Are you drawn to natural materials and wondering whether charring wood, rather than impregnating it, is the right way to preserve it? The answer is a resounding yes. Charred timber is not only visually striking but also remarkably versatile, which explains its growing popularity among homeowners, architects, and designers alike.
This is no coincidence. The process of wood charring lends façades a unique character while significantly enhancing durability and resistance.
In today’s article, we’ll explore what actually happens during the charring process, and what special properties the wood acquires once it has been fire-tempered.
Preserving wood through charring – the Japanese Shou Sugi Ban technique
Centuries ago, in faraway Japan, the masters there developed the legendary wood charring technique Shou Sugi Ban. Over the years, it has delighted and intrigued successive generations. As Atelier TwentyOne, we decided to take inspiration from the tradition and enrich it with modern innovations, resulting in a proprietary process that enables us to produce unique solutions from charred wood. Why is our method so unique?
We carry out the wood burning process in a specially designed carbonisation furnace to create a charred surface on the wood. This gives us two key features of our products – high durability and a remarkable appearance. Thanks to this charred surface, we can say that charring the wood works as a natural form of impregnation. The material becomes more resistant to the elements, such as water and fire. Facade boards made this way gain hydrophobic properties, protecting them from waterlogging. The Shou Sugi Ban process also makes the wood effectively protected against decay and therefore against the threat of pests.
Does charring wood serve as impregnation? Absolutely! The traditional Japanese technique of Shou Sugi Ban, also known as Yakisugi, is a proven way to protect wood from many external factors. Beyond durability, charring opens up endless design possibilities, combining natural resilience with a distinctive aesthetic. Its unique look and atmosphere make charred wood an ideal choice for creating truly original living spaces.
Experts in firewood technique – Atelier TwentyOne
At the heart of Atelier TwentyOne’s offer is the timeless beauty of charred wood. Renowned for its exceptional durability and striking appearance, it is a material that combines function with elegance. We offer our customers a diverse range of charred wood solutions, including:
- charred cladding boards,
- charred wood decking,
- tan wood for interiors,
- charred fencing,
- tan wood furniture.
Choose elegant charred wood that will leave a lasting impression. If you’re unsure which option is right for your project, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team will gladly answer your questions from selecting the ideal product and wood species to advising on long-term maintenance—so you can enjoy the beauty of Shou Sugi Ban with complete confidence.