A growing trend in the North American lumber market is the use of thermally modified lumber on residential and commercial projects. Thermally modified wood is a process in which wood is subjected to high temperatures in a controlled environment, resulting in a product with improved physical and performance characteristics. This technique is being used more frequently in building construction as a sustainable alternative to traditional building materials.
The process of thermally modifying wood involves heating the wood to a temperature between 356 and 428 degrees Fahrenheit in a kiln under a controlled environment. The high temperatures alter the molecular structure of the wood, making it more resistant to decay, rot, and insects. This results in a product that has improved dimensional stability, durability, and weather resistance.
A wide range of species can be thermally modified, including softwoods such as pine and spruce, and hardwoods such as oak and ash. The resulting product has a unique, warm, and natural appearance that is suitable for a wide range of applications, including exterior siding, cladding, decking, and flooring.
The technique of thermally modifying wood is being used in many locations around the world, including Europe, North America, and Asia. In Europe, particularly in countries such as Finland and Sweden, the use of thermally modified wood has a long history and has been embraced as a sustainable and environmentally responsible building material.
The benefits of using thermally modified wood as a building material are numerous. Firstly, it is a sustainable option, as wood is a renewable resource that absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Secondly, the process of thermal modification reduces the need for chemical treatments to make the wood resistant to decay, rot, and insects. This makes it a safer and more environmentally responsible option than chemically treated wood.
In addition, thermally modified wood has improved physical and performance characteristics, making it an ideal choice for use in a wide range of building applications. It is dimensionally stable, durable, and resistant to weather, making it suitable for use in harsh climates. It is also resistant to decay, rot, and insects, making it a long-lasting and low-maintenance building material.
Thermally modified wood is a sustainable and environmentally responsible building material that offers many benefits, including improved physical and performance characteristics, sustainability, and versatility. With the growing interest in sustainable building materials, it is likely that the use of thermally modified wood will continue to increase in the years to come.