Rotten Wood Repair Services

Done Right with Full Wood Replacement

Rotten wood is more than an eyesore; it’s a sign of failure beneath the surface. Left untreated or improperly repaired, rot continues to spread, weaken surrounding materials, and cause costly damage over time. At Matthews’ Painting Company, our approach to rotten wood repair is simple and honest: we remove the rotten wood and replace it with new wood. We do not rely on temporary fixes or patching products.

Our Philosophy: No Shortcuts, No Patch Jobs

Many contractors attempt to “repair” rotten wood using hardeners, Bondo, fillers, or surface patches. These methods may appear acceptable for a short period, but they do not stop decay and often mask underlying issues.

That’s why our carpenter does not use:

Wood hardeners
Bondo or filler compounds
Epoxies or patching materials

Instead, we focus on removing all rotted wood and replacing it with new, solid lumber. This ensures the damaged area is structurally sound, moisture-free, and ready for long-term protection.

OUR CUSTOMERS SAY

Why Rotten Wood Happens (and Why It Must Be Removed)

Rot is caused by prolonged exposure to moisture. Failed caulk, overflowing gutters, unsealed cut ends, ground contact, and repeated wetting allow moisture to penetrate wood fibers. Once rot begins, it cannot be reversed. Soft or decayed wood will continue to break down, even if it’s covered or painted.

The only permanent solution is to cut out the affected wood entirely and replace it.

Signs You Need Rotten Wood Replacement

Homeowners often call us after noticing:

Soft or spongy wood that dents easily
Crumbling trim, fascia, or sills
Peeling paint that keeps returning in the same area
Dark staining or swollen boards
Loose joints or open seams
Wood that can be punctured with a screwdriver

These are signs that the wood has already failed and should be replaced—not patched.

Our Rotten Wood Repair Process

At Matthews’ Painting Company, rotten wood repair is treated as a carpentry service, not a cosmetic touch-up.

Inspection and Cause Identification
We assess both the visible damage and the moisture source. Fixing the wood without addressing the cause leads to repeated failure.
Complete Removal of Rotten Wood
All deteriorated wood is cut out until only solid, healthy material remains. We do not leave compromised wood behind.
New Wood Installation
The removed sections are replaced with new wood, carefully fitted to match the original dimensions and profiles whenever possible.
Proper Sealing and Preparation
Once installed, the new wood is sealed, primed, and prepared to prevent moisture intrusion and support a durable paint finish.
Final Paint Finish
We complete the process with professional painting so the repair blends seamlessly with the surrounding area while protecting the new wood.

Repair vs. Replacement: Our Standard Is Longevity

Some companies decide between repair and replacement based on speed or cost. We base our recommendations on what will last.

We recommend replacement when:

Wood is soft, spongy, or crumbling
Rot extends beyond a small surface area
The piece plays a structural or protective role
Previous patch repairs have failed
Moisture damage is ongoing

If replacement is needed, we make it clear, as replacing bad wood once is better than repeatedly patching it.

Common Areas Where We Replace Rotten Wood

We frequently replace rotten wood in:

Window sills and exterior trim
Door frames and thresholds
Fascia boards and soffits
Corner boards and decorative trim
Porch posts, railings, and steps
Garage trim and exterior door surrounds

These areas are especially vulnerable to moisture and often experience repeated failures when patching is used.

Why Full Wood Replacement Is the Better Investment

True rotten wood repair protects more than appearance it protects your home. By removing and replacing damaged wood, we:

Eliminate hidden decay
Restore strength and stability
Prevent rot from spreading
Provide a solid foundation for paint
Deliver repairs that last for years, not seasons

At Matthews’ Painting Company, we believe rotten wood repair should solve the problem—not hide it. If you’re dealing with soft spots, crumbling trim, or repairs that keep failing, our team is ready to replace the damaged wood properly and protect your home effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you fix rotten wood without replacing the whole board?

Yes—often. If the rot is localized and the remaining wood is stable, we can perform wood repair by removing damaged material, applying rotten-wood hardener where appropriate, rebuilding the shape, and sealing it for long-term protection.

What is rotten wood hardener used for?

Rotten wood hardener is used to penetrate and strengthen soft or porous wood fibers after damaged material has been removed. It helps stabilize the remaining wood so fillers or epoxy can bond properly and the repaired area holds up longer.

Is rotten wood repair strong enough for exterior trim?

When done correctly, yes. Professional rotten wood repair can restore a solid surface and durable profile for many exterior trim applications. The key is proper removal of decay, correct stabilization, and a complete primer/paint system that keeps moisture out.

How do I know if my wood is truly rotten or just weathered?

Weathered wood can look gray or rough but still feel firm. Rotten wood is typically soft, spongy, crumbling, or easily punctured. If a tool sinks in with little pressure, it’s time to fix rotten wood before the damage spreads.

Will painting over rotten wood stop the problem?

Unfortunately, no. Paint may temporarily hide stains, but it won’t restore structural integrity or stop active rot. Proper wood repair includes removing decayed fibers, stabilizing the remaining material, rebuilding the surface, and sealing to prevent re-entry of moisture.