24 Sep

A Builder’s Guide to Choosing Real Wood Cladding

By Devon Maurer In ABODO Wood, Accoya Wood, Exterior Cladding, Low Maintenance Finishes, Sylva, Thermally Modified Wood, Wood University / No Comments

When building a new home or commercial space, one of the first priorities is achieving the right aesthetic. Bringing the architect’s rendering to life while meeting client expectations for form and function is key. For builders, real wood cladding isn’t just about aesthetics; it must deliver on performance, sustainability, and ease of installation. When thoughtfully selected, wood excels across all demands.

With many wood cladding products available, it’s essential to evaluate the functionality and long-term value of a material, while sourcing from a reputable partner. reSAWN TIMBER co. delivers high-performance wood cladding solutions backed by technical expertise and local, collaborative support to guide you to the best solution for every project.

Key Material Considerations

Not all wood cladding is created equal. Species, milling technique, modification process, and finish all influence the quality, installation, and longevity of a project.

Species, Durability, and Performance
Modern wood cladding goes beyond traditional untreated or pressure-treated lumber. Modification methods, like chemical and thermal modification, enhance wood’s performance to give builders the confidence their work will endure for decades. For exterior applications, durability and climate adaptability are critical, and modified woods deliver the best solution:

Sylva™: Thermally modified North American red oak by reSAWN TIMBER co.; structurally sound, dimensionally stable, and adaptable to a wide range of climates.
Accoya®: Chemically modified radiata pine using a patented acetylation process; highly resistant to rot, decay, swelling, and shrinking.
Abodo®: Thermally modified Vulcan cladding with superior stability; delivers natural durability without chemical preservatives.
Kebony®: Radiata pine modified through furfurylation; durable, stable, and designed to resist rot and decay while developing a refined, weathered appearance over time.

In addition to innovative, modified woods, reSAWN offers naturally durable species like Alaskan Yellow cedar and cypress, which have inherent strength and resistance to weathering. reSAWN’s variety of exterior cladding solutions allow builders to balance performance, budget, and design intent.

Grand Rapids Residence, feat. CUSTOM FSC®-Certified Accoya

Cost and Long Term Value
Upfront costs are often top of mind for builders, but total lifecycle cost must be considered. Premium wood cladding may require a higher initial investment, but significantly reduces labor, maintenance, and replacement costs over the life of a project.

Unlike low-grade solutions that require on-site finishing, frequent maintenance, or replacement, reSAWN’s premium, prefinished, real wood cladding products are engineered for superior durability and stability. Every product is rigorously tested to meet strict performance standards and is supported by our in-house technical experts, detailed installation guidance, and maintenance documentation, so teams achieve smooth installation and enduring results.

Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility
With the building sector accounting for nearly 40% of global carbon emissions, sustainable construction essential to mitigate this impact. As a result, nearly 80% of U.S. architects and contractors report that most of their projects now have sustainability goals.

Real wood cladding naturally delivers on these goals as a renewable resource and carbon sink. High-performance wood further reduces waste over time; with certifications and compliance standards, builders can trust that premium cladding meets functional requirements while supporting sustainability efforts. Look for these key attributes to ensure compliance:

FSC®-Certification: Certifies sourcing from responsibly managed forests.
Low-VOC Finishes: Ensures the product is safe for people and the environment.
Red-List Free/Declare Label: Confirms materials are free from harmful chemicals.
WUI-Compliance: Meets wildfire safety standards for at risk areas.

Choosing the Right Partner for Support and Expertise

Selecting the right cladding is about more than the material—it’s about where you source it. A trusted partner provides quality products, expertise, and support through every stage of a project. From early planning through post-installation, reSAWN TIMBER co. delivers an experience that leads to the best solution.

Technical and Installation Support
Our technical experts provide guidance from installation best practices to post-install maintenance strategies. This hands-on approach ensures challenges are identified and resolved quickly, allowing teams to achieve the best possible results. To further reduce risk, we offer field mockups that give project teams the opportunity to evaluate performance and test installation methods before full-scale construction begins. This proactive process minimizes delays and enhances efficiency for lasting success.

A local Specification Consultant is always available as a resource for your team. Collaborating directly with builders, they deliver tailored solutions based on local climate, code requirements, sustainability goals, and design intent. Specification Consultants can provide on-site installation support and hands-on guidance for consistent, region-specific expertise from early planning to final installation.

Lead Times and Logistics
Timely delivery is essential to keep projects on track. reSAWN’s experienced team combines a tight manufacturing schedule with streamlined logistics so materials arrive on-time. A dedicated Project Coordinator provides clear communication, timely updates, and support through shipping and delivery, so builders can rely on predictable timelines and smooth project execution.

For projects with particularly tight schedules, reSAWN’s Express Ship Program offers expedited lead times for sought-after products, including Sylva, Accoya, and Abodo, giving teams flexibility without compromising quality.

Custom Milling and Finishing Services
reSAWN’s custom milling and finishing capabilities allow us to transform raw materials into tailored solutions that support both design intent and long-term performance. We work closely with builders to achieve precise dimensions, profiles, and surface textures that bring each project’s vision to life.

Our in-house finishing options enhance the natural character of wood while providing added protection against wear, weather, and time. Whether the goal is a sleek, modern look, a rustic texture, or a highly durable exterior finish, reSAWN adapts to any aesthetic or functional requirement.

By combining advanced milling technology with skilled craftsmanship, we manufacture every product to exacting standards. This custom approach minimizes waste, simplifies installation, and delivers an end result that is beautiful, resilient and suited to the specific conditions of the project environment.

Selecting Real Wood Cladding for Your Next Project

Wood cladding offers unmatched versatility, performance, and value when carefully selected and sourced. Achieving lasting results requires both high-quality materials and a partner who delivers expert guidance and hands-on collaboration.

reSAWN helps builders select real wood cladding for all applications and climates, with options that offer the flexibility to execute complex projects without compromise. Local Specification Consultants, dedicated Project Coordinators, and technical experts work with you through every project stage to minimize risk, reduce waste, and keep projects on schedule. Partnering with reSAWN for your wood cladding means predictable outcomes, superior quality, and a team committed to your project’s success.

Contact us today for free samples of our premium wood solutions and to receive guidance for your projects from your local Specification Consultant.

25 Aug

Wood Texture and Finish for Modern Architecture with Timeless Appeal

By Devon Maurer In CHARRED WOOD, Exterior Cladding, Featured In The News, Inspiring Designs, Interior Cladding, Low Maintenance Finishes, New Products, Product Updates, Sylva, Thermally Modified Wood, Wood University / No Comments

Exploring the evolution of wood in design is an exercise in exploring the history of humanity itself. Through centuries of civilization, from the earliest forms of shelter to architectural marvels of Ancient Greece and Rome, wood has been an enduring, versatile material sparking constant innovation.

Once purely functional, wood has evolved into an outlet of artistic expression for today’s architects and designers. Beyond its structural properties. wood is now a medium for creating aesthetic appeal and bringing unique personality and perspective to a space.

That philosophy is at the heart of Sylva™, our thermally modified red oak products that combine durability, sustainability, and artistry—now expanded with eight new products featuring innovative textures and finishes.

Natural Beauty Meets Design Innovation

In its raw form, wood is already visually compelling, offering warm hues, organic patterns, and distinctive grain structures unique to each species. The choice of cut and milling approach, from the dynamic, cathedral patterns of plain sawn boards to the uniform, linear grain of rift and quarter sawn, shapes its personality, while textured finishes further enhance these qualities to create depth and contrast.

How Texture Shapes a Space

Wood texture is a sought-after statement that offers a tactile experience and plays a pivotal role in conveying character in a space. Texture can be achieved through different methods that influence style and durability:

Brushing

Brushing gently removes soft surface fibers, emphasizing denser grain beneath. This method accentuates the character of the wood, creating an interplay of light and shadow. Through this process, finishes can absorb more readily into the wood, enhancing grain contrast to deliver rich color variations.

Each new Sylva product features an aggressively brushed surface that amplifies the natural, unique grain structure inherent to red oak for a bold, textured appearance. The open grain allows finishes—ranging from rich black and cool grays to warm, natural hues—to penetrate the wood deeply, producing a saturated, dimensional color that maintains design integrity over time.

Shou Sugi Ban

Shou Sugi Ban, or Yakisugi, is an ancient Japanese technique that preserves wood by burning its surface, then cooling and finishing it with natural oil. The result is a uniquely rich texture and striking black carbon layer that resists moisture and decay. Brushing and Shou Sugi Ban each accentuate the beauty of wood in their own unique way. They can be used independently, or combined for added depth and dimension. Depending on the degree of brushing, Shou Sugi Ban can retain a heavy, tactile char layer, or reveal the natural grain beneath for a bold or refined aesthetic.

ardmore thermally modified north american red oak shou sugi ban

MONROE thermally modified north american red oak shou sugi ban

Sylva thermally modified red oak: ARDMORE, MONROE, and SOLEBURY featuring Shou Sugi Ban

Color and Tone in the Built Environment

Research in environmental and color psychology has shown that color significantly affects human behavior and perception. Warm tones are linked to feelings of comfort, safety, and a sense of connection, while cooler tones offer balance and refinement, with hues that evoke calmness, serenity, and spaciousness. Dark or blackened finishes introduce a layer of richness and depth, with tones that communicate elegance and drama and can anchor a design to provide visual weight and contrast.

Our eight new Sylva finishes span this spectrum – from a light, airy gray that opens a space, to warm, inviting browns and a deep black offering drama and sophistication, each finish is carefully crafted to appeal to any design aesthetic.

New Sylva thermally modified red oak products

Sylva: Innovative Finishes for Modern Design Demands

As design continues to evolve, so do the materials that define it. Advancements in wood technology and innovative uses of texture and color are central to how architects and designers shape spaces.

The latest evolution of Sylva™ thermally modified red oak by reSAWN TIMBER co. redefines the relationship between texture and color, with products that thoughtfully pair distinctive texture with new finishes to expand the potential of this durable, sustainable material.

To ensure your finish and texture selections align with your design vision and evoke the desired mood of your space, explore the full range of Sylva firsthand. Request samples and connect with a Specification Consultant who can assist you with selecting the right product for your next project.

18 Aug

Exploring the Rich Palette of Sylva™: A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Cladding

By Jocelyn Mahan In Featured In The News, In the Field, Inspiring Designs, Interior Cladding, New Products, Product Updates, Sylva, Thermally Modified Wood, Wood University / No Comments

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 Sylva™ products embody this philosophy, offering a diverse palette designed to enhance both exterior and interior spaces.

A Spectrum of Possibilities
The Sylva collection features 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. Whether you’re designing a modern urban façade or a cozy interior retreat, there’s a Sylva product to meet all your aesthetic needs.

Introducing New Finishes
We’re excited to introduce eight new finishes—HAMERS, MICHAUX, TUSCA, SPROUL, PINCHOT, ROTHROCK, SINNEN, and TIA—that further elevate Sylva’s design potential. These new products are a result of innovative, aggressive surface brushing and proprietary finishes that enhance the natural grain and fully saturate the wood for a rich color that weathers beautifully over time.

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 of our new Sylva products can influence feelings and perceptions:

HAMERS features a bold, espresso-brown with cool black undertones that offer a grounded, natural appearance. It’s aggressive brush texture creates a depth that enhances its deep hue for a sense of sophistication for both contemporary and rustic spaces.

MICHAUX offers a blend of rich, deep browns enriched with vibrant red undertones for a dynamic, expressive finish. The warm coloration subtly shifts with the light, adding a depth and energy that’s perfect for both indoor and outdoor spaces.

TUSCA enhances the natural appearance and dramatic grain pattern inherent to red oak. The coppery-red undertones and natural brown hues offer the timeless, biophilic appeal of natural wood with added depth and dimension from the aggressive brush texture.

SPROUL is a dynamic finish that can range from red to deep maroon undertones depending on the character of the original wood. This rich, warm, and complex palette brings visual movement and character to a space, offering stunning detail that fits into any architectural and design style.

PINCHOT’s slivery-gray brings a natural, weathered elegance. The deep texture allows the finish to fully saturate the wood, offering a depth and dimension that weathers consistently over time, for designs that feel luxurious, calm, and spacious.

ROTHROCK is a balanced blend of medium to dark blue-gray tones with subtle, natural-wood highlights that shift in the light. Ideal for high-end interiors and minimalist spaces, it perfectly blends modern and clean design aesthetics with depth and dimension.

SINNEN features a striking, deep blue-gray for a dramatic, yet refined presence. The rich, saturated color gives the surface a cool, modern edge with subtle variations in tone that enhance the grain depth and add visual intrigue.

TIA delivers a dramatic, black finish that reflects natural light with subtle flashes of silver. Bold and modern, it offers a commanding presence that brings drama and intrigue to modern, minimalist, and contemporary spaces.

The expanded Sylva line of products offers a rich array of 21 different colors, tones, and textures 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. Request samples or contact us to work with a Specification Consultant who can assist you in finding the perfect match for your next project.

Twin-Gables-SiOOX-Abodo-Vulcan-Cladding-Slats-Trellis9-Sioox-Article

16 Apr

Embracing the Natural Evolution of SiOO:X Wood Protection: A Journey to Timeless Gray Tones

By Jocelyn Mahan In Abodo Vulcan Slats, ABODO Wood, Exterior Cladding, In the Field, Inspiring Designs, Low Maintenance Finishes, Maintenance, Sylva, Thermally Modified Wood, Wood University / No Comments

Natural wood possesses inherent beauty and is frequently incorporated into construction designs for its aesthetic appeal. However, wood is a natural material susceptible to degradation due to climatic elements, moisture, and UV rays. To preserve natural wood’s integrity and longevity, the application of a protective topcoat is a standard practice for all timber building materials.

In the realm of wood protection, SiOO:X stands out as a revolutionary solution that provides timber with a long-lasting shield against the outside elements and delivers a captivating aesthetic transformation over time. Unlike conventional wood treatments that create a protective seal on the surface, SiOO:X penetrates deep into the wood fibers, forming a shield that enhances the durability and longevity from within.

SiOO:X leverages the natural environment and wood’s characteristics to gradually cure wood over one to three years. This unique curing process results in a protection system that imitates wood’s natural protective layer. The curing process also triggers a gradual color transformation within a short timeframe, mimicking the authentic weathering effect seen in natural wood.

Twin Gables Feat. SiOO:X Abodo Vulcan Cladding

Curing with Nature
SiOO:X is crafted to work with nature. The curing process is intricately tied to the specific climatic environment where the wood cladding resides. The rate of change is often attributed environmental factors. Sunlight, rain, wind, and humidity are all factors that could affect the curing process*. Surfaces shielded from direct sunlight and harsh weather conditions, such as soffits or non-exposed walls, may undergo a slower rate of curing and color evolution. In contrast, the cladding that is fully exposed experiences more significant fluctuations.

Understanding the Curing Process
SiOO:X Wood Protector holds a unique silicon and potassium formulation that reacts with moisture and carbon dioxide. This chemical reaction forms a protective barrier within the timber. SiOO:X’s chemical reaction can occur independently of sunlight, ensuring consistent and reliable performance regardless of weather conditions over time. It creates a long-lasting shield against moisture, and UV rays.

The Evolution of Color
As the curing process progresses, the timber undergoes a remarkable transformation of color. The wood starts out in its natural coloration before gradually transitioning to a light whitewash tone, typically within six – twelve months of application. This initial phase represents the activation of SiOO:X’s protective properties that penetrate deep into the wood fibers. The timber gradually darkens to mid-gray ‘weathered’ tones, acquiring a timeless patina that adds depth and character to the wood surface. Exposed surfaces may undergo a more rapid color evolution than non-exposed walls. However, despite the differences in the rate of color evolution, the aesthetic outcome will be consistent across all surfaces over time.

Advantages Over Traditional Coatings
SiOO:X’s natural curing process offers several advantages over traditional coatings, particularly when it comes to durability, aesthetics, and environmental sustainability. Conventional wood protector coatings’ efficiency diminishes over time with exposure to the sun, leading to fade in color and less protection against wear and tear. On the contrary, SiOO:X works with the environment and delivers a natural color evolution. Wood treated with SiOO:X offers long-lasting protection and reduces the need for frequent reapplications, which conserves resources and reduces maintenance costs.

An Eco-Conscious Formula
With a clear focus on sustainability and eco-friendliness, SiOO:X is engineered with no VOC (volatile organic compound) formulation. It minimizes environmental impact while ensuring safety for users and our planet. By enhancing the longevity of wood, the lifespan of wooden structures is extended, contributing to waste reduction in the long run. Unlike other wood treatments that may leach harmful chemicals into the soil or waterways, SiOO:X is biodegradable and poses no risk to ecosystems.

Bear Creek Residence Feat. SiOO:X Abodo Vulcan Cladding

Embracing the Natural Beauty of SiOO:X Wood Protection
SiOO:X represents a paradigm shift in wood protection, offering a sustainable and aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional coatings. By embracing the natural weathering process, SiOO:X celebrates the inherent beauty of wood while ensuring long-lasting protection against the surrounding elements.

Currently, reSAWN offers two thermally modified wood products with the SiOO:X wood protector: Abodo SiOO:X exterior cladding, and Sylva MONDARA exterior cladding. The thermal modification process improves the wood’s stability. When coated with SiOO:X, modified wood becomes exceptionally resilient, capable of withstanding the harshest conditions while maintaining its natural charm. SiOO:X offers robust protection that enhances the inherent qualities of thermally modified wood. Together, they create a synergy that results in stunning exterior cladding.

Whether used in commercial or residential projects, reSAWN’s SiOO:X products offer unmatched longevity, sustainability, and aesthetic appeal, setting a new standard in modern wood protection.

*In case of problems with black spores the SiOO:X system creates a barrier that prevents algae and spores from penetrating the wood. Because SiOO:X does not contain any strong toxins it cannot prevent black spores from settling on the surface. Periods of rain or damp weather are especially favorable for these airborne spores, which can often be found on wood surfaces that are in the shade or exposed to the weather. Black spores need nutrients to grow and they get these from natural sugars in the wood. These substances are leached out of the wood in the first 1–4 years. The presence of black spores also decreases as the SiOO:X silicon shield matures and gets stronger. For a full Care & Maintenance Guide, click here.

Order Samples

Governor-Academys-Alfond-Coastal-Reach-Center-Samitto-Charred-Accoya-5

08 Mar

Positive Impacts of Utilizing Wood in Commercial Projects

By Blake Huang In Exterior Cladding, Flooring, In the Field, Inspiring Designs, Interior Cladding, New Products, Sylva, Thermally Modified Wood, Wood University / No Comments

In light of climate change, there is a pressing need for everyone around the world to shoulder the responsibility to implement changes across various aspects of our lives, spanning from food consumption and transportation to energy systems and even our approach to construction. The demand for essential infrastructure continues to surge at record rates. To meet economic needs without jeopardizing the environment, the solution lies in using natural materials.

Wood, as one of our most traditional and natural construction materials, plays a pivotal role in both balancing and removing greenhouse gasses from the environment. Since their inception, trees have been integral to the ongoing process of removing greenhouse gasses by absorbing carbon from the atmosphere. This carbon is stored within their structure throughout their lifecycle, even after they are harvested and transformed into building materials, thereby continuing to contribute to carbon retention and storage.

By leveraging wood’s natural properties, timber is less carbon-intensive to manufacture compared to cement and steel. According to ARUP’s report, Rethinking Timber Building, cement production accounted for approximately 8% of global carbon dioxide emissions, while the iron and steel industry accounted for 6-7%. With the significant carbon footprint associated with cement and steel production, timber emerges as an increasingly compelling alternative.

Timber stands out as a renewable resource with ideal characteristics for construction materials. Beyond its role as a carbon sink, its tensile and compressive strength fortify building structures with enduring durability. The cellular structure of wood, consisting of strong fibers and a matrix of lignin, provides natural strength and flexibility. This composition allows the wood to bear significant loads and resist deformation.

UW-Platteville-reed-hemlock-inteiror-wall-cladding-Rev-Slider — University of Wisconsin Platteville Sesquicentennial Hall feat. REED Reclaimed Hemlock Wall and Ceiling Cladding

Though exterior applications like cladding may render wood vulnerable in certain environments, ongoing investments and advancements in preservation techniques, including thermal and chemical modifications, have bolstered its reliability as a sustainable building material over the years. Given the paramount importance of employing safe and dependable building materials for commercial projects, there remains a steadfast commitment to this cause. Simultaneously, the burgeoning emphasis on the health and comfort of occupants continues to garner increasing attention and significance in the construction industry.

When considering indoor health and comfort, the availability of natural materials is known to reduce occupant stress levels and heightened positive responses. Natural materials such as wood play a pivotal role in fostering biophilic design within commercial projects, integrating natural elements seamlessly into the built environment. A biophilic design approach in interior space enhances cognitive function and elevates mood and productivity for occupants. The warmth and organic qualities of wood create a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere, evoking human’s natural sense of connection to nature.

In addition to psychological well-being and comfort, natural materials help maintain better indoor air quality. Certain synthetic materials may release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. VOCs are chemicals that can evaporate into the air, contributing to indoor air pollution and potential health hazards. Opting for wood in construction and furnishing choices enhances the ambiance and aesthetic appeal of spaces and supports a healthier indoor environment by minimizing the emission of harmful chemicals. Incorporating wood into a biophilic design can fulfill green building certification criteria due to its inherent environmental benefits.

Vitus-Project-featuring-mate-european-white-oak-flooring-2 — Vitus Project feat. MATE European White Oak Flooring

Wood is renowned for its durability as a building material, often enduring for over a century when properly maintained. Nevertheless, as with all materials, there comes a point when wood reaches its end-of-life. When this moment arrives, the options for its disposal extend far beyond mere waste. The common options typically encompass disassembly, adaptation, and reuse, ensuring the longevity of wood as a building material while minimizing its environmental footprint and contributing to a more sustainable future. Through thoughtful practices, wood can continue to contribute to sustainable construction and design, embodying the principles of environmental stewardship and resource efficiency.

Wood isn’t just a conventional building material; it plays a vital role in advancing sustainability in construction. Wood stands as one of the most organic building materials, exhibiting reduced carbon intensity in manufacturing when compared to synthetic alternatives. Its inherent characteristics, including carbon sequestration throughout its lifecycle, remarkable durability, and renewable nature, wood emerges as a key player in environmentally friendly building practices. As we navigate the future of construction, prioritizing wood in commercial projects will continuously make positive impacts on our environment.

reSAWN TIMBER co.’s Sylva™ thermally modified product line presents domestically sourced and manufactured wood cladding suitable for both interior and exterior applications, providing environmentally friendly options with a minimal carbon footprint. Thermally modified wood further enhances the wood’s structure, transforming the wood into a material with improved durability, stability, and aesthetic qualities. Selecting a product that is both locally sourced and modified reflects a commitment to mitigating climate change and endorsing sustainable design for future buildings.

02 Feb

Sylva™: A Versatile Cladding Solution

By Jocelyn Mahan In Exterior Cladding, In the Field, Inspiring Designs, Interior Cladding, Low Maintenance Finishes, New Products, Sylva, Thermally Modified Wood, Wood University / 2 No Comments

Wood remains a prominent choice in modern architecture and design, and stands out as a leading building material. Given its natural and biodegradable characteristics, debates frequently arise regarding its longevity. As a result, manufacturers of building materials are continually engaging in exploration and innovation to meet evolving demands and preferences. They strive to enhance and discover sustainable solutions, with modified wood emerging as a forefront choice in this endeavor. reSAWN TIMBER co.’s Sylva™ product line is designed with functional and sustainable attributes in mind. This article explores the unique qualities and benefits that make this material a standout choice for various architectural projects.

Lower Embodied Carbon: Domestic Species & Sustainably Sourced
Currently, Sylva consists of locally harvested, FSC®-Certified North American Red Oak. FSC certification ensures that the Sylva product line comes from forests where responsible and sustainable forest management practices are implemented. This includes considerations for biodiversity, ecosystem health, and the rights of local communities. The distance between its harvesting and manufacturing locations is less than three hours, leading to a significant reduction in carbon emissions. Harvesting wood locally reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation, contributing to an eco-friendly building process. By sourcing materials regionally, builders and architects can support local economies and reduce the environmental impact of their projects.

Natural Aesthetic
One of the most striking features of North American Red Oak is its gorgeous red undertone that delivers a rich and distinctive appearance. The thermal modification process enhances the coloration and boosts the wood’s natural beauty, giving it a warm and elegant aesthetic. One notable aspect of Red Oak is its variability in color, even timber sourced from the same tree can showcase varying shades. This inherent diversity in color lends itself to creating a versatile design, imbuing surfaces with visual depth, complexity, and an added touch of sophistication. The material can be used to seamlessly blend with a variety of design styles, from traditional to modern, making it a multifaceted choice for architects and designers seeking a timeless and visually appealing solution.

Thermally Modified Process
The thermal modification process involves exposing the Red Oak to high temperatures in a controlled environment, altering its chemical composition. This process enhances the wood’s durability, stability, and resistance to decay. As a result, thermally modified Red Oak cladding offers a longer lifespan and requires less maintenance when compared to unfinished wood.

Resistance to Decay
One of the primary concerns with wood cladding is its susceptibility to rot and decay. Thermally modified Red Oak addresses these concerns by becoming highly resistant to decay through the thermal modification process. The high temperatures cause chemical changes in the wood, leading to the modification of its cellular structure. Hemicellulose, one of the wood’s components, is permanently affected. The breakdown of hemicellulose reduces the wood’s ability to absorb and retain water, making it less susceptible to decay. This resistance ensures that the cladding remains durable and maintains its original quality, even in challenging outdoor environments.

Stability and Dimensional Consistency
The thermal modification process not only enhances the wood’s visual appeal but also improves its stability. The timber experiences chemical modification during the process that significantly reduces the timber’s susceptibility to absorb moisture and swell, resulting in a more dimensionally stable material. This stability is crucial in ensuring that the cladding maintains its structural integrity over time, even in varying environmental conditions.

Ease of Maintenance
Sylva requires minimal maintenance when compared to unfinished wood cladding. Its enhanced durability and resistance to decay means that it can withstand the elements without deteriorating. This not only saves time and effort for property owners but also contributes to the material’s longevity and cost-effectiveness.

Wide Range of Color Selection
The Sylva product line includes 13 products, with 5 featuring the Shou Sugi Ban technique during manufacturing. The base color of thermally modified red oak provides a versatile foundation for creating finishes in a wide range of rich tones. The colors range from browns to greys, to Shou Sugi Ban black. These products are suitable for both exterior and interior applications. The carefully chosen color palette was designed with precision to effortlessly blend the wood aesthetics both inside and outside, cultivating an environment that promotes a consistent and harmonious wood-themed aesthetic throughout the entire space.

The versatility and benefits of locally harvested thermally modified wood cladding make Sylva a compelling choice for architects, designers, builders, and even homeowners committed to sustainability and quality. From its sustainable sourcing practices, meticulously managed thermal modification process, and enhanced aesthetic appeal and durability, this material offers a harmonious blend of form and function. As the construction industry continues to prioritize eco-friendly and resilient solutions, Sylva cladding stands out as a reliable and aesthetically pleasing option for various architectural applications.

Contact us to connect with a reSAWN TIMBER co. specification consultant and explore the opportunities for incorporating Sylva™ Thermally Modified Red Oak into your next project.