What Irish Homeowners Should Know
Ireland’s weather can be unpredictable, but your building materials shouldn’t be. If you’re planning to build a sauna, deck, cladding, or feature wall — the choice between natural wood and thermowood will affect not just looks, but how your project performs for years to come.
Let’s break down the pros and cons so you can make the right call.
What Exactly is Thermowood?
Thermowood is real wood — usually pine, spruce or ash — that’s been heat-treated at 215°C for several days in a chamber of steam. It’s a 100% chemical-free process.
Here’s what happens:
- Moisture disappears → wood becomes super stable
- Resins & sugars are gone → bugs, mould and fungus stay away
- Colour deepens naturally → rich, chocolate-brown tone, no need to paint
The result? A premium material that lasts outdoors in the Irish climate for 25+ years — no cracking, warping or sealing needed.
Natural Wood: Beautiful, But Needy
There’s no denying the charm of untreated wood — but it comes with upkeep:
- Needs painting or sealing every year
- Can crack, fade, and absorb moisture
- Not ideal for Ireland’s damp, coastal air
- Attracts insects if not treated properly
If you enjoy DIY and upkeep, natural wood may still work. But if you want set-it-and-forget-it quality — thermowood is worth considering.
Why More Irish Projects Are Switching to Thermowood
From Howth to Killarney, we’re seeing a clear shift in preference. Why?
- Stays solid and straight, even after years outdoors
- No need for paints, stains or harsh chemicals
- Comfortable for bare feet (especially handy for saunas & decks!)
- Naturally resistant to rain, wind and temperature swings
- Safe for kids and pets
- Low-maintenance and elegant
And let’s not forget — it smells amazing.
Where Can You Use Thermowood in Ireland?
Anywhere you’d use natural timber — only better:
- Garden decking & patios
- Cladding for homes or extensions
- Outdoor saunas (interior & exterior)
- Interior walls and ceilings
- Pergolas, fences, furniture
Whether you’re renovating a cottage or building something sleek and modern, thermowood works in all styles.
Is Thermowood More Expensive in Ireland?
Not necessarily! While the upfront cost may be slightly higher than softwood, the long-term savings are real:
- No annual treatment costs
- No warping, crеcking or early replacement
- Less time and effort on upkeep
At Eco Hearth, our efficient supply chain and European production let us offer prices that often beat local treated timber by 20–30%.
How to Order with Eco Hearth
Getting started is simple:
- Tell us about your project (sauna, deck, wall cladding?)
- We’ll recommend the best profile, thickness and colour
- Receive your personalised quote in 1–2 business days
- Delivery nationwide across Ireland, with optional install
Have questions? Our friendly team is here to help you pick what’s best for your space and budget.
Final Word
Natural wood will always have its place — but in Ireland’s climate, termowood is a smarter, longer-lasting choice. It’s everything you love about wood, minus the hassle.