_edited.jpg)
Thermal Modification
The Italy-manufactured Maspell Kiln subjects lumber to heat and vacuum to alter the wood internally, leaving an odorless, beautiful, golden-brown hue.
What is thermal modification?
Using only heat and time under vacuum, wood is transformed through a chemical-free thermal modification process that enhances its natural performance. Over approximately three days, temperatures gradually rise to nearly 400°F before entering a carefully controlled cooling phase inside a Maspell kiln. The result is a rich, golden-brown color that reflects the transformation occurring throughout the wood.
​
The most significant changes occur beneath the surface. As the wood is heated, naturally occurring sugars and starches are altered, creating a less favorable environment for decay organisms and many wood-destroying insects. At the same time, the wood's cellular structure is permanently modified, reducing its ability to absorb moisture and significantly improving dimensional stability. The result is a naturally durable, more stable wood product that delivers long-term performance without the use of chemicals or additives.
Thermal Modification Uses
Siding
Thermal modification enhances wood’s natural durability and stability, making it an ideal choice for exterior siding. StillWood provides a beautiful, long-lasting alternative for homes and buildings, combining the character of natural wood with improved performance.
Decking
Built for life outdoors, StillWood decking combines the natural beauty of wood with enhanced performance from thermal modification. A stable, durable choice for decks, porches, and outdoor living spaces.
Instruments
Thermal modification can enhance the stability and consistency of wood, making it well suited for precision applications like musical instruments. StillWood opens new possibilities for using thermally modified wood in instruments where performance, character, and craftsmanship matter.​
Buy Ours or Provide Yours
We offer custom thermal modification services for a wide range of wood species and project needs. Source your material through us using our established relationships with leading suppliers throughout the Pacific Northwest, or provide your own wood for us to process.
Decay Resistence
By reducing natural sugars, thermal modification makes the wood less susceptible to decay and insect activity.
Dimensional Stability
By removing moisture from wood cells, thermal modification improves dimensional stability, helping the wood maintain its shape and resist warping when exposed to moisture.
Lengthens Lifespan
While lifespan varies by species and application, thermal modification typically extends the service life of wood products, with common estimates around 25 years.
Sustainable
Our wood originates from sustainably harvested forests, ensuring responsible forestry practices while preserving natural resources for future generations.
Chemical Free
We prioritize keeping our wood as natural as possible by avoiding preservatives and chemicals completely. Instead, we use thermal modification to achieve the long-lasting durability of traditional preservatives without chemicals.
Mechanical Properties
Work with our team to develop a thermal modification process tailored to your application. We can help you find the right balance between optimizing mechanical properties and improving durability, depending on the performance requirements of your project.
Get a Quote
Request a quote for thermal modification here, and we'll be in touch shortly.