What is the most effective method to reduce all rot and fungus?

Reducing moisture is considered the most effective method to minimize the occurrence of rot and fungus. This is because both rot and fungal growth thrive in environments that are damp and humid. By lowering the moisture level in wood or other materials, you effectively create an environment that is less conducive to the growth and spread of these damaging organisms.

In many cases, rot and fungus begin to grow when moisture content exceeds a certain threshold. Therefore, controlling and reducing moisture—through proper ventilation, drainage, and moisture barriers—can significantly limit the potential for rot and fungal infections to take hold.

While increasing temperature, using chemical treatments, and removing infected wood can also be effective in specific situations, they do not address the root cause as directly as reducing moisture. Increased temperatures may inhibit growth temporarily but are not a sustainable solution. Chemical treatments can be valuable, but they often require repeated application and do not eliminate the underlying moisture issue. Removing infected wood can help to stop the spread of rot and fungus but does not prevent new growth if the moisture conditions remain favorable for fungal development. Hence, managing moisture is key to both prevention and control in a long-term strategy.