In today’s construction and architectural landscape, the focus is shifting towards environmentally sustainable and long-lasting materials. One noteworthy advancement in woodworking is thermally modified wood, a practice that has gained traction since the 1990s.
This innovative process involves heating the wood to high temperatures in a controlled environment, which enhances its durability, stability, and resistance to moisture and pests. By improving these properties, thermally modified wood also contributes to sustainability efforts.
Thermal modification goes through phases to achieve this durability. First, the process involves carefully heating wood to high temperatures, often in the absence of oxygen. During the second phase, the breakdown of hemicellulose, a sugar compound in the wood, significantly reduces the likelihood of fungal growth and enhances rot resistance.
In addition to being resistant to moisture-related issues, thermally modified woods are less appealing to insects. This natural insect resistance provides added peace of mind, as it reduces the likelihood of costly and time-consuming pest control measures.
A common issue with traditional wood is that variations in moisture levels can cause it to expand and contract, potentially leading to warping and cracking. In contrast, the final phase of the thermal modification process significantly reduces and stabilizes the wood’s moisture content. This improved stability makes thermally modified wood ideal for extreme weather conditions and applications such as saunas or ocean docks.
Thermally modified woods are non-toxic—no chemicals are employed in the heat treatment process—and they also exhibit synthetic qualities, boasting superior durability and reduced weight compared to conventional wood counterparts like cedar, cypress, and non-thermally modified pine.
Furthermore, thermally modified woods exclusively utilize real woods like ash, ayous, and pine, ensuring that any eventual waste generated remains organic. For more details, refer to Beyond Lumber’s page on thermally modified wood.
One of the standout benefits of thermally modified wood is its low maintenance requirements. Unlike some wood products that necessitate regular staining or sealing to maintain their appearance and structural integrity, thermally modified wood naturally develops a beautiful silver-gray patina over time. This natural aging process means less effort and time spent on upkeep, making it an ideal choice for those looking to minimize maintenance tasks.
Additionally, due to its enhanced durability, certain species of thermally modified wood, such as ash siding, can last upwards of 60 years. As noted by GBD Magazine, “It’s an investment. With thermally modified wood, you can design something that will give you peace of mind for your whole life.” For further details, refer to Arbor Wood Co.’s blog on the benefits of thermal modification.
The thermal modification process imparts a rich, uniform color to the wood, ranging from deep brown to chocolate hues. This enhancement accentuates the wood’s natural beauty, giving it a warm and earthy tone. The consistent color throughout the wood makes it highly desirable for various applications, including cladding, decking, and outdoor furniture. The distinctive appearance of thermally modified wood, exemplified by Arbor Wood Co.’s offerings, sets it apart from other building materials, highlighting its unique and sophisticated charm.
Thermally modified woods represents a significant advancement in the construction and architectural fields, offering a range of benefits that make it the next big thing. Its enhanced durability, stability, and resistance to moisture, pests, and maintenance tasks make it a superior choice for various applications. Additionally, its eco-friendly characteristics and timeless beauty add further appeal, setting it apart from conventional wood products.
For those interested in incorporating thermally modified wood into their projects, Beyond Lumber offers a selection of high-quality options that showcase these advantages.
TEL: (877)-892-4655
MAIL: sales@beyond-lumber.com
