Arbor Wood Co. crafts high-performance, thermally modified timber for siding, decking, and millwork. Using only heat and steam on responsibly sourced domestic wood, they create durable, chemical-free materials that preserve the natural beauty of every grain.
What is Thermally Modified Wood?
Thermally modified wood is timber that has been "pressure-cooked" in a specialized, chemical-free kiln. By using only heat and steam, the process permanently alters the wood’s cellular structure to make it more durable, stable, and rot-resistant.
The 3-Phase Transformation
Arbor Wood’s modification occurs in three distinct stages:
Phase 1: Drying
The temperature is gradually raised to reduce the wood's Equilibrium Moisture Content (EMC), preparing the fibers for the high-heat stage.
Phase 2: Modification (The "Magic" Phase)
In an oxygen-deprived environment, a rapid heat spike occurs. This converts the wood’s natural sugars and acids so they are no longer a food source for mold, rot, or fungi. This step also makes the wood hydrophobic (water-resistant) and gives it a deep, exotic-looking dark tone.
Phase 3: Conditioning
Steam is introduced to safely cool the material and bring the moisture levels back to a stable, workable equilibrium.
Thermal modification is one of the most natural, chemical-free ways to extend the life of wood products.
Arbor Wood Co.
Deck Tiles
Introducing Arbor Wood Co Decking Tiles. Crafted using industry-leading Arbor Wood Co Thermally Modified Wood, these tiles blend natural elegance & sustainability, transforming any outdoor space.
Applications
Decking
Docks
Siding
Interior flooring
Window + Portal trim
Stable outdoor signage
Doors
Bathroom interiors
Saunas
Sustainability
Chemical free – superior exterior qualities without the use of toxic chemicals
Sustainably harvested timber
Grown, harvested, kilned, milled and sold in North America
Support responsible resource management
Stability
More stable than standard kiln dried wood.
Up to 60% reduced swelling and shrinking from moisture
Water and decay resistant
Species
Note that images of materials below are a close representation of color and texture, but actual product color and texture may vary. Please contact us for material samples.
NATRL - Ash + No Finish
BRNSH - Burned, Brushed + Black Oil
NATRL - Pine + Clear Oil
ELMNT - Brushed + Grey Oil
BRNSH - Burned & Brushed + Brown Oil
ELMNT - Brushed + White Oil
BRNSH - Burned + Black Oil