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.
Humans have always connected deeply with nature because we evolved in natural environments. For thousands of years, we have lived in close proximity to nature, relying on it for survival. Our brains and bodies evolved to function in these natural environments, and as a result, we have an innate connection to nature that has persisted throughout human history. Even as we have become more urbanized and modernized, our connection with nature has remained strong because it is ingrained in our biology and psychology.
According to several authoritative studies (Workplaces: Wellness+Wood=Productivity), (Wood: Nature Inspired Design), and (Why Do We Feel Better With Wood?) exposure to natural products like wood creates similar health benefits to those created by spending time in nature. Incorporating natural materials such as real wood cladding and flooring into a built environment helps reduce blood pressure, heart rates, and stress levels while improving well-being, creativity, cognitive abilities, and the air we breathe. The concept of biophilia was introduced in the 1980s to highlight the importance of our connection to nature and the potential benefits that can be gained from it.
Synthetic building materials often recreate the look of wood because wood is a popular and traditional building material that has been used for centuries. Wood’s warm, natural look and feel is difficult to achieve with non-natural materials. By mimicking wood, manufacturers can create low-cost building materials with a similar appearance and texture to wood, but lacking the warmth, intrinsic qualities, and health benefits afforded by real wood materials.
The influence that wood has on the building materials market can be seen everywhere. reSAWN recently attended the 2023 International Builders’ Show (IBS), which is an annual trade show for the residential construction industry, hosted by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). The show featured exhibits and educational sessions focused on new products, innovative technologies, and industry trends related to home building and remodeling. The use of wood, wood influence, and the creation of wood-like aesthetics was prevalent throughout the show. Even companies that were not offering a wood product, utilized wood-like textures in their booths to highlight their product or service.
Vinyl Siding Made to Look Like Wood
Vinyl siding is a popular choice in the US for a wood-like look without the perceived maintenance. Vinyl can be made to look like different types of wood, including cedar, oak, and pine. It is also affordable and durable, making it a common choice for many projects. However, there are some potential downsides to using vinyl siding that need to be considered.
Vinyl siding is made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a plastic material that is derived from petroleum – which is a non-renewable resource. The production of PVC and its disposal can result in toxic pollutants being released into the environment, including dioxins, which are known to be harmful to human health and the environment.
Energy-intensive manufacturing: The production of vinyl siding requires a significant amount of energy, mainly from non-renewable sources such as coal and natural gas, which contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.
Limited recyclability: Vinyl siding is difficult to recycle, and it may end up in landfills where it can take hundreds of years to break down. This contributes to environmental pollution and wastes resources.
Installation and maintenance: The installation of vinyl siding requires the use of various chemicals and solvents, which can have negative environmental impacts. In addition, vinyl siding can crack or fade over time, requiring replacement, which leads to more waste.
Fiber Cement Made to Look Like Wood
Another material that mimics the look of wood is fiber cement. It’s a widely used building material that’s made from a mixture of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. While it has many benefits, such as durability, fire resistance, and low maintenance, there are also significant environmental issues associated with its production and use.
Carbon emissions: The production of fiber cement involves high energy consumption and emits significant amounts of carbon dioxide, contributing to global warming.
Water use: The production of fiber cement requires a significant amount of water, which can put pressure on local water resources in areas where water is scarce.
Waste disposal: The production process generates a significant amount of waste, including cement dust, which can cause air pollution if not properly disposed of.
Toxicity: The production of fiber cement can result in the release of toxic chemicals, such as asbestos, silica, and formaldehyde, which can pose health risks to workers and nearby communities.
Transportation: Fiber cement is a heavy and bulky material that requires a lot of energy to transport, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.
Composite Decking Made to Look Like Wood
Composite decking is a popular alternative to traditional wood decking because it is durable, and requires little maintenance. However, there are some environmental issues associated with composite decking that should be considered.
Manufacturing: The production process of composite decking involves the use of a variety of chemicals, including resins, wood fibers, and plastics. These chemicals can release harmful emissions into the air and water during production.
Disposal: Composite decking materials are not biodegradable and can take up valuable space in landfills if not properly recycled. Some composite decking materials contain hazardous chemicals, making them difficult to recycle or dispose of safely.
Non-renewable resources: Most composite decking is made from a combination of wood fibers and plastic, both of which are non-renewable resources. This means that the production of composite decking contributes to the depletion of these resources.
Maintenance: Although composite decking requires less maintenance than traditional wood decking, it still requires periodic cleaning with chemicals that can harm the environment. However, with the onset of modified woods like Accoya, there are now many maintenance-free options on the market.
Porcelain Tile Made to Look Like Wood
One of the newest materials to mimic wood is porcelain tile. Porcelain tile can be made to look like different types of wood, including oak, maple, and walnut. It is also very durable and water-resistant, making it a great choice for areas that experience moisture or high traffic.
Porcelain tile is generally considered an environmentally friendly flooring option, as it is made from natural materials such as clay and minerals, and can be recycled at the end of its life. However, there are some environmental issues associated with porcelain tiles that should be considered:
Energy consumption during production: The production of porcelain tile requires a significant amount of energy, which contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.
Water usage during production: The production of porcelain tile requires large amounts of water, which can contribute to water scarcity and pollution.
Transportation emissions: Porcelain tile is often imported from overseas, which results in transportation emissions and contributes to climate change.
Waste generation: The installation of porcelain tiles can generate waste, including cut-off pieces and broken tiles, which can contribute to landfill waste.
Chemicals used in production: The production of porcelain tile may involve the use of chemicals such as glazes and sealants, which can be harmful to the environment if not properly managed.
When a single design is repeated over a large area, it can create a visual monotony that may appear repetitive.
Laminate Flooring Made to Look Like Wood
Laminate flooring that looks like wood is a popular choice for many homeowners and builders because it provides the appearance of hardwood flooring at a more affordable price. Laminate flooring is made from composite wood materials and is designed to mimic the look of hardwood planks, including the texture and grain patterns.
While laminate flooring has many advantages, there are some drawbacks to consider before choosing it for your home or building project.
Not as durable as hardwood: Although laminate flooring is more durable than some other types of flooring, it is not as durable as hardwood. Heavy furniture, high heels, and pet claws can all cause scratches and dents in laminate flooring.
Susceptible to water damage: Laminate flooring is made from a wood-based core, and as such, it can be damaged by excessive moisture or water exposure. Spills or leaks that are not cleaned up quickly can cause the planks to warp or buckle.
Can look artificial: While laminate flooring is designed to look like real wood, it is still an artificial product, and some people may find that it looks less authentic than hardwood flooring.
Difficult to repair: If a section of laminate flooring becomes damaged, it can be challenging to repair without replacing the entire plank or section of the floor. This can be costly and time-consuming.
Formaldehyde emissions: Formaldehyde is a chemical used in the adhesives and resins used to make laminate flooring, and it can be emitted into the air over time. Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and can cause health problems, especially for those with respiratory issues. However, many laminate flooring manufacturers now use low-formaldehyde adhesives and resins to reduce the risk of emissions.
Sustainability of materials: The majority of laminate flooring is made from a core of high-density fiberboard (HDF) made from wood fibers, which can be derived from unsustainable sources such as old-growth forests. While some manufacturers use recycled or sustainably sourced wood fibers, others may not be as environmentally responsible.
Disposal: Laminate flooring cannot be easily recycled and may end up in landfills. When disposed of, it can release formaldehyde and other harmful chemicals into the environment. However, some companies have started recycling programs to reduce waste and environmental impact.
Short lifespan: Laminate flooring is generally not as durable or long-lasting as other flooring materials, such as hardwood. This means that it may need to be replaced more frequently, leading to more waste and environmental impact.
While laminate flooring is a popular and affordable option, it may not be the best choice for all situations. To mitigate the environmental issues associated with laminate flooring, consumers can look for products made from recycled or sustainably sourced materials, choose low-formaldehyde options, and properly dispose of old flooring. It is also important to select flooring that is durable and has a long lifespan to minimize waste and environmental impact.
Aluminum Made to Look Like Wood
There are some manufacturers that offer aluminum facade solutions for homeowners and commercial properties looking to achieve the look of wood. The aluminum products mimic the appearance of natural wood grains, knots, and textures.
While aluminum facades offer numerous advantages such as durability, flexibility, and low maintenance, there are also some disadvantages that should be considered, including:
Cost: Aluminum facades can be expensive compared to traditional wood cladding materials.
Corrosion: Aluminum is susceptible to corrosion if it is not properly treated or coated. Exposure to moisture and chemicals can lead to rust and discoloration, which can detract from the appearance of the building.
Thermal conductivity: Aluminum is a good conductor of heat, which can lead to energy loss in buildings. Additional insulation may be required to offset this problem.
Environmental concerns: The production of aluminum requires a significant amount of energy and generates greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, the extraction and processing of aluminum can have negative impacts on the environment.
Limited design options: While aluminum is a flexible material, there may be limitations to the design options available with this cladding material. Some architects and designers may prefer other materials for their aesthetic appeal or greater design flexibility.
Scratches and dents: Like all aluminum cladding materials, Knotwood is susceptible to scratches and dents, which can detract from its appearance.
Technological Updates in Wood
There have been many recent technological updates in the use of wood as a building material, which have made it more versatile, efficient, durable, and dimensionally stable.
Modified Wood Options
Various environmentally friendly chemical and heat treatments can be used to modify the properties of wood. For example, acetylation can make wood more durable and resistant to decay, while thermal modification can improve its stability and strength. This type of wood requires minimal upkeep to preserve its appearance and structural integrity over time. Low-maintenance modified wood products can be a great option for homeowners who want the beauty and warmth of wood without the hassle of regular maintenance. However, it’s important to choose the right type of wood for your specific application and to follow any recommended maintenance guidelines to ensure that your wood products last as long as possible.
Structural Analysis Software
Structural analysis software can simulate the performance of wood structures under different loads and conditions, allowing engineers and architects to optimize designs for strength, durability, and efficiency. This technology has led to the development of new building systems and techniques that use wood in innovative ways.
Sustainable Forestry Practices
Technology has made it possible to manage forests more sustainably, by using satellite imagery, remote sensing, and other tools to monitor forest health, track tree growth, and identify areas of concern. This technology has helped to reduce the environmental impact of harvesting wood while ensuring a steady supply of sustainably harvested timber for building and other uses.
Overall, technology has helped to make wood a more versatile, efficient, durable, and dimensionally stable building material, opening up new possibilities for architects, engineers, and builders to create innovative and sustainable structures. Moreover, wood has a natural warmth and character that is difficult to replicate with synthetic materials. While there are synthetic materials that can mimic the appearance of wood, they often fall short in terms of sustainability, texture, color variation, and overall aesthetic appeal.
Wood is one of the most mimicked building materials because of its adaptability, availability, and natural beauty. It can be shaped, cut, carved, and finished in a variety of ways, allowing it to be used for a wide range of applications, from furniture and flooring to building construction. In summary, while alternatives to natural wood products may have some advantages, they may not be able to fully replace the environmental and authenticity benefits that come with using natural wood. Plus due to technological updates in the use of wood as a building material, it is more versatile, efficient, durable, and sustainable than ever before.
A tree’s wood is also its memoir – Hope Jahren
Do you have questions about using real wood products in a specific application? We can help. Contact us below.
Thermal modification is a process that utilizes high heat to alter the dimensional composition of wood. The cellular structure is changed by applying heat without oxygen, which creates a controlled chemical reaction. The thermal modification process permanently modifies the cell walls of the wood and results in improved durability of the wood as well as increased dimensional stability.
Three Falls Residence – GRAPHITE Abodo Vulcan Cladding
The aim of modified wood is to overcome the shortcomings of standard timber. The modification process enhances the performance of the wood, resulting in improvements in the longevity of timbers – dimensional stability, decay resistance, reduced water absorption, less expansion/contraction, etc. In addition, since most advanced modification processes are environmentally friendly, the materials can still be disposed of properly at the end of the product life cycle.
Vancouver Residence – KOS Shou Sugi Ban Charred Kebony
What Are The Benefits of Using Thermally Modified Wood?
Durability: Wood becomes instantly more durable after being thermally modified. Water absorption in regular wood can cause warping, discoloration, and even the growth of bacteria or fungi. This is not an issue with thermally modified wood. Water cannot warp or deform it because the modification process naturally changes the cellular structure of the wood.
Aesthetics: Thermally modified wood has a beautiful, consistent chocolate-brown color from surface to core.
Sustainability: Solid wood building materials have a net-negative CO2 profile – better than any conventional building material. It requires less energy to create the finished product than other building materials such as concrete, metal, or plastic.
Environmentally Friendly: Many exterior wood products are treated with wood preservatives – some more toxic than others. The thermal modification process uses heat and steam to cure the wood. There are no harmful toxins or chemicals that are used in the process.
Corwith Residence – SVERTE Shou Sugi Ban Charred Kebony
Thermally Modified Wood Manufacturers
Abodo Thermally Modified Wood
Abodo wood is a great option for thermally modified wood that is durable and rapidly renewable. The timber has exceptional weatherability and maintains its durability and beauty for a lifetime.
Based in New Zealand, Abodo prides itself on producing a range of beautiful and durable thermally modified timber solutions that are safe, sustainable, and renewable. The company has a strong ethos around ensuring its timber is ethically sourced. From milling to building, they respect their material, the people who use it, and where it comes from. For every tree milled, Abodo ensures it provides more than 30 years of service, which is as long as it takes to grow a replacement tree.
Twin Gables ft. reSAWN TIMBER co. SiOO:X Abodo Vulcan Cladding
Benefits of Specifying Thermally Modified Abodo Vulcan Cladding
All Abodo wood is produced from well-managed sustainable sources including FSC® and other regionally certified woods. reSAWN TIMBER co. holds an FSC® Chain of Custody Certification, as well.
Abodo Vulcan cladding is virtually completely knot-free and has a Durability Class 1 Rating.
Patented glue lamination is used for a modern, clean vertical grain orientation. This provides superior weathering characteristics, greater stability, and less surface cracking. The wood ages with grace as it’s left to weather outdoors.
Outstanding dimensional stability results in less aesthetic maintenance and therefore less coating over the product’s lifetime.
Low carbon footprint: Abodo wood is an environmentally compatible substitute for carbon-intensive materials.
100% recyclable and reusable, naturally renewable.
Warranty: 15 years against fungal decay*.
Moisture content: Approx. 7% MC (+/- 2%) at the time of dispatch. It does not require acclimation prior to installation.
Glue: New generation polyurethane adhesive – VOC, solvent, and formaldehyde-free.
SFM 12-7A-1 – WUI Exterior Wall Siding and Sheathing.
Phase 1 – The kiln is slowly elevated in temperature until the moisture content of the wood is essentially zero %. The wood in the kiln is then heated further until it reaches the desired modification temperature – in most cases 230 degrees Celsius for outdoor end-use applications.
Phase 2 – The kiln is held at the modification temperature for a prescribed time to achieve full modification. This time is the critical point in the process.
Phase 3 – The kiln is allowed to cool, and the wood is reconditioned with steam (we bring the moisture content back to around 7%). Once cool enough the wood can be extracted from the kiln.
reSAWN TIMBER co. is proud to be the exclusive manufacturer and distributor of Abodo® thermally modified Vulcan cladding and decking products in the USA.
Kebony Modified Wood
Kebony is considered a dually-modified wood, which means it’s both chemically and thermally modified. That happens through their proprietary process called furfurylation. The Kebony technology modifies wood by forming stable, locked-in furan polymers in the wood cell walls. These increase the dimensional stability, as well as durability and hardness, of the wood. This process is based on impregnation with furfuryl alcohol produced from agricultural crop waste. Kebony thus uses a plant-derived waste product to give enhanced strength and durability to another plant product – namely wood.
Kebony Clear Decking
Kebony wood is safe since the wood does not splinter and doesn’t contain toxins or chemicals, nor does the wood get too hot in the summer. Furthermore, Kebony wood is resistant to rot and fungi, and other wood-destroying microorganisms in an above-ground context. Kebony is a low-maintenance material that does not require additional treatment beyond normal cleaning, thus, no oils or other impregnation solutions are needed.
Thermally Modified Red Oak
Thermally modified red oak is a popular option for locally sourced timber from the United States. In North America, red oak trees are prevalent and grow to a height of around 70 feet and a trunk diameter of 36″. Being the largest species group, it is highly sustainable.
While there are copious amounts of international building material manufacturers, local suppliers can offer benefits that overseas vendors cannot.
Carbon Footprint Reduction – Our relationship with our environment truly matters. Building materials that are locally sourced means shorter trips to haul, less greenhouse gas emissions, and less diesel fuel consumption.
Support Products Made in the USA – By specifying local materials, a product’s sustainability profile extends to extraction, manufacturing, and transportation practices.
Samples of our standard products and thermally modified wood offerings are available for architects and designers at no cost and shipped via UPS Ground. Click the button below to explore reSAWN’s complete product offering – sort by species, color, or application.
The building enclosure (envelope, skin, facade, etc.) represents one of the greatest risk elements of construction. It is subjected to various weather conditions and must be constructed to endure long-term deterioration and weathering. There are numerous options for installing exterior cladding. In order to combat water penetration, air leakage, and increased energy consumption, hygroscopic materials such as wood are best suited for rainscreen applications.
Building Enclosure
Rain and snow, the two most common types of water that fall on an exterior wall, are either pushed downward by gravity or pushed sideways by the wind. A rainscreen deploys an outside surface – a rainscreen cladding layer – to break the power of sideways, wind-driven water movement, allowing any water that passes through the microscopic gaps in the surface to lose speed. The majority of water merely bounces off the surface or runs down the side of the building.
Rainscreen Sub-StructureRainscreen Sub-Structure
Moisture-Control Functions Within a Rainscreen:
Drainage: Lapped or interlocked exterior wood cladding resists most moisture from the elements, but it is not watertight. An air gap behind the cladding combined with a means of egress provides a path for moisture to escape the wall assembly. Open-joint rain screens that maintain physical openings between the boards also have a gap and a drainage path behind the boards. In a wood cladding installation, the drainage gap is created by installing furring strips or girts over the water-resistive barrier.
There are also drainage matrix products that are designed to create drainage stand-off within their own thickness, eliminating the need for furring strips. These are commonly known as building wraps that combine the functions of a drainage plane, water-resistive barrier, and an air barrier into one product. reSAWN conventionally views assemblies that employ a matrix as less desirable for overall drying when compared to fully gapped assemblies that include furring strips. Though, drainage matrix products can be better suited for retrofit projects where a true rainscreen application isn’t feasible.
Break: The presence of an air gap limits the wicking transfer of absorbed moisture from material to material into the wall assembly.
Vent: Adding a ventilation path at the top of a rainscreen allows the vented opening – with the drainage opening at the bottom of the wall assembly – to enable convection in the air gap behind the cladding. The airflow promotes additional drying within the assembly.
Successful rainscreen designs consist of numerous chosen components that allow for a range of options to fit any project’s needs. A thorough understanding of a project site’s climatic dynamics should inform rain screen design.
SIOOX Abodo Vulcan Cladding
There are numerous high-quality components on the market that aid in the design of a successful rainscreen. Making high-quality detail choices throughout the design process and taking into account the whole wall assembly – from the exterior to the interior – can assist in the long-term utility and durability of a given rainscreen.
Membranes: Wall assemblies need to dry after wet weather conditions. Based on their design, wall assemblies dry inward, outward, or in both directions.
Water-resistive barriers block moisture and are often code-mandated in residential applications. In simplest form, these barriers are building wrap products attached to a building’s sheathing with mechanical fasteners or adhesives. In most cases, they are continuous or layered shingle-style across an entire facade.
Air barriers block air movement. Many building components in a wall assembly have air-blocking characteristics. To create fully effective air barriers, these materials should be combined with a system to ensure an envelope effect. Special attention must be given to openings such as windows and doors, transitions from wall to roof planes, and penetrations for mechanical and electrical intakes and outlets. An air barrier system is composed of a membrane supported by sheathing, seam tape, and specialized gaskets and seals at penetrations. Air can carry high amounts of moisture, so limiting the amount of air that can move through a wall assembly can help the likelihood of the enclosed portions of a wall staying dry.
Vapor barriers limit vapor diffusion. How much vapor movement a material experiences is known as its permeance value. Virtually all sheet, bat, or board building products have specific permeance determined by their composition and thickness. Vapor membrane products are specifically designed to limit vapor diffusion. Other products such as insulation have permeance as well. While their primary purpose is not vapor diffusion, as a component of the wall assembly, they have an impact. Efforts should be made to thoroughly research materials that make sense for the climate zone and project specifications. Negative impacts can occur within a wall assembly by the incorrect placement of a barrier with high vapor-blocking characteristics such as a polyethylene sheet. One of the greatest challenges occurs when a vapor barrier intended to keep a wall assembly from getting wet actually prohibits it from drying1.
The primary functions of water, air, and vapor barriers can be combined. While the needs of every application are project-specific, reSAWN sees repeat success in wood-clad rainscreen assemblies with the application of combined water and air barrier membranes that are also breathable, to allow any moisture present in the wall assembly to escape outwards.
Details:
A wall assembly’s success starts with attention to detail – including the project site conditions and material selection. The list below includes a limited sampling of some high-impact items.
Material Movement: When specifying wood cladding, an understanding of wood and its movement is imperative. Intentional allowances for the expansion and contraction of all wood components should be considered. Adequate interlocking (i.e. tongue and groove)or lap conditions should be planned to inhibit separation between boards for material contraction. Depending on the cut of the wood cladding (specific to grain orientation), the primary axis of movement in relation to the board’s orientation as installed may vary.
Material Stability and Sizing: The stability of wood, meaning how the wood maintains its original shape and dimension, is important within a rainscreen. Properties such as wood grade and wood modification can increase stability. Stability should play a central role in the cladding selection process, and this same process should be applied to the selection of the furring strips to which the cladding is fastened. The width and thickness of furring strips should allow for the intended depth of the drainage gap and also ensure a durable target for both the fasteners that tie the furring strips back into the wall’s structure as well as the fasteners that attach the wood cladding to the strips.
Fastener Choice: A stainless steel wood-to-wood fastener is an important component of a wood-clad rainscreen assembly. A project site’s geography can influence the grade of steel fastener used, as some may be more appropriate in coastal or other specialized climates. Nails should be ring shank siding nails. Screws should be appropriately sized to limit the potential of breaking and splitting when driven into the cladding. Head shape, size, color/coating, and the appropriateness of piloting fastener holes as well as fastener length in light of the self-synching/sealing properties of the water-resistive and air barriers should all be considered.
Penetrations: All penetrations through a rainscreen from windows to exhaust ducts should be thoroughly flashed and air sealed.
Continuity of Detailing: Detailing at corners, facade transitions, trims, sills caps, and like conditions can be challenging. Taking into account allowance for expansion, rear drainage, mitigation of pest infiltration, or vented channels are all important details to keep in mind during all project stages.
Durability During Construction: Components of a project will likely be exposed to the elements during the construction phase. Care should be taken to review how these components weather and react to UV exposure, as they will likely have exposure to the elements before the full assembly is complete. Many products sold specifically for applications in rainscreens are designed to be durable throughout the more rugged challenge of a project’s construction timeline.
Adherence to Product Guidelines: All application-specific information provided by component manufacturers should be reviewed during the design, pre-construction, and construction phases of a project.
reSAWN’s specification reps can help building owners, architects, designers, builders, and all team members navigate rainscreen applications. Starting these conversations early in the design process allows reSAWN to suggest mock-up best practices and project-specific solutions. Our exterior installation guidelines were made with years of experience in a multitude of geographies, unique site locations, and countless specifications.
This reSAWN-made mockup was placed at an elevation of 7,000 feet in Northern, California. The materials endured two consecutive harsh winters with heavy snowfall, ice, wind, and rain. The materials are weathering well despite the exterior conditions.
Contact us today to be connected with a local specification representative to discuss your project needs. We can advise on species and finish selection for your desired aesthetics, and product life cycle performance.
In this video & article, we discuss reSAWN’s Accoya modified wood offering which is prefinished with a waterborne exterior oil. Our one-coat (1C) and two-coat (2C) product offerings provide specifiers with the choice of a more saturated color if desired.
1C Option – Finished with 1 Coat
‘1C’ denotes Accoya wood that is prefinished with one coat of our proprietary exterior oil in the factory. There is no need to apply a second coat of finish post-install.
2C Option – Finished with 2 Coats
‘2C’ denotes Accoya wood that is prefinished with one coat of our proprietary exterior oil in the factory AND will require the installer to apply a second coat of finish post-install. This finish will be included on the sales order and shipped with the materials. Applying a second coat of finish post-install will further saturate the initial color of the cladding and extend the duration of the deeper color.
The video focuses on RAILAY 1C and RAILAY 2C, two of reSAWN’s Accoya wood products with a waterborne exterior oil.
Video Transcript:
Hi, I’m Diane with reSAWN TIMBER, and I’m here today to talk to you about several of our Accoya products that are available with 1C or 2C exterior finish. 1C indicates Accoya is prefinished with one of our exterior oils in the factory, and this does not require a second coat. 2C indicates Accoya is prefinished with one of our exterior oils in the factory, which will require a second coat onsite by the installer.
The big difference between 1C and 2C is the color saturation on day one and as it weathers over time. Applying a second coat of Accoya does enhance the initial color of the exterior cladding and it extends the life of that deeper color over time. However, if you choose not to apply that second coat of finish, that can be a cost savings for your project.
I’m here at the factory in Pennsylvania and we do testing of our own products outside on our weathering rigs. We test for aesthetics and performance. So here are two examples. This is RAILAY 1C and RAILAY 2C – these have been outside on our weathering rigs since September 2021. That is 10 months of accelerated weathering. It’s considered accelerated weathering because it’s on our rigs on a 45 degree angle facing due South.
reSAWN TIMBER co. Accelerated Weathering Rigs
So 10 months of accelerated weathering represents approximately 30 months on the job site. So you can see they are weathering a little bit differently, but yet they’re weathering beautifully. So as you have your project needs or requirements for exterior cladding and Accoya modified products, give us a call at reSAWN TIMBER and we’d be happy to help you out. Thanks!
RAILAY 1C – Day oneRAILAY 2C – Day one
What are the benefits of Accoya wood?
Performance: Tried and tested in the USA. Accoya wood is stable, water and rot-resistant, and comes with a warranty. Accoya wood is thoroughly tested and designed to perform with minimal movement (swell/shrink/distort). Accoya is indigestible by various insects, including termites, resulting in an effective barrier. With a 50-year above-ground and 25-year below-ground and freshwater warranty, Accoya wood can be specified with confidence and enjoyed for decades.
Finish: reSAWN’s carefully crafted Accoya products are thoroughly vetted and tested via reSAWN’s research and development processes to test the aesthetics and performance of the wood in addition to how it weathers. Materials will arrive on-site prefinished, with the option to apply a second coat if desired. Our proprietary finishing process combined with Accoya wood provides a beautiful, low-maintenance exterior siding option.
Sustainability: Sustainability is at the core of Accoya’s business and is part of the entire life cycle of the material, including sourcing, production, and recycling at the end of life. Accoya wood products are FSC® certified, have a low carbon footprint, and are non-toxic to people, pets, and the environment. Accoya wood is the only construction material to achieve Cradle to Cradle Platinum Certification™ for Material Health. Accoya wood siding specifications have a minimal environmental impact.
Sunset Hill featuring reSAWN TIMBER co. NIGIRI and YOSHIMI shou sugi ban charred Accoya
How is Accoya wood modified?
Accoya wood is modified through a process known as acetylation. Accoya takes radiata pine, a softwood, and subjects it to a vinegar known as acetic anhydride. Acetyls are naturally present in wood, and acetic anhydride enhances the hydroxyl groups, providing water-repelling characteristics. This process turns the softwood into a hardwood by preventing the cells in the wood from being able to absorb water. This vinegar is verified as non-toxic with Cradle to Cradle Certified Gold, scoring ‘Platinum’ for Material Health. This modification process gives Accoya its durability and rot and decay resistance.
Accoya wood accetylation process
Does Accoya wood require a lot of maintenance?
Not only is Accoya’s durability proven, but it has also been shown to retain its appearance, requiring much less frequent maintenance than other wood species. Since Accoya wood undergoes the acetylation modification process, it requires little to no maintenance. The modification process enhances the performance of Accoya wood, providing outstanding dimensional stability that results in lower maintenance frequency and therefore less coating over the lifetime of the product.
Accoya wood doesn’t require recoat maintenance. However, if the desire is to get back to that day one color, we do recommend a recoat for aesthetic purposes. Maintenance and recoating guidelines vary by product. Contact reSAWN TIMBER co. for product-specific information.
Samples of our Through Body Color Accoya products are available for architects and designers at no cost and shipped via UPS Ground. Click on the button below to order samples.
reSAWN TIMBER co.’s offering of Accoya® wood is expanding to include Accoya that has been impregnated with a non-toxic grey pigment for a through body color that is intended to be a living finish that will weather naturally in place and requires no maintenance – OXFORD, MARENGO, and GREY MATTER.
The advantage of these materials is that they are grey from day 1 and can be used to achieve consistent color on all exterior surfaces regardless of facing (north, south, east, west) or application orientation (cladding, roofing, soffits, underside of canopy). This grey color can also be seamlessly carried into the interior walls or ceilings.
OXFORD Through Body Color on Accoya Cladding
WHY SPECIFY ACCOYA?
Accoya is wood, but not as you know it. It is modified timber in which a process called acetylation, a cutting-edge patented technology, enables it to resist rot, defy the elements and stay strong for decades. With warranties starting at 10 years and going up to 50 years, its performance and properties are remarkable. From joinery for the home to bridges submerged in water, Accoya wood is a leading material that stands up to every application challenge – decking, cladding, and more.
OXFORD Through Body Color on Accoya Decking
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF THROUGH BODY COLOR ACCOYA?
Guaranteed durability backed by warranties:
Commercial Warranty: 10 year warranty on Decking; 50 year warranty on cladding, trim, and millwork
Residential Warranty: 25 year warranty on Decking; 50 year warranty on cladding, trim, and millwork (except in Florida – for Florida commercial warranty length applies)
Beautiful grey color: The day one grey color means no wait time for a naturally grey product. The through body color grey ensures a consistently beautiful appearance from day one.
No maintenance: Due to the through body grey color, OXFORD, MARENGO, and GREY MATTER do not have to be re-oiled regularly or re-colored after scratches.
Barefoot friendly: In addition to Accoya’s durability and dimensional stability, Accoya wood rarely warps and hardly cracks or splinters. OXFORD, when used as decking, will feel soft underfoot in the long term.
OXFORD Through Body Color on Accoya Decking & Pool Deck Surround
WILL OXFORD, MARENGO, AND GREY MATTER STAY GREY?
Through body color Accoya products are colored grey from the surface to the core, requiring less maintenance. These products are grey from day one, so there is no need to wait for the wood to weather or naturally patina. The coloring will stay grey without oiling or re-dying. Since the grey color is all the way through the board, it also means scratches and scrapes are not visible.
WHY SPECIFY reSAWN’s THROUGH BODY COLOR ACCOYA?
We work with woods’ natural tendency to grey, not against it. Our products look beautiful on day one and continue to as nature takes over – with little to no aesthetic maintenance needed. Each board works cohesively together yet each board has its own visual story. The result is modern originality & inherent textural beauty with each and every project.
Samples of our Through Body Color Accoya products are available for architects and designers at no cost and shipped via UPS Ground. Click on the button below to order samples.
Using sustainable building materials in the built environment is a top priority now, more than ever. Building and designing a structure in the modern era should include consideration for the long-lasting impact of all facets of the design and build process. Due to this shift in focus on sustainable building materials, wood flooring and exterior wood cladding are frequently sought out as sustainable building materials to specify. In addition to its environmental and sustainability attributes, wood has multiple benefits, including its aesthetic qualities, versatility, structural stability, and availability.
Environmental & Structural Benefits of Using Wood Cladding as an Exterior Building Material
According to the Environmental and Energy Study Institute, residential and commercial buildings are responsible for almost 40 % of U.S. carbon dioxide emissions1. Fortunately, utilizing exterior wood cladding helps to offset the emissions.
Wood is a carbon sink: Trees absorb carbon from the environment and hold onto the carbon through their life cycle – from a tree to building material. They use the energy from carbon dioxide in the air, sunlight, and water from the roots to create nutrients that fuel the rest of the tree. This means that solid wood building materials have a net-negative C02 profile, which helps reduce carbon emissions.
Source: Building Information Foundation, RTS; CEI-Bois
Wood has low embodied energy: Embodied energy is the total energy needed for extraction, processing, manufacturing, and delivery of building materials to a building site. Wood requires minimal energy to produce and install when compared to other building materials such as steel and concrete.
Wood has low thermal conductivity: Structures built with real wood cladding require less energy to heat and cool since wood is a natural insulator.
Renewable resource: Real wood is renewable, recyclable, and biodegradable meaning it will have less of an impact on the environment throughout its lifecycle.
Durability: When properly maintained, exterior wood cladding can stand the test of time. This makes wood an eco-friendly choice compared to other materials that require more maintenance or replacement. Different finishing processes can also help extend the life of the cladding.
Dimensional stability: Wood’s superior dimensional stability helps it perform well when exposed to the elements such as the sun, snow, and rain.
Source: Lignum June 2012
Benefits of Wood Based Designs in Interior Applications
Americans spend a whopping 93 percent of their lives indoors breathing in recycled air. What most don’t realize is the air we breathe indoors is on average 2X to 5X more toxic than what we breathe outdoors due to insufficient ventilation, synthetic building materials, and volatile organic compounds (VOC) from a variety of products and materials. Thus, for many people, the health risks related to indoor air pollution may be greater than that of outdoor exposure.
Incorporating natural materials such as real wood flooring into a built environment helps to reduce blood pressure, heart rates, and stress levels, whilst improving well-being, creativity, cognitive abilities, and the air we breathe. Wood flooring is a timeless option, as it has been a favored building material for years. With multiple species, finish options, color variations, widths, and grade options, it can easily match any design aesthetic. When properly installed and maintained, wood floors can outlast many other flooring materials. reSAWN offers solid and engineered construction wood flooring that not only looks great but is sustainable as well.
Long-Lastingand Durable: Whether solid or engineered construction, wood flooring is durable and can withstand the wear and tear of everyday life. This durability means a longer lifecycle for the product, especially when refinishing is considered instead of replacing. A recent report from Bona found a 78% carbon footprint reduction when refinishing rather than replacing wood floors2.
Better Air Quality: The EPA found that wood flooring improves overall air quality3. Wood flooring minimizes the acclimation of dust, dander, and other pollutants due to its solid surface. Choosing a finish that has a low to zero VOC content is also attributed to the air quality. reSAWN’s Hardwax-Oil finish is non-pollutant and completely non-toxic. It does not contain biocides, preservatives, or lead-benzene and is 100% VOC-free.
Biophilic Design: Numerous studies have found incorporating aspects of nature into the built environment, such as real wood flooring, can help the mental health and wellbeing of the building’s occupants.
reSAWN TIMBER co. KIP European White Oak flooring
reSAWN TIMBER co. provides new and reclaimed wood products for architectural specifications for flooring. Our carefully curated offering includes modern finishes on reclaimed woods and newly harvested wood species. We provide only the highest quality materials milled to our exacting standards and finished in a way that enhances the natural beauty of the wood. Our extensive offering includes solid & engineered construction, wide plank flooring, and FSC® woods.
Certifications for Green Building Initiatives
There are many certification programs that are often used by architects, designers, homeowners, and builders as guidelines and a solid framework for sustainable building initiatives. Although different programs have varying levels of standards, they all focus on building a healthier, more sustainable future in both the commercial and residential building sectors. At reSAWN TIMBER co. we focus on LEED®, Forest Stewardship Council (FSC®), and The Living Building Challenge.
LEED
LEED, also known as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is the most widely used green building certification system in the world. LEED-certified buildings save money, improve efficiency, lower carbon emissions, and create healthier places for people. Most projects, whether it’s new construction, a renovation, or an interior fit-out can apply for LEED credits.
A project earns LEED points/credits by following guidelines relating to carbon, energy, water, waste, transportation, materials, health, and indoor environmental quality. Points can be earned for each recognized green building feature. The more points obtained, the higher level of certification a project can achieve. The different levels of certification include LEED Certified, LEED Silver, LEED Gold, or LEED Platinum. A 2014 UC Berkeley study4 found that by building to LEED standards, buildings contributed 50% fewer greenhouse gasses than conventionally constructed buildings due to water consumption, 48% fewer greenhouse gasses due to solid waste, and 5% fewer greenhouse gases due to transportation.
Nixon Peabody – LEED Platinum Certified – reSAWN TIMBER co. Rift and Quarter Sawn White Oak Fooring
According to LEED:
35% of credits are related to climate change
20% of credits directly impact human health
15% of credits impact water resources
10% of credits affect biodiversity
10% of credits related to the green economy
5% of credits impact the community
5% of credits impact natural resources
A factor of LEED certification is material selection. Material selection can affect many aspects of a project, including comfort, air quality, and human health. reSAWN TIMBER co. lists earnable credits on all our products, so you can know firsthand what credits your project qualifies for. Some of the common credits reSAWN products qualify for include certified wood, rapidly renewable materials, and low-emitting materials.
FSC®
FSC®, also known as the Forest Stewardship Council, focuses on responsibly managed forests as a way to extend trees’ natural carbon sequestration throughout their lifecycle. FSC’s mission is to promote environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial, and economically viable management of the world’s forests. Two types of certification are offered, Chain of Custody and Forest Management. The certifications provide an honest, transparent look into the path the products take from the forest to a finished FSC® certified product.
reSAWN TIMBER co. – IKIGAI Shou Sugi Ban Charred FSC® Certified Accoya Exterior Cladding and Roofing
FSC® chain of custody certification assures that products sold with an FSC® claim originate from well-managed forests, controlled sources, or reclaimed materials. It includes the multiple stages of the product, including sourcing, processing, trading, and distribution. Certificate holders are also required to implement the FSC® core labor requirements in their operations, ensuring the organization does not partake in forced labor or discrimination in employment. reSAWN holds a Chain of Custody certificate, allowing most reSAWN products to be certified in 1 of 3 categories: FSC® 100%, FSC® Mix, and FSC® Recycled.
Living Building Challenge
The International Living Future Institute is leading the transformation toward a civilization that is socially just, culturally rich, and ecologically restorative. They understand that humanity needs to reconcile its relationship with the natural world and leave it better than it was found. ILFI offers many certifications and challenges to better the built environment, including the Living Building Challenge, Living Product Challenge, Living Community Challenge, and Zero Energy and Zero Carbon certification.
The Living Building Challenge is a philosophy, advocacy tool, and certification program for sustainable buildings. The challenge’s goals focus on resource conservation and sustainable practices in the architecture, design, and construction of all buildings while connecting the communities and their inhabitants to the world surrounding them. These goals can apply to new construction, existing buildings, landscape or infrastructure, and internal projects in the residential and commercial sectors. The program is constantly evolving – the current standard is The Living Building Challenge 4.0. They use a flower with seven petals, or Imperatives, of actionable standards to build and design for a Living Future.
Place: The Place petal focuses on understanding and honoring the place where the built environment stands while honoring, protecting, and enhancing the ecology surrounding the project.
Water: The Water petal focuses on an inherent understanding of the value of water – minimizing waste, avoiding pollution, using less, and not using potable water for irrigation to ensure responsible water use.
Energy: The Energy petal focuses on renewable energy that helps the building operate in an energy-efficient and pollution-free manner, minimizing carbon emissions related to energy.
Health & Happiness: The Health & Happiness petal focuses on creating healthy spaces that allow natural light, healthy air, and a healthy interior environment that benefits the project’s occupants and the nature surrounding it.
Materials: The Materials petal focuses on building materials that are non-toxic and ecologically restorative while being transparent about their ingredients. 50% of wood products must be FSC®, salvaged, or harvested on-site either for the purpose of clearing the area for construction or to restore or maintain the continued ecological function of the site. The remainder must be from low-risk sources5. The project must also contain one Declare label product per approximately 2,153 square feet of gross building area.
Equity: The Equity petal focuses on creating and nurturing communities that are just and inclusive, enabling all people to prosper and reach their full potential. This includes making the building accessible to all while ensuring that the building is mutually beneficial for its inhabitants and the community it supports.
Beauty: The Beauty petal focuses on connecting to nature through biophilic design. A beautiful building starts with people and nature and their symbiotic relationships to place, climate, culture, and community.
As of April 2019, ILFI reported 563 registered Living Building projects in 29 countries. Abodo Vulcan Cladding received the Declare label from the International Living Future Institute, affirming their products are Red List Free, making it an excellent building material choice. reSAWN TIMBER co. is proud to be the exclusive manufacturer and distributor of Abodo thermally modified Vulcan cladding, slats, and decking products in the USA.
Sustainability: A Pillar of Who We Are at reSAWN TIMBER co.
Aside from offering FSC® certified wood products and our contributions to LEED-certified projects, reSAWN is committed to the goals of sustainable building through the use of non-toxic finishes, reclaimed woods, FSC® certified modified woods and new products that are sustainably sourced.
reSAWN TIMBER co. was founded in 2009 by offering sustainable, low-VOC finishes to the architectural and design community in the Philadelphia area. From our humble beginnings 13 years ago to today, sustainability has and always will be a core value of our business.
reSAWN TIMBER co. is committed to working with Architects and Designers to create sustainable products that highlight wood’s natural beauty. We believe in making only high-quality products that are durable and meant to last for many years, which reduces building waste.
Net Zero Energy McDonald’s at Walt Disney World – Bay Lake, Florida – reSAWN TIMBER co. HALLO Charred Kebony® Slats
reSAWN’s extensive offering includes products that are:
FSC®certified – Accoya and Abodo modified wood products are FSC®-certified. Most of our flooring is available FSC® certified. (FSC® C122513)
Carbon negative – Abodo Vulcan Cladding’s release of their Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) included that Abodo Vulcan Cladding is carbon negative.
Cradle to Cradle Certified – Accoya is Cradle to Cradle Gold certified, due to the products’ environmental credentials and sustainable long life
Low to Zero VOC Finished Products– reSAWN’s versatile product offering includes finishes that are plant-based, low VOC, and Zero VOC.
Reclaimed offering – reSAWN’s reclaimed wood preserves the unique beauty of antique wood and comes from a variety of sources throughout the Appalachian Region.
LEED point eligible – Numerous reSAWN products qualify for LEED credits that range from rapidly renewable resource to low-emitting materials.
Locally sourced species– With Cypress sourced in the Southern United States, Alaskan Yellow Cedar sourced along the North American Pacific Coast from the California-Oregon border to Southern Alaska, and Western Red Cedar from the Pacific Northwest region; we offer wood cladding options that are sustainably harvested in the USA.
Backed by warranties – Our Modified wood offering includes Kebony, Abodo, and Accoya wood. Kebony is backed by a 30-year outdoor warranty, Abodo offers a 15-year warranty against fungal decay, and Accoya offers a 50-year above-ground warranty and a 25-year at/below ground level warranty.
Dune House ft. IRUKA shou sugi ban Cypress utilized passive building principlesCorwith Residence ft. SVERTE shou sugi ban Kebony cladding – Net Zero Home
We are continually improving our techniques and finishes; based on the needs in the building materials market, the observations of experienced industry leaders, and a first-hand understanding of customer desires and expectations.
reSAWN products can assist you in achieving your project goals in aesthetics, performance, and sustainability – all at the same time. Contact us today to connect with the local reSAWN representative in your area to learn more about our sustainable product offering.
In this video & article, reSAWN shows you how to clean & recoat charred exterior siding. The video focuses on IKIGAI which is one of our charred Accoya materials. IKIGAI is first burnt in the Japanese style of shou sugi ban which accentuates the natural grain pattern. It is then brushed to remove most of the charcoal layer and finished with an exterior oil top coat.
Video Transcript: Hi, this is Ryan with reSAWN TIMBER co. ‘s R+D Department.
Today we’re going to be showing you how to clean an exterior cladding product in preparation for a recoat.
Keep in mind, that Accoya is a modified wood and doesn’t require recoat maintenance. However, if the desire is to get back to that day one color, we do recommend a recoat for aesthetic purposes.
So the first step in this process is knowing when your cladding was installed. So we know – our test board for IKIGAI has been out on our testing rigs. We know this was put outside 3 years ago (1 year of weathering = 3 years of accelerated weathering). So, that falls in the 3-4 year window of when we recommend recoats.
reSAWN TIMBER co. Weathering Rigs
Accelerated Weathering Correlation
Accelerated weathering means exposure of our products facing South on a 45-degree angle. One year of accelerated weathering equals approximately three years of natural weathering.
Visual Inspection of Cladding
The next step would be to visually inspect the product for any kind of damage, fading, mold – things like that. And after taking a look at this, and knowing how long it’s been outside, we’ve decided to do a recoat on this product.
This product here is IKIGAI. This is a shou sugi ban product or a charred Accoya product.
And I think after we clean it and prep it and we get the finish on there, it’ll look just as good as the day it got installed*. So, let’s do that.
NOTE*: Maintenance and recoating guidelines vary by product. Contact reSAWN TIMBER co. for product-specific information.
IKIGAI Accoya – Before Cleaning & RecoatVisual Inspection of Exterior Cladding
Part 1 – Cleaning IKIGAI Accoya Exterior Wood Cladding
Step One – dampen the surface with water, using a garden hose if possible.
Step Two – apply reSAWN’s ready-to-use exterior wood cleaner using a soft-bristled brush.
NOTE: For lighter cleaning, the product can be diluted with water at a ratio of 1:2.
Step Three – scrub the treated area with a soft-bristled brush. That’s a nice soft-bristled brush. Working lengthwise along the wood until it is clean. For stubborn stains, repeating the treatment may be necessary.
Step Four – rinse thoroughly with water until all of the foam has been washed away.
Let the wood dry for a minimum of 24 hours before starting the recoat process.
Part 2 (Optional) – Recoating IKIGAI Accoya Exterior Wood Cladding
Step One – stir the oil finish provided by reSAWN thoroughly before use.
Step Two – once the clean surface is dry, apply a layer of oil finish supplied by reSAWN with a foam pad. Work length-wise across the boards. Maintain a wet edge to prevent any lap marks.
Step Three – wait for 1 to 3 minutes, allowing oil to penetrate. Then buff off traces of excess product with a piece of cloth.
Step Four – Let the surface dry for about 24 hours.
IKIGAI Accoya – AFTER Cleaning & Recoat
NOTE: Complete curing takes place after 7 days.
Cloths that are soaked in oil may spontaneously combust, and must therefore be submerged in water after use.
Accelerated Weather Testing at reSAWN TIMBER co.
At reSAWN, our Research & Development department ensures the quality assurance necessary to specify our exterior cladding products with confidence. Testing begins at the conception of a new product by placing the product on our accelerated weathering rigs. Our R & D team studies the finish performance and quality and structural performance of each product.
Accelerated Weathering is done at our facility in Telford, PA. Telford is located in the southeastern part of Pennsylvania in the Northeastern United States in the humid continental climate zone, with some characteristics of the humid subtropical climate that lies in Delaware and Maryland to the south. A humid continental climate is a climatic region typified by large seasonal temperature differences, with warm to hot (and often humid) summers and cold (sometimes severely cold in the northern areas) winters. Precipitation is usually distributed throughout the year. Telford experiences average temperatures of 25 °F to 45 °F in the winter and 65 °F to 85 °F in the summer. The average precipitation per month is around 3.5 inches with an average yearly precipitation of 41 inches. The average relative humidity for the year is 65%. The average UV index ranges from low-moderate in the winter (2-5) to high-very high in the summer (8-9).
Accelerated Weather Testing at reSAWN TIMBER co.
Materials are installed facing due South with approx. 8 hours of direct sunlight per day at a 45-degree angle to accelerate weathering. The actual weathering appearance and time frame at your site will be different depending on several factors including climate, altitude, and facing. In general, the acceleration factor is roughly 3:1 and so for example, 1 year of accelerated weather testing can be correlated to roughly 3 years of natural weathering. However, taking into consideration the usual high variation of test results obtained with wood samples and the variations in climate zones, facings, and weather — it is impossible to make an exact correlation to the time associated with weathering at your site.
[3:1 has to be qualified as it relates to the material being installed as vertical cladding in a Southern exposure in the Northern Hemisphere. 3-5 Years for Northern exposure. In both conditions, this assumes full UV Exposure. Cladding blocked by UV exposure will alter these estimated time frames. If reSAWN material is used as roof cladding (specifically 12:12 pitch) it’s a 1:1 correlation.]
At reSAWN TIMBER co. we celebrate and visually leverage wood’s inherent tendency to weather over time by designing modern, high-performance products that are meant to age in place with grace.
Six Square House, Bridgehampton, NY – IKIGAI Shou Sugi Ban
We work with woods’ natural tendency to grey, not against it. Our products look beautiful on day one and continue to as nature takes over. Each board works cohesively together yet each board has its own visual story. The result is modern originality & inherent textural beauty with each and every project.
