What is Thermally Modified Timber?

Thermally modified timber refers to wood that has been treated at high temperatures in an oxygen-controlled environment. This process alters the wood’s cellular structure, significantly improving its durability, stability, and resistance to decay.

The treatment involves no chemicals, relying solely on heat and steam, making thermally modified timber an environmentally friendly option. The result is a product that not only performs better but also has a richer, more uniform colour.

Benefits of Thermally Modified Timber for Cladding and Fencing

Thermally modified timber offers numerous advantages, particularly when used for cladding and fencing. Here are some of the key benefits:

• Enhanced Durability: One of the primary advantages of thermally modified timber is its increased durability. The heat treatment reduces the wood’s moisture content, making it less prone to warping, swelling, or shrinking. It also enhances the wood’s resistance to rot, fungi, and insects, extending the lifespan of your cladding or fencing.
• Stability: Thermally modified timber is more stable, meaning it’s less likely to expand or contract with changes in humidity and temperature. This stability makes it an ideal choice for exterior applications like cladding and fencing, where the wood is exposed to varying weather conditions.
• Aesthetic Appeal: The thermal modification process deepens the wood’s colour, giving it a rich, consistent appearance that enhances its natural beauty. Whether you’re aiming for a sleek modern look or a more traditional aesthetic, thermally modified timber offers a visually appealing solution that can be left untreated to weather naturally or finished with oils and stains to maintain its colour.
• Sustainability: Particularly when sourced from responsibly managed forests (as all our timbers are), thermally modified timber is a sustainable choice. The process uses no harmful chemicals, and the wood’s enhanced durability means it requires less frequent replacement, reducing the demand for new materials. Additionally, thermally modified timber is fully recyclable and biodegradable.
• Low Maintenance: Thanks to its improved resistance to decay and insects, thermally modified timber requires less maintenance. While some homeowners may choose to apply protective coatings or stains, the timber can also be left untreated, developing a beautiful silver-grey patina over time.

Applications

Thermally modified timber is highly versatile, making it suitable for a wide range of applications in both residential and commercial settings.

• Cladding: Thermally modified timber is an excellent choice for exterior cladding, offering both aesthetic and functional benefits. Its enhanced durability and stability ensure that it performs well in various climates, while its natural beauty adds warmth and character to any building.
• Fencing: When used for fencing, thermally modified timber offers a durable, long-lasting solution that can withstand the elements, providing a strong, stable material that requires minimal upkeep. Its uniform colour and grain also ensure that fences have a consistent, high-quality appearance.

Choosing the Right Thermally Modified Timber

When selecting thermally modified timber for your cladding or fencing project, we stock two particularly, class-leading timbers. Our Thermo Ayous is made from Obeche Hardwood, priced at the mid range of the market, and is almost defect free. Its earthy mid brown tones offer a desirable appearance, including a unique shimmer in the sunlight. Our Thermowood is made from thermally modified Nordic Pine, offering a creamy, mid brown, consistent colour and is excellent value for money.

Thermally modified timber represents the future of sustainable, high-performance building materials. With its enhanced durability, stability, and aesthetic appeal, it’s no wonder that more homeowners and builders are choosing thermally modified timber for their cladding and fencing projects. Whether you’re looking to add warmth and beauty to your home’s exterior or create a long-lasting fence that requires minimal maintenance, thermally modified timber is an excellent choice.