How to Choose Thermowood for Outdoor Decking [2024 Guide]

Introduction: Embracing Nature with Enhanced Wood

Creating a beautiful and durable outdoor deck is a significant investment in your home and lifestyle. While many materials are available, none quite match the unique combination of natural beauty, exceptional durability, and environmental sustainability offered by Thermowood. As you embark on your project, selecting the right Thermowood is crucial to ensuring your deck withstands the test of time and elements while providing a warm, inviting space for years to come. This guide will walk you through the essential factors to consider, empowering you to make an informed and confident decision for your outdoor living area.

Understanding the Thermowood Transformation Process

To appreciate why Thermowood is an superior choice, it is important to understand how it is made. Thermowood is not a specific species of wood; it is the result of a specialized thermal modification process. Sustainable softwoods, like Nordic pine or spruce, are subjected to high heat, typically between 180 and 215 degrees Celsius, in a controlled environment with steam. This steam prevents the wood from burning while permanently altering its chemical structure. The process drastically reduces the wood's moisture content and eliminates the hemicelluloses that attract insects and fungi. The outcome is a transformed material that is significantly more stable, durable, and resistant to decay than its untreated counterpart, all without the use of any harmful chemicals.

Key Advantages of Thermowood for Decking

The thermal modification process imbues Thermowood with a set of properties that make it exceptionally well suited for outdoor decking. Firstly, its dimensional stability is vastly improved. Unlike traditional wood, Thermowood exhibits minimal swelling, shrinking, or warping when exposed to rain, humidity, or intense sun. This leads to a deck that remains flat, even, and structurally sound over time. Secondly, its natural durability is remarkable. With a resistance to rot and decay comparable to that of expensive tropical hardwoods, Thermowood is built to last, often for decades with proper care. Furthermore, the heat treatment creates a uniform, rich brown color throughout the wood, which gracefully weathers to an elegant silvery grey patina if left untreated, adding to its rustic charm.

Selecting the Right Thermowood Grade for Your Project

Not all Thermowood is created equal, and selecting the correct grade is essential for both performance and aesthetics. Thermowood is typically available in two main grades, often referred to as Thermo S and Thermo D. The Thermo S grade is slightly less intense and is ideal for applications where structural strength is a priority, such as supporting frames or cladding on buildings. For decking, the Thermo D grade is the recommended choice. It undergoes a more rigorous heat treatment, resulting in superior hardness and resistance to biological degradation, making it the perfect fit for direct ground contact and high traffic surfaces like decking boards. Always confirm with your supplier that you are purchasing the Thermo D grade for your deck.

Considering Dimensions and Profile for Function and Style

The physical form of your decking boards will influence both the installation process and the final look of your deck. Consider the thickness and width of the boards. Thicker boards, for instance 21mm, offer a more robust feel and are ideal for high traffic areas or commercial projects, while a 19mm thickness is often perfectly sufficient for residential use. The width of the board can dramatically alter the deck's appearance; narrower boards create a more traditional look, while wider boards offer a modern, streamlined aesthetic. Additionally, choose between a grooved or ungrooved profile. Grooved boards feature channels on the underside that facilitate better ventilation and water runoff, which is crucial for the longevity of the deck structure, especially in wet climates.

The Importance of Sourcing and Certification

The quality of the final Thermowood product is heavily dependent on the raw material and the precision of the manufacturing process. It is vital to source your Thermowood from a reputable supplier who uses sustainably harvested timber from well managed forests, often indicated by certifications like PEFC or FSC. A dedicated Thermowood manufacturer, with years of experience like our company established in 2008, will have refined their process to ensure consistent and high quality results. Do not hesitate to ask your supplier about the wood's origin and their specific thermal modification technology. A trustworthy provider will be transparent about their methods and the properties of their product.

Installation and Long Term Maintenance Tips

Proper installation and care will maximize the lifespan and beauty of your Thermowood deck. During installation, use stainless steel or other corrosion resistant fasteners to prevent unsightly staining. Ensure there is adequate ventilation beneath the deck to allow moisture to escape. While Thermowood is low maintenance, some care will preserve its appearance. If you wish to maintain the rich, as installed brown color, apply a high quality UV protective oil specifically designed for Thermowood, typically on an annual basis. If you prefer the natural silvery grey weathered look, no oiling is necessary, though a cleaning with a specialized wood cleaner once a year will keep it looking fresh and prevent dirt buildup.

Making Your Final Decision with Confidence

Choosing Thermowood for your outdoor decking is a decision that balances aesthetic desire with practical wisdom. By understanding the process behind the product, selecting the correct Thermo D grade, paying attention to dimensions, and sourcing from a certified and experienced manufacturer, you are laying the foundation for a beautiful and enduring outdoor space. Your deck should be a source of joy and relaxation, not constant upkeep. With Thermowood, you are selecting a material that matures gracefully with your home, offering a durable, sustainable, and timeless platform for creating lasting memories.