Water stains on oak

[Hughman]

I have a load of red oak and white oak that is wet from a storm, which ripped off the shed roof last night.

I want to preserve the color and avoid the black stains that are impossible to remove except mechanicaly.

Are these stains a fungus or oxidation? Will air drying/ventilation prevent the stains?

It's close to freezing tonight, I'm hoping this will help.

[Bob Smalser]

Blue Mold.

Attacks sapwood in temperatures of 55 degrees plus and medium to high moisture and low air flow. Sapwood at 30-60pct M/C will mold w/o rain if left outdoors in the warm.

Except for sealed-in house framing, tho, it's merely a cosmetic problem once the wood dries and is kept relatively dry.

Take away the conditions it requires, and it goes dormant...but there are always spores there for it to reoccur....in spite of all the attempts with chlorine beach.

A thick paste of oxalic acid and warm water and a stiff bristle brush will remove the stains.

[Hughman]

Thanks, Bob. I need to get this stuff dried and restickered, but it's sleet/snain for tonight.

blue mold. huh, I had some in my coffee this morning.....