How Much Does Dry Rot Repair Cost in 2025?

This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

Dry rot repairs cost between $502 and $2,357. If your home is older or has weather damage, you’ll probably face a framing repair at some point. Most homeowners spend an average of $1,428. Major structural fixes can climb past $6,550 Your final price depends on what caused the damage and how much new lumber you need. Because crews must open up—and later rebuild—walls, ceilings, or even your roof, plan on an extra $5 to $40 per square foot for tear-out and finish work.

Cost by Size of Dry Rot Repair

The size and scope of a project play the most significant role in determining cost. Expect to pay $5 to $50 per square foot. Localized repairs, such as replacing a single window casing, are relatively inexpensive. Larger structural problems involving walls, floors, or roofs are far more costly.

Labor Cost for Dry Rot Repair Pros

Labor is a major portion of dry rot repair costs, and the type of professional you hire influences the final bill. General contractors or carpenters charge between $50 and $100 per hour. They handle most dry rot repairs, including replacing joists, rebuilding sections of wall framing, or repairing siding. Larger projects result in flat-rate quotes rather than hourly billing.

Additional Dry Rot Repair Cost Factors

Beyond direct repair and labor costs, several related expenses may come up dry rot repair projects.

Type of Repair

The cost of dry rot repair varies depending on where the damage is found in the home. Different locations require different levels of access, materials, and labor, which directly affects the price.

Repairing walls and window or door frames tends to be less expensive because the work involves smaller areas and less demolition. Roof and floor structures are more costly due to accessibility challenges and the need to preserve structural safety. Foundation work varies the most and may involve significant excavation or specialized structural reinforcement.

Extent of Damage

Minor surface issues are handled with patching with wood filler or epoxy. More severe structural decay requires replacing areas or sistering, where new lumber is installed alongside the rotted framing to restore strength. This approach is the most labor-intensive, averaging $1,000 to $4,000, and may also require a structural engineer.

Demolition and Prep

Before any new materials can be installed, the damaged wood must be removed. Demolition and preparation add between $5 and $17 per square foot to the overall project cost. This step includes tearing out rotted lumber, removing drywall, or clearing flooring so the framing can be repaired properly.

Permits

Structural dry rot repairs may require building permits, particularly if framing, roofing, or load-bearing walls are involved. Failing to secure permits can lead to delays or fines, so it’s important to include this expense in your budget.

Termite Removal

Because dry rot frequently appears alongside pest issues, homeowners may need termite inspections and treatments. Termite removal services cost between $3 and $20 per linear foot.

Mold Remediation

Mold remediation services cost $375 to $7,000 and may involve specialized containment, cleaning, and removal techniques. Addressing mold early helps prevent respiratory issues and protects new framing from contamination.

Insulation Replacement

If dry rot is found inside walls, insulation may also need to be replaced. The cost of new insulation falls between $0.25 and $6.75 per square foot.

Drywall Installation

After framing is repaired, damaged drywall must be replaced to restore walls and ceilings. Drywall installation fees range from $1.50 to $3.50 per square foot.

Finish Carpentry

The final stage of dry rot repair includes finish carpentry, such as trim replacement, molding, and painting. These services vary widely in cost, from as little as $300 for small trim repairs to over $10,000 for extensive, custom woodwork.

Repair vs. Replacement

When dealing with dry rot, homeowners face the choice between repairing affected wood or fully replacing it. Minor damage can sometimes be handled with patching or epoxy fillers, which is less expensive but may not last as long. Replacement, while more costly, ensures that all compromised wood is removed and replaced with sound materials.

A practical guideline is the 50 percent rule. If more than half of a beam, joist, or frame is damaged, replacement offers a better long-term solution. Repairs are appropriate for smaller areas of decay, but widespread rot in structural components almost always requires full replacement.

Does Dry Rot Repair Increase Home Value?

Repairing dry rot does not necessarily increase resale value in the same way a remodel might, but it does prevent value loss. Buyers are wary of homes with structural problems, and inspectors will flag dry rot as a safety concern. Completing repairs preserves the home’s value by ensuring structural stability, efficiency, and functionality. In addition, updated finishes that accompany the repair, such as new siding or trim, can improve curb appeal.

DIY Dry Rot Repair vs. Hiring a Pro

Framing is load-bearing work, so talk with a pro before you break out the saw. A mis-cut beam can create bigger, costlier issues in a hurry. Even seasoned DIYers should check in with a structural engineer near you to map out a safe plan. And if you’re short on time or confidence, bring in a local framing contractor from the start.

Budgeting for Dry Rot Repair Costs

Planning ahead for dry rot repair costs helps homeowners avoid unexpected expenses and keep projects within budget. Consider these strategies to manage costs without sacrificing quality:

• Schedule regular inspections to catch minor issues before they require costly structural work.

• Maintain gutters, siding, and flashing to reduce moisture intrusion and prevent rot from forming.

• Request at least three quotes from qualified contractors to compare pricing and scope.

• Ask about preventative treatments such as fungicides or sealants that extend the lifespan of repaired wood.

How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data

No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.