March 20, 2024

In the realm of woodworking and construction, selecting the right material is pivotal for the durability and beauty of your projects. Thermally Modified Wood stands out for its exceptional qualities, and here at Excelsior Wood we are leading the charge with this innovative and exciting product.

What Is Thermally Modified Wood?

Thermal modification is a process that uses high heat to alter the wood's properties. During this process, the cell structure of the wood changes, and the free movement of water in and out of the cells is inhibited. As a result, the wood's stability and durability are significantly enhanced, making it more suitable for exterior applications and reducing its tendency to expand and contract with fluctuations in moisture content.

However, for lighter-density woods, this process often decreases the wood's strength and hardness, making it more susceptible to damage. Thus, careful consideration must be given to the type of timber being modified and its intended use. For instance, a lighter wood species like Ayous benefits from the modification process but loses strength and weight, rendering the end product (Ambara™) suitable for applications like siding, paneling, and accents but not for decking without a second modification to enhance density and strength. Conversely, wood such as Korina, with its naturally higher density, retains its strength and hardness, making it an ideal choice for load-bearing and high-traffic projects such as decking.

At Excelsior, we are here to ensure you choose the perfect thermally modified wood for your project, allowing you to enjoy its lasting benefits and beauty for years to come.

Benefits:

Durability: The thermal modification process effectively reduces the wood's ability to absorb moisture, making it highly resistant to rot, decay, and fungal growth. This ensures that your projects will endure even in harsh environmental conditions.

Stability: Traditional wood tends to warp and crack due to moisture, but thermally modified wood significantly reduces these risks. By stabilizing the wood's moisture content, this process delivers a product highly resistant to dimensional changes, ensuring your project's integrity over time.

Resistance to Insects: With minimal moisture content, thermally modified wood becomes less appealing to insects like termites and carpenter ants. This natural resistance offers added peace of mind by reducing the need for costly pest control measures.

Aesthetic Appeal: Thermally modified wood boasts a unique and exquisite appearance. The process enhances the wood's natural color, giving it a rich, warm, and earthy tone that becomes even more unique as it ages, without the need for stains.

Eco-Friendly Choice: Opting for thermally modified wood benefits both your projects and the environment. The process is chemical-free and uses responsibly sourced timber, contributing to a lower carbon footprint and responsible forestry practices.

Low Maintenance: Unlike some wood products that require regular staining or sealing, thermally modified wood ages gracefully all on its own. Plus, its enhanced durability and stability minimize the need for costly replacements and repairs over the years.

The Excelsior Promise

Excelsior Wood is committed to sourcing and providing only the highest quality lumber, ensuring that responsible and sustainable practices are followed throughout the entire process. Explore our Thermally Modified Wood and choose Excelsior for your next project.

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