How long does thermally modified wood last?

Thermally modified wood can last 20 - 25 years in outdoor applications.

What does thermally modifying wood do?

It changes the composition of the wood by using heat to remove organic compounds from the wood cells. This creates a durable wood that will not absorb water, expand, or contract. It also makes the wood resistant to insects and rot.

Does thermally modified wood have chemicals?

Thermal wood does not use chemicals, but rather heat to modify its composition.

Does thermally modified wood have chemicals?

Thermal wood does not use chemicals, but rather heat to modify its composition to make it stronger and more durable.

Is thermally modified wood good?

It is an eco-friendly, non-toxic alternative to other types of treated lumber as it does not use chemicals. Its resistance to water, insects, and rot, and because the moisture is fully removed in thermally modified wood, it is also lighter and easier to handle.

Is thermally modified wood stronger?

Thermally modified wood is more structurally stable because it is not susceptible to warping and cupping. It is also highly durable due to its resistance to water, insects, and rot.

What are the advantages of thermally modified wood?

A large advantage is that it does not contain chemicals, and that it is resistant to water, insects, and rot. Its dimensionally stable and will not warp or cup. It is also lighter in weight than alternative wood products as all of the moisture in the wood is fully removed during the thermal modifying process.

What are the disadvantages of thermally modified wood?

The main disadvantage is its reduction in bending strength, a result of dryness from exposure to high temperatures. The heating process can also darken the natural color of the wood, and if the product is not finished, exposure to sunlight will cause the wood to turn a gray color.

How much does thermally modified wood siding cost?

Thermally modified wood siding costs $8 to $10 per square foot, not including installation. As a relatively new product, thermal wood is available direct from manufacturers and specialty suppliers.

Learn about Thermally Modified Wood Siding

Thermally modified wood is natural wood that has been altered through a process of controlled pyrolysis (heating in the absence of oxygen), to make it more durable for outdoor use. Siding made from thermally modified wood will last longer with less maintenance, compared with raw wood.

Look for Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Certified wood sources for thermally modified wood. Thermally modified wood can be used in decking, fences, and other outdoor applications where non-toxic durability is required. Note that thermal treatment slightly decreases the bending strength of wood, so it may not be suitable for certain structural applications. Siding is a great application, as it doesn't require excellent bending strength.

Thermal treatment is non-toxic, and allows softwoods like spruce and pine, or even poplar, that are relatively abundant, to be used as durable siding without other chemical treatment or stain, reducing the overall environmental impact of siding. Thermal treatment requires energy input in manufacturing, but saves in the long run.