too good to be true and a great labor saver. I would like to hear comments from you that have used their products.
Hi Michel,
I'm one of the people that used the Abatron product. And I yes, I did dig out the obvious dryrot. Dry rot is caused by a fungus and I wanted to expose as much of the underlying wood (presumably still holding spores) so I'd have some chance of applying the borax solution. Having soaked the wood with the borax product, I let it dry and then rebuilt with the Abatron.
I would be interested in hearing how they thought you were going to treat the fungus. Since the fungus needs moisture to survive, maybe they just thought that repairing the wood fibers then sealing with paint would keep the moisture out? I'm happier with what I did though I admit it might be false security.
Jake
P.S. If you're interested, here's a webpage that talks about fungi, borax, and epoxy repair (near the bottom of the page).
http://www.umass.edu/bmatwt/publications/articles/wood_destroying_fungi_...
Jake,
Looks like were are in the same tract. Would be interested in seeing your beams - if possible - email me at [email protected].
Thanks
