As an architect or building developer, you’ll know that the Timber in Construction roadmap supports the move towards timber buildings. However, not every timber is suitable. It is now essential to specify premium quality, naturally durable or modified timbers, and a flame retardant treatment if required.
We are the market-leading charred timber specialist and hold the Shou Sugi Ban® trademark. We want to share our insight to assure you that there are significant advantages when you specify charred timber for building projects.
Why is Timber Construction Encouraged in the UK?
In line with targets to achieve Net Zero, the UK Government has identified industries with high greenhouse gas emissions. Approximately a quarter of carbon emissions are generated in the built environment, so the Timber in Construction roadmap was issued in 2025.
Timber construction is favoured, as it is far less energy-intensive to produce than concrete or steel and absorbs CO2 as each tree grows. In addition, effective forest management provides a renewable supply of timber. There are plans to greatly increase the percentage of tree coverage across the UK, including for commercial use. This could increase domestic supplies, along with job opportunities in rural regions.
Equally, modular timber offers a viable construction method that can speed up the building process and minimise disruption. As a naturally insulating material, well-constructed timber buildings can also support thermal efficiency.
However, there are expected technical requirements for durability, sustainability standards and fire safety considerations to be met when specifying timber for construction. These include proven performance in service life and fire testing, in addition to sustainable supply chains. By specifying premium Shou Sugi Ban® cladding, you can meet these requirements.
What are the Technical Advantages of Specifying Charred Timber?
Regularly maintained, durable timbers, including larch and cedar, have a predicted lifespan of 15-30 years. However, using the controlled charring method, yakisugi, removes the soft cellulose and alters the molecular structure. This greatly increases the natural resilience of the wood to weathering, decay and pests. After charring, timber requires minimal maintenance and has a predicted lifespan of 50-80+ years.
In addition, the moisture content in the timber reduces during the charring process to offer greater stability. The carbon outer layer acts as a shield, protecting the wood from UV light and rain. This is a traditional and natural method which achieves superior durability. It is a technical advantage that results in long-term performance and value.
Our extensive range of Shou Sugi Ban® charred cladding includes modified Accoya® and Kebony timbers. These are chemically and thermally modified pine using patented, non-toxic processes to enhance the natural properties and durability. The resulting timbers are on par with the quality and structural strength of hardwoods.
We’ve been manufacturing Shou Sugi Ban® in Buckinghamshire for 14 years, and we can share many examples of UK residential and commercial projects to which we’ve supplied cladding.
What are the Sustainability Credentials of Shou Sugi Ban Charred Timber?
We work with renowned UK timber merchants to source seasoned FSC or PEFC timbers from responsibly managed forests. The charring, brushing and finishing processes are undertaken by our experienced team in our on-site Buckinghamshire workshop and shipped directly to your site to minimise road miles and emissions.
In addition, we source timbers as close as possible to the specified sizes to minimise waste, and we seal all of the boards with a protective treatment to enhance longevity.
Is Shou Sugi Ban Certified as Fire Rated?
We’re sure that fire rating is a priority for any buildings you design. Fortunately, we can offer a Euroclass B flame retardant treatment for timbers, if required. When requested, we arrange independent testing of Shou Sugi Ban® so you can evidence fire rated certification. This complies with building standards for timber cladding on residential buildings that do not exceed 11 meters in height.
Established Charred Timber Specialist
We believe that there are significant environmental and aesthetic advantages to using timber in construction. This is no passing trend; it is one of the few viable ways to sustainably meet the demand for housing.
Our team mastered the art of yakisugi and created our specialist Shou Sugi Ban® range over 14 years ago. Since then, we have supplied premium charred timber cladding for residential and commercial projects, including award-winning architecture. We earned our reputation as a market leader, and we’re excited by the opportunities that await us in 2026!
To request samples, a quote or an appointment to visit our Buckinghamshire showroom, please call us on 01494 711800 or contact us using our online enquiry form.