A deck isn’t just an outdoor extension – it’s a statement. Whether you’re envisioning a cozy backyard retreat or a sprawling entertainment space, choosing the best wood for decks is crucial. With so many deck wood types available, from traditional hardwoods to innovative modified wood decking, the right choice can impact durability, maintenance, aesthetics and even costs. There is a lot to consider. All deck wood types have their pros and cons. Some are more durable, stable, resistant to moisture and sustainable than others. What about modified wood decking? What is Ipe decking? Which wins when it’s composite vs wood deck? How much does a wood deck cost? This guide is designed to give you all the facts about all the different options you need to make the right decision for you.

Deck Wood Types

There are many different deck wood types and some that are not actually wood at all. So, let’s look at some of the most popular ones and see how they line up next to each other. Remember though, when shopping for the best wood for decks, don’t just focus on the aesthetics – durability matters just as much.  A high-quality decking material should last many years and withstand what you and mother nature throw at it. In fact, you’ll discover that in the long run, it really pays not to skimp on quality.

Composite vs Wood Deck

Not all decks are wood, in fact composite vs wood deck is the best place to start when deciding which is the best wood for decks.

Composite decking, made from a blend of wood fibers and plastic or sometimes pure PVC (100% plastic), is heavier and often in the same price range as premium hardwoods but it can have a longer lifespan. Because it is a composite material, it is highly resistant to rotting, insects and mold and needs no sealing, just the odd clean. Yes, it is available in a wide variety of colors but it does not look as natural as real timber decking. In terms of sustainability, whilst most composite decks are made from 95%+ recycled materials, composite decking is not biodegradable and will not break down.

Wood decking, whether it be hardwood or softwood, is undoubtedly more naturally beautiful than composite decking and is perfect for achieving a traditional look. Up-front, its cost is lower than composite decking and it can also be painted or stained in whatever color you like. To the touch, wood is cooler than composite decking which can get very hot in high temperatures. Wood decks, can decay split, warp or swell over time, but higher quality hardwood decking, if maintained well, can last anything up to 50 years. Natural wood decks can be sustainably sourced and are also more eco-friendly than composite as they are fully biodegradable.

Shown: Accoya Decking at the Poolside, Switzerland. Wooden terrace and privacy screen: Formare GmbH. Swimming pool construction: Vivell Schwimmbadtechnik AG. Landscape architect: Guido Syfrig. Outdoor design: Staub Marcel Gartenbau GmbH. Wood supplier: Holzpur AG

Hardwood vs Softwood

There are two key types of wood – hardwood and softwood – and as the name suggests, one is stronger and more durable than the other. So, which is the best wood for decks when it comes to hardwood vs softwood?

Hardwoods, including IPE, Cumaru, Tigerwood, Teak, Mahogany and Garapa wood, are not only beautiful, they are also highly durable and capable of lasting from 40 to 75 years.

Because they have a high natural oil content, they are capable of resisting mold, pests and decay more than softwoods.

As they are harder, they don’t scratch or dent as easily as a softwood deck. In fact, some hardwoods like Ipe are even fire-resistant.

The downsides of hardwoods are that they are expensive, heavy, hard to work with due to their density are more costly to install and can fade over time if not properly treated with UV oil. Stocks of some sustainably harvested FSC-certified hardwoods are limited, too.

Softwood decking is often made from Pressure-Treated Pine, Cedar, Douglas Fir, Redwood or Spruce. Lightweight, affordable and much easier than hardwood to work with, softwoods can be easily stained or painted and can be sustainably sourced, especially cedar and redwood, from fast-growing renewable forests.

It’s not all good news, though, as softwoods have a much shorter lifespan of between 10 and 25 years and only with consistent, proper maintenance. Softwood decks dent, scratch, warp and are more susceptible to damage by moisture, termites and fungi.

They are also high-maintenance compared to hardwoods, requiring sealing or staining at least every 1-2 years to avoid decay.

IPE Decking

If you want one of the hardest woods in the world, you could opt for Ipe decking. This Brazilian walnut timber, pronounced “ee-pay”, this dense and durable wood is naturally resistant to everything from scratches and dents to rot, insect damage and fire. Its resilience makes it suitable for extreme climates and can handle anything from hot and humid tropical climes to freezing cold conditions – plus its naturally textured surface means it is slip resistant when wet.

Ipe decking has an excellent lifespan, can last for between 40 and 75 years. While it doesn’t require sealing, applying oil annually helps maintain its deep, rich brown color and prevents it from aging to a silver-gray patina.

However, there are considerations to keep in mind. Ipe’s exceptional density makes it heavier and more challenging to work with requiring specialized tools, often leading to higher installation costs. It’s also one of the more expensive decking options available in terms of material costs and labor costs.

Additionally, Ipe is a slow-growing hardwood and overharvesting has led to scarcity, making sustainable sourcing crucial. If you choose Ipe decking, ensure it carries official FSC certification to verify responsible harvesting practices.

Bamboo Decking

Bamboo decking has gained popularity as an alternative to traditional hardwoods. However, bamboo is not technically a wood – it is a fast-growing grass. Since it regenerates quickly, bamboo is often marketed as a more sustainable option than slow-growing tropical hardwoods like Ipe.

Engineered bamboo decking is typically made by compressing bamboo fibers with adhesives under high heat and pressure, creating a dense, durable product. High-quality bamboo decking can be strong, resistant to insects and decay, and have a sleek, modern aesthetic.

Bamboo decking relies heavily on adhesives and chemical treatments to achieve its durability. While high-end bamboo decking manufacturers use safe adhesives, the presence of resins and binding agents may raise concerns about emissions and long-term performance.

Moreover, working with such a dense material can make cutting and fastening more difficult, requiring specialized tools and pre-drilling.

Bamboo’s extreme density presents several challenges. Its weight can make transportation and installation more difficult and expensive, requiring a stronger substructure to support the added load. The density also means that bamboo decking retains heat, making it uncomfortably hot underfoot in direct sunlight, much like some composite materials.

Additionally, while bamboo is durable, lower-quality versions can be prone to swelling, cracking, or delamination over time, especially in humid environments.

Durability

Comparing composite vs wood decking, composite decking is the most durable. It requires little to no maintenance and will look the same for years. Worry-free, it can be safely jet-washed, too.

However, while composite decking is marketed as a long-term solution, it can still experience issues such as fading, surface scratching, and warping in extreme temperatures. That said, the gap between composite decking, Ipe and modified woods is closer than you think in terms of durability and longevity.

High-quality natural wood decking, particularly modified woods like Accoya, offers exceptional long-term performance with the added benefit of a natural, authentic appearance.

Accoya stands out as one of the most durable wood decking options available, thanks to its unmatched dimensional stability and resistance to swelling, shrinking, and warping.

Unlike traditional softwoods, which are prone to movement when exposed to moisture, Accoya remains stable in all weather conditions, even in humid or coastal environments. It is naturally resistant to rot and insect damage, eliminating the need for harsh chemical treatments. Accoya decking is backed by a 25-year warranty, even when installed in challenging conditions, making it a reliable long-term choice.

Similarly, Ipe decking is renowned for its density and durability. However, its extreme hardness can make installation difficult, requiring specialized tools and pre-drilling, and it still requires regular oiling to maintain its color and prevent checking (surface cracks). Other hardwoods, while durable, are not as dimensionally stable as Accoya, meaning they may be more susceptible to movement and maintenance challenges over time.

Ultimately, if durability is your top priority, Accoya offers a unique combination of longevity, stability, and low maintenance that outperforms many traditional wood options.

With basic cleaning, Accoya can maintain its beauty and structure for decades—offering the warmth and character of natural wood without the typical drawbacks of swelling, warping, or decay.

How much does a wood deck cost?

The cost is often the clincher when deciding on wood or composite decking. Basically, the answer to how much does a wood deck cost is that it tends to increase with how durable they are.

For example, softwoods, like pressure treated pine, are the least durable and consequently the most budget-friendly option. However, as they are the least durable, more frequent maintenance is required as well as possibly replacement over time.

Composite decks, which are hardly affected by the elements and extremes in weather and require almost zero maintenance are amongst the most expensive. While the initial investment is higher, some homeowners find the long-term convenience appealing.

Modified wood decking, like Accoya, sits in the higher end of the price spectrum, but unlike composite, it’s real wood with a natural, timeless appeal.  It offers exceptional durability and dimensional stability, while maintaining the authentic beauty that only real timber provides. And when it comes to long-term value, Accoya stands out thanks to its outstanding 25-year warranty (even in challenging conditions). Combined with lower maintenance and replacement needs over time, it can offer significant cost savings in the long run.

The best wood for decks is…

So, in summary, composite wood aside, if you want the natural beauty of wood and you want it to last, the best wood for decks, when all factors are considered, is modified wood, closely followed by hardwood, then softwood.

If you need any more information about Accoya high-performance decking, please contact us.

Wood siding adds timeless charm and natural beauty to any building, but with so many options available, how do you choose the right one?

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know. We will discuss:

What are the different types of wood siding?
Styles of wood siding
Best wood siding: Aesthetics
Best wood siding: Durability
Best wood siding: Maintenance
Best wood siding: Cost
Traditional wood siding vs modified wood siding
Modified wood siding: Thermally vs acetylated wood

Now we have established the different types and styles of wood siding, we need to consider the four key attributes: aesthetics, durability, maintenance and cost.

• Aesthetics – how the wood looks, including its natural grain, color options, and how it changes over time.
• Durability – the wood’s ability to withstand environmental factors such as moisture, pests, and UV exposure.
• Maintenance – how much upkeep is required to keep the wood in good condition, including sealing, staining, and painting.
• Cost – the balance between initial price, longevity, and long-term maintenance expenses.

By examining these factors, you can determine the best wood siding that fits your project’s priorities, whether that’s long-term durability, minimal upkeep, or a specific aesthetic.

Traditional Wood Siding vs. Modified Wood Siding

In the search for the best wood siding, the ultimate showdown is between traditional wood siding and modified wood siding. One offers a lower price but potentially shorter lifespan, the other a higher pricetag but with up to five decades of guaranteed performance.

Traditional wood siding, such as Pine, Cedar, and Oak, tends to be more affordable initially but requires regular sealing, staining, or painting to protect against rot, warping, and decay. Over time, maintenance costs add up, and traditional wood siding will likely need replacement sooner than modified alternatives.

Still undecided?

If you have any more questions regarding which is the best wood siding for your project, or need more information about Accoya high-performance wood siding, please contact us.

Innovative urban landscape design using sustainable materials is key to creating greener, more livable cities. Urban spaces don’t only need to rely on vast green areas to make an impact.

Thoughtfully designed urban outdoor seating, strategically placed sustainable lighting, eco-friendly structures and sculptures can all enhance the physical and mental well-being while giving our towns and cities a more unique and inviting sense of identity.

Accoya’s role in sustainable urban landscape design

When designers, architects and specifiers consider materials for bringing their urban landscape design ideas to life, wood is the natural choice.

When sourced responsibly from sustainably managed forests, it becomes a highly renewable, carbon-negative building material – offering both aesthetic appeal and environmental benefits.

Accoya high-performance modified wood is a standout choice for sustainable urban landscaping. It is accredited by the FSC® and is Cradle to Cradle (C2C) overall Gold certified®. In fact, it is one of the very few building materials in the world to achieve C2C Platinum certification® for Material Health.

Non-toxic and with zero risk of leaching synthetic compounds or chemicals means it is safe for people and planet. Its unrivalled durability – with industry-leading warranties of up to 50 years – makes it ideal for long-lasting, low maintenance urban spaces. By choosing Accoya, designers can create sustainable, striking and resilient landscapes that stand the test of time.

Urban Outdoor Seating

Worth Square, New York

Under the gaze of New York’s iconic Flatiron Building at Worth Square, sits a wonderful example of urban landscape design by APE Studio and MoveART. The square hosts an elegantly designed space for people to meet and rest and its apex is a flowing, undulating piece of sustainable outdoor seating made from Accoya. Its inviting form encourages people of all ages to engage, interact and take five from the hustle and bustle of the urban plaza near Madison Square Park Conservancy.

Green Mile, Austria

Fotocredit: Stadt Graz/Foto Fischer

In the Austrian city of Graz, since 2013, Zinzendorfgasse, aka “Green Mile”, has been a vibrant experiment in urban change. It has been transformed into a slow street – a lively, greener meeting zone shared by both vehicles and pedestrians. Sustainable Accoya “parklets” by M. Hechenblaickner were created to provide robust and inviting urban outdoor seating where a wide diversity of people can pause, meet and enjoy. Built to last and leave a lasting impression.

The Strand, London

London is one of the busiest cities in the world and The Strand is one of the capital’s most congested and polluted streets. With the help of intelligent sustainable outdoor seating design and Accoya wood by LDA Design, it is now a more serene, greener destination. Three gently sweeping sculpted benches were installed on the newly pedestrianized section of The Strand for pedestrians to relax and enjoy in peace and tranquility of this new garden and lawn.

Urban Oasis, France

This development of a courtyard office building in Paris perfectly illustrates the transformative value of innovative urban outdoor seating. Harmoniously blending durable Accoya wood and steel together, the design completely changes the feel of the courtyard with an inspiring combination of sustainability, aesthetics and functionality. The result is an attractive space with sustainable outdoor seating that gives professionals working in the office a sense of mental well-being. The urban space was created through the collaboration of project architects BSTLL, project management by PILGRIM, and French artisan manufacturer Ateliers Georges Mahot.

Caernarfon Castle, Wales

At Wales’ first UNESCO World Heritage Site, Accoya wood decking and urban outdoor seating was installed as part of a £5m conservation and development project. Buttress Architects specified Accoya wood for the new rooftop viewing deck and seating areas which has similar tones to the castle’s original masonry and will weather in time to tie in with the overall look and feel of the castle. It adds a new contemporary layer to Caernarfon Castle’s rich history.

Award-winning Benches, Dubai

In the UAE emirate of Dubai, Accoya was selected by Szonyi for its impressive environmental credentials for this innovative sustainable outdoor seating design. The bench is constructed by Aubrilam using boomerang shaped Accoya sections, hinged at their apex along a linear steel axis, which enable the public to change the configuration of the seating. The advanced modified wood’s strength and durability mean it can withstand constant reconfiguration. This urban outdoor seating design won the top award at the Design Days Dubai Urban Commissions competition.

Thiepval Museum, France

President Macron unveiled this unique sustainable outdoor seating design in the “Peace Garden” at the Thiepval memorial near Amiens in Northern France. At 36 meters long, this bench was created to commemorate the WW1 Armistice and is the longest seat in the world made from sustainable Accoya modified wood. The bench that snakes through the wood, wrapping around and engaging with existing trees, is inspired by the ribbon of history that connects both the past and the future. Deliberately sanded and untreated to weather naturally, the Accoya wood was selected for its sustainability, minimal maintenance and 50-year above ground guarantee. A lasting tribute. Created in collaboration with Oxford Planters and Fisher Tomlin & Bowyer, the bench—crafted from 2.5 cubic metres of Accoya wood supplied by Arnold Laver—was built in six weeks and installed in two days as the centerpiece of the ‘peace garden.’

Floating Jetty, Amsterdam

On Oosterdokseiland island, just to the east of Amsterdam Centraal Station, a long floating jetty, featuring 5 sleek contemporary benches, were all created from Accoya wood distributed by Van Swaay and designed by IPV Delft. This sustainable outdoor seating and decking uses over 300 meters of Accoya deck planks which was selected not only for its eco credentials but also for to its unrivalled dimensional stability, long service life and low maintenance. After researching Oak and other wood species for the Jetty, De Boer and De Groot civil works chose Accoya due to its dimensional stability, long service life and sustainability credentials.

Urban Lighting Design

The Pike, CA USA

In downtown Long Beach, California, a newly reinvented and vibrant shopping, leisure and entertainment district called The Pike is a popular waterfront destination. Architects responsible for the urban lighting design specified lighting poles with double aluminum extrusion uprights and Accoya high-performance wood wood center accents and fixture arms. Accoya was selected as the project demanded sustainable lighting with strong, highly durable materials and finishes that provide a long-lasting solution. The Accoya light poles were created and designed by Structura, as part of their Duo Horizontal Arm range. With the help of P+R Architects who are now known as Retail Design Collaborative, The Pike has now been repositioned into a popular waterfront destination – a newly reinvented, vibrant shopping, dining and entertainment district, lining the Downtown Long Beach to Shoreline Village.

Biltmore Restaurant, AZ USA

The upscale area of Biltmore, Arizona, required sustainable lighting for a new concept restaurant called Hillstone. The urban lighting design brief was to seamlessly blend the indoor and outdoor experience and to do that, Accoya high-performance wood lighting poles were selected and strategically sighted. This sustainable lighting solution blends nature and style with stability and durability.

St Patrick’s Island, Canada

The urban landscape design company tasked with the St. Patrick’s Island project selected elegant sustainable lighting poles featuring Accoya high-performance wood for “The Tip” section of the island which overlooks downtown Calgary. As the project was close to a wetland, Accoya was the ideal choice due to its unrivalled durability, stability and ability to last 50 years above ground and 25 years in ground. The wood’s eco credentials also met the designer’s sustainable and environmental vision. A superb example of biophilic design. The project involved Structura for lighting design, CMLC for public engagement, and Civitas with W Architecture for park design.

Solar Bollards

 

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Sustainable urban lighting design is becoming increasingly important to designers of urban projects. These solar bollards by Structure provide an eco-friendly way of helping create attractive and safer lighting for property, pathways, parking lots and public and commercial spaces. The product designers selected Accoya high-performance wood made from renewable and sustainable sources. It was chosen not only its aesthetics, but also for its durability, paint retention, dimensional stability and in-ground performance.

Lighting Bollards, France

Highly eco-responsible, these lighting poles by Aubrilam are made of Accoya high-performance wood, specified for their durability, stability and sustainability. The lights themselves are highly efficient in terms of energy usage, too.

Urban Structures Design

Play Pod, NSW Australia

A new super-neighborhood center in Eastern Creek, New South Wales provides a place to shop, eat, socialize, connect and play. The Architectural Pod Playground Designed by Arcadia Landscape Architecture and realised by Tilt Industrial Design, features a piece of bespoke urban landscape design made from Accoya wood. Made to an organic design, this innovative curved timber Play Pod structure is created using Accoya beams and battens as key design features. Lightweight, stable, sustainable and durable, Accoya will give today’s and future children decades of safe and inspiring play. The curved glulam beams and battens were fabricated by Curvwood using Accoya wood, which was supplied by Mathews Timber Sydney.

Rosenfeld Park, Basel, Switzerland

Sometimes the best urban landscape project by Holzpur is actually the most fun one. Take this playground in Rosenfeld Park in Basel, Switzerland which projects a quirky and innovative design language and features a series of climbing eggs. Made from a combination of robust, high-quality Accoya and locust wood, the eggs invite children to develop their creativity and skills. The durability and stability of Accoya ensure they have fun learning in a safe and engaging play environment.

Japanese Pavilion, English Channel Islands

© Chris George Photography

This brand new Accoya wood pavilion was installed at Sausmarez Park on Guernsey in the English Channel Islands by Paul’s Joinery Ltd. The Japanese style pavilion is a replacement for the previous pavilion that had become rotten and unsafe for visitors. The charity project selected Accoya high-performance wood due to its high stability, durability and long lifespan with a guarantee to withstand the elements. All timbers used to create the pavilion are Accoya, except the cedar roof shingles.

Autistic Garden, London

The RHS Chelsea Flower Show is one of the world’s premier annual garden events and in 2024, Accoya wood and Accoya Color were selected for the urban landscape design of the National Autistic Garden. Designed in collaboration with the National Autistic Society, the designers, Dido Milne of CSK Architects and Sophie Parmenter in collaboration with the National Autistic Society, created distinct spaces that represent different type of social interaction. Accoya’s superior sustainability credentials and durability made this wood the obvious choice for the garden’s pavilions and the boardwalk utilized Accoya Color, chosen for its weather resistance, longevity and slip resistant qualities, which were important for when it was relocated to Scotland after the show.

Urban Sculptural Design

Soundwave, NSW Australia

A highly personal piece of urban landscape design was created for a private garden in Vaucluse on the South Head east of Sydney. This Sculptural Soundwave Symphony consists of a sequence of 270 laminated Accoya wood blades that make up the sound waves of the client’s daughter’s wedding song. Each blade of the 16-meter long soundwave has its own unique contours and dimensions and the whole installation has the illusion of floating. The adjoining deck is also made of Accoya which was also selected for its unmatched dimensional stability, durability, and sustainability. Outhouse Design led the project, collaborating with Curvwood, a renowned Sydney-based glulam manufacturer, to bring the vision to life.

Nine Elms, England

Situated near the iconic Battersea Power Station on the south bank of the River Thames in Nine Elms, London, this Accoya wood sculpture was designed by MoveART to create a sense of peace and inspiration to this densely populated area. The regenerated Battersea Power Station has attracted throngs of new visitors and residents and these impressive examples of urban landscape design have brightened up the area. Accoya sustainable wood was specified for all sculptures for its exceptional durability and stability and sustainability benefits.

Gascoigne Park, England

This vibrant public space in Barking, East London, is renowned for its innovative and sustainable landscape design and is the perfect demonstration of the versatility and durability of Accoya wood. Designed by MoveART to create an inviting environment, the three moveable sculptures enable the users to change each object. The exceptional durability and barefoot-friendly nature of Accoya enables visitors to comfortably engage with the sculptures free from the risk of splinters.

If you need any more information about Accoya applications for urban landscape design, please contact us.

You may have seen the use of dark external Shou Sugi Ban siding in Japanese architecture in modern and centuries old buildings. This effect is not simply done for aesthetic reasons, it is created by the charring of timbers to increase the stability and durability of the wood. Outstanding stability is something we at Accoya immediately identify with.

The history of Shou Sugi Ban

Shou Sugi Ban, which is also known as “Yakisugi”, is a traditional form of wood preservation which originated in Japan in the 18th Century. Its geographical origins are believed to be in the Sendai region where this unusual and highly attractive charring technique was created to strengthen and protect wood. For such a simple, old and traditional method, it performs incredibly well by today’s standards and used extensively worldwide.

The benefits of Shou Sugi Ban

Burnt wood siding not only looks stylish and contemporary, blackened timber also provides many tangible and important benefits over untreated wood.

• Stability – one of the key benefits of employing the Shou Sugi Ban technique to timber is the increased strength and stability it brings. Burnt wood siding is resistant to twisting, distorting and warping. This makes it an excellent long-term exterior siding material.
• Protection – Japanese burnt wood siding is highly resistant to temperature and moisture. The process of Shou Sugi Ban creates a naturally waterproof surface that is almost impossible to reignite. This dramatically extends the lifespan of the burnt wood siding.
• Preservation – during the charring process, the pores in the timber shrink which reduces their ability to retain water and decay. Pests such as insects and termites feed on mold, but being waterproof, charred wood takes away the food they thrive on.
• Sustainability – Shou Sugi Ban siding is environmentally friendly as it doesn’t contain any chemicals or treatments that are hazardous to the environment.
• Low-maintenance – Shou Sugi Ban burnt wood siding has a prolonged life and needs very little maintenance, especially if the timbers that receive the treatment are Accoya wood which already carry a 50-year guarantee.
• Aesthetics – blackened timber is a highly contemporary look that is proving increasingly popular particularly for exterior timber siding. Its charcoal black tones or contrasts perfectly with almost any colour palette whilst it also emphasizes the natural textural pattern and grain of the wood, Accoya wood in particular.

Woods suitable for Shou Sugi Ban siding

Not all woods are ideal for Shou Sugi Ban treatment. Those that will make good burnt wood siding include Accoya, cedar, pine, spruce and larch timbers. One of the advantages of using charred Accoya wood is that it creates a highly refined and defined pattern in comparison to other wood species.

The traditional Shou Sugi Ban firing process

There are several steps involved in the centuries-old process of creating Japanese burnt wood siding.

First the wood is dried to reduce the moisture content of the wood. This ensures that the wood burns more evenly. Next the surface of the wood needs to be made flat by planing and sanding its surfaces.

To create a very high even temperature and consistent deep charring, one side of the wood is burnt by tying three planks together to effectively form a tall chimney and then lighting a fire below it. The type of wood dictates how long and how intensely the blackened timber is burnt for. The skill to Shou Sugi Ban is in achieving the correct balance of surface protection and retaining structural integrity.

Finally, the charred wood planks are separated and cooled quickly. To finish, the charring can be brushed away using a wire brush before an oil or water-based stain is applied. If used indoors, to an additional fix layer is applied.

Modern uses for Shou Sugi Ban siding

Architects and interior designers worldwide use Japanese burnt wood siding to great effect in various applications both inside and outside of the buildings and homes they create.

In Sweden, architect Abelardo Gonzalez created a new build family home with an entire façade of Shou Sugi Ban burnt wood siding, including across the roof.

An award-winning symbolic memorial monument in Edmonton, Canada, designed by Shape Architecture Inc. and PECHET Studio, is protected from Alberta’s long severe winters by Shou Sugi Ban siding.

Delta Millworks used charred wood to panel the interior walls in the living room of a contemporary residential home based in San Franscisco to dramatic effect.

In Park City, Utah, a modern three-story Passivhaus designed and built by Klima Architecture. Highly sustainable and energy efficient, the house’s exterior is wrapped in Shou Sugi Ban siding to fit with the eco-conscious theme.

LaRue Architects revamped a 1880s townhouse in Austin, Texas into a modern hillside home. The stairwell features burnt wood siding with a custom grey finish.

In the Netherlands, the owners of a beautiful private residence chose a striking facade of Shou Sugi Ban blackened timber for their garage and contrasted it with a natural wood garage door.

The last word on Shou Sugi Ban

If you are looking for an unusual, dramatic and contemporary siding material that offers excellent protection, is sustainable and easy to maintain, you should consider Shou Sugi Ban Japanese burnt wood siding. Accoya offers a range of highly durable, stable and beautiful charred timber siding which you can explore at your leisure.

What do you know about thermally modified wood?

With so many types of wood available, each crafted for specific purposes, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Not all of them are simple untreated softwood and hardwood lumber. Some of them have been specially modified to enhance their durability, stability or appearance. One of these modified lumber types is called thermally modified wood. But what exactly is thermally modified wood? What are the pros and cons of thermally modified wood decking and thermally modified wood siding? Are there any particular problems specific to thermally modified wood and how much does it cost? Let’s break it down and get to the heart of the matter.

What is thermally modified wood?

As the name suggests, this is a process that uses heat to change the wood. Thermal modification involves heating wood in a controlled environment to high temperatures of approximately 320-450°F degrees C with very little or no oxygen. This process completely transforms the wood’s chemical structure by breaking down hemicellulose and extracting moisture. Hemicellulose is something that feeds fungi that causes decay in wood.

What does thermal modification do to wood?

Thermal modification increases the durability of softwood by making it more resistant to decay, insects and fungi. Thermally modified wood is also more stable than traditional softwoods because after thermal modification, the wood absorbs less moisture, so it doesn’t swell, warp or shrink like untreated wood might. This makes it a good choice for high-temperature spaces like saunas and also in outdoor and humid environments.

A side effect of thermal modification is that it turns the wood richer and darker in tone. While initially thermally modified wood has a richer and darker color, over time, when exposed to UV rays, it will turn a silver-grey patina, just like untreated woods. To maintain the darker color, a UV-protective finish will need to be applied regularly.

Thermally modified wood decking

Thermally modified wood has many uses. It is extensively used for external decking due to its improved stability, durability and increased resistance to moisture, warping and swelling. Also, being exposed outside, often under harsh conditions, the thermal modification process makes it more resistant to the elements, insects, water ingress and rotting. Thermally modified decking is eco-friendly as only heat and steam is used in the modification process.

Thermally modified wood problems

Thermally modified wood does however come with a few drawbacks. Despite being stronger and more durable than untreated softwoods, thermally modified wood problems include:

• In comparison to Accoya, thermally modified wood can be brittle and weak, meaning it may not be strong enough for higher load-bearing use.
• Moisture can still be absorbed into the wood which, over time, can cause splitting and cracking.
• The darker tone created by the thermal modification process can actually fade in time meaning a UV protective treatment will be needed for exterior applications.

Thermally modified wood price

Budget often comes into play when specifying building materials, especially lumber, so the thermally modified wood price point is important. All said and done, is thermally modified wood a cost-conscious value choice? The answer is that everything is relative. Untreated softwood is cheaper than thermally modified wood, however, softwood doesn’t have the strength and durability. Does that make thermally modified wood the ideal choice? To make the best choice, you need to consider performance, maintenance, and long-term value. That’s why Accoya deserves a spot in the comparison.

What is Accoya?

Accoya is a modified wood, but instead of undergoing thermal modification, it is transformed through a unique acetylation process. This process alters the wood at a molecular level, enhancing its durability and stability and maintaining its natural beauty, strength and character. Made from fast-growing, certified sustainable timber, Accoya is one of the few building materials to achieve Cradle to Cradle Gold certification, with a Platinum rating in material health.

Although technically a chemically modified wood, Accoya is non-toxic, as its process increases the naturally occurring levels of acetic anhydride, rather than introducing harmful substances. The result is a high-performance wood with superior dimensional stability and durability, surpassing thermally modified wood alternatives.

Thermally modified wood vs Accoya

Whilst Accoya is more premium in price, when you put thermally modified wood vs Accoya head-to-head, Accoya does has several significant advantages:

•  Accoya acetylated wood has far superior, strength, durability and long-term value and it is backed by an unrivalled 50-year above ground warranty for wood durability.
• Compared to thermally modified wood, Accoya offers exceptional stability with minimal shrinking, swelling or warping – ensuring that boards arrive straight and stay straight.
• Accoya performs highly in wet conditions and is ideal for decking, siding, windows, doors and even swimming pools.
• Accoya is manufactured in the United States and is sustainable with FSC® Accreditation and Cradle to Cradle Gold certification™. It is also the only construction material in the world to achieve C2C Platinum certification™ for Material Health.
• Tests with thermogram images showed that Accoya wooden decks stay pleasantly cool, even on the hottest days. Accoya performed significantly better than comparable decking materials.

Accoya or Thermal Modification? The Smart Choice is Yours

You have heard the pros and cons of thermally modified wood vs Accoya, but ultimately, you need to make the choice between higher performance, longevity, sustainability and durability vs good performance, shorter lifespan and a lower price.

To see Accoya in real-life, visit a location near you.

Vinyl siding or wood siding – which side should you take?

Siding is a protective skin that protects your home from the elements including harsh UV rays, rain, snow, and wind. But that is only half of the story. Siding can also add to the aesthetic value of your home and make your property more attractive and desirable to potential buyers. So, it can be an investment that can add tremendous value, too. With two key types of siding on the market – vinyl siding and wood siding – if you are intending to install siding, you have an important decision to make: vinyl siding vs wood siding? It’s a straight choice, but is it a straightforward one? Let’s explore both options.

What is vinyl siding and wood siding?

Siding, whether vinyl or wood, is available in a variety of different styles and grades, but essentially, it is usually individual pieces of wood or vinyl that clad the side of a building to offer protection and improve its appearance. There are numerous different styles of siding which you can use to achieve a particular look.

Vinyl Siding Styles

• Dutch Lap – for a traditional or colonial style similar to clapboard siding but with a decorative groove.
• Log Cabin – imitation log siding which has a rounded profile to recreate a rustic cabin-style.
• Shake & Shingle – designed to mimic cedar shingles or shakes for a coastal, Cape Cod or craftsman look.
• Vertical – tall vertical “board and batten” style siding for a striking modern or farmhouse design aesthetic.
• Insulated – available in a variety of styles, it has built-in foam insulation to improve energy efficiency.

Wood Siding Styles

• Clapboard – horizontal overlapping planks that can be painted or stained to create a traditional, colonial, Cape Cod, or farmhouse style.
• Cedar Shingles – small, square rectangular pieces of wood for a coastal, cottage, or craftsman style.
• Log Siding – recreates the look of a cozy log cabin or rustic mountain lodge.
• Board & Batten – this vertical siding of boards and narrow strips creates a striking contemporary look.
• Tongue & Groove – available smooth or beveled and mounted vertically or horizontally, these interlocking wood boards create a seamless design.

Side by side, how do vinyl and wood siding look?

The aesthetic appeal of siding differs according to whether you choose wood or vinyl. If you want natural beauty, then wood siding is the obvious choice, also it can be painted or stained in any color you wish. Wood siding fades over time, which can be an attractive natural look, however, if painted or stained, it could need repainting or restaining after several years. If not maintained properly, wood siding could warp or split.

Vinyl siding is quite different. Whilst it can mimic the look of wood, shingles and other textures, it can look artificial. It tends to work better for more modern properties, and whilst it doesn’t need repainting, it’s not easy to change the colour if you wanted to refinish or repaint it.

How long does vinyl siding last vs wood siding?

When weighing up vinyl siding vs wood siding, maintenance and upkeep need to be carefully considered. How long does vinyl siding last is an obvious question. Vinyl siding is relatively low maintenance, fade-resistant, doesn’t attract insects and requires occasional washing with soapy water. The downsides are it can crack or warp in extremes of temperature and if you live in a humid area, moisture can get trapped and mold can develop.

Depending on the type of wood it is made of, wood siding may need repainting or treating to protect from termites, moisture and mold every 5-7years. Sealing the wood also protects against cracking and warping. The big advantage of wood siding though is that it is easily repairable and if you want a new look, you can paint or stain it a different color. If you choose Accoya, a modified wood, as your siding, it will out-perform even the most durable tropical hardwood siding and be covered by an industry-leading warranty of up to 50 years.

How about installation?

If you are a skilled DIYer and have some experience of carpentry, there’s nothing to stop you installing wood siding. Yes, it does require precise cutting, nailing, and sealing, but the end result can look stunning. You can of course hire a professional carpenter to clad your home with wood siding for you. Vinyl siding is lightweight, flexible, and comes as interlocking panels. It does require proper tools and expert knowledge to fit. So, unless you are an advanced DIYer, we advise a professional installer to do the job which will avoid gaps or inadequate sealing that could lead to damage by water.

Wood siding vs vinyl siding

Cost is a factor when it comes to choosing between siding types. Vinyl siding prices are typically lower than wood siding, however, you have to look at the wider picture. If you want siding that looks natural, authentic, is customizable, and will add more value to your property, then investing in wood siding is the answer. If budget is top of your agenda along with low maintenance, then vinyl siding, whilst looking artificial, could be for you. The key thing to consider is the long-term cost, which is why Accoya modified wood, that has a significantly longer lifespan that traditional wood siding and a warranty to back it up, can add beauty and value to a property.

Is wood siding better than vinyl?

Wood siding and vinyl siding both have their own individual strengths, but one final thing you need to consider, especially in today’s changing climate, is sustainability. Wood siding and vinyl siding have quite different environmental impacts.

Wood siding is biodegradable, renewable, recyclable and, if FSC-certified, can be sustainably harvested and responsibly sourced. Vinyl siding, however, is made from plastic-based PVC that is non-biodegradable and tricky to recycle. Also, if in a fire, harmful chemicals in vinyl siding can produce toxic fumes.

The verdict

To summarize, if you want premium authentic siding with a natural look that can be re-painted or re-stained to whatever color you desire or keeping it natural to lower maintenance requirements, invest in wood siding that will add value. Working to a tight budget? Vinyl siding is cheaper and lower maintenance but looks artificial and won’t add anywhere near as much value to your home.

For more information, visit our siding page or contact us.