Why Thermally Modified Wood is Ideal for Site Furnishings

Thermally Modified Wood: An Ideal Solution for Durable & Beautiful Site Furnishings in Today's Landscape

Are you a landscape architect, contractor, or developer seeking site furnishings that combine natural elegance with lasting durability? A common concern with traditional wooden benches, tables, and receptacles is their vulnerability to rot and decay. But what if you could have the beauty of wood without the worry? Thermally Modified Wood is domestically sourced, which can help reduce issues with ethical sourcing, lead times, and other economic factors. 

What is Thermally Modified Wood and Why Does it Matter?

Thermally modified wood undergoes a specialized heat and steam treatment process, drastically enhancing its performance and appearance. This process alters the wood's internal structure, making it a superior choice for commercial site furniture.

• Rot and Decay Resistance: High temperatures eliminate the wood's susceptibility to fungi and bacteria, preventing mold, rot, and decay.
• Water Resistance: Increased density reduces water absorption, minimizing warping and swelling.
• Pest Resistance: The treatment creates a barrier against termites and other pests.

This conditioning process ensures long-term stability, preserving the wood's aesthetic appeal for modern site furniture designs.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How does thermally modified wood compare to traditional wood in terms of strength?

While thermally modified wood offers enhanced durability and resistance to decay, the thermal modification process can reduce the wood's bending strength. 

Is thermally modified wood environmentally friendly?

Can thermally modified wood be used in different climates?

It performs well in diverse climates due to its enhanced resistance to moisture and temperature fluctuations.

Does it require special finishes or treatments?

Thermally modified can be left untreated and will naturally weather to a silver-gray patina over time. To maintain it's original color and enhance longevity, applying a UV-protective finish is recommended. 

How long does thermally modified wood last in outdoor environments?

When properly maintained, thermally modified wood can last significantly longer than some other wood options, even in harsh conditions.

Maintaining the Beauty and Longevity of Your Site Furnishings

Thermally modified wood is designed for durability & low maintenance, making it an ideal choice for commercial site furnishings. However, to ensure it retains its beauty and long-term performance, a few simple care practices are recommended:

• Periodically clean surfaces to remove dirt, debris, and environmental buildup that could cause discoloration over time.
• Apply UV-protective finishes every 1-3 years to preserve the wood's rich color and protect against fading from prolonged sun exposure.
• You can also leave it untreated and allow the wood to naturally gray for a silver patina finish.

Key Benefits for Landscape Architects, Contractors, and Developers

Landscape Architects:

• Specify high-performance materials that meet sustainability goals without sacrificing aesthetics. 
• Reduce client concerns about wood durability in high-traffic outdoor environments. 
• Incorporate premium, long-lasting site furnishings that complement contemporary design visions. 

Contractors:

• Eliminate concerns about wood failure, reducing callbacks and costly replacements. 
• Work with pre-treated, dimensionally stable materials that can simplify installation.
• Deliver projects that withstand environmental stressors, ensuring long-term client satisfaction.

Developers:

• Improve property values with premium, low-maintenance site furnishings that enhance public & private spaces. 
• Reduce ongoing maintenance expenses, cutting long-term operational costs. 
• Invest in durable, aesthetically appealing site amenities that attract tenants and visitors. 

At Thomas Steele, we offer a wide range of thermally modified wood products, including:

• Commercial benches and picnic tables for urban park design.
• Outdoor trash receptacles and planters for public space improvement.
• Custom site furniture to meet specific project requirements.

Interested in learning more or have questions on our thermally modified wood material option? Contact our team at sales@madrax.com or browse our collection of commercial site furniture! You can also request material samples using the link below.