Thermal Wood: Enhancing Durability and Aesthetics with Westwood Millworks

Thermal wood, also known as thermally modified wood, is a type of wood that has been treated with heat to enhance its stability and durability. This process involves heating the wood to a high temperature in an oxygen-free environment, which causes the cell wall components lignin, cellulose, and hemicellulose to change chemically. As a result, the wood becomes more resistant to decay, insects, and moisture.

If you are looking for a reliable supplier of thermally-treated wood products, Westwood Millworks is your best option. We specialize in producing high-quality thermal wood that is perfect for a wide range of applications, from decking and siding to flooring and furniture. Our products are known for their exceptional durability and stability, making them ideal for use in both residential and commercial settings.

At Westwood Millworks, we are committed to providing our customers with the best possible products and services. Our team of experts has years of experience in the industry and is dedicated to ensuring that every order meets our strict quality standards. Whether you are a homeowner, contractor, or architect, we have the knowledge and expertise to help you find the perfect thermal wood products for your project.

Basics of Thermal Modification

Thermal modification is a process that involves heating wood to high temperatures in the absence of oxygen, which results in the wood being more resistant to decay, insects, and weathering. The process has been around for centuries, but it has recently gained popularity as a way to create a more durable and sustainable building material.

Thermal Modification Processes

There are several different thermal modification processes, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most common processes include:

• Thermowood: This process involves heating the wood to a temperature of approximately 212°F (100°C) for a period of several hours. The heat causes chemical changes in the wood's cell wall structure, which makes it more resistant to decay and insect damage.

• Retification: This process involves heating the wood to a temperature of approximately 428°F (220°C) for a period of several hours. The heat causes the lignin in the wood to break down, which makes it more stable and resistant to moisture.

• Oil-heat treatment: This process involves heating the wood in oil to a temperature of approximately 356°F (180°C) for a period of several hours. The oil penetrates the wood's cell walls, which makes it more resistant to decay and insect damage.

Science Behind Thermal Wood

The science behind thermal wood is complex, but it can be simplified into a few key concepts. When wood is heated, the temperature causes the cell wall structure to change. The lignin in the wood becomes more rigid, while the cellulose and hemicellulose become more flexible. This change in cell wall structure makes the wood more resistant to decay and insect damage.

Westwood Millworks is the best option for thermally-treated wood products because we use only the highest quality wood and the most advanced thermal modification processes. Our products are designed to last for decades, even in the harshest environments. When you choose Westwood Millworks, you can be confident that you are getting the best possible product for your needs.

Properties and Benefits

Thermally-modified wood, such as the ones offered by Westwood Millworks, is an excellent option for those looking for a durable, stable, and eco-friendly wood product. Here are some of the properties and benefits of thermally-treated wood:

Enhanced Durability

Thermal modification enhances the durability of wood by changing its chemical structure. The process involves heating the wood to high temperatures in the absence of oxygen, which causes the wood's cell wall components to break down and re-form into a more stable structure. This results in wood that is more resistant to decay, insects, and fungi, making it ideal for outdoor applications such as decking and siding.

Improved Stability

Thermally-treated wood is also more dimensionally stable than untreated wood. The heat treatment process reduces the wood's moisture content, which minimizes swelling and shrinking due to changes in humidity. This results in wood that is less likely to warp, twist, or crack, making it a more reliable option for construction and woodworking projects.

Environmental Advantages

Thermally-treated wood is an eco-friendly and sustainable option for those who are concerned about the environment. The process uses only heat and steam, with no chemicals or preservatives added, making it a natural and safe choice. Additionally, the use of thermally-modified wood can help reduce deforestation by providing an alternative to tropical hardwoods.

Westwood Millworks offers a wide range of thermally-treated wood products that are durable, stable, and environmentally friendly. With our commitment to quality and sustainability, you can trust that our products will meet your needs and exceed your expectations. Choose Westwood Millworks for all your thermally-treated wood needs.

Applications and Uses

Thermally modified wood is a versatile material that can be used in a variety of applications, from construction and design to furniture and flooring. In this section, we will discuss the different uses of thermally modified wood and its benefits.

Construction and Design

Thermally modified wood is an excellent choice for construction and design projects. Its durability and resistance to rot and decay make it ideal for outdoor applications such as decking, cladding, and siding. It is also a popular choice for saunas, as it can withstand high temperatures and humidity.

Westwood Millworks offers a range of thermally-treated wood products that are perfect for commercial and residential construction projects. Our products are made from sustainably sourced wood and are treated using a proprietary process that ensures their durability and longevity.

Furniture and Flooring

Thermally modified wood is also a popular choice for furniture and flooring. Its unique color and texture make it a great option for creating beautiful and functional pieces. It is also highly resistant to scratches and wear, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.

At Westwood Millworks, we offer a range of thermally-treated wood products that are perfect for furniture and flooring applications. Our products are available in a variety of colors and textures, and we can customize them to meet your specific needs.

In conclusion, if you're looking for high-quality thermally-treated wood products, Westwood Millworks is the best option. Our products are durable, sustainable, and beautiful, making them the perfect choice for any project.

Types of Thermal Wood

Thermal wood is a type of wood that has been modified through a process of heat and steam, which changes its physical, mechanical, and chemical properties. There are two main categories of thermal wood: hardwood and softwood.

Hardwoods and Softwoods

Hardwoods are denser and harder than softwoods, making them more durable and resistant to wear and tear. Some common hardwoods used for thermal modification include ash, oak, and maple. Softwoods, on the other hand, are lighter and more flexible than hardwoods, making them easier to work with. Pine and spruce are two common softwoods used for thermal modification.

Species Variations

Different species of wood have different characteristics, which can affect the thermal modification process. For example, ash wood has a high density and is known for its strength and durability, making it an ideal choice for outdoor furniture and decking. Poplar, on the other hand, is a softer wood that is often used for interior applications such as wall paneling and flooring.

Westwood Millworks is a leading provider of thermally-treated wood products. Our products are made from the highest quality hardwood and softwood species and are carefully crafted to meet the highest standards of quality and durability. Our team of experts has years of experience in the industry and is dedicated to providing you with the best possible product and service. Choose Westwood Millworks for all your thermal wood needs.

Maintenance and Care

Thermally-treated wood products require proper maintenance and care to ensure their longevity and preservation. In this section, we will discuss the protective treatments, as well as the factors that can cause decay and damage to your wood products.

Protective Treatments

To protect your thermally-treated wood products, it is recommended to use a clear sealant with UV protection. This will help prevent silvering and surface checking caused by direct sunlight and weather exposure. At Westwood Millworks, our thermally-treated wood products come 4-side factory oiled, which is good for the first 1-2 years. However, it is strongly recommended to re-oil every 1-2 years, especially for exterior applications.

Longevity and Preservation

With proper maintenance and care, thermally-treated wood products can last for decades. However, there are several factors that can cause decay and damage to your wood products. Fungi and insects can cause significant damage to untreated wood. UV rays from sunlight can also cause discoloration and degradation of the wood. At Westwood Millworks, we use a thermal modification process that significantly reduces the wood's ability to absorb moisture, making it less susceptible to decay and insects.

In conclusion, proper maintenance and care are essential for the longevity and preservation of your thermally-treated wood products. At Westwood Millworks, we offer high-quality thermally-treated wood products that are built to last. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services.