The appeal of thermally modified wood lies in its attractive appearance and exceptional technical and ecological properties, making it a long-lasting and responsible choice. This article explores why thermally modified wood is an excellent option for indoor and outdoor spaces and why it is increasingly gaining interest among designers and builders.
What thermal modification is all about?
Thermal modification involves heating wood to temperatures above 180°C in a controlled environment using steam and limiting oxygen exposure. This process changes the wood's structure, enhancing its resistance to moisture, ensuring it retains its shape under challenging conditions, and making it resistant to decay, fungi, and harmful pests. The combined effects of heat and steam transform the nutrients in the wood, making them less accessible to microorganisms. This increases the wood's biological durability, eliminating the need for toxic chemical preservatives. Additionally, the wood acquires a beautiful, consistent brown hue that permeates the material.
Versatile material for indoor use
Thermally modified wood is an excellent choice for wet areas in the home, such as bathrooms and saunas. It is resistant to warping from moisture and does not become overly hot in a sauna, enhancing comfort.
This material also performs exceptionally well in other areas of the home. Its warm tones and serene grain patterns add a soft, natural touch to interior spaces. Studies have shown that wood can positively affect human health, including lowering blood pressure, reducing stress hormones, and promoting relaxation. Thermally modified wood should always be surface-treated when used indoors to facilitate cleaning and maintenance.
Outdoor use – a durable and attractive solution
Thermally modified wood is a worry-free choice for outdoor structures. It withstands varying weather conditions without the need for chemical protection. Decks, facades, and pergolas benefit from the material's dimensional stability and natural resistance to weathering. Over time, the wood gracefully ages to a silvery grey; however, its original hue can be preserved with surface treatment if desired.
A healthier and safer choice
No chemicals are used at all in the wood heat treatment process. This makes it a suitable material for spaces where people want to avoid unnecessary chemicals. Wood has many positive effects on the comfort of a space; it softens the acoustics, does not reflect light in a distracting way, and has a calming scent.
