Calculate how long it takes for structures and vehicles to decay in Rust based on material type and current health. Plan your base maintenance and raiding strategies effectively.
Decay in Rust is a mechanism that slowly deteriorates player-made structures over time to keep servers clean. Structures decay based on their material type and current health percentage. The decay rate is controlled by the server's decaytickrate setting (default 300).
To prevent decay, you need to use a Tool Cupboard and keep it stocked with the same materials your structures are made of. The Tool Cupboard creates a protected zone around your base. Keep it filled with resources to maintain your buildings indefinitely.
At 100% health: Twig decays in 1 hour, Wood in 3 hours, Stone in 5 hours, Sheet Metal in 8 hours, and Armoured structures in 12 hours. Lower health percentages reduce decay time proportionally.
Yes, vehicles in Rust follow the same decay mechanics as structures. Minicopters, boats, cars, and other vehicles will decay based on their material type and health. Regular maintenance or storage in a protected zone prevents decay.
Take the base decay time for the material type and multiply it by the current health percentage (as a decimal). For example, a Wood structure at 50% health will decay in 1.5 hours instead of 3 hours.
The default decaytickrate is 300. This setting can be modified by server administrators. Our calculator assumes the default rate. If your server uses a different rate, decay times will be proportionally faster or slower.
Yes, you can repair structures using the same materials they're made of. Use a hammer to repair damaged parts. However, once decay begins, it will continue until the structure is either repaired to full health or the Tool Cupboard is restocked.
Check your base regularly, especially after extended absences. Twig structures decay in just 1 hour, so monitor them closely. For more permanent bases, check every few days and ensure your Tool Cupboard remains stocked.