Thermo Modified Wood

The process of Making Thermo Modified Wood

The process of thermal modification dramatically increases the durability and stability of wood. And results in a beautiful brown coloration. The result: a new, sustainable, environmentally friendly timber species.

Thermal modification is achieved by using steam and high temperatures in excess of 190º C. The real trick to the process is in the cooling and reconditioning phase. The modification process requires a purpose-built computer-controlled kiln to ensure every piece of timber is modified to the correct specification and quality. At the end of the process, the moisture content of the timber is around 7% moisture content. And the chemical and physical properties have been permanently changed.

During the thermal modification process, many of the extractive are “cooked” out of the wood so that there is little chance of ‘resin bleed’ in service. This, combined with a degrading of the hemicellulose (sugar compound) in the wood. Means that the conditions for fungal growth are almost eliminated.

Durability of Thermally Modified Wood

As a result, the durability of softwoods like pine is increased to the equivalent of H3 level. That, providing a 30-year expected service life in above ground vertical (cladding) applications. As an added advantage, thermal insulation properties are improved by around 20%.

All this is achieved without the use of wood preservatives or chemicals of any type. Thermally modified wood is perfect for eco decking, cladding and weatherboard applications. Especially where “healthy” building materials are desired.

We’re delivering products to the following cities: Miami, Tampa, Florida; Houston, Dallas, Austin, Texas; Boston, Massachusetts; New York City, New York; The Bay Area, Los Angeles, California; Chicago, Illinois; Seattle, Washington; Washington, D.C.