
Timber Cladding – A Comprehensive Guide for Selecting the Best Wood
11.06.2025
Choosing the best wood for cladding
Timber cladding 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:
The different types of timber cladding
Styles of timber cladding
Best timber cladding: Aesthetics
Best timber cladding: Durability
Best timber cladding: Maintenance
Best timber cladding: Cost
Traditional timber cladding vs modified wood cladding
Modified wood siding: Thermally vs acetylated wood
The different types of timber cladding
There are numerous different types of timber cladding available on the market but to help choose the best timber cladding, you need to look at all the available options:
- Pine Cladding – affordable and easy to work with, but pine cladding is soft and therefore can be more prone to dents, cracking and warping as well as rotting if not properly sealed and maintained.
- Oak Cladding – beautiful, strong and durable option with a distinctive grain, but it does require regular sealing to prevent moisture absorption and decay. It is less commonly used due to cost and maintenance needs.
- Cypress Wood Cladding – naturally resistant to rot and moisture due to its natural oils. A durable choice that requires minimal maintenance but can be costly and difficult to source in some regions.
- Western Red Cedar Cladding – a popular, moderately expensive timber cladding that is naturally resistant to insects and decay. However, it does need regular maintenance such as staining or sealing to prevent warping, splitting and splintering.
- Douglas Fir Wood Cladding – a strong, lightweight timber with uniform, straight grain that resists twisting, heat and moisture. It holds finishes well, but is not as naturally decay-resistant as cedar or redwood and requires proper sealing.
- Ipe Wood Cladding – a dense, naturally durable low-maintenance hardwood but comes at a high purchase cost. It is naturally resistant to insects, rot, and moisture and has a long lifespan, but is difficult to work with due to its hardness.
- Engineered Wood Cladding – a manufactured product made from wood fibres and resin. It is engineered for durability and hence resistant to water, warping, fungus, is highly durable and low-maintenance. It is a cost-effective alternative to solid wood and requires less maintenance, but lower-quality options may be less durable, and improper sealing can lead to moisture-related issues over time.
- Thermally Modified Wood Cladding – heat-treated wood that becomes more stable, moisture-resistant and durable. A sustainable choice that offers enhanced longevity while maintaining a natural wood appearance.
- Charred Wood Cladding (Yakisugi) – traditionally a Japanese technique, where wood is charred to create a striking and durable surface and improves fire-resistance. It creates a unique aesthetic but may be prone to damage when it comes to extreme weathers such as hail.
- Accoya Wood Cladding – considered one of the best and most advanced wood siding options, Accoya is a high-performance, acetylated wood known for its exceptional durability, dimensional stability, and resistance to rot, swelling, and insects. It is a sustainable choice with extensive warranties, though its superior quality comes at a premium price.
Project shown: Villa M facade and terrace, Germany. Architects: Delugan Meissl Associated Architects. Implementation planning: GME group. Photographs: Piet Niemann

Styles of timber cladding
It is not only the type of timber, but also the style of the timber cladding that plays a crucial role in the final look, durability and installation methods. Here are some wood cladding styles:
- Clapboard Cladding – one of the most popular timber cladding styles, using thin horizontal long planks that slightly overlap, creating a classic, weather-resistant design. Also known as lap siding.
- Board & Batten Cladding – a traditional vertical cladding style where wide vertical boards of wood are installed side by side with narrower strips (battens) covering the seams. This style creates a rustic or farmhouse aesthetic and offers good durability.
- Bevel Cladding – similar to clapboard but with a tapered design, where the top edge is thinner than the bottom, creating a natural water-shedding effect.
- Tongue & Groove Cladding – features interlocking edges for a seamless, smooth appearance. Can be installed vertically, horizontally, or diagonally for different design effects.
- Channel Rustic Cladding – a variation of shiplap with a small channel between boards, adding texture while allowing for slight expansion and contraction of the wood. This style is less common, but is upcoming especially in modern architecture.
- Shiplap Cladding – overlapping horizontal boards with a rabbet joint (notched edge) that creates a tight seal. Popular for both exterior and interior applications, offering a clean, modern, or farmhouse look.
- Log Cladding – milled to resemble rounded logs, giving homes a traditional log cabin appearance while using less wood than full log construction.
- Drop Cladding – similar to shiplap but with a curved or concave profile, allowing for a smoother transition between boards.
- Shingle Cladding – more common in North America, shingle cladding requires high maintenance in damp UK conditions but is available through specialist suppliers.
Project shown: Arc Polo Farm in Surrey using charred Accoya cladding. Architects: DROO. Charred Wood Manufacturer: Exterior Solutions Ltd. Photography: Henry Woide

Now we have established the different styles and types of timber cladding, we need to consider the four key attributes: aesthetics, durability, maintenance and cost.
- Aesthetics – how the timber cladding looks, including its natural grain, color options, and how it changes over time.
- Durability – the timber cladding’s ability to withstand environmental factors such as moisture, pests, and UV exposure.
- Maintenance – how much upkeep is required to keep the timber cladding 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.

Best timber cladding: Aesthetics
When selecting the best timber cladding, aesthetics play a key role, as the material’s appearance will define the structure’s character for years to come. Most natural wood cladding offers an organic, timeless beauty, unlike vinyl, aluminum or fibre cement siding.
Choosing the best timber cladding purely on appearance is subjective, as color and style ultimately come down to personal preference.
For a lighter coloured timber cladding, consider Pine, Oak, Cedar, Spruce, , Douglas Fir or Accoya.
If you prefer a richer, darker tone, Western Red Cedar or Thermally Modified Wood are excellent options.
Looking for a natural grey hue with minimal maintenance? Accoya Color Grey offers a long-lasting, through-core colour solution.
You can even go all the way to the end of the colour spectrum with deep black tones by choosing wood that has been treated using the ancient Japanese technique of charring the wood called Yakisugi.
Another important factor to consider is that virtually all wood, unless regularly maintained, will weather and gradually fade to a silver-grey tone over time. The rate at which this happens depends on the wood species, with some showing signs of aging earlier than others. In general, darker timber cladding, except for charred wood, is more prone to fading due to UV exposure, while moisture and pollution can also impact colour changes.
If you want to skip the natural weathering process and achieve an instant grey aesthetic, Accoya Color Grey is a great option. It is coloured to match the look of naturally weathered wood from the start, ensuring a consistent appearance with minimal colour change over time.
Finally, the grain pattern can differ greatly from one type of wood siding to another. Douglas Fir timber cladding has longs straight graining whilst hardwoods have a tighter grain.
Project shown: Roche Diagnostics Headquarters, Barcelona. Architects: Batlleiroigs Architects. Distributor: Grupo Gámiz. Installed by Strunor.

Best timber cladding: Durability
How long does timber cladding last?
When you have gone to the expense and considerable bother to have timber cladding installed, you want it to last. Therefore, the best wood for cladding in terms of durability is the type that will give you decades of protection and ideally with minimal upkeep.
Top of the list in terms of durability is Accoya wood cladding. This fast-growing, sustainable softwood undergoes a proprietary high-temperature acetylation process that changes the structure of the wood to make it incredibly durable whilst retaining its natural beauty. In fact, Accoya comes with warranties of up to 50 years, offering long-lasting performance with minimal maintenance.
At the opposite end of the spectrum are softwoods which are prone to rotting, warping and splitting. These include Pine and Douglas Fir. So, whilst they are amongst the most popular and affordable woods for siding, they are not the best timber cladding material for long-term durability.
Sitting in the middle are Cedar, Redwood, Cypress and Oak, which offer a balance of affordability and moderately good durability.
Project shown: SILT Building, Belgium. Architects: ZJA, OZ, DELVA and Bureau Bouwtechniek Construction companies: Furnibo and Democo. Specialists in wooden constructions: HESS TIMBER. Manufacture of the parts: Manufactured by HASSLACHER Holzbauteile. Installation: Arwo Bouw was involved in the installation.

Best timber cladding: Maintenance
While timber cladding longevity varies, proper maintenance can prolong its lifespan. Sealing or staining helps protect the timber cladding, however it can be a time-consuming, expensive and regular chore. That is why some of the best wood cladding are the types that require as little maintenance as possible.
There are three obvious ways of protecting your timber cladding and keeping it looking at its best. To different degrees, each method will provide protection from moisture, UV rays and the longevity of the wood if applied every few years.
- Sealing– a clear protective layer of sealant needs to be applied to the timber cladding every few years to prevent moisture from penetrating. However, it does not protect against UV exposure, so wood may still fade over time.
- Staining– a good quality semi-transparent or solid stain penetrates the fibres of the timber cladding and prevents moisture ingress and gives some UV protection. Stains allow the natural grain to show through while extending the wood’s life span.
- Painting– a thick, opaque coating that provides the strongest UV and moisture barrier. However, if not properly applied and maintained, paint can trap moisture beneath the surface, leading to peeling, cracking, or rot.
Different types of timber cladding require maintenance of different types at different intervals.
Softwoods like Pine and Douglas Fir are the least durable of woods for cladding and need more frequent sealing or painting.
Semi-durable Timber Cladding like Cedar and Oak will always benefit from sealing to not only make them more resistant to rot and moisture but to also enhance their looks.
Hardwoods like Ipe are much stronger and more durable than most timbers for cladding but they still require sealing but with specialised sealants.
Engineered Wood Cladding is highly durable, stable and much less prone to rot and mould than most other woods. They can however benefit from sealing.
Acetylated Wood Cladding (Accoya) – exceptionally durable and naturally low-maintenance, Accoya can be left untreated without the risk of rot or decay. However, if painted or stained, it requires far less frequent maintenance than other timbers, as coatings adhere better and last significantly longer.
Project shown: Walden Farmhouse, near Salisbury. Supplier: Jewson in Salisbury via International Timber.

Best wood siding: Cost
How much is wood cladding?
When trying to work out the cost of the best timber cladding, it tends to work on a sliding scale that is in direct correlation with how durable the timber cladding is. Basically, the more durable the wood cladding, the more expensive it tends to be.
You have to weigh up not only how long the timber cladding will last, but also the maintenance costs and the value it will add to your home. Therefore, the higher quality and more durable the timber cladding you can afford, the better an investment it will be.
Ranking from the best timber cladding to the worst in terms of value for money, ease of maintenance and longevity, here is our round up for what is the best wood for cladding:
Best value timber cladding long-term – bang for buck, the best timber cladding are the woods with the longest lifespan like Accoya.
Best value timber cladding short-term – if you are prepared to spend time and money every one or two years maintaining all the cladding on your home, then a softwood cladding has the lowest initial purchase price.
Project shown: Private home in Delft. Architect: September architecture. Constructor: Bartels Ingenieursbureau B.V. Elst.
Traditional Timber Cladding vs Modified Wood Cladding
In the search for the best timber cladding, the ultimate showdown is between traditional timber cladding and modified wood cladding. One offers a lower price but potentially shorter lifespan, the other a higher pricetag but with up to five decades of guaranteed performance.
Traditional timber cladding, 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 timber cladding will likely need replacement sooner than modified alternatives.
Modified Wood Cladding: Thermally vs. Acetylated Wood
Modified wood siding offers enhanced durability and stability, with two main types:
- Thermally Modified Wood – this process uses heat treatment to change the wood’s structure, making it more resistant to moisture, decay, and pests. Thermally modified wood is often darker in colour due to the heat process and offers improved longevity over traditional timber, though it may still require some maintenance and surface treatments over time.
- Acetylated Wood (Accoya) – unlike thermal modification, Accoya undergoes a patented acetylation process that permanently alters the wood at a molecular level. This significantly enhances its durability, stability, and resistance to swelling, shrinking, and decay — without compromising its natural beauty. Accoya is warrantied for 50 years above ground, does not require regular maintenance if left untreated, and holds a Cradle to Cradle Certified® Gold certification, with a Platinum rating for Material Health, making it one of the most sustainable and environmentally friendly wood siding options available today. Additionally, paints and stains last much longer on Accoya than on other wood siding materials.
While both thermally modified wood and acetylated wood improve upon traditional timber’s weaknesses, Accoya stands out for its superior longevity, low maintenance, and unmatched sustainability credentials.
Project shown: Homes in the Forest, Lithuania. Architect: Architektūros linija. Accoya distributor: Argilla. Photography: Norbert Tukaj

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.

Charred Wood: What is it and how is it made?
Discover the remarkable history and beauty of the ancient art of Japanese burnt wood cladding.
09.06.2025
You may have seen the use of dark external charred wood cladding 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 charred wood
Japanese burnt wood, also known as Yakisugi wood, 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 charred wood technique was created to strengthen and protect wood. For such a simple, old and traditional method, Yakisugi wood performs incredibly well by today’s standards and is used extensively worldwide.
Charred wood benefits
Charred wood benefits are numerous. Burnt wood cladding 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 charred wood Yakisugi technique to timber is the increased strength and stability it brings. Charred wood cladding is resistant to twisting, distorting and warping. This makes it an excellent long term exterior cladding material.
- Protection – Japanese charred wood cladding is highly resistant to temperature and moisture. The Yakisugi process creates a naturally waterproof surface that is almost impossible to reignite. This dramatically extends the lifespan of the burnt wood cladding.
- Preservation – During the charred wood 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 – Charred wood cladding is environmentally friendly as it doesn’t contain any chemicals or treatments that are hazardous to the environment.
- Low-maintenance – Burnt wood cladding 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 – Charred wood is a highly contemporary look that is proving increasingly popular particularly for exterior timber cladding. Yakisugi wood’s charcoal black tones contrast perfectly with almost any colour palette whilst it also emphasises the natural textural pattern and grain of the wood, Accoya wood in particular.
Woods suitable for charred wood cladding
Not all woods are ideal for charred wood treatment. Those that will make good burnt wood cladding 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 charred wood firing process
There are several steps involved in the centuries-old Yakisugi process of creating Japanese burnt wood cladding.
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 charring Yakisugi wood 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 charred wood cladding
Architects and interior designers worldwide use Japanese burnt wood cladding to great effect in various applications both inside and outside of the buildings and homes they create.
Architecture studio DROO used charred Accoya wood to clad the new clubhouse at Arc Polo Farm in Surrey, combining durability with a refined, weathered aesthetic inspired by Japanese design principles.
In Sweden, architect Abelardo Gonzalez created a new build family home with an entire façade of charred wood cladding, 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 charred wood cladding.
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 charred cladding to fit with the eco-conscious theme.
LaRue Architects revamped a 1880s townhouse in Austin, Texas into a modern hillside home. The stairwell features charred wood cladding with a custom grey finish.
In the Netherlands, the owners of a beautiful private residence chose a striking facade of charred blackened timber for their garage and contrasted it with a natural wood garage door.
The last word on charred wood cladding
If you are looking for an unusual, dramatic and contemporary cladding material that offers excellent protection, is sustainable and easy to maintain, you should consider charred wood cladding. Accoya offers a range of highly durable, stable and beautiful charred timber cladding which you can explore at your leisure.

10 Pool Deck Ideas
Dive into our wood pool decking ideas and soak up inspiration for your next project.
15.04.2025
Owning an outdoor pool must be high up on everyone’s bucket list. You’re incredibly lucky if you have one already, but if you’re planning on either adding one to your backyard or overhauling your existing pool, here’s a pool of exciting wood pool deck ideas for you to dip in and out of at your leisure. From innovative above-ground pool decks to stunning inground designs, these ideas showcase a blend of beauty and inspiration, perfect for transforming your poolside into a personal oasis.
Advantages of wood pool decking
Before you jump in, imagine the benefits of owning a pool surrounded by the timeless beauty and warmth of a natural wood deck. Perfect for entertaining friends, relaxing with family or simply unwinding after a stressful day, a pool with authentic wood decking creates an attractive space that you really want to spend time in. Unlike bleak concrete patio and pool surrounds, wood decking looks elegant, copes well with weather extremes and has a wonderful natural look.
Accoya is the perfect choice of wood for a pool deck. It’s not only the high-performance, low-maintenance choice, it’s a sustainably sourced product and comes with a free 25 year guarantee. It gets less hot in the sun than other materials, is crack and splinter resistant, even over decades, and is barefoot-friendly.
1. Cool contrast
What we love about this impressive inground pool deck is the choice of gray colored wood decking which contrasts beautifully with the stone edging of the pool. By decking the whole terrace in sustainable Accoya Color Grey it creates an elegant connection to a dining and seating area at the rear of the property.
2. All the right curves
Don’t just think in straight lines when designing a pool. Because wood is so easy to cut and shape, you can create a more natural look by using curves to frame your pool. In this particular example by M. Hechenblaickner, the edge of the pool is cut in a sweeping curve which contrasts the linear stone walls and, over time, the wood deck has developed a handsome silver-gray patina. The addition of large rounded stones along the edge in the pool also softens the look.
3. Oasis of calm
Why not transform your garden into a stunning and inviting oasis like this one? This is one of those clever pool decking ideas by Formare GmbH that creates a contrast between the pristine wooden decking and curvaceous feature fencing, the contemporary stainless-steel pool, cool blue water and verdant green lawn, trees and shrubs. Cool, calming and somewhere private to relax in style.
4. Fully immersive
Got a compact backyard? Good design like this can include a pool where you never thought possible. Here, Natura Piscines not only specified wood for the decking of the entertaining area, they actually extended it into the pool itself. Blending in seamlessly with the rest of the deck, this was only possible by using durable and rot-proof.
5. Natural balance
Why not enlist the help of Mother Nature to bring a natural balance to your pool project. Here, this environmentally conscious hybrid pool is half pool and half pond. This not only looks incredibly natural, it uses gravel and plants to filter and treat the water entirely without any chemical additives. The designers here strengthened the sustainability of the pool by using Accoya Color Grey wood decking for the surround which harmonizes perfectly with the peacefulness of this natural swimming area, supplied by Enno Roggemann.
6. Distressed to chill
If you are looking for a relaxed, elegant looking pool area, consider a wood deck with a distressed finish like this design supplied by Kobel. The planks of this wood deck were expertly wire brushed before they were installed. This not only gives it a wonderful texture with increased anti-slip properties, it also creates a more natural lived-in modern aesthetic. The perfect environment to chill and take a refreshing dip.
7. Water therapy
Water has a therapeutic effect on people and this pool not only looks great, it’s good for your mind, too. Recreating the feel of an outdoor spa, the above ground wood deck surround uses highly water-resistant treated wood. One length of the pool side is raised to accommodate twin embedded contemporary waterfall features. These add an extra relaxing visual and acoustic dimension to the pool. The project was carried out by M. Hechenblaickner.
8. Nude and natural
The brief for this pool was keep it sleek and natural and the designers have certainly achieved this. This wide expanse of light-colored uncoated wood decking gives the illusion of space and the semi-circular pool entrance adds a classical touch to the pool design. In time, the wood will weather and mellow to a soft gray to tone with the outdoor furniture and tinted gray glazing. Installed by The Natural Pool Company.
9. Uber cool and comfortable
The terrace of this magnificent French villa has a highly attractive wood swimming pool deck and pool surround. Accoya wood was chosen by Woodstone Project because of its durability, stability and rot resistance. It’s what also keeps the surround’s cool and makes it naturally barefoot-friendly. Notice how the direction of the decking syncs with the length of the pool and also the cushion seams of the sun loungers.
10. Go Greek
The last of our pool deck ideas take inspiration from the idyllic Greek Islands which are bathed in glorious sunshine the majority of the year. Brilliant white buildings, turquoise seas and sun-bleached wood – this wood deck surround, pool, white paint and traditional Greek-style gazebo work to dazzling effect. With regular cooling dips and splashing, the qualities and sustainability credentials of Accoya high performance wood pool decking made it the obvious choice and were supplied by Atlas Wood.
Want more inspiration and information?
Visit our Pool Decking page for more ideas, options and in-depth information about how Accoya can enhance any pool project.
Projects
Pools you may like

Natural pool decking Biarritz
Biarritz, france

Outdoor Swimming Pool
Schachen, switzerland

Villa Carat, Cannes
Cannes, france

Accoya decking tops the Swiss Alps
Gemmi Pass, Leukerbad, switzerland

Decking and pool surround Austria
Radkersburg, austria
Where to Buy
You can buy Accoya and Accoya products from our selection of distributors or manufacturers in your region. Use our map search tool to find your nearest Accoya supplier.


Accsys is pleased to announce the successful development of the first sliding sash window, featuring slimline glazing bars and a 44mm thick sash, designed to meet the requirements of PAS 24: 2022. This was made possible through a collaboration with a consortium of stakeholders, including Midland Joinery, ERA, and SD Hardware.
PAS 24: 2022 is a rigorous testing standard that is designed to evaluate the enhanced security performance of windows and doors, ensuring their ability to withstand a specified level of attack. Designed to mimic an attempted break-in by a burglar using tools that are easy to conceal. A window or door is put through several tests including mechanical load testing, manual attack testing and impact testing; each designed to explore any vulnerabilities. The test was conducted at the independent UKAS accredited test house at ERA’s facility in Wolverhampton.
Statistics provided by the police force have highlighted that in domestic burglaries, 30% of all opportunist offenders gained entry through a window*.
The innovative design of the Accoya sliding sash window includes a ¾ Inch Radius End Sash Pulley, Timber Series Sash Lift , Timber Series High Security Classic Cam Lock and Sash Window Screw Locks.

Cheryl Varley, Account Manager at ERA says “It’s wonderful to see all stakeholders working together to achieve this important accolade. The independent UKAS test house housed within the ERA facility is a valuable resource for our customers. The test engineers really put windows through their paces to give consumers peace of mind.”
Mike Lewis, Technical Sales Manager for Accoya UK and Ireland commented, “We’re thrilled that the Accoya sliding sash window, replicating a traditional and historical design, has successfully passed this rigorous security test. Thanks to Midland Joinery, SD Hardware and ERA, homeowners will know that their homes are equipped with some of the most secure timber windows available on the market.”
Tim Heeley at Midland Joinery states, “We’re passionate about delivering top-quality joinery and making sure our customers are completely satisfied. It’s been a privilege to be a part of the development and testing of our Accoya range of heritage sliding sash windows that have achieved PAS 24 accreditation. This recognition gives our customers confidence in knowing their windows meet the highest safety standards.”
Gary Ewings at SD Hardware said, “We are dedicated to supplying hardware that meets the highest standards to the joinery industry. Bringing this project together along with Accoya, ERA, and Midland Joinery, to achieve PAS 24: 2022 in a sliding sash window is bringing down the boundaries for every joinery to comply with Part Q. Something we believe the industry has needed for some time—the first sash window to pass using Accoya is great news for everyone in the joinery industry.”
* Overview of burglary and other household theft – Office for National Statistics








Hardwood vs Softwood
We explore the difference between hardwood and softwood, to help you choose the right timber.
30.01.2025

What is the difference between hardwood and softwood?
Before we look into the difference between hardwood and softwood, let’s take stock of timber today as a whole.
The term ‘timber’ covers material from a wide spectrum of different species, each with very different performance characteristics.
‘Performance’ is the key word which helps differentiate hardwoods from softwoods.
However, there is third category of wood we also need to consider… high performance wood.
Created using modern advanced treatment techniques, this different bread of wood outperforms both the properties of hardwood and the properties of softwood. We’ll come back to high performance treated wood later.

Properties of hardwood
Before we explore the properties of hardwood, we need to know where hardwoods come from.
Hardwoods are sourced from trees with broad leaves which grow comparatively slowly compared to softwood trees. This is why hardwoods are denser than softwoods.
More condensed, hardwoods have a complex structure which makes them stronger and more durable than softwoods.
Because hardwoods are so string and resilient, they are usually used for construction that needs to be durable and last.
Hardwoods are seen as an investment due to their strength, lower maintenance and ability to resist weather.

Properties of softwood
The properties of softwood are quite different to hardwood.
Softwoods, which derive from conifers, are much more prolific and conifers grow at a much faster rate than hardwood trees.
One of the key properties of softwood is its flexibility, ease of cutting and lighter weight. This makes them ideally suited for interior mouldings, window frames, construction framing and creating sheet woods such as plywood and chipboard.
When used outside, exterior softwoods are impregnated with biocides to improve their durability.
Compared to hardwoods, softwoods have a shorter lifespan when used outdoors as even with treatment, they aren’t as durable and need more regular maintenance.
Examples of softwoods and hardwoods
Hardwoods
Common types of hardwoods include;
- oak
- teak
- sapele
- iroko
- meranti
Beech, maple and walnut are also hardwoods that are used for more bespoke joinery projects; crafting furniture, wooden flooring and fine veneers.
Softwoods
Softwoods are the source of 80% of the world’s timber and come from conifers which are cone-bearing trees.
These include:
- pine
- spruce
- cedar
- fir
- larch
- redwood
- hemlock
- cypress.

Why are softwoods cheaper than hardwoods?
There are five reasons why softwoods are cheaper than hardwoods:
Growth rate – softwood trees grow far faster than hardwood trees. This means there is a much greater supply of softwoods and therefore it costs less.
Processing – because softwoods aren’t as dense as hardwoods, they are much easier to cut and finish. With lower energy and labour costs, processing softwood is much cheaper than hardwood.
Availability – softwoods are usually found growing in much larger forests than softwoods. More trees creates greater availability, resulting in lower prices.
Harvesting – hardwood trees can take decades to mature, whereas faster growing and maturing softwood trees result in more regular harvesting and replanting. This shorter cycle generates a more consistent and cost-effective supply.
Demand – as softwood is more commonly suited to and used for construction, paper manufacture and less durable products. Softwood is therefore in greater demand than hardwood which is usually preferred for quality furniture and flooring due to its strength and durability.

How to identify hardwood from softwood
Apart from the price, how exactly can you tell the difference between hardwood and softwood by simply looking at it?
Well unless you know whether the tree it came from had needles and cones or not, you need to take a closer look at the wood itself.
- Firstly, look at the colour. Hardwoods tend to be darker than softwoods and have a more prominent grain.
- Next, pick up similar pieces of hardwood and softwood. Hardwood is denser, therefore it should weigh more than the softwood.
- When you look at the cell structure, hardwood has pores which are tubes that transport water and nutrients around the tree – softwoods’ cell structure is much simpler.
- As the name implies, hardwoods are also harder, which means softwoods are much easier to scratch.
- Finally, softwoods are much more flexible than hardwoods, so try bending each to see how they compare.
Treated woods – softwood and hardwood alternatives
As we touched on earlier in this guide, there is also a third category of wood used in construction called treaded woods. We’ve established that hardwoods in general are much harder and more durable than softwoods. There is, however, an exception to this rule.
Treated woods are softwoods that have had their chemical make-up altered to improve their performance. The world-leading example of treated woods is Accoya®. Manufactured using a cutting-edge patented acetylation process, the durability, stability and hardness of the wood is increased to actually exceed the qualities of tropical hardwoods. Other benefits include minimal maintenance, guarantees up to 50 years and also higher sustainability due to it being softwood and also lasting considerably longer than softwoods and some hardwoods.
Where to Buy
You can buy Accoya and Accoya products from our selection of distributors or manufacturers in your region. Use our map search tool to find your nearest Accoya supplier.

Accoya Insights – November 2024
19.11.2024

Accoya company updates
Accoya Insights – our bi-monthly newsletter bringing you relevant company updates and key developments from around the world.
This edition includes:
- Production underway in our new plant in Kingsport, US.
- Updates in operational improvements
- Expansion of the commercial team
- Latest projects
- Sustainability credentials
- Marketing updates on our Where to Buy site

Accoya Insights – May 2024
05.06.2024

Accoya company updates
Accoya Insights – our bi-monthly newsletter bringing you relevant company updates and key developments from around the world.
This edition includes:
- Kingsport Plant Update
- Project Features- The Shady Brooke office building, Villa M and the ABB building
- Accoya on the road- International Builders Show, Future Build, Cradle 2 Cradle Exhibition, Fensterbau, Holizpur Jubilee, Swissbau, and 100%
Habitat 100% Jardin Exhibition - New Distribution- Keim and Saroyan Hardwoods
- Laminated Accoya
- New Faces- Sergio Munhoz

Accoya Insights – May 2024
03.10.2023

Accoya company updates
Accoya Insights – our bi-monthly newsletter bringing you relevant company updates and key developments from around the world.
This edition includes:
- Kingsport Plant Update
- Project Features- The Shady Brooke office building, Villa M and the ABB building
- Accoya on the road- International Builders Show, Future Build, Cradle 2 Cradle Exhibition, Fensterbau, Holizpur Jubilee, Swissbau, and 100%
Habitat 100% Jardin Exhibition - New Distribution- Keim and Saroyan Hardwoods
- Laminated Accoya
- New Faces- Sergio Munhoz

Top features for buyers that could increase the value of your home
11.09.2023
With house sales slumping to their lowest in over a decade, and mortgage approvals on the decline, it is critical that homeowners looking to sell their property know which features they should invest in to attract prospective buyers.
New research from Accoya reveals that energy efficiency is one of the top three features buyers look for. In fact, more than a quarter (29%) of respondents cite it’s in the top three most important features when purchasing a forever home*.
Over a third (37%) say a newly fitted kitchen is the most important feature when purchasing a property and more than a quarter (29%) say they’d be more likely to buy a home that has lots of windows for natural light.

Ten most important features for buyers choosing a forever home:
Newly fitted kitchen – 37%
Lots of windows for natural light – 29%
Energy efficient – 29%
Landscaped garden – 24%
Recently refurbished bathroom – 20%
A double garage – 18%
A double driveway – 17%
Low maintenance garden – 17%
Bi-fold doors – 15%
Balcony – 13%

“While a newly fitted kitchen and plenty of natural light have always been significant features to homebuyers, energy efficiency has risen in importance. Of course, with high – and unstable – energy bills affecting every household, this is hardly surprising. Nonetheless, for those looking to increase the buyer appeal of their existing property, it is important to note that this is now one of the key features for those looking to purchase a home.
“By choosing windows made from high performing materials, such as Accoya, homeowners get both natural light and high efficiency, so it’s a no brainer to put replacing old windows at the top of the home improvement wish list to help reduce energy bills and increase desirability,” comments Gillian Edwards, Head of Communications and ESG at Accoya.
While the market remains unstable, many property owners are investing in their current premises. In fact, more than half (51%) of homeowners say they are currently planning to make energy-efficient home improvements and, when it comes to higher-income households, two thirds (66%) say they’re planning on improving the energy efficiency of their property.
However, it’s not just energy-efficient modifications that are rising in popularity. Homeowners are also looking for more sustainable products as part of an effort to reduce their property’s carbon footprint. In fact, over a third (36%) of homeowners say they would invest more in sustainable home improvements

“With so many people having to rethink their spending habits to meet rising costs, it’s promising to see that homeowners are thinking ahead and investing in improving their property’s energy efficiency.
“More often than not, people think that increasing insulation and installing a new boiler is enough to make a home energy efficient. However, according to energy.gov, heat gain and heat loss through windows is responsible for 25-30% of residential heating and cooling energy use, making energy efficient windows an important consideration for both homebuyers and homeowners, concludes Gillian.
Accoya wood is a high performance and sustainable product that is ideal for window frames and doors. It is highly stable and durable with a 50-year warranty. In comparison to other standard wood types for joinery, Accoya has excellent thermal conductivity properties with its insulation value being 30% better than hardwood and 8% better than softwood**. For homeowners, this ultimately leads to warmer windows with a superior energy efficiency rating.
*Research conducted among 2,004 UK homeowners in June 2023
**Verified by the British Woodworking Federation

Accoya Insights – June 2023
06.06.2023

Accoya company updates
Accoya Insights – our bi-monthly newsletter with exciting company updates from around the world.
This edition includes:
- Accoya worldwide conference
- Updates from Arnhem
- Latest look at Google HQ, London
- System Partner updates
- 11 year testing outcome, Oyster Farms, Australia
- New project case study in Corsica, France
- Past & upcoming tradeshows

Accoya Insights – June 2023
04.04.2023

Accoya company updates
Accoya Insights – our bi-monthly newsletter with exciting company updates from around the world.
This edition includes:
- Accoya worldwide conference
- Updates from Arnhem
- Latest look at Google HQ, London
- System Partner updates
- 11 year testing outcome, Oyster Farms, Australia
- New project case study in Corsica, France
- Past & upcoming tradeshows

Top features for buyers that could increase the value of your home
21.03.2023
With house sales slumping to their lowest in over a decade, and mortgage approvals on the decline, it is critical that homeowners looking to sell their property know which features they should invest in to attract prospective buyers.
New research from Accoya reveals that energy efficiency is one of the top three features buyers look for. In fact, more than a quarter (29%) of respondents cite it’s in the top three most important features when purchasing a forever home*.
Over a third (37%) say a newly fitted kitchen is the most important feature when purchasing a property and more than a quarter (29%) say they’d be more likely to buy a home that has lots of windows for natural light.

Ten most important features for buyers choosing a forever home:
Newly fitted kitchen – 37%
Lots of windows for natural light – 29%
Energy efficient – 29%
Landscaped garden – 24%
Recently refurbished bathroom – 20%
A double garage – 18%
A double driveway – 17%
Low maintenance garden – 17%
Bi-fold doors – 15%
Balcony – 13%

“While a newly fitted kitchen and plenty of natural light have always been significant features to homebuyers, energy efficiency has risen in importance. Of course, with high – and unstable – energy bills affecting every household, this is hardly surprising. Nonetheless, for those looking to increase the buyer appeal of their existing property, it is important to note that this is now one of the key features for those looking to purchase a home.
“By choosing windows made from high performing materials, such as Accoya, homeowners get both natural light and high efficiency, so it’s a no brainer to put replacing old windows at the top of the home improvement wish list to help reduce energy bills and increase desirability,” comments Gillian Edwards, Head of Communications and ESG at Accoya.
While the market remains unstable, many property owners are investing in their current premises. In fact, more than half (51%) of homeowners say they are currently planning to make energy-efficient home improvements and, when it comes to higher-income households, two thirds (66%) say they’re planning on improving the energy efficiency of their property.
However, it’s not just energy-efficient modifications that are rising in popularity. Homeowners are also looking for more sustainable products as part of an effort to reduce their property’s carbon footprint. In fact, over a third (36%) of homeowners say they would invest more in sustainable home improvements

“With so many people having to rethink their spending habits to meet rising costs, it’s promising to see that homeowners are thinking ahead and investing in improving their property’s energy efficiency.
“More often than not, people think that increasing insulation and installing a new boiler is enough to make a home energy efficient. However, according to energy.gov, heat gain and heat loss through windows is responsible for 25-30% of residential heating and cooling energy use, making energy efficient windows an important consideration for both homebuyers and homeowners, concludes Gillian.
Accoya wood is a high performance and sustainable product that is ideal for window frames and doors. It is highly stable and durable with a 50-year warranty. In comparison to other standard wood types for joinery, Accoya has excellent thermal conductivity properties with its insulation value being 30% better than hardwood and 8% better than softwood**. For homeowners, this ultimately leads to warmer windows with a superior energy efficiency rating.
*Research conducted among 2,004 UK homeowners in June 2023
**Verified by the British Woodworking Federation

The campaign features the first UK TV commercial to promote Accoya wood
The commercial will air from Monday 27th March 2023 on Sky, supported by digital advertising including YouTube and other social media channels.
The launch of a new UK national advertising campaign, “Lasts a Lifetime”, highlights the high performance of Accoya wood to homeowners.
The campaign will launch with a commercial on Sky TV targeting a subset of the homeowner market audience. This will be supported by digital, ads running through the spring.
The commercial on Sky is expected to reach an audience of more than 3.1M homeowners with and ad frequency of 5.5. It follows a young family’s life through the lens of an Accoya window, charting the ups and downs of a relationship between a father and his daughter over the years. The window acts as a constant in their ever-changing lives.
George Neel, Communications, Marketing and ESG Director, Accsys, commented: “As we move into the warmer months many people are considering replacing their windows and doors. Windows and doors are one of the biggest investments to add value to a home and choosing the right material is key. We want to ensure homeowners understand the durability and reliability benefits of Accoya and know that it lasts a lifetime.”

Accoya Insights – June 2023
09.02.2023

Accoya company updates
Accoya Insights – our bi-monthly newsletter with exciting company updates from around the world.
This edition includes:
- Accoya worldwide conference
- Updates from Arnhem
- Latest look at Google HQ, London
- System Partner updates
- 11 year testing outcome, Oyster Farms, Australia
- New project case study in Corsica, France
- Past & upcoming tradeshows

Top 10 projects of 2022
2022 has been a fantastic year for projects, as demonstrated by the sheer variation available, from exterior cladding to greenhouses to sculptures —the possibilities have really been endless! This year more than ever, our projects show off Accoya’s versatility and durability by standing the test of time. Sustainability has also become an increasingly vital trend for clients, and while several governments and large companies are committing to net-zero targets, reducing emissions is a global target. As we reflect on the year that’s just been, we believe that the performance and sustainability of Accoya will continue to enhance even more projects in 2023, but in the meantime, here are 10 of the best projects of 2022.

1. Hotel Rotterdam Airport
First off, we have the Hotel Rotterdam Airport. This is a special project in a special location, as it is not often that you get to build right next door to Rotterdam Airport. Accoya was chosen by both the contractor and the architects as the perfect material to use for cladding. The most important aspect of the wood was its need to be fire-resistant as well as durable, stable, and sustainable.
The underlying idea in the age we now live in is to construct safe buildings by adhering to the strict criteria that go with it. Let’s not forget the emphasis on sustainability, which is becoming increasingly important. For this project, the aspect of sustainability in connection with the environment and the surroundings is not only represented by the Accoya façade cladding but also by the plants that decorate it. In this way, all parts of the building have contributed towards creating a beautiful, stable, sustainable hotel that gives its guests a warm welcome.

2. Waldens Farmhouse
Walden’s Farm, located in West Grimstead, Salisbury, is one to pin to the top of your sustainable building materials board, incorporating Accoya for the cladding, decking, and doors for the property. It was vital for the architects that the strong farming roots of the location be celebrated, and the natural Accoya timber cladding assists the stone features of the land, such as existing barns and outbuildings, to achieve just that! Not only has Accoya helped maintain the property’s character, but also its high performance and durability will make these features last a lifetime! To keep in tune with the natural theme, Accoya is derived from fast-growing sustainable forests, contributing to lower carbon emissions for a healthier planet.

3. Herdsman Lake Regional Park
Accoya was chosen for the material used for the Olive Seymour Boardwalk located at Herdsman Lake Regional Park. As a result of the previous boardwalk made using Jarrah rotting, Accoya wood was used to replace decking boards, handrails, and joists.

4. Marisol Malibu Residence
This exceptional home is California’s very first “zero-carbon” home, meaning that 100% of the home’s energy must be renewable and 100% of the embodied carbon emissions associated with construction are offset (by using things like sustainable lumber).
FSC-certified Accoya wood is used in several areas of the home for exterior cladding, interior ceiling cladding, and interior wall cladding. Along with Shou Sugi Ban, this is a traditional Japanese method of charring wood cladding to make it waterproof.
The design and construction plan included “carbon sequestering” techniques using sustainable wood and recycled concrete. For example, instead of using 80,000 pounds of steel, they replaced it with FSC mass timber. These materials were built together to not only look and feel exactly right, but to do right by our environment, so it was only right to include this project in the top 10!

5. RHS Bridgewater
The RHS embarked on ambitious plans to realise their fifth garden—a 154-acre site in the former Worsley New Hall grounds, on the outskirts of Salford. White Cottage Greenhouses were commissioned to design, manufacture, and install two large mono-pitch lean-to glasshouses in the new Paradise Garden, designed by Tom Stuart-Smith. The garden was created within a heritage landscape and is the first RHS garden in the North West of England’s climatic and ecological conditions.
White Cottage has been successfully manufacturing painted-timber greenhouses for many years. Their ethos has always been to create a genuine timber-framed greenhouse while minimising maintenance and decay risk. This made them the perfect fit for this project.
Over the last five years, White Cottage has shifted entirely over to Accoya wood, and so there was no other material choice for the Paradise Garden superstructures. With Accoya, excessive movement in tongue and groove boards is eliminated, meaning cracks in paint are far less likely to occur. There are time savings in the joinery manufacturing process, fewer defects such as knots, and better performance all around, as well as outstanding, guaranteed durability.
A key feature of Accoya is that the coatings will last longer than on other timber products. White Cottage believes that Accoya is easier to paint and requires less preparation than other timber alternatives.

6. Carinya residence
This private home illustrates that timber is a great material to use in your home. Accoya timber has been used for windows and doors in the main property, as well as for garage doors, out-buildings, a pedestrian gate with a pergola, driveway gates, and a picket fence.
The homeowners used Accoya-approved manufacturers, Against the Grain, for all elements of Accoya.
The Accoya wood has been coated in a variety of colours for this project. Accoya is the ideal material for coatings as it is so stable, and the limited movement all year round will prevent coatings from deteriorating. The stability will also allow windows and doors to move freely, as Accoya wood will shrink and swell much less than other wood species.

7. Please be seated
The uniquely designed piece of public artwork, Please Be Seated, was made from 1440 planks of Accoya timber and designed by London-based designers, Paul Cocksedge Studio. Accoya is a fantastic timber to use for sculptures such as this one due to its high performance, yet what is particularly outstanding is that you don’t need to sacrifice performance for non-sustainable timber. A key benefit of making Accoya the material of choice is the Cradle to Cradle Gold Certification. This recognises that Accoya is fully circular, with no added synthetic materials, fully recyclable, and non-toxic. The Accoya planks are supported by a framework of bent steel designed to be easily assembled and disassembled for travel.
The structure was fabricated in partnership with UAP, and the Accoya was sourced and supplied by a local Accoya-approved distributor, Jiangsu Dragon Wood (JDW). Paul Cocksedge Studio worked with JDW to complete and install, managing the entire process remotely as a result of COVID restrictions.

8. House at Vasco city
Ritikaa Wood Enterprises Pvt. Ltd. supplied Accoya wood windows, louvres and cladding for this newly built home in Vasco city.
Young homeowners used Opolis Architects to design their unique cantilever home with multiple courtyards to connect the inside with the outdoors seamlessly. This was achieved using the eight-foot high Accoya louvres.
All Accoya wood used has been coated in the same dark brown colour.

9. Fire Tower Kalmthoutse Heide
The Belgian Kalmthoutse Heide park has gained a valuable landmark: a new 42-metre-high fire watchtower. Architect NOHNIK and construction partners Bureau Bouwtechniek and Ingenieursbureau ABT Belgi created an elegant truss structure by perfectly combining wood and steel. From every angle, the fire watchtower offers a dynamic and panoramic view over the natural landscape of the Kalmthoutse Heide.
Accoya wood was the material of choice for the railings, balustrades, and fire watchtower—the ultimate contrast to the steel truss construction frame. A variation of wood thicknesses and spacing was used, creating a sophisticated look, and thanks to the colour and material combination of Accoya wood, the tower harmonises beautifully with the surrounding natural landscape.

10. Homes in the forest, Lithuania
A pair of newly built single-family houses reside in the heart of the forest near Vilnius.The adjacent plots were designed at the same time and use similar styles of architectural expression.
For one of the properties, alongside floor-to-ceiling windows and doors, cladding covers the entire exterior; however, two contrasting materials have been used. The front of the home is covered in rough ceramic bricks, each coloured dark brown. With textured edges and surfaces and vertical installation, the façade creates the appearance of tree bark. For the back of the building, natural Accoya wood cladding was chosen, also installed vertically in very narrow battens. Accoya was also used for the garden decking and walled garden snug, creating comfort and warmth.
The clients themselves requested to use Accoya wood, but the architect, Architektūros linija chose the style and finish of the cladding. Accoya is ideal for cladding in this environment because the quality material is warrantied to last, even in the harsh conditions of extreme cold in the winter and heat in the summer.
The surrounding natural environment heavily influenced the design and material choices. All of the cladding and decking was installed by a local Accoya sub-distributor, Argilla. The Accoya wood was finished with ferrous sulphate to give the impression that weathering had already begun by turning the wood grey.

Accoya® fender shows outstanding resilience in River Thames, London
Environment Agency specifies additional Accoya fenders after trial shows outstanding durability and sustainability. Nine fenders installed along the Thames beside the famous Cutty Sark
Following a successful trial the Environment Agency’s TEAM 2100 has chosen to commission and install a further nine Accoya fenders along the banks of the Thames.
TEAM2100 is the Environment Agency’s 10-year programme to refurbish and replace tidal flood defences in London and the Thames Estuary.
In 2020, the Environment Agency agreed to trial and test an Accoya fender at Duke Shore Wharf, with wood being donated by Accsys via International Timber. The Agency was looking for a resilient, stable and durable alternative to hardwood that could offer improved sustainability credentials whilst continuing to promote a healthy and diverse marine habitat. The fenders are an essential part of flood risk management assets in the Thames Estuary.
After two years of positive performance at Duke Shore Wharf the Environment Agency has commissioned nine further fenders at Deptford Walls, Greenwich. These fenders were installed in September 2022. To provide biodiversity benefits, the innovative design for the nine new fenders, created by Glasgow University and Kings College London, included habitable spaces for marine life (see diagram).
“Choosing materials that are sustainable and that consider the effects of their production on the environment is a key goal of our flood risk management programme. Certification processes, such as the Cradle to Cradle Certified® Products Program, help achieve this and permit identification of materials that consider the effects of their production on the environment, minimise energy and water use and aid social fairness. Finding a viable, sustainable substitute for hardwood has been an important goal of ours,” said Dr Jo Guy, of the Environment Agency’s TEAM2100, Environment and Sustainability Manager.

John Alexander, Group Director of Sales, Accsys commented: “The Thames water is a tough environment with brackish salt water with active marine organisms which rapidly degrade all but the most durable wood types. It’s a real endurance test for a wood product and the performance is in line with our expectations after running sea trials of up to 13 years from the Pacific Ocean to the North Sea.”
The fenders are being used by the Environment Agency’s TEAM2100 programme as proof of concept that it can replace hardwood, provide habitat and contribute to achieving the organisation’s Circular Economy, Net Zero, Environmental Net Gain, and Social Value sustainability ambitions.
Regenerative design consultancy, 540 WORLD worked with Accsys, Jacobs, Balfour Beatty and TEAM2100 to implement this important sustainability initiative, with a view to more widespread substitution of slow-growing hardwood with fast-growing, rapidly carbon-sequestering and very durable Accoya. The lack of toxic or plastic-based additives to Accoya is vital to its use in these environments, eliminating the risk of potential leaching into the water and environmental or ecological harm.
Each cubic metre of Accoya contains nearly one tonne of CO2 absorbed by certified sustainable forests, which keeps that carbon safely stored for decades. This installation in the Thames Estuary will provide further data on long-term performance, adding to the consensus of positive data that Accsys has collected from sites in the Mediterranean and North Seas.


Accoya RoundUp
December 2022
02.12.2022

Winter edition
We are pleased to share our positive updates with you, including the successful commissioning of our fourth reactor in Arnhem and plant construction in North America, both leading to increased Accoya production capacity!
It’s been a busy time for Accoya, with several award wins, numerous projects, and the introduction of our new innovation, Accoya Color. Find out more within the RoundUp below.

How to care and maintain for your Accoya windows and doors
Thank you for investing in Accoya wooden windows for your home. We know you want your windows to continue to look their best, and just a little bit of proper care and maintenance will help keep them looking even better for longer.
11.08.2022

Regular inspection and care
With regular inspection and care, you’ll enjoy a beautiful finish for decades to come.
Inspect your joinery regularly. Any damage in the paint should be addressed immediately to prevent moisture ingress and water entrapment under the coating. Like most things, wooden joinery can greatly benefit from regular inspection, care and maintenance – just like an annual service on a boiler or car. We strongly recommend annual inspection, cleaning of the frames and maintenance.
Please speak to your coatings supplier about supporting documentation such as care and full maintenance recommendations.
This video is based on best practice techniques and will help you keep your windows looking their best for even longer.

Useful resource

Timber Development UK University Design Challenge 2022: Southside Hereford (#TDChallenge22)
The Hereford Southside University Design Challenge, run by Timber Development UK, is a student competition based on a live project to design a net zero community centre – showcasing timber construction and meeting Passivhaus Standards.
03.08.2022
Accoya wood, made by Accsys was honoured to sponsor and contribute to this valuable and relevant initiative.
It was a great opportunity to be part of the conversation with built environment professionals of the future – exploring the possibilities of timber in the UK.
Across more than 150 students from 57 universities, the winning team was selected at a live two-day event at the New Model Institute for Technology and Engineering (NMITE). Students presented their designs to a panel of expert judges representing both local clients and leading figures in UK sustainable construction.
The winning team brought together an interdisciplinary group of students from universities the length and breadth of the UK – from Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen to the University of Portsmouth – to produce a design the judging panel declared “A strong response and a great integration of uses, with simple elements including a good use of structural timber used effectively and meeting the Passivhaus standard”.
This short informative video captures many highlights from the competition.

David Hopkins, Chief Executive, Timber Development UK commented:
“We need a highly trained construction workforce with a better understanding of wood and timber to achieve net zero and hit the ever more demanding carbon targets for construction. Fortunately, it’s evident from every student who has taken part in the Hereford Southside: University Design Challenge that there is incredible built environment talent emerging from UK universities. I know the skills and knowledge you (they) have gained and demonstrated in low-carbon construction will be greatly in demand.”

uPVC vs wooden windows
When it comes to uPVC vs wooden windows, this is not the first article written, nor will it be the last… But given most of us will have to replace a window or two in our lifetime, it’s important one can understand the important facts to ensure you can make best decision on what is a not insignificant expense… This article aims to highlight the pros and cons of both materials and weigh up what makes most sense. Enjoy!
14.07.2022

Are wooden windows better than uPVC?
The history of uPVC Windows
The late 1980s saw the popularisation of uPVC window frames due to the perceived benefits of this modern material. Unlike conventional plastic, uPVC was more rigid, less bendable, and crucially quite stable, especially when compared to organic materials like wood. Coupled with the introduction of double glazing, uPVC windows seemed to represent a modern, high quality and low maintenance choice vs. the traditional and often expensive wooden window option.
What is uPVC?
uPVC is short for Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride and it is manufactured by running sodium chloride through electrolysis, producing chlorine gas. Natural gas or petroleum is then used for making ethylene, which puts together ethylene, chlorine, and liquid vinyl chlorine.

uPVC properties
We have already referenced some of the properties of uPVC that made it seem such a compelling material for application in window frames and even doors when launched in the 1980s:
Cheap: There is not getting away from the fact that uPVC window frames are possible to mass produce and therefore drive down the cost of manufacturing. Compared with bespoke timber framed windows uPVC can seem like a significant cost saving, although it is necessary to look at the full life cost – something we will refer to again later in the article.
Low maintenance: uPVC was introduced into the market as a wonder product that required little to no maintenance, which is an attractive proposition when faced with the alternative of timber windows, particularly with the paintwork which is prone to flake off over time. uPVC window frames do have their own issues however which are important to reference here.
- Structural integrity – even though uPVC is relatively durable, their light weight means that they’re prone to sagging. Essentially the weight of the glazing can cause the frame to bend, an issue not seen with wood or aluminium window frames
- Discoloration – over time uPVC window frames will discolour and peel. This is due to extensive UV exposure with the frames turning an unsightly yellow colour. Unlike timber frames which can be re-painted the same cannot be said with uPVC. If you’re looking to smarten up your house, you have little alternative other than replacing your windows.
Durability: One of the key selling points of uPVC window frames is claimed durability – probably the most important factor when deciding what type of window frames you go with. Compared to soft wood timber frames uPVC undoubtedly has a clear advantage here, but as we know different types of wood have different properties and we must be careful not to lump them all together. What is the best way of establishing how durable a product really is? Well, looking to see what the manufacturer warranty or guarantee offered is a good place to start. You will struggle to find a uPVC window maker that offer a warranty of more than 10 years on the uPVC elements of the window. There are plenty examples of uPVC windows that have lasted longer than 10 years, but it gives you an insight into how long they expect their product to last. By contrast, the best performing wood brands such as Accoya wood have been offering warranties of up to 50 years on their product.
Aesthetic
This is always going to be a subjective point, but this article would be incomplete if we didn’t mention it. It needs to be said that uPVC window frames do look a bit….plastic. There is reason why conservation areas across the UK often do not allow uPVC frames, and it’s because of how they look. Where you have Victorian, Edwardian or other period housing stock, uPVC does tend to look out of place. There have been attempts in recent years with innovation to make uPVC look more like wood, but it’s proven very hard to achieve the natural biophilic look and feel that is achieved with real wood.
Overview
It’s easy to be dismissive of uPVC window frames. They have only moderate durability, discolour to an unsavoury patchy yellow colour, and don’t always look the part, but on the other hand they do represent good value for money, especially if you’re only looking to live in the home for approximately 10 years. Having to replace your windows twice starts to become quite expensive, so you really need to decide how long you’re planning to stick around… Bear in mind that having windows that are in a good state of repair can materially affect your house price, so it might not be someone else’s problem after all…

The history of wooden window frames
Whilst it was the Romans that pioneered the use of glass for windows, wood has long been the preferred choice of material for window frames. The size of one’s window through history has often represented wealth and class, and as window making techniques evolved, so the size of windows has increased. In the seventeenth century the fashion became to have taller, rather than wide windows, and to facilitate this they were often divided into four. In the same century the sash window was invented with the top sash fixed and the bottom sash sliding upwards.
In term of the species of wood used, oak and pine were the two most common, with oak offering better durability than the softwood pine.

Wooden window properties
Wood is a natural product which affords both positive and negative attributes. Below is list of considerations to be made aware of before selecting timber window frames:
- The look. In contrast to uPVC, nothing beats the elegance and natural look of wooden window frames. The frames add character to a building, especially a period property and each window is one of a kind.
- In the UK we typically paint our windows. This has two benefits – it improves the aesthetic and it protects the wood, meaning the windows last longer. However wood has a propensity to shrink and swell as the seasons change. This movement puts stress on the paint coating, and over time the paint will crack and ultimately flake off. This can look untidy and also let water into the window frame causing decay over the long term
- Thermal Conductivity. Wood is a terrible conductor of heat, which means it’s a great insulator and will keep the heat and the cold out depending on the season. If thermal conductivity wasn’t enough, wood is also a good acoustic insulator and has proven to be better than uPVC and aluminium at blocking out sounds.
- Cost. Wooden window frames are never the cheap option. Although some softwood window frames can compete on price with the likes of uPVC, higher end wood species and modified wood brands such as Accoya do come at a higher cost. What drives the relative high cost of wooden window frames however is the labour. Typically it takes approximately 17 man hours to make a timber window frame due to bespoke dimensions and crafting of the wood needed to achieve the required product.

Limitations of wood
The very thing that makes wood so good to look at and to touch, is also part of its inherent limitation as a building material… Wood is a natural, organic material which over time and subject to certain conditions like rain will decay or rot. However, whereas all uPVC broadly has the same properties and performance, wood covers a huge spectrum of performance from the cheapest low performance softwood, all the way through more robust hardwoods, and to the pinnacle of high performance and durability – acetylated wood, otherwise known as Accoya. Like we discussed on uPVC, you really need to determine how long you expect to be living in your house… Cheaper softwood window frames might last 7-10 years, slightly worse than uPVC, whereas a hardwood window frame (such as iroko, sapele, or even oak) could be expected to last anywhere from 10-30 years. This would depend on the exposure of the window (to sun and rain), the climate, or even the quality of the wood, which can vary batch to batch. For the belt and braces approach, an Accoya window frame is warranted for 50 years, with an expected service life from between 77-90 years, according to a recent study by the Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh.
Conclusion
Replacing a window is an expensive exercise however when you look at it replacing the same window twice in a lifetime is not just doubly expensive, but also unnecessary. If you pick the right material, you can have the confidence that the window will be doing its job long after you’ve gone… Never has the adage ‘you get what you pay for’ been more true when applied to buying window frames, so make sure you spend the time to research what you need. Go and speak to your local joiner about what they would recommend, and don’t rush into buying a uPVC window just because it looks a bit cheaper – it’s probably a false economy…

Modified wood project of the year winner – WPA 2022
04.07.2022

Google HQ wins with Accoya façade
On 29th and 30th June 2022, at the Windmill Village Hotel, Golf & Spa in Coventry, the 8th WPA annual two day event took place to celebrate all that is good in the timber industry.
On the evening of 29th June was the awards ceremony to recognise the achievements of businesses in the wood protection technology sector.
Accsys entered the awards category ‘Modified Wood Project of the Year’ with the new Google HQ in Kings Cross, London. Although the project is not yet finished, the use of Accoya is extensive and once completed, the building will be first of its kind – a landscaper. The Google HQ will be longer than the Shard is tall and features the world’s largest timber and glass façade.
The project won the category, showing that Accoya wood has been used to enhance the performance of the building and meet specific design requirements.
Designed by Heatherwick Studio and Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG).
Justin Peckham, Accsys Sales Manager collecting award

GOODWOOF – Bonehenge wins inaugural Barkitecture prize
In May 2022, an event took place in the United Kingdom focused entirely around dogs and cleverly named Goodwoof. The event included a competition for the best design of a dog kennel.
23.06.2022
Luxury Accoya kennel
Birds Portchmouth Russum Architects Ltd. entered the Barkitecture design competition for kennel design as part of the Goodwoof event in 2022. They chose to use the ultra high-performance sustainable wood, Accoya, to produce a beautiful kennel which is more than suitable to live outside.
Their kennel, Bonehenge, was fashioned majestically by fine woodworker, Karl Lewin, and won the Barkitecture Prize. Congratulations to Birds Portchmouth Russum Architects Ltd. and Karl Lewin. Bonehenge was unanimously selected as winner in a cast of entries and by the judging panel of Kevin McCloud, Bill Bailey and Stephen Bayley. The kennel was then sold in the charity auction for £2,500.
Goodwoof was broadcasted across the UK by ITV in which Kevin McCloud announced Bonehenge as the winning kennel. He gave a really generous appreciation for the project and for Accoya wood, highlighting its sustainability, durability and “guaranteed for 50 years”.
More can be seen on dezeen, Architects Journal and Homecrux.

What to expect with uncoated Accoya
20.05.2022

Accoya weathering
Wood is an organic material, and it changes over time as it reacts with the sun and the rain, developing new colours and textures: a process known as weathering.
Accoya, as a natural wood product, is no different
Like other wood species, uncoated Accoya wood will weather over time to an elegant slivery grey colour when left outside and exposed to the elements.
Unlike other woods however, weathering does not affect the durability, stability or performance of Accoya.
During the weathering transition process the surface colour of Accoya can appear patchy due to the different levels of sunlight and rain coming into contact with the wood, but over time it evens out to a beautiful silvery grey effect that lasts for decades to come.
Because Accoya has such great dimensional stability, coatings are not so stressed by shrinking and swelling forces that affect all other types of wood – meaning they last and look better for longer. For certain applications such as windows it is industry standard for frames to be coated to protect the other parts of the window fittings and mechanisms.


10 Pool Deck Ideas
Dive into our wood pool decking ideas and soak up inspiration for your next project.
10.05.2022

Build a beautiful deck that will last
Want to spend more time outdoors? Looking for ways to expand your living space and add value to your home? A beautiful outdoor deck can do it all, giving you and your family more room for barbecues, outdoor dining, gardening and stress-free relaxation.
Depending on the size and type of deck you build, a 2019 study by Remodeling magazine found that the addition of a deck is one of the four most valuable home improvement projects you can take on.[i] But design is important, and materials matter when building a deck. Your choice of decking material sets the standard for how the deck will look and how easy it will be to maintain over time.
So, what’s the best wood for decks? Luckily, you have several options, including a product called Accoya.
Top 10 Key Factors to Help You Choose the Best Deck Material
- Deck location, which includes exposure to sun, moisture and insects. Is your deck close to water? Surrounded by trees? Covered by snow in winter? Choose a material that will stand up to the elements.
- Durability is one of those things that becomes more important with time. Look for materials that resist fading, insects, rot, splitting or twisting, and more.
- Maintenance is a deal breaker for most people. Who wants to spend every summer taking care of their deck instead of hanging out on it? If cleaning and resealing your deck every year isn’t your idea of fun, look for a low-maintenance material.
- Ease of replacement becomes important if you need to replace a board someday. How easy will it be to find a match?
- Surface temperature is another consideration. If your deck gets direct sunlight and you want to be able to walk across it with bare feet, make sure the material you choose doesn’t get too hot.
- Appearance is always a consideration. Who wants an ugly deck? Look for a material that matches the look you want in terms of colour, grain, knots, board width and more.
- Ease of installation may feel like it’s only important if you install the deck yourself. But your cost of professional installation will also be higher with some materials than others.
- Sustainability of your deck material is more important than ever. We all know that we can make choices that help the world, and now there are more options than ever before to have a positive impact.
- Cost includes not just the material itself, but for installation and annual maintenance. For example, the cost to reseal a wood deck each year can be costly. Not all materials need the same level or frequency of upkeep, so this can be a significant long-term factor in overall cost of ownership.
- Warranty may not seem important until you need it. And then you’ll be glad you have it.

While you may be tempted to use the same old decking material, consider all of your options.
How do the decking options stack up?
Make the right choice for your deck.
Choose Beauty That Will Last
Your choice of deck materials is a decision you’ll have to live with for a long time. It’s nice to have choices, since each material comes with its own unique advantages. Take the time to learn about your options, then weigh the pros and cons. And if you value beauty, durability, sustainability, warranty and easy maintenance, take a closer look at Accoya.
[1] Cost vs. Value 2019, Remodeling magazine, https://www.remodeling.hw.net/cost-vs-value/2019/
Projects
Pools you may like

Natural pool decking Biarritz
Biarritz, france

Outdoor Swimming Pool
Schachen, switzerland

Villa Carat, Cannes
Cannes, france

Accoya decking tops the Swiss Alps
Gemmi Pass, Leukerbad, switzerland

Decking and pool surround Austria
Radkersburg, austria
Where to Buy
You can buy Accoya and Accoya products from our selection of distributors or manufacturers in your region. Use our map search tool to find your nearest Accoya supplier.

Accoya RoundUp Winter edition 2022
24.03.2022

In this Winter edition we’re pleased to share the latest Accoya production news – including insight into our expansion programme in Arnhem and an exciting update about North America…
We also have a new Project Collection that brings together inspiring stories and images from Accoya projects all over the world.
If you have news or case studies you’d like to share for our next issue, please get in touch.
Click here to read our Winter issue
Click here to signup for future issues and other Accoya news.

ASBP Awards 2022
On 17th February, at the EDGE showroom in London, Accoya was crowned the judges winner for the ASBP awards 2022 product category.
25.02.2022

Accoya named the judges winner
The ASBP Awards champion sustainable and low carbon building products. The 2022 awards were the 4th and biggest yet with three categories (product, project and initiative). Two awards were available for each of the categories, the judges award and the peoples choice award.
Accoya wood was entered into the product category and using the ASBP “Six Pillars of Sustainable Construction”, the panel of judges assessed our ultra-high performance, sustainable acetylated wood product, Accoya. The panel was formed of ASBP board members with expertise across the construction industry and choose Accoya as their winner for the product category.
Accoya was initially chosen for the ASBP longlist of 26 and then the 9 finalists were all invited to the awards ceremony at the EDGE in London, a new showroom dedicated to sustainability design and construction.
More can be seen here.
Predictions for Sustainable Building in 2022
What will characterise our sustainable cities of the future? In 2020, at 149 exajoules (or 149 quintillion joules), energy consumption for the construction and operation of buildings totalled 36 percent of global energy demand. Down from a peak of 150 exajoules in 2019, it is likely that pandemic lockdowns played a part in this reduction. Now, at a time when the world seems to have stood still for so long, we are beginning to allow ourselves to look forward and ponder on the shape of our future, and the general consensus is that this will begin with growth. As economies emerge from the pandemic, most believe that construction output will return to pre-COVID levels over the next year, and we have an opportunity to ensure that growth is sustainable. Below are our four key predictions for how this might look.
10.01.2022

Sustainable Building Materials
Actively guiding the construction industry towards a more sustainable path will not only ensure compliance with tightening green regulations, but improve brand image in an era where sustainability is king. A key consideration is reduction of waste and a more carefully considered stance on the materials we are using. Given that 11% of the energy and process-related carbon dioxide emissions from the buildings and construction sector in 2018 stemmed from manufacturing materials such as steel, cement, and glass, it makes sense to consider a move towards an altogether more eco-friendly choice: wood.
An inherent part of the natural environment, bringing sustainably sourced wood into our built environment champions nature and its fundamental biodegradability, allowing us to balance the need to provide for a growing population with the need to ensure the climate resilience of its future. In fact, the global green building materials market size is expected to have reached USD 364.6 billion by 2022. Of course, in this we must also step away from treating these materials with toxic paints and finishes, ensuring that they are truly biodegradable, and can safely be returned to nature at the end of their life.

Lifelong Wellbeing
Considering the return of wood to nature leads us on to the next key prediction, lifelong wellbeing. We must now be mindful of the entire lifecycle of the materials and building process and, beyond this, the health and wellbeing of those that work on and live in the buildings we erect. The World Green Building Council’s Six Principles for a Healthy, Sustainable Built Environment underlines the importance of the relationship between sustainable development and human wellbeing, detailing how harmony with nature and climate change action is linked to social values, including the health of construction workers. Buildings made of wood have seen not only construction time, effort, and waste reduced by as much as 90%, but have had a positive impact on construction workers, whose exposure to the dust and toxic fumes of a regular building site is drastically lowered. Furthermore, timber buildings continue to have a positive impact on people throughout their lives as wood surfaces have been found to lower stress levels, improve attention and focus, and increase creativity. With the difficulty of the preceding two years, a movement towards design that benefits wellbeing is likely to be at the forefront of many minds.

Biophilic Design
Fundamental to development that centres itself upon wellbeing, is biophilic design. Biophilia, the human tendency to interact and be close to nature, is increasingly being integrated into architecture as we recognise the health benefits that come from a connectedness with the natural world. In fact, in the World Green Building Council’s principles mentioned above, biophilic design is a key tenet of ‘Harmony with Nature’. Not only can we achieve this through the use of wood, which is seen to bring a number of health benefits in itself, but through expanding this by bringing green in.

Net Zero Is Not Enough – Positive Is The New Neutral
Our final prediction is that net zero emission targets will no longer cut the mustard. With several governments and large companies committing to net zero targets, reducing emissions is a global target. However, with increasing pressure from those who recognise this may no longer be enough, we believe there will be a push towards climate positivity: removing more greenhouses gases from the atmosphere than are released. In an industry that is responsible for a large portion of global emissions, we think companies have started to notice the scale of the positive impact we could have if we pushed for these more ambitious targets.

How Does Accoya Align With These Predictions?
At Accoya, sustainability has always been at the heart of what we do. Our products are made out of FSC certified timber grown in well-managed forests that protect the surrounding natural biodiversity. Modified through a process of acetylation, which does nothing more than alter than existing natural compounds of the wood, it becomes more durable, stable, and better performing without the addition of a single toxic chemical. This ensures that not only is its life lengthened, but when this eventually comes to an end, the timber is completely biodegradable or recyclable. As if this wasn’t enough, by the end of their life Accoya timber windows and doors will have helped to remove CO2 from the atmosphere. That’s right, they’re climate positive. So, whilst sustainable materials, lifelong wellbeing, biophilic design, and climate positivity are set to be the four new sustainable building trends of 2022, we hope that by fulfilling every one of these, Accoya becomes the fifth.
References
2021 Global Status Report for Buildings and Construction – Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction & United Nations Environment Program
2019 Global Status Report for Buildings and Construction – Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction & United Nations Environment Program
https://www.thestablecompany.com/blog/8-ways-timber-can-benefit-our-health-the-research
https://worldgbc.org/health-framework
https://www.grandviewresearch.com/press-release/global-green-building-materials-market
https://www.glenigan.com/construction-output-predicted-to-return-to-pre-covid-levels-by-2022/
https://www.thestablecompany.com/blog/8-ways-timber-can-benefit-our-health-the-research

6 On Trend Details to Give your Home Exterior a Fresh Look by HOUZZ
Building a new home or updating your façade? Be inspired by these 6 ways to stylishly warm up the exterior with Accoya wood.
20.12.2021

So much attention is paid to the interiors of our homes, but the exterior is what makes the first impression. A beautifully designed façade enhances the architecture and sets the tone and feel of a home before guests even set foot inside. With its warm, natural appeal and virtually limitless design potential, wood cladding has emerged as a major trend in exteriors. Here are six of-the-moment ways to use it to give your property serious street appeal.

1. Opt for a Beautifully Weathered Façade
Embrace the natural look with untreated wood cladding that ages gracefully over time. It’s a wonderful way to highlight the earthy and organic beauty of the wood, and helps a home blend in with the landscape.
This stunning lakeside home in Saint Joseph, Michigan, called for a hardy wood cladding that could withstand the constant wind coming off Lake Michigan. Accoya cladding was chosen for its sustainability, durability and superior resistance to weather and rot. Leaving the wood untreated has allowed it to develop a stunning natural appearance that merges with the earthy, natural setting, while creating a pleasing contrast against the home’s sharp black window frames.

While standard wood cladding has its benefits, it’s not suitable for every project or homeowner, as it requires ongoing maintenance and can deteriorate over time. Today you’ll find innovative alternatives that provide all the warmth and natural appeal of wood, with minimal maintenance requirements and far superior durability. Accoya’s acetylated wood cladding can withstand even tough weather conditions, is resistant to rotting, and if left untreated will weather naturally to a beautiful silvery grey.
Accoya wood has impressive environmental credentials too. It’s fully sustainable, and every panel comes with FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification. It is also 100 percent nontoxic, so you can have peace of mind knowing it’s a healthy choice for you and your family.

2. Ditch the Trim
Want the focus to be on the shape and form of your architecture rather than individual features such as your windows? Extending your wood cladding right to the window ledges without including a trim, as seen on this home (Ash Tree Residence) in New Canaan, Connecticut, keeps all eyes firmly on the bigger picture while creating a sleek and modern look.
Here, Accoya cladding in Old Town Gray was used to add a modern-rustic feel to the home and highlight the dramatic shape of its gable-roofed entry volume. The large picture windows are trim-free and feature minimalist frames — a clever way to maximize light and views inside the home without overshadowing the bigger architectural story from the outside.

3. Try the Shou-Sugi-Ban Trend
If you’re looking to make a statement with a bold exterior, consider giving your home the shou-sugi-ban treatment. This ancient Japanese technique involves charring the wood to preserve and strengthen it. The charring turns the wood a deep charcoal black while revealing its texture and grain. Not only does this wood treatment make for a striking façade, but it minimizes maintenance.

4. Focus on Natural Materials
As the saying goes, less is more. Choosing one “hero” natural material and using it in different ways across your home’s exterior can be a subtle, but very effective, way to bring cohesion to your home’s design. To create an uninterrupted sense of flow, you could carry the material through to the interior of your home or to any outbuildings.
The key to success when using a single natural material is to be creative with how you apply it. This award-winning boathouse (The Haven) in Norfolk, England, has been given light-tone Accoya wood cladding, decking and curved screening. As the property is surrounded by water on three sides, the architects selected Accoya wood for its water-resistant properties and dimensional stability, as well as its stunning natural looks and sustainability. The result is a graceful home that sits lightly in its tranquil coastal setting.

5. Play Up Textures
Natural appeal aside, wood cladding gives you endlessly creative ways to express your personal style. Take this three-story office building designed and occupied by architectural firm Dillon Kyle Architects in Houston, for example. It’s clad in 2,500 Accoya boards that have an abstract leaf-like pattern carved into the wood. The pattern references the oak trees that line the neighbourhood, and it adds not just texture and softness to the modern structure but a unique personal touch.
“The Accoya wood boards are unsealed and allowed to weather over time,” says Peter Klein, associate principal architect at Dillon Kyle Architects. “The idea was to use a material where you couldn’t tell where the patterns started and stopped — just one big continuous object.”
As the wood cladding would play a pivotal role in the look and performance of the building, the firm took their time choosing the right one. “Even left untreated, it didn’t warp or mildew or mould, and that let us know we were on the right path,” Klein says. “The neutral grey tones coupled with its long-term durability, resistance to rot and insects made Accoya wood the ideal material for this project.”

6. Go Skinny
Add texture and depth to your home’s exterior with narrow boards for cladding, louvers and screening.
For this luxury apartment block (Blackwood Street Apts) in Melbourne, Australia, the architect specified 40-by-40-millimeter Accoya wood boards with a coat of Woca Exterior Walnut Oil for the louvers and screening in the alfresco areas. The oiled boards create a soft and inviting feel while bringing a sense of intimacy to the apartment complex.
The rest of the detailing in this spot, including hardware and pavers, was deliberately pared back to keep the focus firmly on the textural wood.

Running slender boards vertically, as the architect has done here, is a clever design technique for making a low roof or ceiling appear higher. You can use this strategy both outside your home with wood cladding and inside with wood wall lining.
If room height is not a concern, consider mixing vertical and horizontal patterns for added texture and interest inside or outside your home.
More: Learn more about Accoya’s range of sustainable, acetylated wood products by visiting our homepage here.
This story was written by the Houzz Sponsored Content team.

Build It Awards 2021
02.12.2021

Accsys and Accoya® named Best Sustainable Technology or Product
At the Build It Awards 2021, Accsys and Accoya won the Best Sustainable Technology or Product category. On the same night of November 26th, Accoya cladding coated with Sansin produced by James Latham plc also took a top prize at the British Woodworking Federation awards.
Accsys’ purpose is “changing wood to change the world”, and the team is very pleased and proud to see its work celebrated and acclaimed by the most knowledgeable people and organisations in the industry. Its Accoya solid modified wood product combines outstanding performance and durability with certified sustainability, enhancing the best benefits of wood as a building material with the company’s proprietary acetylation process to resist rot, decay and dimensional swelling or warping.

A week earlier, the company was also listed as a runner up on the shortlist for the IR Society Best Practice Award for Best ESG Communication. This marks a year of substantial progress in Accsys’ development of its Environmental, Social and Governance strategy and reporting: making sure the growing positive environmental impact of increasing its supply of products is matched with increasingly improved performance and transparency as a responsible and ethical business.
Rob Harris, CEO, said:
“I’m delighted to see the hard work of our talented and committed colleagues recognised and rewarded by the people and organisations leading our industry. I want to say ‘congratulations and thank you’ to everyone who helps make this possible – every single person and role in our business contributes to and deserves credit for these achievements. Our fantastic customers, distributors, and architects, specifiers, joiners and builders who make great use of our products every day are a big part of our success too. Thank you all!”

Accoya® featured in two winning projects at Wood Awards 2021
30.11.2021

Wood Awards 2021
In London on 25th November 2021, the Wood Awards winners were announced.
Held at the Building Centre, 8 projects were awarded after successfully being chosen during the rigorous judging process.
The prestigious awards celebrate excellence in architecture and product design in wood.
Accoya wood was used in two winning projects and in one highly commended project, details below.
See more information and the full list of 2021 winners here.

Small Project Winner – Built: East Pavilion
Accoya used for the intricate roof of this pavilion structure in Belfast.

Interiors Winner – St John Street
Accoya used for internal joinery and interior at this property in London.

Highly Commended – Wooden Annex
Accoya used for structural foundations and cladding on this extension of a private home in London.
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