In the latest newsletter from NRLA (Northeastern Retail Lumber Association, Inc.), writer Jordan Russin pronounces, “Thermally Modified Wood Is What’s Next.” We here at DeckWise® believe he is correct. Link to his article at bottom of page.

Thermally modified wood is currently positioned to be a disruptive material in the wood decking (and siding) industry, especially with the anticipated new CITES regulations on Ipe and Cumaru hardwoods. This innovative material is on the brink of widespread adoption, offering a timely solution that meets emerging market demands.

As the market for building materials continues to evolve, thermally modified wood is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for decking material that offers both fastener functionality and sustainability. Advances in the thermal modification process have improved the performance and availability of this material, making it more accessible to consumers and industry professionals.

Image courtesy of Arbor Wood Co. www.arborwoodco.com.

Industry experts predict that as awareness of its benefits increases, thermally modified wood will become a standard choice for high-quality exterior applications, reshaping the decking (and siding) market landscape. As an industry-transforming option, it caters to the needs of homeowners, builders, and designers seeking high-performance, low maintenance, and eco-friendly alternatives for exterior applications.

Recognizing this market (r)evolution, DeckWise® has extensively studied the thermally modified wood sector for many years. In response to its recent growth, we are excited to introduce our ThermoClip™ — a Hidden Deck Fastener uniquely crafted for edge-groove thermally modified wood decking.

ThermoClip™ product link HERE.

The primary reasons thermally modified wood is poised to redefine decking is its superior durability, accessibility, and dimensional stability. The thermal modification process alters the internal structure of the wood and reduces its moisture absorption capabilities. This makes thermally modified wood exceptionally resistant to decay, rot, and insect damage, surpassing the durability of untreated wood. Additionally, it minimizes warping, shrinking, or swelling caused by humidity changes, making it ideal for outdoor applications.

ThermoClip™ Hidden Deck Fastener effectively addresses the inherent brittleness of thermally modified wood. The design advantage of this hidden deck fastener flaunts the absence of aggressive sharp edge-groove tangs or teeth that can dig in, gouge the board, eliminating the risk of damaging the deck board. Its smooth polyethylene shell ensures natural wood movement without the risk of marring, staining, cracking, breaking the boards, or snapping screws.

Image courtesy of Arbor Wood Co. www.arborwoodco.com.

The introduction of ThermoClip™ further enhances the appeal by providing a hidden fastening solution that maintains the clean, uninterrupted surface of the deck. Available in black or brown, ThermoClip™ joins seamlessly with the decking material, offering a camouflaged appearance while ensuring consistent board gaps with integrated 1/4-inch hollow spacer legs, thus enhancing both fastener functionality and visual appeal.

In today’s eco-conscious market, thermally modified wood stands out for its environmental benefits over traditional chemically treated wood, softwood Pine, and composite decking. The thermal modification process eliminates the need for harmful chemicals that can leach into the environment. This method not only makes thermally modified wood safer for residential use but also simplifies its disposal and recycling.

Although it is true that thermally modified wood decking moves much less than even hardwood decking, minor movement in the boards is possible. ThermoClip™ deck fasteners come with stainless steel deck screws – installed at a 90-degree angle into the joist – which complements this wood without the possibility of staining from corrosive metal damaging the deck boards. ThermoClip™ ensures long-lasting performance without the ecological drawbacks associated with conventional metal fasteners and face screws.

The synergy between thermally modified wood and ThermoClip™ Hidden Deck Fasteners represents a significant advancement in wood decking. Together, they offer enhanced durability, environmental sustainability, and aesthetic versatility, providing a high-performance alternative to traditional materials. As demand for sustainable and low-maintenance building solutions continues to grow, thermally modified wood and ThermoClip™ are set to become integral components of modern exterior decking design and construction, revolutionizing the way we approach and utilize wood in outdoor projects.

Article link HERE.