VikingWood ^TM

Extreme humidity and cost effectiveness are among the reasons thermally modified ash was selected for exteriors of the new residence hall at Iolani School in Honolulu, Hawaii. The new dormitory provides on-campus living at the international school for the first time since 1959. Exotic hardwoods are often specified in the islands to stand up to the extreme heat and moisture. The thermal modification process produces a natural, chemical-free alternative to more expensive woods, such as ipe and teak. With thermally modified ash, shrinkage and swelling is reduced by five to 15 times. Over the years, it maintains an attractive color without the usual graying experienced with other woods.

Thermally Modified Sweet Gum is a natural, chemical-free wood that is treated under extremely high temperatures (350 F+). Sugars are cooked away leaving a safe, green alternative to chemically preserved wood.

The beautiful color produced in the thermal treatment process creates a stunning backdrop for this bar countertop. The thermal modification produces wood with moisture-resistant properties, making thermally modified ash an excellent option for a stylish bar and other interior applications. Thermally modified ash repels moisture at the molecular level and lowers the equilibrium moisture content by 50 to 90 percent. And, because the thermal modification process is chemical-free, it’s safe for indoor use.