Thermowood Explained: Quality, Durability, and Sustainability

Key Highlights

• Thermowood is 100% real wood enhanced with only heat and steam for superior durability.
• The thermal modification process makes the timber resistant to rot, decay, and moisture.
• It is an environmentally friendly alternative, sourced from sustainable forests and chemical-free.
• Thermowood offers exceptional dimensional stability, preventing warping in changing climates.
• Eco Hearth is the sole Irish supplier of premium thermowood products.
• The material requires minimal maintenance while providing a beautiful, long-lasting finish.

Introduction

Are you looking for a building material that looks natural and works well? Thermowood can be the answer. This timber is good to use, and it is durable and stable. If you pick Thermowood, you have a high-quality product to use. You also make a smart choice for sustainability, so your project will last over time and look good while doing it.

Understanding Thermowood: Definition and Unique Qualities

So, what is thermowood? It is real wood that has gone through a heat treatment process, called thermal modification, to make it better. This process uses only heat and steam to change the properties of wood. It does not add anything else, so thermally modified wood stays completely natural. The heat treatment changes the modified wood in a way that makes it much stronger and better for use.

This special modification gives the wood more durability and stability. The heat treatment process takes out almost all the moisture and natural sugars from the wood. This keeps the properties of wood strong, and it helps the wood stop decay and pests from damaging it. So, you get all the beauty of real wood, with new qualities that make it good for tough jobs. You can use this modified wood indoors or outside because it lasts a long time and stands up to tough conditions.

What Sets Thermowood, Thermo Treated Wood, and Thermo Modified Wood Apart

You may see words like thermowood, thermo treated wood, and thermo modified wood. Are these all different? No, they all mean the same thing. Each one talks about wood that, through a thermal modification, has gone through a heat treatment process.

All these names can be used for wood that has had a heat treatment. In this process, timber gets heated to high temperatures. This happens in a controlled space. This change in the wood is called modification. It is why modified wood has good qualities.

If you use the name thermowood or thermo treated wood, you still talk about the same thing. It is timber that has been changed to make it work better for you. The important part is in the process, which is heat treatment. So, what you get is durable and stable wood. It looks good too. This type of modified wood is great for your project.

The Science Behind the Thermal Modification Process

The science behind thermal modification is simple but works really well. The heat treatment process starts by placing timber in a special kiln. The temperature of the wood is raised to a high temperature, usually between 185 and 215 degrees Celsius. This process uses only heat and steam, with no chemicals at all.

When the timber gets this intense heat, its structure changes forever. The high temperature lowers the moisture content in the wood by taking out water and hydroxyl groups. These parts are what grab moisture, so taking them out means the wood will not absorb water like it did before.

After the heating step, the timber is cooled down with care. This results in timber that has much better dimensional stability and is much less likely to get damaged by decay. Because of this way of modification, the wood becomes a strong, high-quality material. It can be used in tough places without losing its natural beauty.

Thermowood Production: From Raw Material to Final Product

The process of making high-quality thermowood starts with choosing the right timber. The timber must be checked carefully. It comes from forests that are managed in a way that the environment is taken care of. This focus on quality makes sure that all thermowood products, like wood cladding and decking, are good from the beginning.

After picking the best type of timber, it goes through a careful thermal modification process. This step makes the timber stronger, stable, and nice to look at. The timber is changed in a way that adds to how good and durable the product will be. Next, we talk about which types of timber are used, and the simple steps that create these strong thermowood products.

Sourcing: The Types of Timber Used (Thermo Oak, Maple, and More)

Choosing the right type of timber is key when you want to make good thermo wood. You can use both softwood and hardwood for this, and each brings its own look and feel. The place where the wood comes from is also picked with care. This is so the final product is top quality.

• Thermo Oak and Thermo Maple (strong and durable softwood)
• Thermo Ash (hardwood with great performance)
• Thermo Poplar (softwood without knots and looks elegant)
• Thermo Aspen and Thermo Alder (great for saunas)

Eco Hearth is proud to bring quolity thermo timber to the Irish market. This gives you a wider pick of top timber. If you are looking for durable softwood like Thermo Pine for cladding, or need a smart hardwood like Thermo Ash for decking, we have it. Get the right Thermory wood to fit your project.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Thermowood Timber

The heat treatment process for making thermowood uses a planned method that has many steps. This modification changes regular timber into a strong and stable material. It does not use any chemicals. You can think of it as being like baking, where everything has to be done in the right way for good results.

The process usually uses these important steps:

• The temperature of the wood is slowly raised up to about 100°C.
• After that, the temperature goes higher between 185°C and 215°C and stays there for a few hours.
• Steam is used so that the wood will not split and also helps with the chemical changes.
• This step takes away moisture and OH groups, which bring in free water cells.
• The timber then cools down slowly to its normal temperature.

This modification takes up to 5 days, and is watched by experts. By getting rid of what causes decay and problems, the heat treatment process creates a better wood product. The timber becomes durable and stays the same quality from the outside to the center.

Key Benefits of Choosing Thermowood

Choosing thermowood gives you a lot of good reasons to pick it for your project. This wood goes through a special process that makes it very strong, steady, and nice to look at. The wood is a smart choice for your home or business. It works better than untreated wood, especially when you use it outside where wind and rain can be a problem.

One big plus is that thermowood does not soak up as much moisture as untreated wood does. Because of that, it does not swell or shrink as much. Some people use it for cladding and decking because it holds up well in many ways. It’s more durable, and its dimensional stability is great, so you can trust it even with the tough and changing Irish weather.

Enhanced Durability Compared to Untreated Wood

When you look at thermowood and untreated wood, you can see that thermowood lasts much longer. Untreated wood does not do well against things like moisture or bugs. That is why untreated wood can rot and decay as time goes on. Thermowood, on the other hand, is made to stand up to these problems.

The thermowood treatment process changes the wood in a special way. This process removes the natural sugars and resins from the wood. Insects and fungi do not like to feed on it because of this. So, thermowood is not easy for rot or decay to get into, and it lasts for many more years.

This type of modification is not just a surface treatment. The change goes deep, right into the center of the wood. That means you get protection throughout the whole piece. With this kind of durability, thermowood becomes an excellent choice where you want wood to last a long time. The thermal modification gives you something strong that you and other people can trust for many years.

Dimensional Stability and Longevity in Irish Weather

The Irish weather often brings a lot of changes in humidity and moisture. These conditions can be hard on many building materials. Wood, for example, will swell up, shrink, or bend when the weather changes, especially when it gets wet or dries out quickly. That is where thermowood is different because it has strong dimensional stability.

The way thermowood is made means that there is much less moisture content left in the wood. It also cannot take in as much water as untreated wood. Even when the air is full of moisture, the wood does not soak up much. Because of this, thermowood does not bend or cup like regular wood often does after getting wet.

This strong dimensional stability helps it last much longer. Thermowood holds its shape and stays solid, so you do not have to worry as much about cracks or damage that come from wood moving around after it gets wet and dries. That makes thermowood a top choice for cladding and decking in Ireland. The material will keep looking good and working well, even with the wet weather and constant humidity. It can stand up to decay and the harsh weather for years to come.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact of Thermowood

In today’s world, it’s important to pick building materials that help the environment. Thermowood is an environmentally friendly alternative that beats many other choices. The way it’s made and its long life make it good for sustainability. That be the reason so many people get it for their projects.

The wood comes from forests that the owners manage well and in the right way. It often gets approved by programs like FSC and the Nordic Swan Ecolabel. The modification of the wood also makes use of eco-friendly steps. Next, we talk about these labels and look at how Thermowood’s impact stacks up against other materials.

Comparing Thermowood’s Environmental Footprint to Alternatives

When you think about what building material to use, the environmental impact is very important. Thermowood stands out when it comes to sustainability. This is because, unlike other choices like composite materials or chemically treated wood, Thermowood stays 100% real wood. There are no extra toxins added to it.

Many kinds of tropical hardwoods are popular for their durability, but they harm the environment. Using them often leads to cutting down a lot of trees in important forests. Thermowood is a good option instead. It gives you the same durability, or even better, but it does not damage forests that need to be protected. People make Thermowood from fast-growing, renewable wood like pine and spruce. These trees often come from European forests that are managed in a good way.

When you compare Thermowood to things like concrete and steel, which add a lot of CO2 to the air, Thermowood has a much lower impact on the environment. If you use Thermowood, you help lower the carbon footprint of your building. This is why Thermowood is a smart option for people like architects, builders, and homeowners who want something more sustainable.

Thermowood Applications: Cladding, Decking, and Beyond

Thanks to its many uses and strong build, thermowood products can be used in different ways. They are a good and excellent choice for outdoor projects like cladding and decking boards. The decking and cladding made from thermowood handle rain, sun, and different weather well. But its use does not stop with the outdoors.

The look and the steady nature of thermowood products also make them great for indoor spaces. It does well in places with high humidity, like a sauna. You can use it for the main structure or a substructure, and it will still be strong and last a long time. Let’s take a closer look at the most popular ways people use thermowood.

Available Thermowood Products in Ireland: Cladding, Decking, and More

If you are in the Irish market and want to use thermowood, Eco Hearth is here to help you. We are the best supplier of Thermo wood in Ireland. There is a wide range of options at Eco Hearth for trade, building work, or DIY jobs. You get great solutions from some of the best places in Europe.

Our thermowood cladding and decking are seen as leaders in the field. These come in different shapes and in Ash, Spruce, and Pine. The range at Eco Hearth includes:

• Premium Cladding
• Durable Decking
• Sauna Materials

Maintenance and Care for Thermowood Timber

One big advantage of thermowood is that it needs very little care. Its strong durability means you do not have to do things again and again like you do with untreated wood. Even so, if you take a little care, the wood can keep looking good for a long time.

Basic maintenance is simple. You just need to clean it sometimes to get rid of dirt and other things on it. If you want to keep the wood’s rich colour, you can use a surface treatment, such as oiling. Here are some easy steps to clean, keep, and help your thermowood last many years.

Cleaning, Oiling, and Preserving Thermo Wood

Caring for Thermowood is simple. You just need to clean it with a soft brush and water. This helps the wood stay fresh by getting rid of things like surface dirt or pollen. You should avoid high-pressure washing to prevent fibre damage. Use low-pressure water and a soft brush

To keep the original colour of the wood, you need to do a surface treatment. Use an oiling product with pigment and UV resistance. This will shield the wood from sunlight that turns it grey. You should oil it now and then, based on how much sun it gets.

This wood needs less work than standard wood. With Thermowood, you do not need chemical treatments to stop rot or keep pests away. Most treatments are just about looks. You can pick the final colour, and it does not take much effort.

Best Practices for Ensuring Longevity

Thermowood is very durable, but there are a few things you can do to help the wood look good and last longer. The right way to install it and some basic upkeep matter a lot if you want to get the most out of this material on your property for many years.

Consider these tips for long-term preservation:

• Ensure proper installation: Good ventilation and drainage are important, especially when you use it for decking, so that moisture does not stay trapped.
• Clean regularly: Be sure to wash the surfaces gently at least one time every year. This takes away dirt and helps stop mildew.
• Apply a protective finish: If you do not want the wood to turn grey over time, you can use a UV-protective oil or stain every few years.
• Inspect periodically: Look over your wood now and then. If you notice any sign of damage or wear, take care of it quickly to make sure the timber keeps looking good.

When you follow these easy steps, you can keep your thermowood strong and nice-looking for a long time.

Thermo Pine Wood Price and Cost Comparison

When you plan a project, the price of things you use always matters. Thermowood costs more than softwood at the start, but you get great value for many years. So, it is an excellent material if you want something that will last and does not need much care.

The price can be different. It depends on what type of wood you choose and what kind of product you need. We have a range of options. You can pick from cladding or decking boards to fit your budget and your needs. Now, let’s look at what can change the cost. We will also see how thermowood compares to other materials.

Factors Affecting Thermowood Timber Pricing

The price you pay for thermowood timber depends on a few important things. Knowing about these can help you pick the best product for your budget. The type of wood matters a lot. Hardwoods like Thermo Ash usually cost more than softwoods like Thermo Pine or Spruce.

How complex the product is can also change the price. If you want custom shapes or systems with hidden fixings, you may pay more compared to standard boards. The thickness and width of the boards make a difference too. There is a wide range of options to fit different price needs.

The volume of your order is another thing that can affect what you spend. Bigger orders can get you some discounts. Even if the upfront price is high, thermowood timber needs less maintenance and lasts a long time. This makes it a good, cost-effective choice in the long run.

Comparing Costs: Thermowood vs Other Exterior Materials

When evaluating the price of thermowood, it’s helpful to compare it against other common materials for outdoor use. While it may cost more upfront than some alternatives, its long-term value is often superior due to its durability and low maintenance needs.

Materials like Canadian Western Red Cedar are often seen as a premium choice, but high-quality thermowood like Thermo Ash can exceed its performance at a competitive price point. Untreated softwoods are cheaper initially but will require regular, costly maintenance to protect them from rot and decay.

The following table outlines a broad comparison of lifetime value:

From this comparison, it is evident that thermowood strikes a strong balance between cost and durability, making it a smart choice for investment due to its compelling combination of price and performance.

Why Choose Eco Hearth for Thermowood in Ireland

When you want to get thermowood in Ireland, you need someone you can trust. Eco Hearth is the Irish specialist with good quality thermowood. We bring the best products in the world and combine them with our local know-how. This gives you great choices in the Irish market.

We know the weather in Ireland can be hard. We help you pick the right product for your project. Our team works with you to make sure you get quality and custom options that fit your needs. When you choose Eco Hearth, you get a partner that cares about doing things well. That is why so many people see us as the top choice for thermotreated wood in Ireland.

Range of Thermowood Timber Products and Custom Solutions

Eco Hearth brings you a wide range of options for any job, whether it is big or small. You can find many types of thermowood timber products here. This makes it easy to pick the look and performance you want for your project.

You can choose from top profiles for cladding and decking. They come in species like Pine, Spruce, and Ash. If you have a special idea, we also make custom solutions just for you. The thermowood timber range at Eco Hearth covers:

• Exterior cladding in different styles
• Durable decking boards
• Interior panels and sauna materials
• Custom-cut battens, beams, shelves, and other items

So, no matter what your project needs, our range of options with custom choices means you can get the right thermowood product at Eco Hearth. We want to help you get the best results.

Conclusion

Thermowood is a good pick for people who want wood that lasts a long time and is better for the planet. The thermal modification process helps the wood stay strong and not wobble, which is great for use in Ireland or other places with tough weather. Thermowood has lower impact on the environment than regular wood, so it’s a wise choice if you care about sustainability.

If you get Thermowood from Eco Hearth, you get top timber. You also get help from local experts. There are many ways to get the right fit and look for you. Reach out today to find out how Thermowood can work for your project.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Thermowood More Durable Than Regular Wood?

Yes, that is right. The thermal modification process makes thermowood much stronger than untreated wood. The heat changes the wood, so it has unrivalled durability and does not rot or get damaged by fungi or decay. This is because the treatment takes away things in the wood that rot and fungi use to grow. As a result, the wood lasts much longer.

Does Thermowood Require Special Maintenance?

Thermowood needs much less care than regular wood. You do not have to use chemical treatments to keep it in good shape. Simple cleaning is often enough. If you want the wood to keep its original colour, you can use a surface treatment. For example, oiling it now and then helps protect it from sunlight.

Where Can I Buy Thermowood Products in Ireland?

You can buy top thermowood products in Ireland from Eco Hearth. Our range of options includes cladding, decking boards, decking, and custom solutions.

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