How to fix hole in garage ceiling beam?

[PhilM1]

Hi all,
I have a wooden beam in my garage that is around 6 - 9 months old. Unfortunately there appears to be some water (or other) damage which has caused a small hole to form (see picture below). It feels a little softer inside the hole than the surrounding wood, so I assume that it may be rotting slightly.

Does anyone have any recommendations as to how to prevent further rotting / damage? (Note that some water will likely come onto the wood in the future, as it's not completely enclosed)

Thanks

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, @PhilM1. It's terrific to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about filling a hole in timber.

I have significant concerns that a beam installed only 6-9 months ago could degrade in this manner. If the beam is exposed to the weather or moisture, it should have been treated to H3 standards, which protect against rot and decay. If it is not exposed to the elements, an H2 treated beam would be appropriate. What you’re describing sounds like early-stage rot, which indicates either the wrong treatment level was used, or water is getting into the timber more than it should.

Unfortunately, structural damage like this can’t simply be patched up by filling the hole. The beam needs to be assessed by a professional to determine if it is salvageable, and to ensure it is H3 treated. If it is not adequately treated, it should be replaced, especially if it will continue to be exposed to moisture.

Sealing off the area to prevent further water exposure is essential to stop ongoing damage, but that won’t reverse the current state of the beam. It’s also vital that the structural integrity of the beam is evaluated, as this level of deterioration is concerning given how recently it was installed.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell
 

[Noyade]

G'day @PhilM1 

Unlikely - but my fear is always termites. Does a sharp scribe 'sink' into other areas of the wood?

[PhilM1]

Thanks for getting back to me.
No - it doesn't seem to do that, so hopefully it's not termites!

[PhilM1]

Thanks Mitchell.
I spoke to the builder and he said that it looks it's simply a knot in the wood, and that it can be filled / sanded and then painted over if desired.
If that's the case, do you know what could be used to fill it? 

[MitchellMc]

Hi @PhilM1,

I apologise for the delay in my reply.

Builder's Bog can be used to fill that hole or you could use a general wood filler. Simply apply the filler and when dry sand to a smooth surface. You can then paint over the filler.

Mitchell