Thermally modified wood is becoming an increasingly popular choice for homeowners and builders who want to use sustainable and long-lasting materials. This type of wood is created by heating it to high temperatures in the absence of oxygen, which alters its chemical and physical properties. The result is a material that is more resistant to decay, insects, and moisture than untreated wood.
If you're interested in using thermally modified wood for your next project, you might be wondering where to find it. Luckily, there are many suppliers of thermally modified wood throughout the country. By searching for "thermally modified wood near me," you can find local suppliers who can provide you with the materials you need. Some suppliers may even offer custom milling services to create the exact dimensions you need for your project.
Understanding Thermally Modified Wood
Thermally modified wood is a type of wood that has been modified using heat and steam to improve its durability and stability. The process involves exposing the wood to high temperatures ranging from 180°C to 230°C (356°F to 446°F) for a specific period of time. This controlled heating process breaks down hemicellulose, a component in wood that is responsible for moisture absorption and can lead to decay.
The Science of Heat Treatment
The process of thermally modifying wood involves heating the wood in a controlled environment, typically using heat and steam. The heat treatment process causes changes in the wood's chemical and physical properties, resulting in improved durability, stability, and resistance to rot. The degree of heat treatment and the duration of the process depend on the type of wood being treated, as well as the desired outcome.
Benefits of Thermally Modified Wood
Thermally modified wood offers several benefits over traditional wood. For one, it is more resistant to rot and decay, making it ideal for outdoor applications such as decking and siding. It is also more stable than regular wood, making it less susceptible to expansion and contraction with changes in relative humidity. This stability, along with its rot-resistance, makes it an excellent choice for exterior applications.
Thermally modified wood also retains its natural beauty, with the heat treatment process enhancing the wood's natural color and grain patterns. It is also a sustainable option, as it is produced using domestically and responsibly sourced wood.
Overall, thermally modified wood is a durable, stable, and sustainable option for a variety of indoor and outdoor applications. Its unique properties make it an ideal choice for those looking for a long-lasting and beautiful wood product.
Applications of Thermally Modified Wood
Thermally modified wood has a wide range of applications due to its enhanced durability, stability, and aesthetic appeal. This wood is suitable for both interior and exterior use, making it a versatile material choice for various design projects.
Decking and Cladding
Thermally modified wood is an excellent choice for outdoor decking and cladding. It is highly resistant to decay, rot, and insect damage, making it ideal for use in damp or humid environments. Additionally, thermally modified wood has a unique, natural appearance that adds character and warmth to any outdoor space. It is available in a variety of colors and textures, making it easy to match with any design aesthetic.
Interior Flooring and Furniture
Thermally modified wood is also an excellent choice for interior flooring and furniture. The wood's enhanced stability and durability make it ideal for high-traffic areas such as hallways, kitchens, and living rooms. Additionally, thermally modified wood has a beautiful, natural appearance that adds warmth and character to any interior space. It is available in a variety of colors and textures, making it easy to match with any design aesthetic.
When it comes to furniture, thermally modified wood is an excellent choice for outdoor furniture due to its resistance to decay, rot, and insect damage. It is also a popular choice for indoor furniture due to its unique, natural appearance and durability. Thermally modified wood is available in a variety of colors and textures, making it easy to match with any design aesthetic.
In conclusion, thermally modified wood is a versatile material that can be used for a wide range of design projects. Its enhanced durability, stability, and aesthetic appeal make it an excellent choice for decking, cladding, interior flooring, and furniture. Whether you're designing an outdoor space or an indoor living area, thermally modified wood is a material worth considering.
Selecting the Right Species and Products
When it comes to selecting the right thermally modified wood for a project, there are several factors to consider. This section will cover two important aspects of selecting the right species and products: Arbor Wood Co offerings and assessing quality and authenticity.
Arbor Wood Co Offerings
Arbor Wood Co is a leading provider of thermally modified wood products. They offer a wide range of species, including ash, basswood, birch, cherry, hickory, maple, oak, and walnut. Each species has its own unique characteristics, such as color, grain pattern, and texture. It is important to consider these factors when selecting a species for a project.
In addition to species, Arbor Wood Co offers a variety of products, including decking, siding, and flooring. Each product is available in a range of sizes and profiles, allowing for customization to fit specific project needs.
Assessing Quality and Authenticity
When selecting thermally modified wood, it is important to assess the quality and authenticity of the product. One way to do this is to ensure that the wood is a natural product, meaning that it has not been chemically treated or modified in any way other than through the thermal modification process.
Another important factor to consider is the thickness of the wood. Full thickness wood is preferred over thinner options, as it provides greater stability and durability.
Finally, it is important to ensure that the wood is of high quality and authenticity. This can be done by checking for certification or third-party testing, as well as by inspecting the wood for signs of defects or inconsistencies in color and texture.
By considering Arbor Wood Co offerings and assessing quality and authenticity, it is possible to select the right thermally modified wood for any project.
Sustainability and Environmental Impact
Eco-Friendly Practices
Thermally modified wood is an eco-friendly option for those looking to reduce their environmental impact. The process of thermal modification involves heating wood to high temperatures, which changes the wood's cellular structure and increases its durability. This process requires less energy than traditional wood treatment methods and does not involve the use of harmful chemicals. Additionally, some companies use sustainably harvested wood for their thermal modification process, which further reduces the environmental impact.
Longevity and Life Cycle
Thermally modified wood has a longer lifespan than traditional wood, which means fewer trees need to be harvested over time. This is due to the increased durability of thermally modified wood, which makes it more resistant to rot, decay, and insect damage. Additionally, thermally modified wood can be recycled at the end of its life cycle, further reducing its environmental impact.
According to Arbor Wood Co., a company that specializes in thermally modified wood, their product is "a people-focused product that is both healthy for humans and their homes." They also source their wood from sustainably managed forests and use energy-efficient production methods.
Overall, the use of thermally modified wood can have a positive impact on the environment. Its eco-friendly practices and longer lifespan make it a sustainable option for those looking to reduce their environmental impact.
Maintenance and Care
Thermally modified wood is known for its durability and low maintenance requirements. However, proper care is still necessary to protect your investment and ensure that your thermally modified wood retains its rich tones and resists color change and wear.
Protecting Your Investment
To protect your thermally modified wood investment, it is important to maintain a regular cleaning schedule. Regular sweeping and washing with a mild soap and water solution will help remove dirt and debris that can cause wear and tear on the wood. Avoid using harsh chemicals or power washing equipment, as these can damage the wood's surface.
In addition to regular cleaning, it is recommended to apply a UV inhibitor to protect your thermally modified wood from the sun's harmful rays. This will help prevent fading and color change over time. A good quality finish can also be applied to further protect the wood and enhance its natural beauty.
Addressing Color Change and Wear
Over time, thermally modified wood may experience some color change due to exposure to the elements. This is a natural process and can be addressed through regular maintenance and care. Applying a UV inhibitor and finish can help prevent color change and enhance the wood's natural tones.
If your thermally modified wood does experience wear and tear, it can be sanded and refinished to restore its original beauty. It is important to use a professional for this process to ensure that the wood is properly treated and finished.
Overall, proper maintenance and care of your thermally modified wood investment will help ensure its longevity and beauty for years to come.
Leave a comment
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.