Want to know how ordinary timber transforms into something extraordinary?

It's all thanks to a fascinating process that creates thermal wood, also known as thermowood! Forget harsh chemicals; this wood gets its superpowers from just heat and steam. The result? Timber that's incredibly durable, dimensionally stable, and naturally resistant to rot and pests.

The Heat-Powered Makeover

Here's the inside scoop on how this eco-friendly material is made:

• The Big Dry (and Steam Bath): First, raw timber steps into a special kiln. Temperatures quickly climb to around 130°C (266°F). This isn't just about drying; steam is introduced to keep the wood happy and prevent any cracking under the rising heat.

• The Extreme Heat Treatment: This is where the magic truly happens! The temperature rockets up to an intense 185-220°C (365-428°F). Crucially, this happens in an oxygen-free environment—think of it as a super-hot sauna for wood that prevents it from burning. This extreme heat fundamentally changes the wood's internal structure, breaking down the natural sugars that insects and decay love to munch on. As a bonus, it gives the wood a beautiful, consistent dark tone all the way through.

• The Cool Down and Rebalance: After its fiery transformation, the wood is gently cooled down and re-misted with a touch of moisture (around 4-7%). This final step helps the wood relax, releasing any internal stress and ensuring it's perfectly stable and ready for its new life.

From start to finish, the whole process can take anywhere from a day to several, depending on the wood species and desired properties. But the wait is worth it for a product that's not only sustainable and chemical-free but also exceptionally tough, especially for outdoor projects.