The word Thermowood cladding, which can also refer to thermally modified timber, heat-treated wood, or thermal wood, refers to any wood product that has gone through a process of heat to improve its stability and durability.
It is an entirely natural process that involves exposing wood to temperatures as high as 200 degrees Celsius, eliminating all moisture from the wood. After this heat treatment, the wood becomes ideal for building and outdoor furniture.
In this blog post, we’ll talk about Thermowood cladding in Canada, Thermowood cladding costs, and its benefits.
What is Thermo Wood?
Thermo wood is an eco-friendly alternative to tropical hardwood, and its popularity is increasing. It has undergone thermal modification, and solid wood endures a heat process that creates the final product in a way.
When all of the moisture in wood has evaporated, Thermowood is produced. To do this, put the wood in a chamber and subject it to intense heat for a few hours. The wood is heated to a temperature of 185-212 degrees Celsius and then quickly cooled down again.
The wood cells lose all of their OH (hydroxyl) and H20 (water) content throughout the process. Usually, hydroxyl attracts free water cells into the wood, which results in its instability. You are left with a considerably more robust and stable product by eliminating these groupings.
It also indicates that no resin is present, which contributes to the lovely finish.
Advantages of Thermowood Cladding
Thermowood offers several significant benefits that make it an appealing choice for various construction and outdoor applications:
Enhanced durability and stability
The heat treatment procedure strengthens the wood’s stability and endurance, preventing twisting, warping, and cracking.
This stability is beneficial in situations where humidity and temperature change often.
Resistance to decay and insects
Thermowood cladding is resistant to insect and fungal damage due to the elimination of hemicelluloses during the thermal alteration process. For outdoor constructions exposed to dampness, this option is reliable.
Environmentally Friendly
Thermowood is made exclusively using heat and steam; no dangerous chemicals are used in its creation. By using an environmentally acceptable method, the wood may be returned to nature at the end of its life cycle and is rendered non-toxic.
Lightweight and Easy to Work With
Due to its reduced moisture content, Thermowood is lighter than untreated wood, which can simplify handling and installation, especially for larger projects.
Aesthetic Appeal
Thermowood typically has a rich, dark brown appearance that can enhance the visual appeal of any project. It can be finished to maintain its color or allowed to weather naturally to a gray shade, which many find attractive.
Longevity
In the long term, Thermowood cladding is a cost-effective option since it may endure for decades with the correct maintenance. Over time, there will be little wear and tear because of its resilience to external elements.
Overall, Thermowood combines practicality with sustainability, making it an excellent alternative to traditional wood products for both indoor and outdoor applications.
Disadvantages of Thermowood
Untreated wood is not UV-resistant and generally requires surface treatment. The following goods are appropriate for outdoor use:
- Oils
- Wood protection
- Paintings
Additionally, the oil seals the pores, which hinders the accumulation of debris.
Cleaning is made more accessible by this. Paints are appropriate for indoor usage.
Untreated wood ages and turns gray due to UV radiation. Durability is unaffected by graying.
Thermal treatment removes moisture from the wood. This has the previously listed benefits. But it also gets less firm and more fragile at the same time. This particularly applies to conifers. As a result, don’t use the thermal wood for anything that has to support weight, such as a carport.
Uses
A variety of usages may be made out of Thermowood’s versatility. In this section, we shall examine the most widely used applications of Thermowood cladding.
Construction and Building
When it comes to building and construction tasks, Thermowood is a great option, along with ashwood cladding.
Products, including flooring, decking, and cladding, may be made using it.
Through the process of thermal alteration, the wood becomes less prone to warping and breaking and becomes more resilient against decay. Because of this, it is perfect for outdoor applications where it will be subjected to weather conditions.
Furnishings and Style
Interior design also makes use of Thermowood cladding. It’s frequently used to create exquisite and distinctive flooring, wall panelling, and ceiling panelling. Wood’s inherent warmth lends a sense of refinement to any area.
For tasks involving furniture and design, Thermowood is a popular option. Awnings, pergolas, and outdoor furniture are frequently made using it.
Thermowood Cladding Installation
Thermowood attaches to a building’s exterior with screws or nails and is simple to install. Following the manufacturer’s installation instructions is crucial to ensuring that the wood is well-secured and the construction is sound.
Before installation, thermally modified wood siding should be given at least 48 hours to adjust to its new surroundings in order to avoid warping or breaking.
In order to stop corrosion and wood discoloration, it is also advised to use stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized screws.
It is not recommended to use glue, as it may impede the wood’s natural expansion and contraction.
Thermowood Cladding Cost
Thermowood is considered a durable and economical material due to its lower cost compared to most hardwoods and softwoods like Canadian Western Red Cedar.
It is less expensive to make because there are no chemicals used in the production process.
However, we strongly suggest obtaining an estimate from one of our timber professionals right now for the most excellent and affordable Thermowood rates. Our helpful staff will be pleased to assist you, regardless of the project you are working on or the quantity of timber you want.
What is Thermo Pine wood cladding?
Thermo pine wood cladding is a kind of Scots pine cladding that has been heat-modified to improve its stability and durability.
Steam is used to prevent damage during treatment, and the wood is exposed to high temperatures (typically between 160 and 220 degrees Celsius) in a controlled setting.
The final result is a Pinewood cladding that is considerably more resistant to moisture, rot, and insect damage than untreated wood cladding.
It also has a warm, golden-brown tint and unique grain patterns.
Thermowood Cladding in Canada
Wiedehopf, a leading provider of Thermowood cladding in Canada, has been at the forefront of promoting this eco-friendly cladding solution.
The company’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its sourcing of high-quality timber, primarily from sustainably managed forests.
By utilizing Thermowood, Wiedehopf offers builders and architects a product that not only meets aesthetic demands but also aligns with environmentally conscious practices.
