The charring technique used to craft our Shou Sugi Ban® cladding range is an effective timber preservation treatment. It changes the structure of the cells and draws out natural resins that protect the timbers from UV, weathering, rot and burrowing insects. However, not every wood is suitable for charring or external use, so which timbers do we use for charred cladding?
Techniques to Preserve Timbers
The traditional charring technique, Yakisugi, has been used in Japan for Centuries. It’s a controlled process that transforms the appearance and performance of timbers. When mastered, the technique enables wood to be used for external applications, including timber cladding.
We learnt the technique many years ago and we’ve been exploring its potential ever since. As specialists in charred cladding, we’ve tried and tested a full range of timbers. Along the way, we’ve discovered new finish options. Equally, we’ve found which timbers consistently deliver stability, longevity and durability when charred.
Introducing Our Charred Cladding Timbers
Accoya Charred Cladding
One of the most popular options is Accoya, which is a modified timber. It starts as a softwood which goes through a non-toxic acetylation process. This hardens the timber and reduces its capacity to absorb moisture. As a result of the treatment, the quality of the wood is equal to the best hardwoods. Therefore, it is suitable for external applications. By charring Accoya, we further extend the lifespan.
Western Red Cedar Timbers
Across Japan, Cedar is the most commonly used wood for charred cladding. Firstly, it’s a straight and relatively quick-growing species that suits the local climate. Secondly, it has natural resistance to rot, decay and burrowing insects. Thirdly, is a stable wood which has a beautiful grain and takes well to the Yakisugi process. We use kiln-dried Western Red Cedar to minimise the moisture and sap content which aids the process and stability of the cladding.
Canadian Larch Cladding
Larch is a softwood, however, when it is grown in cold climates, it takes longer to mature. As a result, the grain is tighter and there are fewer knots. Again, we specify kiln-dried Larch as this high-grade timber is naturally durable and robust. We further enhance the weather and rot resistance with charring. Larch cladding is a cost-effective option for external cladding projects.
European Oak Timbers
European Oak is a hardwood which is renowned as a superior timber. It is strong, stable, long-lasting and beautiful. The slow growth of Oak ensures a tight, resilient grain and when this is kiln-dried, it is a stunning building material. However, as it takes decades to reach maturity, charred Oak is a more expensive option used on more exclusive projects.
Kebony Scots Cladding
As you might infer from the name, Kebony Scots cladding is Scots Pine timber which is modified in a bio-based chemical treatment. Again, this process and our controlled burning technique heighten the resilience and performance of this wood. As Scots Pines grow straight and tall, it is ideal for sawmills to cut straight, clean timbers which are ideal for cladding.
Kebony Radiata Modified Timber
Grown as Pinus Radiata, this softwood is bio-treated to modify the wood and enhance its performance. This and our charring process result in a long-lasting, low-maintenance timber that is suitable for external use. Kebony cladding is a cost-effective option that delivers a desirable appearance when applied to architectural projects.
Exclusive Yũkari Cladding
Our Yũkari timbers come from a species of Eucalyptus, grown in South America. This hardwood is naturally strong and stable. What’s more, it has a straight grain which contains very few knots, making it ideal for construction. We partnered with James Latham to craft an exclusive Yũkari charred timber which forms part of their high-end cladding range.
Douglas Fir
We specify sustainable Douglas Fir from North America. The cold temperatures slow the growing time to create a strong timber that minimises the risk of splits, splinters or warping. Kiln drying and charring improve the stability and weather resistance of the wood. This is a popular option as it offers a stronger grain definition, which adds character to buildings. We also offer a range of coloured Douglas Fir timbers, which have been used for interior design.
Is Shou Sugi Ban® Charred Cladding a Sustainable Building Material?
Shou Sugi Ban® is the market leader in charred timber cladding. That has been due to our dedication to fully understanding and developing the process, selecting and testing high-grade timbers and regular quality checks. This is a sustainable building material, fit for the future, which plays a part in reducing the carbon emissions of the construction industry.
Sustainably Sourced – We source all Shou Sugi Ban® timbers from reputable UK timber merchants, James Lathams and Brooks Bros. They supply us with the highest grade timbers, which is essential for our premium quality charred cladding. Additionally, they have robust checks in place to ensure that our supplies are from responsibly managed, FSC® and PEFC certified forests.
Renewable – As trees grow, they capture carbon and provide a home for a wide variety of flora and fauna. These ecosystems are protected in sustainable woodlands. What’s more, for every felled tree, several saplings are planted. As such, forests provide a renewable building material.
Recyclable – The charring technique protects the wood and reduces the need for maintenance with chemical-based varnishes or paints. As a result, the timbers are safe to recycle and reuse when they are removed from properties.
Low Carbon Footprint – Finally, timber has a lower carbon footprint than materials including concrete and steel. Therefore, the industry is being encouraged to use more of it in construction.
If you have questions about specifying our charred timber cladding for your architectural build or renovation project, give us a call: 01494 711800.