What is Shou Sugi Ban, this antique japanese woodworking technique?
Japanese have given us a wonderful woodworking process since the 18th century. It is doing a strong comeback in many architectural studios. This charred wood procedure brings stunning elegance to any indoor and exterior living spaces. It is basically fine art for wood!
Shou Sugi Ban Wall Cladding
How is it done?
Charred Wood is achieved by lightly and evenly applying an open flame to a wood plank to char the surface of the board. By doing so, distinct lines and textural beauty are revealed. Aside from the obvious beauty it creates, such technique is used in order to weatherproof the wood.
After the burning process a finishing can be done with a couple of boiled linseed oil coatings.
Why install charred wood?
The charring process gives the wood additional properties:
Fire Resistance: burning wood actually gives the wood fire retardant properties.
Insect repellent: if you have termite issues, use Shou Sugi Ban wood! Insects of all kinds hate it.
Fungus protection: charred wood is very effective against mould.
Rot-free: if installed outdoors, it will protect the wood and prevent or delay rotting.
UV protection: flamed wood will not fade when exposed to sunlight.
Beauty: we had to mention it once again: this technique creates stunning results!
What wood is best to use for Shou Sugi Ban?
Cedar is the obvious choice because of the wood’s natural chemical properties. It is a light and porous wood whose natural component makes it ideal for the charring process. It results in a scorched finish with a magnificent charcoal black color.
While not as common, pine and oak are also used for Shou Sugi Ban because of their versatility which results in a good withstanding of open flame burning.
Pine Wood Charred Process by Java Recycled Teak
Other woods have of course been tested over the years, but because deep burns cannot be done, the end result will not be as effective. Consequently, the fire and insect resistance will not last as long and, of course, it won’t be as weather resistant.
Is Shou Sugi Ban expensive?
The choice of wood will of course impact the overall bill, but on average, it will cost you $5 to $5.60 per square foot. The additional process is the main reason for Shou Sugi Ban to be more expensive than other alternatives, but the longevity and other properties listed previously makes it a real smart investment.
We have a couple of contacts for you if you need Shou Sugi Ban teak or pine. Please contact us!