In the world of architectural design, the choice of cladding material is more than just a practical decision—it’s an opportunity to create spaces that resonate with harmony, emotions, and visual appeal. We understand the profound impact that colors, shades, and tones can have on the overall ambiance of a project. Our latest Sylva™ product line embodies this philosophy, offering a diverse palette designed to enhance both exterior and interior spaces.
A Spectrum of Possibilities The Sylva collection features 13 distinct thermally modified red oak products, each showcasing a range of colors from rich browns and cool grays to the dramatic Shou Sugi Ban charred technique. The red oak base, treated through thermal modification, provides a versatile foundation that allows for a variety of finishes. This versatility ensures that whether you’re designing a modern urban facade or a cozy interior retreat, there’s a Sylva product to meet aesthetic needs.
The Influence of Color and Tone Colors and tones are not just visual elements; they play a significant role in shaping the emotional and psychological experience of a space. Here’s how different shades in the Sylva line can influence feelings and perceptions:
ARDMORE combines soft brown and cool gray hues, evoking the tranquility of natural stone. Its distinctive grain pattern brings a sense of organic vitality, complementing both modern and classic aesthetics.
DOYLE features an earthy charcoal gray with soft brown undertones, exuding rustic charm that complements both minimalist and industrial design schemes. The subtly pronounced grain adds texture and depth without overwhelming the monochromatic tone.
MERION’s charred exterior reveals subtle red undertones, infusing the wood with depth and warmth. The contrast between the dark base and rich hues creates a captivating visual experience, while the natural grain peeking through the char adds character and dimension.
MONROE offers a deep charcoal, nearly black tone. While the grain is visible, the subtle texture makes it feel natural and inviting. This cladding is ideal for modern and minimalist spaces, creating a bold backdrop, or for rustic and urban interiors where a modern edge is desired.
SOLEBURY’s charred finish delivers a dramatic, almost jet-black appearance. The wood’s natural grain, subtly revealed beneath the char, adds depth and character while maintaining a sleek, uniform look. This cladding exudes sophisticated, moody charm that enhances both indoor and outdoor spaces.
BEDFORD exhibits a saturated brown hue complemented by subtle reddish-brown undertones, creating a rich and complex tonal palette. The variation in shades, from darker auburn areas to lighter amber highlights, adds textural quality and visual interest.
DEVON showcases a dramatic palette of smokey gray infused with undertones of espresso brown. Accents of maroon and olive add complexity to the monolithic appearance, while the highlighted grain provides a striking textural contrast.
DUBLIN offers an amber brown hue with subtle variations in shade, creating a warm, inviting quality that enhances its natural aesthetic. The overall color grounds and substantiates architectural designs, providing warmth and solidity.
ELK carries the most original look of the red oak, it is a versatile and understated material that enhances any architectural design. Its clean lines, umber tones, and consistent grain pattern create a timeless aesthetic, while its natural warmth adds a layer of comfort. The neutral color palette allows for seamless integration into a wide range of styles.
GALENA features muted, silvery-gray tones that evoke weathered elegance, with subtle undertones of red and brown within the grain pattern, adding depth and warmth. The delicate grain patterns create a visual rhythm that is both calming and inviting.
MONDARA offers a unique and dynamic aesthetic with its SiOO:X finish. The finish interacts with the local climate, gradually darkening the wood to a mid-gray patina. This adaptive process creates a timeless and individualized look, adding depth and character to any exterior.
RADNOR’s light brown tones, subtly warmed by golden undertones, exude a sense of rusticity and comfort. The cladding’s weathered aesthetic evokes a nostalgic charm that’s both inviting and enduring. Its patinated finish suggests a rich history, making RADNOR a coveted choice for those seeking a touch of vintage elegance in their modern spaces.
WAYNE is primarily a deep, reddish-brown tone with subtle undertones of amber and mahogany. The grain patterns introduce lighter streaks, creating a dynamic interplay between light and dark. The earthy tones and natural aging process of the wood enable a building to blend seamlessly with its environment.
Practical Tips for Selection For architects, builders, and designers, choosing the right cladding tones involves more than just picking colors—it’s about understanding how they will affect the overall design and atmosphere of a space. Here are some tips:
Consider the Mood: Choose tones based on the desired mood of the space. Warm tones for comfort, cool tones for calm, and dark tones for drama.
Match with Architecture: Align the color palette with the architectural style to create a cohesive look.
Think About Light: Test how different shades look under various lighting conditions to ensure they meet your vision.
The Sylva collection offers a rich array of colors and tones designed to enhance and unify both interior and exterior spaces. By understanding the psychological impact of these shades and selecting the right tones, architects, builders, and designers can create environments that are visually appealing and emotionally resonant.
To experience the full range of Sylva’s color palette and textures firsthand, we encourage you to order samples. Holding the material in your hands allows you to truly appreciate the quality and craftsmanship of our products. Order samples or contact us to request your samples today, and find the perfect match for your next project.
Coastal environments present a unique challenge for building materials. Constant exposure to salty air, high humidity, and intense sunlight can significantly degrade traditional construction materials. However, pre-finished wood has emerged as an excellent choice for facades in coastal applications, offering both durability and aesthetic appeal. This article speaks to the benefits of using factory-pre-finished wood for coastal homes, highlighting its durability, aesthetics, sustainability, and long-term cost-effectiveness.
Durability and Resistance to Elements One of the biggest benefits of pre-finished wood is its enhanced durability. Coastal areas are notorious for their harsh weather conditions, which include high winds, heavy rainfall, and exposure to saltwater. These factors can lead to rapid degradation of untreated wood, causing warping, rotting, and discoloration. Factory-finished wood, however, undergoes a meticulous treatment process, including sealing and staining, protecting the wood from the outside elements. These factory-applied finishes are designed to penetrate deeply into wood fibers, providing a barrier against moisture and UV rays. The additional layer of protection ensures that the wood retains its structural integrity and appearance over time, making it a reliable choice for coastal facades.
Low Maintenance Maintenance is crucial for any building material, especially in challenging environments. Pre-finished wood can significantly reduce the need for frequent upkeep. Selecting and applying high-quality finishes during manufacturing ensures the wood can withstand the rigors of coastal climates. This treatment reduces the need for frequent re-staining or sealing compared to untreated or site-finished wood. This translates to lower maintenance costs and less labor over the lifespan of the building. Additionally, pre-finished wood is less susceptible to issues like peeling, flaking, or blistering, which are common problems in high-moisture environments.
Aesthetic Versatility Aesthetics play a crucial role in the appeal of any building. The consistent quality of factory-applied finishes ensures that the color and texture remain uniform across the entire facade, providing a polished and cohesive appearance. The natural beauty of wood adds warmth and character to buildings, making it an attractive choice for coastal applications where blending with the natural environment is often desired.
Environmental Sustainability Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important factor in construction decisions. Many manufacturers adhere to stringent environmental standards, ensuring the wood is harvested sustainably, using environmentally friendly finishes, and processed to minimize environmental impact. Wood is a renewable resource that sequesters carbon dioxide, contributing to a reduction in greenhouse gases. The longevity and durability of pre-finished wood subsequently lead to fewer replacements and less frequent maintenance, further reducing its environmental footprint.
Enhanced Property Values High-quality materials like pre-finished wood cladding can significantly enhance a property’s value. The aesthetic appeal, durability, and low maintenance requirements of pre-finished wood facades make properties more attractive to potential buyers or tenants. Coastal properties, in particular, benefit from the added protection against harsh environmental conditions, ensuring that the building remains in excellent condition over time. Investing in pre-finished wood cladding for facades can provide a return on investment in property value and long-term cost savings.
As the building industry emphasizes sustainability, aesthetics, and longevity, pre-finished wood cladding offers a compelling option for those looking to enhance their coastal properties with a functional and visually appealing material. Pre-finished wood cladding delivers a harmonious blend of durability and design, ensuring the exterior facades remain stunning and resilient for years.
Here’s a collection of coastal projects that embody resilience and timeless beauty through the innovative use of reSAWN TIMBER co.’s prefinished wood cladding on their facades. The various species, sizes, shapes, and profiles enable unique architectural features and detailed craftsmanship. These projects highlight how prefinished wood enhances the aesthetic appeal of coastal homes and ensures long-lasting durability against harsh marine environments. Architects and builders create structures that look aesthetically pleasing while standing the test of time.
The Jo Residence The Jo Residence by Jacobsen Arquitetura is situated on the beaches of Guarujá, Brazil. To combat the region’s intense tropical climate, the architects strategically chose SAMITTO charred Accoya® exterior cladding. Accoya® modified wood undergoes an acetylation process, enhancing its stability and resistance to rot, making it well suited for the humid climate. The Shou Sugi Ban charred layer further strengthens its resilience, significantly improving resistance to moisture, fungi, and UV radiation.
Dune House Ryall Sheridan Architects chose to incorporate over 5,800 sq ft. of reSAWN’s charred Cypress on the exterior of the Dune House in Amagansett, NY. The oils in cypress’ heartwood make it one of the most durable woods when exposed to moisture conditions causing decay – a key advantage in moisture-rich coastal settings.
Atlantic Beach Project Designed by Martin Architects, this modern vacation home required a material that could withstand the outdoor elements of Montauk, NY. With over 5,000 sq. ft. of NIGIRI charred Accoya®, the property not only exudes elegance but also demonstrates remarkable stability. Accoya®’s exceptional resistance to rot makes it ideal for coastal environments like Montauk. Even in fluctuating climates with hot, humid summers and cold winters, Accoya® remains dimensionally stable. The Shou Sugi Ban charred layer further enhances this inherent stability, which acts as an additional shield against moisture, decay, and rot.
The ever-growing demands on our planet’s resources necessitate a shift towards sustainable practices. Reforestation, strategically planting trees in depleted areas, is a powerful solution. This multifaceted approach tackles environmental challenges, promotes human well-being, and preserves natural resources for future generations.
Reforestation goes beyond just planting trees. It’s a vital strategy that addresses land degradation, restores ecosystems, and combats climate change. Forests act as Earth’s natural carbon sinks, capturing vast amounts of carbon dioxide through photosynthesis. As these trees mature, their carbon storage capacity increases significantly. By actively replanting trees, we significantly increase the amount of carbon dioxide removed from the atmosphere, mitigating climate change on a global scale.
Forests are essential for a healthy planet. They filter the air we breathe and play a vital role in balancing ecosystems. Replanted trees develop extensive root systems that anchor the soil, preventing erosion and regulating water flow. These forests provide crucial habitat for diverse species, fostering rich biodiversity. This biodiversity creates a healthy environment where soil microorganisms can flourish, which is essential for nutrient cycling and overall soil health. Healthy soil, in turn, enhances the productivity of regenerating forests, creating a virtuous cycle that benefits the entire ecosystem.
Beyond the environmental advantages, reforestation efforts create opportunities for community engagement and sustainable development. The forestry industry offers a wide range of job opportunities, from arborists and loggers to researchers. Additionally, sustainable tree farming improves water quality, boosts agricultural productivity, and enhances resilience to natural disasters. These positive outcomes are a testament to the potential of reforestation to transform communities and create a brighter future.
reSAWN’s Efforts in Reforestation At reSAWN TIMBER co., environmental stewardship is a commitment that guides every step of our process. We recognize the vital role forests play in maintaining our planet’s health. This encompasses not just their ability to capture carbon while standing, but also the ongoing carbon storage offered by responsibly harvested wood products. In alignment with our dedication to environmental stewardship and sustainable forestry practices, we partnered with One Tree Planted, a non-profit dedicated to simplifying ecological action. Through tree planting initiatives, they collaborate with local communities and organizations to rejuvenate degraded forests, create jobs, and restore biodiversity habitats, aligning with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. One Tree Planted go beyond reforestation by advocating for hands-on involvement through volunteer events and educational resources. They aim to foster collaborative sustainability initiatives with businesses like ours to create lasting positive impacts on the planet.
With One Tree Planted, we’re contributing to planting trees in Appalachia, where we source our Sylva™ product line. We are dedicated to responsible forestry practices. We want to contribute to a more sustainable building industry, and ensure a greener future for all.
Global industries are facing pressure to restructure and adopt sustainable practices in response to widespread concerns about climate change. Specifically, the construction sector is encouraged to reevaluate every aspect of designing and constructing commercial projects, given their substantial consumption of energy and materials. Green building certifications are the modern-day blueprint for creating efficient, adaptable, and eco-friendly buildings. They demonstrate a proactive commitment to sustainability.
What are Green Building Certifications?
Green building certifications are rating tools that evaluate and acknowledge building structures that meet specific sustainability criteria or standards. By establishing benchmarks, green building certificates make it easier for governments to integrate green building principles into building codes and regulations, ultimately promoting greener and more sustainable construction practices. These certifications recognize and incentivize companies and organizations involved in constructing and operating environmentally friendly buildings. The incentives include tax credits, grants, loans, and fee waivers. Although different programs have varying levels of standards, they all focus on building a healthier, more sustainable future in commercial buildings.
Different certifications have distinct requirements. Some emphasize the use of energy-efficient, natural building materials with a low carbon footprint, ensuring a safe product lifecycle. Meanwhile, some certifications focus on performance criteria. Understanding certification requirements is essential for guiding projects toward the desired sustainability goal.
Below are several commonly observed green building certifications:
Total Resource Use and Efficiency (TRUE): Spaces that earn TRUE certification demonstrate a commitment to environmental responsibility, heightened resource efficiency, and the conversion of waste into savings and additional income streams. Through a closed-loop approach, these spaces mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, manage risks, diminish litter and pollution, reinvest resources locally, generate employment opportunities, and contribute enhanced value to both their company and community.
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is the most widely used green building certification system in the world. Utilizing responsibly sourced materials and resources is a major contributor to achieving the certification. LEED-certified buildings save money, improve efficiency, lower carbon emissions, and create healthier spaces for people.
The Living Building Challenge is an ambitious and comprehensive green building certification program and sustainable design framework developed by the International Living Future Institute (ILFI). It goes beyond traditional sustainability standards by creating buildings that are not just environmentally friendly, but also guarantee the preservation of resources for the well-being of future generations.
WELL Building Standard is a performance-based system for measuring, certifying, and monitoring features of the built environment that impact human health and well-being. Unlike traditional green building certifications that primarily focus on environmental sustainability, WELL places a strong emphasis on health and wellness through air, water, nourishment, light, fitness, comfort, and mind.
These certificates are designed to promote sustainable and environmentally friendly practices in the construction and operation of buildings. Each has its own set of criteria and standards that buildings must meet to obtain certification.
Utilizing Natural Resources for Green Building Certified Projects
Wood emerges as a resilient and reliable option for projects aiming to attain green building certifications. Architects and designers frequently give preference to Forest Stewardship Council (FSC®) Certified wood products, as they guarantee the ethical sourcing of building materials. The incorporation of FSC®-Certified products in commercial projects enhances transparency and traceability in the construction process.
reSAWN TIMBER co.’s Specification Consultants are trained to collaborate closely with architects and designers to fulfill the criteria and standards of green building certifications. Whether it involves wood flooring, exterior, or interior cladding, our products are designed to provide sustainable solutions for new and existing commercial buildings. Connect with our Specification Consultants for your next project!
Dartmouth College expanded and renovated its Hood Museum of Art, incorporating additional galleries and learning spaces to offer an immersive experience for both visitors and students. The FSC®-Certified European White Oak flooring displays inviting tones, establishing a connection between the exhibits and the natural world.
Hood Museum of Art at Dartmouth College feat. CUSTOM European White Oak
The U.S. Green Building Council in Washington D.C. downsized and renovated their headquarters to create a hybrid and healthy work environment for their employees. The office achieved a triple platinum certification in LEED, TRUE, and WELL by integrating biophilic features such as natural FSC®-Certified North American White Oak flooring, living plant walls, and strategically utilizing natural lighting.
USGBC Headquarters feat. CUSTOM North American White Oak
The 27th floor of the Comcast Technology Center in Philadelphia, PA, features a loft-style design in its headquarters, providing staff with flexibility in their workspace and work styles. Upon entering the office, occupants and visitors are warmly welcomed by reclaimed oak interior cladding, fostering a sense of inclusiveness and collaboration.
Two Rivers Middle School is a network of high-performing public charter schools in Washington D.C. that offers hands-on, project-based learning that fosters curiosity, character, and meaningful engagement among students. As students step into the school, the European White Oak wall and ceiling cladding creates an inviting and supportive ambiance, setting the tone for a positive learning environment.
Two Rivers Middle School feat. AMITY European White Oak
455 Massachusetts is a 12th-floor Class A commercial office building located in Washington D.C. The European White Oak flooring offers a refreshing touch to the modern commercial design.
455 Massachusetts Ave feat. AMITY European White Oak
reSAWN TIMBER co. offers accessible and reliable FSC®-Certified wood products, providing architects and builders with a sustainable choice. Check out reSAWN TIMBER co.’s Sylva™ FSC®-Certified Thermally Modified Red Oak products as a sustainable building solution.
Wildfires have become a common topic and focus worldwide as they are becoming more frequent, intense, and challenging to contain. The rapid spread of wildfire into inhabited areas could cause devastating losses of life and health, as well as financial and property damages.
The Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) is a critical area where human development meets the natural, undeveloped landscape. The population is rapidly growing in the U.S., and more and more people and families are choosing to live in the outskirts, suburbs, and rural expanses. Housing development follows the population and grows into wildlands. As communities expand, the interface between wildlands and urban areas becomes increasingly prominent—a high-risk area when wildfires occur.
The Wildland Urban Interface is not static as it is constantly growing. The WUI zone varies across regions depending on climate, topography, vegetation, and land use. WUIs typically include suburban neighborhoods, recreational areas such as golf courses, and communities near natural landscapes. These locations are where wildfires have the most significant impacts on human lives. The latest information on WUI areas can be found on the official website of the local fire department.
Vegetation, topography, and human activities are three major factors of wildfire spread in the WUI areas. The lush greenery enhances the aesthetic appeal of residence placements. Its combination with natural topography, such as steep slopes, canyons, and ravines, provides mental solace for residents. However, when wildfires occur, the vegetation becomes fuel for wildfires, and the layout of the land can affect how quickly flames advance, adding complexity to managing and mitigating fire risks.
In addition to natural wildfires, human activities could pose fire risks in these interface zones. Recreational outdoor activities, agriculture, and urban development increase the likelihood of human-induced wildfires. Human activities elevate the probability of initiating fires and add challenges to emergency response and evacuation. Rapid urbanization and sprawling developments create numerous access points for fires, making it challenging for firefighting crews to swiftly contain blazes. Evacuating residents during a wildfire becomes a logistical puzzle, requiring meticulous planning and coordination among emergency services.
Mitigating and preparing for wildfires, particularly in wildland-urban interfaces, are critical concerns for the public and federal, state, and local governments. These efforts are essential to safeguard communities from potential losses and damages. Common fire mitigation strategies involve community planning, comprehensive fire and life safety regulations, and stringent building standards. Educating and preparing the local communities about the devastating effects of wildfires can help reduce human-ignited fires and improve emergency responses. Creating ample defensible space between structures by reducing vegetation helps decrease the speed of fire spread. Additionally, choosing WUI-compliant building materials during new and remodel construction can mitigate the impact of wildfires and minimize the risk of ignition.
Living on the edge of wildlands comes with the allure of natural beauty and the challenges of managing the inherent risks. The Wildland Urban Interface demands a proactive and collaborative approach to safeguard communities against the threat of wildfires. Through careful planning, education, and investment in firefighting resources, residents and policymakers can work together to create resilient communities that coexist with nature while minimizing the impact of potential disasters. As we continue to expand our urban footprint, understanding and addressing the complexities of the Wildland Urban Interface will be crucial for building a safer and more sustainable future.
In an unprecedented reversal of American history, the demographic landscape of the United States is undergoing a transformative shift. A growing number of Americans are choosing to relocate from major cities and metropolitan hubs to the outskirts, suburbs, and rural expanses, propelled by a multitude of factors. As individuals settle in and around diverse ecosystems such as forests, grasslands, and shrub lands—also known as wildland-urban interface (WUI) zone—ramifications of this population shift become more pronounced.
This migration trend unfolds against an increasingly pressing concern—climate change-induced wildfires across North America. The intricate interplay between human habitation and natural landscapes amplifies the challenges associated with wildfires. With rising temperatures and prolonged droughts heightening the risk of wildfires, a significant emphasis is placed on enhancing safety measures and protections in the WUI zone.
Introduction of Wildland Urban Interface Construction Codes
Over the years, with the escalating threat of wildfires, there has been a growing development of building codes tailored specifically for areas prone to wildfires.
The Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) provisions are typically integrated into state or local building codes. California is known for introducing its own set of WUI zone construction requirements within the California Building Code (CBC) in 2008. CBC regulations mandate that building products intended for use in the WUI zone or State Responsibility Area (SRA) must adhere to specific directives. The WUI construction code primarily aims to enforce heightened standards for fire resistance and ignition resistance in the built environment.
A home or building designed and constructed with meticulous attention to detail and the use of compliant building materials significantly enhances its chances of withstanding a wildfire. There are two common ways to identify optimal building products for properties located in wildfire-prone areas: opting for WUI-Compliant building products or selecting products listed under CAL FIRE Building Materials Listing Program.
WUI-Compliant Building Products
WUI-compliant products generally refer to products and materials that meet specific standards and regulations outlined for the Wildland-Urban Interface zones.
According to California Building Code (CBC), the minimum requirement for building envelope components, such as siding/cladding is that an exterior wall covering or wall assembly, shall comply with one of the following requirements:
Wall assemblies that have been tested in accordance with the test procedures for a 10-minute direct flame contact exposure test set forth in ASTM E2707 with the conditions of acceptance shown in Section 707A.3.1
Wall assemblies that meet the performance criteria in accordance with the test procedures for a 10-minute direct flame contact exposure test set forth in SFM Standard 12-7A-1.
CAL FIRE Building Materials Listing Program
CAL FIRE is a California state agency responsible for safeguarding natural resources within areas designated by the State Board of Forestry as State Responsibility Areas (SRA). In alignment with this mission, the Office of State Fire Marshal (OSFM) introduced the Building Materials Listing (BML) Program. This program serves as a comprehensive initiative aimed at evaluating and certifying a diverse array of building materials. Product manufacturers are required to pass rigorous testing conducted through laboratories accredited by the State Fire Marshal (SFM), ensuring their building materials meet stringent standards for the WUI zone.
The BML Program provide authorities, architects, engineers, contractors, and the fire services with a reliable and readily available source of information when they do not have a staff or subject matter expert to assess the building material quality.
There is a common belief that wood, being perceived as combustible and flammable, is not considered a safe material in proximity to fire. As a result, wood is often not the first come to mind when selecting building materials for building structures in wildfire-prone areas. As technology advances, reSAWN TIMBER co. addresses this challenge by innovatively modifying wood structures. The thermally modified wood offerings, Abodo and Sylva, can be more resistant to fire than untreated wood. The thermal treatment alters the chemical composition of the wood, leading to a decrease in the content of flammable substances within the material, while preserving the original aesthetic of wood.
As demographic trends evolve and more individuals relocate to wildland-urban interface (WUI) zones, architects, builders, and homeowners must stay well-informed about the escalating wildfire risk. This necessitates diligent research, selecting building materials by code requirements, and preserving aesthetic appeal throughout the construction process. Contact us to learn about what product works best for your project.
In this video, Scott Stevens from reSAWN TIMBER co. walks us through the Six Square House in Bridgehampton, NY. This 3,500 sq.ft. residence, featuring two bedrooms and three bathrooms, presents a modern interpretation of the area’s conventional barn designs. The home is made of six 24’ x 24’ modules that all feature gabled geometry and a complex-looking roof design that’s shaped like an inverted V. Additionally, this layout capitalizes the surrounding landscape, with each module offering a unique view of the lush property.
Young Projects specified reSAWN TIMBER co.’s IKIGAI FSC®-Certified Accoya wood for the exterior cladding and roofing. The design incorporates an open joint rainscreen to promote ventilation and includes a waterfall edge for effective water drainage. In its entirety, the Six Square House explores gabled geometry, achieving a balanced fusion of symmetry and asymmetry.
Returning to the residence three years later, the exceptional endurance and visual appeal of the IKIGAI cladding made a lasting impression, showcasing its minimal need for maintenance or cleaning.
Accoya® Wood: The Beauty of Wood, Without the Maintenance
reSAWN TIMBER co. is honored and proud to have our IKIGAI Shou Sugi Ban product featured on the exterior of the beautiful Six Square House. The high-performing product aged gracefully after three years of installation and will continue to do so due to Accoya® wood’s extreme durability. We appreciate Young Projects for specifying our product for this project and look forward to continuing our partnership in the future.
IKIGAI – FSC®-Certified, Shou Sugi Ban Accoya® wood can be used for interior or exterior wall cladding. IKIGAI is finished with a dark gray topcoat designed to protect the wall cladding as it naturally weathers over time. reSAWN’s award-winning charring technique adds depth and dimension to Accoya’s natural grain pattern.
Architects and designers can request complimentary Accoya samples to assist in your project decisions.
Hey guys, Scott Stevens here with reSAWN TIMBER co. We’re here in Bridgehampton, NY, looking at the Six Square House designed by Young Projects. This home is 3,500 sq.ft. and sits on about two acres of land. Construction was finished in 2020, and we’re visiting three years later to observe how the wood siding and wood roof cladding have performed and weathered over time.
This project utilizes our IKIGAI product, which is produced on Accoya®. Accoya is an exceptionally high-performing modified wood, backed by a 50-year warranty against rot and decay when used above ground (25 years in ground or freshwater). It also offers remarkable dimensional stability, making it a low-maintenance material for your home and this specific finish. IKIGAI is designed to naturally and consistently weather over time.
For this particular application, the architect designed a two and half inch slat in your more traditional open joint rainscreen. What this rainscreen does is that it separates the siding from the sheathing to promote 360 airflow and rear water drainage. The benefit of that is to allow for the wood to fully breathe and dry out. Which adds to the longevity of the material.
Another interesting detail is that they panelized the installation so they were able to blind fasten from behind and hang the panels on the building to ensure a secure fastening so the wood isn’t moving or going anywhere. If you take a closer look at the wood roof cladding down to the siding, there’s a really nice waterfall edge that allows for actual water to sheath down, but also just a really clean detail well executed by the installer as well to keep those crisp, clean lines that the architect intended.
After three years of weathering, it’s evident that IKIGAI is evolving and weathering as it’s intended to do. Lightening up and fading over time to that really quintessential coastal gray color. Due to Accoya’s modification process, there’s no need to reapply the finish. Although, it is always good to do so. Freshen it up and you can get back to that original day one color over time.
We want to shout out Young Projects for not only specifying our material, but designing such a beautiful project that showcases it along with all the other materials on the project.
If you’re very interested in receiving samples of IKIGAI or any of reSAWN’s other product offerings, feel free to reach out and we’ll connect you with the Specification Consultant in your area to help you select the right product for your project.
Local Project – Architect Designs a Breathtaking Home Connected to Nature
The Local Project offers an in-depth look at the Six Square House, where architect Bryan Young, delves into the project’s initial vision and how it came to life. As a meticulously crafted residence, it serves as a prime example of how an architect achieves a breathtaking home through thoughtful design and execution.
Architecture Hunters – Six Square House: Bridging the Private and Public.
In the interview with Architect Hunter, Architect Bryan Young delves into the intricacies of the Six Square House, examining its adaptable and interconnected spaces. Bryan underscores the significance of wood elements in facilitating both visual and tactile transitions between different areas. The house sparks a broader architectural discourse on evolving dynamics in urban environments, thereby paving the way for innovative architectural explorations.
In this video and article, John Marley from Spire Builders takes us on a tour of the construction process of the Lake Shore Drive Project, an 18,000 sq.ft. home in Delaware County, PA. The Feng-Shui designed home features a sauna, indoor pool, outdoor pool, tennis court, and multiple outdoor spaces for family-gathering.
This modern home features over 3,900 sq. ft. of reSAWN TIMBER co.’s NIGIRI Charred Accoya® exterior cladding. The exterior ceiling cladding displays reSAWN’s LEWIS Western Hemlock. The custom home introduced unique challenges and innovative structures that make this project one of a kind. The home features 40 tons of commercial steel beams to support the main entrance of the home. The framing of the house is supported by a Knightwall system that holds the cladding, the hidden gutters, and the intricate window structures.
Revisiting the residence after three years, the remarkable weathering performance of the NIGIRI cladding leaves an indelible impression of durability and beauty while requiring little to no maintenance or cleaning.
Accoya® Wood: The Beauty of Wood, Without the Maintenance
reSAWN TIMBER co. is honored and proud to have our NIGIRI Shou Sugi Ban product featured on the exterior of the beautiful Lake Shore Drive Project. The high-performing product aged gracefully after three years of installation and will continue to do so due to Accoya® wood’s extreme durability. We appreciate Spire Builders for specifying our product for this project and look forward to continuing our partnership in the future.
NIGIRI – FSC-Certified, Shou Sugi Ban Accoya® wood can be used for interior or exterior wall cladding. NIGIRI is finished with a grey topcoat designed to protect the wall cladding as it naturally weathers over time. reSAWN’s award-winning charring technique adds depth and dimension to Accoya’s natural grain pattern.
Architects and designers can request complimentary Accoya samples to assist in your project decisions.
Hey, I’m John Marley from Spire Builders. I’m here to give you a tour of one of our custom home projects in Delaware County, PA.
This is a large, modern house with about 18,000 sq.ft. of residential space. It’s built with a commercial-grade steel structure, which weighs about 40 tons. The steel structure is a major component of the house, as you can see in the catwalk area. It was important to get the foundation and steel structure as precise as possible, so we used shop drawings to plan everything out in advance.
Once the steel structure was in place, the framers took over. With modern houses, you have to think about every single detail from the framing stage all the way down to the finishing stage, because it could affect things later on.
This house has a lot of challenges that actually make it really unique. For example, we’re building some of the components out of order. We’re installing some of the drywall before we finish other installations. Then, once the drywall is in place, we’re starting on the flooring and trim. This is a bit of a backward way to build, but it’s necessary for this particular house.
All projects start with good drawings and the architect for this project had a very detailed set. We worked out a lot of the details in the mock-up process, but the architect was able to start specifying where he wanted the start corner and other things like that.
We have incorporated a unique and interesting design feature for the window structure. We have cross-section views that provide a detailed look at the construction. In these views, you can see the siding, concealed gutter system, and the Knight Wall system, which plays a vital role in supporting and securing all the elements of the window structure.
Even better, the cross-section views show that the stone and the siding are all in the same plane. This is because the Knight Wall system impacts everything.
We are working with the TBD architects in New York City. You (reSAWN TIMBER co.) introduced them to some of your materials. We narrowed down our choices to the NIGIRI Accoya® Shou Sugi Ban product which presents a dark grey tone and will keep that consistent color throughout its lifetime.
Accoya® wood is a radiata pine that is chemically modified. It is a modified timber in which a process is called acetylation, a cutting-edge patented technology that enables it to resist rot and stays strong for decades. It has a 50-year rot warranty above grade and a 25-year rot warranty at or below grade.
Accoya wood accetylation process
That was a major deciding factor for the client. The client wanted a material that was both low-maintenance and long-lasting. They wanted something that would not require a lot of upkeep, but that would also age and weather gracefully.
The NIGIRI cladding material used is a 1 x 4 board, measuring three and one-half inches in width and three-quarters of an inch in thickness. It features an open-joint design with square corners.
The window jambs run all the way out to the face of the siding material. They are finished on three sides, with the back sides pre-sealed. That extends all the way out to the face, so that way everything is flush.
The window sill has a separate profile that looks very similar. It has a slight pitch and even has a routed groove on the bottom to drain water and moisture away from the sill instead of letting it run back around to the other side of the sill.
We also included an open joint that continues all the way around the window units and in between all the siding.
During the mid-construction phase, you can see where the Knight Wall and window trim have been installed. This process starts at the framing stage, where we used a variety of products, including Green Zip and Benjamin Updike InvisiWrap.
Green Zip is typically used for roof applications, but it can also be used as an exterior weather barrier. However, because the open joint siding cannot rely on this as its facade, we use InvisiWrap, a black wrap that can withstand open joint cladding. InvisiWrap has a 365-day exposure rating and can handle up to two-inch open joint gaps, which is perfectly in line with their warranty. The backside of this product is like a diaper in that it allows moisture to pass through it, but not through the face of it. This means that it acts as an extra raincoat, keeping moisture out while still allowing it to escape.
The next component of this project was the Knight Wall system. I specified this system because I had concerns about the architect’s original plan to use a wood frame structure that would be painted black to hide everything. I was worried about water and rot causing the substructure to fall apart before the siding, which would void the 50-year warranty.
I was able to find a commercial system that is typically used for exterior insulation. This system uses wall clips and long screws to attach the siding system to the frame, which raises the siding off the wall by six inches. This is done for a few reasons, but it is primarily used for exterior insulation.
The rails that we use can be coated with black paint, so we made sure to get them with that coating. This ensures that the silver siding will be visible, and it even has a soft coating to protect projects in coastal environments.
The architect wanted a deeper window jamb, which is why the Knight Wall system was used. This system creates a more visually appealing exterior, and it also allows for a hidden gutter detail and a flush installation with the stonework. The Knight Wall system also helps hide structural components, which makes for a more seamless and aesthetically pleasing finish. It is really unique and it worked out really well for this project.
With the open joint design, a significant amount of flashing is required. Traditionally, regular head flashing is used, but for this project, we opted for a zinc-coated copper flashing instead of the traditional lead-coated copper. We employed a double-head flashing profile, which effectively directs water and any debris away from the house.
To ensure a watertight envelope penetration system, we utilized Quick Flash Units. There are various penetrations, such as outlets, hose bibs, electrical boxes, and even camera wires. The open joint system demands thorough attention to detail; nothing can be overlooked.
The siding material is pre-finished on all sides, but all cuts must be glued and sealed. We use a PPG stain that reSAWN TIMBER recommended, and we apply it with little roller applicators. The cuts are not visible here because they are all butt jointed. However, even butt joints need to be pre-sealed to prevent any issues. I actually tested not sealing the cuts, and it didn’t affect the finish at all. However, we sealed every cut to be on the safe side.
The hidden gutter design was originally introduced to the architect, who drafted the siding and spaced out the gutter detail. It was up to us to make it a reality. The Knight Wall system actually came after the fact, because they had originally drawn a wood framing system that would actually hold the siding. This would have to be black, and there were concerns that it would rot out. We were even going to have to notch out some of the pipes to get them back into the structure. By using the Knight Wall system, we were able to hide a lot of those pipes behind the structure.
Behind this siding piece is the hidden gutter. There is a drop point, and the pipe runs behind the siding system and stubs out to a drain point. We would not be able to do this with a normal system. It is pretty cool that we are able to run the piping behind the rails and hide everything.
The siding material alone is very custom, but one thing that was even more custom was the window jambs. We had everything drawn up and signed off on, and I was even able to provide a profile for the sill. They were able to completely custom-make all of the profiles for us, which was awesome. We would not have been able to achieve the same look without having everything pre-finished to that profile.
We also had very custom exterior doors made at a later date. We milled the raw material to our specifications and then sent it back to reSAWN TIMBER to be finished. This ensured that the doors would match the siding exactly.
The window jamb material had to be specified exactly. The siding system is six inches, and we know that the flanges tend to feather things out a little bit. So I specified the jamb material at five and three-quarters of an inch. This gave us a little bit of flexibility.
So far, we haven’t had to rip any jamb material down. We did order a few extra wide siding boards. In tight little areas, we had to rip it a little bit on site. The edge was then pre-sealed. In certain areas, we might need three and three-quarters or close to four inches. Having those wider boards will actually help resolve those issues.
There are a few different corner details that were done for this project. The architect wanted a simple lap joint, but each corner is being handled a little bit differently.
We measure from ten feet away to ensure that the board lap looks consistent from all angles. For example, we might have to face a board lap forwards or place it on its side, depending on the view. We had to consider the porch area, for instance. They will want to see more of a full board on that side, as opposed to this side, where you can’t see it from here unless you’re 30 feet down below. Even though it’s a simple corner detail, every single corner on the house is thoroughly thought out.
This house has a mixture of cedar and flat roofs structure. The cladding is able to touch grade, but we left a small reveal of about a quarter of an inch along the E-vent’s.
On the side of the house, we’re able to have a drip cap with the gable window. This will allow the siding to tuck up and hide, and be protected.
In areas where we have a flat roof, we’re able to run the siding down. Our deck system ended up butting into that structure and hiding the edge of those boards.
With a 50-year rot warranty, the cladding can touch grade even if it is touching the roof structure. Some materials, like fiber cement siding, require an inch and a half to two inches of exposure to prevent moisture from breaking down the material. However, this material does not require that.
With the 4 x 1 boards, we were able to use a fastener every 24 inches because that is a specification for the Knight Wall. A system like this would typically hold 22 pounds per square foot, and the rails would be spaced 12 inches apart. This is similar to what is required for a stone veneer. However, this system worked better for this project.
We are using a single fine-trim stainless, self-tapping screw for the metal rail system. Even though it is a self-tapper, we are still pre-drilling to prevent the boards from pushing out.
We considered using a Simpson stainless self-drilling trim screw that matches the siding, but the architect was concerned that it would stand out over time. Stainless steel is tried and true, and it looks the same pretty much all year and it has a high resistance to rust.
We use two different sizes of screws for the jambs and the siding. The shorter screw is one inch and a quarter long, and the longer screw is two and a half inches long. The jamb material is one and a half inches thick, and the siding material is three-quarters of an inch thick.
The project started with a mockup. I built the mockup for a couple of reasons. First, I wanted the client to make an informed decision about the products we would use based on their performance and appearance. Second, I wanted to create an instruction booklet for the installation. I took step-by-step pictures of the installation and put them together in a bid packet. This way, all of the subs who were bidding on the project would have the same information. It also helped me to select the right contractor. Some subs turned down the project because it was too much or too involved.
The mockup included reSAWN TIMBER co.’s WABI SABI and NIGIRI exterior siding. We also tried out 1 x 6 and 1 x 4 boards. The client ultimately went with the 1 x 4 boards. The mockup also allowed us to see two different types of stone and the hidden gutter detail.
The mockup has been up for over a year and NIGIRI looks almost exactly the same as it did on day one. The WABI SABI cladding has faded out a bit, which is how it naturally weathers. However, the client preferred the darker tone of NIGIRI and how it stays consistent over time.
The stainless steel fasteners will eventually match the color of the siding, as the siding darkens over time. We used two screws per board in some areas, but with Accoya’s specifications, we can actually use one screw per board. This material has very little expansion or contraction.
The siding was installed with a three-sixteenths of an inch open joint, and remarkably, there has been no movement whatsoever. This speaks to the impressive stability of the material. Even the boards that were left unsealed on the underside remain undamaged, showcasing the remarkable durability of this natural wood material.
Three Years Later
After three years, we revisited this residence with NIGIRI siding, an Accoya® material that’s been charred and stained. The siding has impressively weathered without any signs of wear, and it has demanded no maintenance or cleaning. The most demanding aspect of the project was constructing the garage doors and exterior door. We had to mill the material according to the door specifications before relying on reSAWN TIMBER to finish it flawlessly.
Wood is one of the earth’s most renewable resources and has a low environmental impact compared to alternative building materials that are often used during the construction process. We believe if architects and builders want to provide clients with high-quality, sustainable building materials that will last over the lifespan of the structure, they must choose high-quality materials. We invest in quality, sustainably rich materials like Alaskan Yellow Cedar, so end users can rest assured that their cladding is going to last for many years to come. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of one of reSAWN TIMBER co.’s most specified product, WILLIWAW Alaskan Yellow Cedar (AYC).
Benefits of WILLIWAW
WILLIWAW features pre-weathered Alaskan Yellow Cedar that is sourced anywhere from Alaska to Oregon and is intended to provide a high-performing, natural material with a clean weathered aesthetic.
WILLIWAW can be used for interior or exterior wall cladding and is available in clear vertical grain. Clear vertical grain Alaskan yellow cedar contains few character marks.
WILLIWAW is durable, dimensionally stable, resistant to rot and insects, and has a light tan/gray, weathered look.
WILLIWAW can be treated to Class A Fire Rating for Interior Applications.
WILLIWAW is known for its ability to withstand harsh weather conditions, coupled with its aesthetic appeal, making it a favored choice for both functional and decorative applications in various architectural and design projects.
Each WILLIWAW product is meticulously crafted to showcase the natural characteristics of the wood, such as grain patterns, and color variations.
As a natural building material, wood cladding weathers inconsistently and can be unpredictable. WILLIWAW provides an exterior material with minimal aesthetic variation regardless of UV exposure.
WILLIWAW is designed to be versatile and can be used in both high-end residential and commercial settings.
The combination of expert craftsmanship, sustainable practices, and the inherent beauty of wood makes WILLIWAW a popular choice among designers, architects, and homeowners looking for exceptional wood products.
reSAWN’s Lumber Warehouse Featuring WILLIWAW- Day One
reSAWN’s Lumber Warehouse Featuring WILLIWAW- 2 Years Later
Why WILLIWAW?
reSAWN TIMBER co. offers a variety of Alaskan Yellow Cedar options that all contain the incredible benefits of this species. WILLIWAW not only has all of those benefits, but is loved for its natural variation, pre-weathered features, and low maintenance.
From afar, WILLIWAW exhibits a light beige color with gray undertones, making it unique looking in every kind of lighting. Its color compliments every environment it’s surrounded by whether it’s mountains or beaches, sun or snow, it provides a natural look as if it has always belonged there. The natural color variations in Alaskan Yellow Cedar wood are primarily due to the wood’s interaction with minerals found in the soil of its growing environment. As the tree absorbs water and nutrients from the soil, it also absorbs trace amounts of minerals present in the surrounding environment. These minerals can include iron, copper, manganese, and others, each imparting its own color properties to the wood. The mineral composition of the soil plays a crucial role in determining the color variation.
WILLIWAW is prefinished in plant-based, zero VOC finish, allowing it to accept and hold finishes with minimal aesthetic variation throughout its installation lifecycle. reSAWN’s products arrive at job sites prefinished to avoid minor mishaps that can occur on job sites like oversprays, streaks, drips, or lap marks. Drying racks that are used to hold wet cladding on a job site are costly and take up much-needed space. Prefinished wood materials like WILLIWAW are finished and dried in a controlled environment prior to arriving on a job site. With factory-finished products, they have already undergone quality control, inspection, and back coating to ensure the material is in perfect condition before it arrives at its destination.
WILLIWAW is offered in a clear vertical grade, meaning the growth rings are parallel to each other on the face or the board, and very light skips on the non-graded face. Architects and builders often seek out select grades because it has very few imperfections or character markings, making it look smooth and clean. Additionally, WILLIWAW is utilized for both interior and exterior purposes, making it versatile and flexible for all styles of design.
WILLIWAW is currently being installed on homes in different climatic zones across the country in South Carolina, Minnesota, California, Florida, and Canada. Below is the Red Mountain Residence in Aspen, Colorado on its way to completion.
AYC is a remarkable species that is located in the coastal regions of Alaska, British Columbia, and the Pacific Northwest of the United States. It is grown in climates that have mildly wet winters, and cool damp summers. This species is often found on higher elevations and thrives in diverse forest ecosystems.
Unfinished AYC exhibits a pale yellow to golden color, often with subtle streaks of reddish brown, which deepen and become richer with age and exposure to sunlight. In addition to its physical attributes, the species possess a pleasing aroma that emanates from the wood, which adds to its allure and sensory appeal. Its scent is often described as sweet, reminiscent of cedar and citrus.
At reSAWN, our Alaskan Yellow Cedar products like WILLIWAW are ideally suited for any interior and exterior project, including wall and ceiling cladding. With its versatility, comes many remarkable benefits.
Durability– AYC has exceptional resistance to decay, rot, fungi, and insect damage. Due to their natural extractives such as Thujaplicans and Phenolics, they act as a defense mechanism for decay-causing organisms and pests. The natural oils also act as a natural barrier against moisture, helping to repel water. This contributes to the long lifecycle of the wood.
Strength– The low density and compact characteristics of the species make it more resistant to wear, impact, checks, and twists. Additionally, its straight grain pattern contributes to the strength of the wood. The fibers in AYC run parallel to the board’s length, providing structural integrity, making it less susceptible to shrink, and enabling it to withstand various environmental and structural stresses.
Insulation– The species’ tightly packed fibers and low density allow the wood to be thermally insulated.
Fire Resistant– When exposed to fire, AYC tends to have a slower burn rate. It releases heat at a slower pace and retains its structure for a longer period. reSAWN’s AYC has a Flame Spread Index of 40 and a Smoke Developed Index of 140, giving it a Class B Rating.
The building industry continues to produce unsustainable materials to mimic the aesthetic of wood and advertise them as sustainable products. However, some contain toxic chemicals, are unethically manufactured, and have a short lifespan because it is less expensive to do so. Additionally, their life cycle produces a mass of carbon emissions whereas products like WILLIWAW act as a carbon sink, absorbing carbon from the atmosphere.
At reSAWN TIMBER co., we bear the responsibility to become mindful educators, while nurturing and preserving earth’s ecosystems, cherishing its biodiversity, and embracing sustainable practices. We provide sustainably sourced products that will look beautiful on day one and continue to weather as nature takes over, with little to no aesthetic maintenance needed. This leaves more time to enjoy the product and less time to maintain it.
What does it truly mean to be an environmentally conscious wood manufacturer? In an industry that runs on nonrenewable, disposable resources beyond what is necessary, healthy, or sustainable, we choose to change the narrative. At reSAWN TIMBER co., we research, study, and observe every product we sell to not only protect our planet, but future generations. We carefully craft quality products that are durable and sustainably sourced to keep our promise to nature and end-users.
There is a reason why WILLIWAW Alaskan Yellow Cedar continues to be one of our most specified products. It is durable, dimensionally stable, rot and insect resistant, versatile, and exceptional at withstanding all weather conditions. Architects and builders continue to choose WILLIWAW for their projects because it promises to keep a home aesthetically beautiful and safe for years to come.
Want to see how WILLIWAW will look on your next project? WILLIWAW samples are available for architects and designers at no cost and shipped via UPS Ground. Click on the button to get started.
