What is thermo-wood?

Thermowood is an engineered wood product that undergoes a specific treatment process to improve its properties and durability. This innovative material is created by heating wood to high temperatures in a controlled environment with the action of steam. As a result, wood is obtained that is more resistant to moisture, decay and deformation compared to traditional raw wood. Its unique manufacturing process improves physical properties and at the same time promotes environmental sustainability, since no chemicals are usually used in processing.

Unlike ordinary wood, thermowood is classified according to strength standards, which confirms its high performance in various climatic conditions. It is particularly suitable for outdoor applications such as terraces, facade cladding and furniture. As a result of the process, the moisture content of the wood balance is reduced, which reduces movement and damage from environmental factors. This background serves as the basis for understanding why thermowood is an ideal choice for construction and design projects.

Why choose thermowood boards

Thermowood has a number of advantages that make it attractive to both consumers and builders. One of the main advantages is moisture resistance. Compared to raw wood, thermowood has a 40— 50% lower equilibrium moisture content. This provides greatly improved dimensional stability by reducing the tendency of wood to warp, swell or shrink due to changes in moisture levels, which is important in humid climates.

In terms of durability, thermowood meets the strength class 2 of the EN 350-1 standard, which allows it to last up to 25 years or more depending on the application. Raw wood, in comparison, usually needs to be changed every 5-10 years under difficult conditions. In addition, thermowood has natural thermal insulation properties, which ensures energy efficiency in both warm and cold climates. The combination of these qualities, along with the low maintenance requirement, makes thermowood an excellent choice for a variety of construction projects.

Thermowood compared to conventional wood Comparing thermowood with raw wood, it stands out for its significant advantages in terms of performance and longevity. In different climatic conditions, thermowood retains its structure better than ordinary wood. For example, it withstands repeated freeze-thaw cycles in cold climates, and in humid areas it is less prone to rot and fungal exposure, which significantly extends its lifespan.

In addition, while untreated wood requires frequent replacement due to damage and decay, thermowood can last for more than 25 years. Its maintenance requirements are minimal, since it does not require frequent coating or re-treatment. This durability in a variety of climates makes thermowood a popular choice for sustainable construction, which increases its advantages over traditional untreated wood.

Ecological benefits of thermowood

Thermowood has significant ecological benefits as it reduces carbon emissions. The manufacturing process relies solely on heat and steam, creating cradle-to-gate greenhouse gas emissions of -653 kg of CO2 per cubic meter. This negative value indicates that thermowood actively contributes to carbon capture, serving as a carbon reservoir, unlike traditional materials, which have higher emissions.

In addition, thermowood is fully recyclable, and its production process generates minimal waste. Using sustainably sourced wood, thermowood helps preserve forests and mitigate the ecological impacts associated with deforestation. This combination of sustainability, low energy consumption and reduced emissions makes thermowood the leading choice among environmentally friendly building materials.

Innovative technologies in the production of thermowood

The thermowood manufacturing process includes advanced techniques that improve both sustainability and performance. One of the most significant techniques is the Westwood Process, which optimizes thermal modification to achieve specific results for different types of wood. This automated system ensures consistent quality, making thermowood suitable for a variety of applications.

In addition to advanced thermal modification, manufacturers are integrating green energy solutions to power their production processes, thus further reducing the ecological footprint. These innovations not only improve the quality of thermowood products, but also support the industry's sustainability goals. Manufacturers develop customized treatment protocols based on the wood species and intended applications to further improve its performance.

Application of thermowood in architecture

Thermowood has been successfully used in various architectural projects, demonstrating its diversity and aesthetic appeal. One of the most striking examples is the Thermowood House in Portugal, which blends harmoniously with the surrounding forest environment. This building testifies to the strength and beauty of thermowood without the use of chemical processing methods.

Another significant application is the Powerhouse Telemark in Norway, where the thermowood finish reflects the principles of sustainable construction. This building produces more energy than it consumes, which shows the functional and ecological advantages of thermowood.

In conclusion

Thermowood offers significant advantages over conventional raw wood. With its excellent moisture resistance, longevity, thermal insulation properties and minimal maintenance requirements, it is becoming an increasingly popular choice in construction. Its environmental benefits, including its negative carbon footprint and recyclability, support the growing trend of sustainable construction.

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