One of the hottest new trends in wood architecture is actually an ancient technique dating back centuries - Shou Sugi Ban, or Japanese fire preservation technique, involves burning wood to preserve it for later use.

Japanese cedar lends itself especially well to this process, since its species reacts strongly to heat. But it can be applied to other kinds of modified wood as well.

Preserved Wood

Shou Sugi Ban was first used hundreds of years ago in Japan as a way to preserve wood from insects, fungus, rot and fire damage. The process involves burning the surface of the wood which seals in natural layers beneath. Shou Sugi Ban makes for an attractive exterior siding option and other wood products thanks to its durability and aesthetic value.

Traditional Shou Sugi ban techniques were originally utilized on Japanese cedar (also referred to as Sugi), yielding superior results and producing the most obvious charring appearance; however, other varieties of Cypress as well as North American softwoods can also be successfully treated in this fashion.

Burning also vaporizes away some of the wood's soft cellulose layers, making it less flammable - something especially essential when placing patio tables near open flames. Furthermore, the charred finish adds texture that complements various decorative styles.

Versatile

Shou Sugi Ban's versatility lies in its use in multiple designs and styles. From siding and decking, fences, accent walls and furniture to architectural features like accent walls or furniture. As it does not contain harmful chemicals like dark stains or paints it makes an excellent alternative that won't fade over time.

Cedar wood is often chosen for Shou Sugi Ban due to its durability and rot-resistance; however, other types of wood can also be used with this technique. Accoya wood offers exceptional initial durability that can be enhanced through charring.

Kebony wood works exceptionally well with the yakisugi technique due to its bolder and richer grain patterns after being burned, creating an eye-catching natural look that stands out.

Natural

Shou Sugi Ban is a traditional Japanese technique used to protect wood against rot and insects, by burning its surface to create a protective layer of carbon that acts as a natural defense against moisture and insects. This eco-friendly solution makes Shou Sugi Ban an attractive option for cladding, siding or interior paneling applications, adding both visual appeal and an ecological benefit in any room. The dramatic aesthetic also makes Shou Sugi Ban an appealing way to decorate spaces!

Shou Sugi Ban is becoming more and more popular as an ancient process due to its unique look and numerous benefits, from being non-toxic treatment, fire resistance and termite protection all the way up to being maintenance free cladding for over eighty years.

No surprise that this beautiful method has quickly become a modern construction trend. Our collective desire for handmade materials has seen an upsurge in building methods which emphasize simplicity and respect for nature.

Eco-Friendly

Shou Sugi Ban is an eco-friendly alternative to chemical preservatives for exterior walls and furnishings, creating a protective carbon layer on wood surfaces to stop them absorbing moisture or becoming insect infested.

Also, this process improves dimensional stability in wood, meaning it won't shrink or expand when exposed to changing temperatures and environmental conditions.

Though this technique can be applied to a range of species, softwoods such as western red cedar, hemlock and southern cypress tend to work best when applied using this approach. Hardwoods may not stand up as well against elements, and may not provide as effective a treatment over time.