Dead organisms are broken down into smaller pieces by the process of decay. Organisms such as earthworms are involved in this process. Decomposition is the process by which bacteria and fungi break dead organisms into their simple compounds. Plants can absorb and use these compounds again, completing the cycle.
Weather and its effects are the fundamental cause of decay, leading to problems such as damp, mould, woodworm and fungi. Wood, brick and stone are the three most common building materials, and each of these reacts differently to the effects of weathering.
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why do buildings decay?
Any structure that stands “in the open” must brave the elements of nature, which negatively impacts the structural integrity of a building. For example, during the summer, water may seep into the ceiling or walls of a house and dampen it. However, come winter, water freezes and compromises the strength of the wall. In fact, this is one of the primary reasons why the walls of abandoned buildings begin to fall apart during winters.
Additionally, the material used in the construction of the building is also affected by the ambient weather. If a building has a lot of metal, like iron or steel, it will rust gradually if not maintained, which will accelerate the decay of the structure.
