How to use thermally modified American hardwood in your home

(NewsUSA) – Thermally modified Real American Hardwood® is a durable, sustainable product gaining traction in U.S. home design. Developed in Finland in the 1990s, the process involves heating wood to over 400°F in a low-oxygen chamber, permanently altering its cellular structure to boost resistance to moisture, decay, and insects—without chemicals. It’s also more dimensionally stable, making it less likely to warp or twist. “Thermally modified hardwood is an eco-friendly alternative to pressure-treated wood,” notes Ian Faight of the American Hardwood Information Center. “For homeowners, this versatile, low-maintenance material is an excellent choice for exterior applications like decking, siding, and outdoor furniture, as well as for interior uses like flooring and cabinetry.” Here are six examples of its remarkable adaptability and great looks. Pennsylvania poplar siding from Americana™ Thermally Modified Hardwoods envelops this contemporary residence in Biltmore Forest, North Carolina, by Vellum Architecture and Design. The poplar’s rich tones and clean lines enhance the home’s modern aesthetic, while its durability and stability—achieved through heat treatment—ensure lasting performance against moisture, decay, and warping. Photo courtesy of 161 Photography VikingWood™ thermally modified sweet gum flooring enhances the covered porch of this Lake Lanier, Georgia, family home, offering a natural, chemical-free alternative to treated...