About Arbor Wood Co.

Arbor Wood Co. produces thermally modified wood for a variety of outdoor and indoor applications including siding, decking, and architectural millwork. Their process starts by using domestically and responsibly sourced wood which is thermally modified using only heat and steam. The result is a high-quality, performance-driven material, which sustains the natural beauty and design element of wood all without the use of harsh chemicals.

What is Thermally Modified Wood?

Arbor Wood is thermally modified wood produced in a specialized, 3-phase kiln chemical free process using only heat and steam.

Phase 1: An initial gradual increase in temperature reduces the equilibrium moisture content (EMC) of the wood.

Phase 2: A rapid spike in temperature is introduced, and is where the magic really happens. The cellular composition of the wood is altered in this high-heat, oxygen-deprived environment which converts the natural acids and sugars so as to no longer be a food source for mold, rot or fungal decay. This change also renders the wood ‘hydrophobic’, meaning it loses much of the natural tendency to absorb water going forward. As a natural byproduct of the process the wood takes on a richer, dark tone throughout giving it a look similar to that of exotic species.

Phase 3: The third and final phase introduces steam to cool the wood down and bring the EMC back up to a suitable level.

Thermal modification is one of the most natural, chemical-free ways to extend the life of wood products.

Sustainability Features & Benefits

• Chemical free – superior exterior qualities without the use of toxic chemicals

• Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified sustainably harvested timber

• Grown, harvested, kilned, milled and sold in North America

• Support responsible resource management

Stability Features & Benefits

• More stable than standard kiln dried wood.

• Up to 60% reduced swelling and shrinking from moisture

• Water and decay resistant