How can I effectively repair the water-damaged wood caused by the improperly set up gutter system in my garage corner?
Asked by Fayina Polyarush 
6 months ago
Last Updated: May 16, 2024
Just got my garage floor redone and now I’m working on putting in new insulation and drywall. Discovered some water damage in one corner that was caused by a poorly set up gutter system that was leaking water onto that spot from outside.
I’m brainstorming ways to fix this and prevent the wood from getting worse. One idea I had was to use a multi tool to cut out the damaged section and then hammer in a piece of 2×4. But I’m worried about the weight of the frame. Another thought was to use some kind of spray foam that hardens to keep water from seeping in. The gutter has been redirected to avoid any more water in that area.
Any suggestions or advice would be greatly appreciated!
Trim back at least 3-4 feet of the bottom mudsill. The code specifies a minimum of 4 feet for the mudsill. If there is an anchor bolt present, notch the new pressure-treated plate for the bolt and add two more Simpson concrete lags.
Hey , do you think I need some support in the corner of the room when I make the cut? I’m worried a 4-foot cut might make it shift due to the weight.
It’s not looking too terrible. Just make sure it’s completely dry before moving on. No need to panic.
As long as the water issue is resolved, you should be good. Stuff some steel wool in to keep out critters and then seal it up.
It doesn’t seem like there’s a barrier between the plate and floor, so I would suggest removing and replacing the rotted section.
Make sure to monitor this situation by doing regular inspections both inside and outside.
Having the framing sit on a flat slab is not the best construction design.
How recent is this construction? Most garage constructions in the last 50 years don’t just have a flat slab.
‘s construction took place in 1980, which was 43 years ago.
Was the original intention to have a carport instead?
From the paperwork I was able to find, did not obtain a permit for a slab and garage construction in 1980.
Hey , maybe there’s a waterproofing material similar to what they use for roofing that can be applied to the outside to prevent moisture from getting on the wood.
Try using some Git Rot wood restorer. It strengthens the wood effectively.
Just remove it and put in a new one, I don’t think it’s under enough stress to be concerned about.
Just completed a project where I replaced rotted floor joists, sill plate, rim joist, and deck ledger. If you want to do it properly, head over to Home Depot and purchase a couple of adjustable support columns and a 2×6 if it’s tall enough to reach your ceiling. Cut the 2×6 to double it up or purchase two and nail or screw them together. Place them on top of the columns and jack them up evenly to the ceiling. Slowly crank up each side a bit at a time. ‘t rush or do too much at once! Next, go outside of the house, remove the siding or any covering to inspect the extent of the damage. Buy a 2×4 that’s pressure-treated to match the length. Remove the old rotted piece and replace it with the new lumber. There are likely nails on the top and bottom holding it in place, so use a sawzall to cut them off. Put down some liquid nail for it to adhere to the block or concrete. Once everything is in place and aligned with the wall, lower the columns and take them out. Nail or screw from the wall’s bottom plate into your new wood. The house’s weight will keep it stable, but it doesn’t hurt to secure it further. Replace any rotted house sheathing, add house wrap in that section, and reinstall the siding. Finally, return the columns to Home Depot or wherever you purchased them, and the job is complete.
Just remove it and replace it, no issues at all