Thermally Modified Wood
for Outdoor Living
Thermally modified wood is real lumber enhanced through heat treatment for greater durability, stability, and resistance to moisture, rot, and insects. Eco-friendly, low-maintenance, and rich in natural color, it installs easily and delivers long-lasting beauty backed by strong warranties for decking, siding, and cladding projects.
Explore Thermally Modified Wood Products
Browse our premium range of thermally modified wood products, including durable decking boards and stunning roasted siding cladding for residential and commercial use.
Resources
Installation Guide
Warranty Information
Care & Maintenance
Thermally Modified Wood Siding – Cladding
Elevate your home’s exterior with our roasted wood siding, designed for architectural appeal, structural stability, and all-season durability.
Thermally Modified Wood Siding Cladding provides the perfect combination of visual impact and long-term functionality. The boards are stable, lightweight, and free of knots or imperfections—making them a favorite for clean architectural lines and rain-screen systems.
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The unique roasted finish of this product mimics the look of tropical hardwoods while offering better environmental performance and easier handling.
Thermally Modified Wood Decking
Our thermally modified wood decking offers long-lasting performance, natural beauty, and superior resistance to moisture and decay—perfect for any outdoor space.
Our Thermally Modified Wood Decking is designed for discerning homeowners and builders who demand both aesthetics and performance. Whether you're designing a backyard patio or a commercial terrace, this decking provides a smooth finish, deep roasted color, and reliable strength—even in harsh weather.
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Thermally Modified Wood Decking maintains its shape over time, even in regions with extreme humidity or freeze-thaw cycles. Annual cleaning and occasional oiling will preserve its rich color for decades.
Introduction to Thermally Modified Wood
Learn how thermally modified wood is produced and why it's quickly becoming the sustainable alternative to chemically treated and exotic hardwoods.
Thermally Modified Wood is natural wood that has been exposed to high heat (usually over 180°C) in a low-oxygen environment. This process, known as torrefaction, alters the internal structure of the wood fibers, reducing moisture absorption and making the wood more dimensionally stable and rot-resistant.
Unlike pressure-treated wood, this transformation is achieved without chemicals, making it an environmentally responsible option for homeowners, architects, and builders seeking sustainability and longevity.
Table of Contents
Get to Know Thermally Modified Wood
Understand the science and benefits behind thermally modified wood and why it’s the smart choice for environmentally-conscious building.
What is Thermally Modified Wood?
Thermally Modified Wood is lumber that has been baked at high temperatures (over 180°C) in a vacuum or inert gas environment. The process:
- Eliminates sugars and resins that attract decay organisms
- Increases dimensional stability by modifying cell structure
- Darkens the wood naturally for a rich, roasted tone
- Enhances weather resistance without any chemical additives
It is a sustainable alternative to tropical hardwoods and chemically treated wood.
Why is Thermally Modified Wood Better Than Regular Wood?
Compared to untreated softwoods like cedar or pine, Thermally Modified Wood offers:
- Up to 70% less moisture absorption, reducing swelling and shrinkage
- Naturally enhanced durability—no need for chemical preservatives
- Longer lifespan—typically 25–30+ years
- Rich, consistent color—achieved naturally, not stained
- Lower maintenance—occasional oiling is optional
It’s ideal for homeowners and builders looking for a wood product that performs like a composite but retains natural authenticity.
How Durable is Thermally Modified Wood?
Extremely durable. It rivals tropical hardwoods and outperforms pressure-treated softwoods in multiple categories:
- Rot and decay resistance
- Dimensional stability
- Resistance to cupping and warping
- Insect and termite resistance
Even without sealing, it will last decades—and with basic care, it maintains its beauty for generations.
Thermally Modified Wood vs. Softwood Deck Boards
Compare the performance, longevity, and environmental impact of thermally modified wood against traditional softwood decking like cedar or pine.
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Feature |
Thermally Modified Wood |
Traditional Softwood (e.g. Cedar) |
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Lifespan |
25–30+ years |
10–15 years |
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Resistance to Moisture & Decay |
Excellent |
Moderate to poor |
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Chemical-Free |
Yes |
Often chemically treated |
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Maintenance |
Low |
High |
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Dimensional Stability |
Superior |
Poor |
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Color Retention |
Naturally roasted |
Fades quickly |
! Thermally modified wood is a clear winner for durability, sustainability, and elegance in both decking and cladding applications.
Looking for more options?
No worries, there’s plenty more to choose from. At National Decking, we carry the top deck brands like Woodbridge, Trex, TimberTech, Fiberon, etc, Ipe Decking, Composite Cladding and Siding, Composite and PVC fences, and more to complete your space. Browse through the full selection and see which one feels right for you.
Thermally Modified Wood – Frequently Asked Questions
Is thermally modified wood eco-friendly?
Yes. It is 100% natural, treated with no chemicals, and made from fast-growing North American hardwoods, making it a highly sustainable choice.
Will thermally modified wood fade over time?
Yes, like all real wood, it will naturally gray when exposed to UV rays. You can maintain its rich brown color by applying a UV-protective oil annually.
Can I use thermally modified wood near water or pools?
Absolutely. It is dimensionally stable and moisture-resistant, making it ideal for use in wet or humid environments like pool decks, saunas, and spas.
Is it easy to install?
Yes. It can be installed with standard woodworking tools and fasteners. Profiles are designed for compatibility with rainscreen systems or surface mounting.
How often should I maintain it?
For color preservation, apply oil once per year. For structural integrity, maintenance is minimal due to its built-in resistance to rot and insects.