Strong, Budget-Friendly Wood For Exterior Design? Think ThermaWood FR

Are you planning, designing, or working on an exterior project with wood siding or a wood deck? You know that choosing the right lumber for strength, safety, longevity, and best appearance is important. You also want to meet your project budget. The advantages of thermally modified hemlock over traditional decking or siding options might be surprising. The innovative processes used for Mataverde ThermaWood FR exterior lumber make it stand out for your upcoming projects.

ThermaWood FR Siding contrasts and warms the stone façade and walls on this modern home

In this article:

• Is ThermaWood FR Real Wood Siding?
• The advantages are many.
• Durability vs. Traditional Wood Decking and Siding Options
• Lower Maintenance and Higher Longevity
• A Budget-Friendly Alternative
• Long Term Advantages of ThermaWood FR
  

Is ThermaWood FR Real Wood Siding and Decking?

ThermaWood FR thermally modified wood is optimal as decking, wood siding, and even soffits with rainscreen installation

ThermaWood FR is real wood made better. For starters, the thermal modification process makes the wood more stable and resistant to insects and decay. Natural hemlock is first thermally modified in a pressure kiln with heat and steam.

Then the wood is fire retardant treated under pressure. This makes the wood harder and more resistant to ignition. The hemlock then undergoes a second process of permanent fire-retardant treatment at the cellular level, giving it additional durability.

RELATED: What Is Thermally Modified Wood Decking and Siding?

Learn more about the unique and non-toxic Thermex-FR process by Chemco

used in Mataverde ThermaWood FR lumber. Watch the video on YouTube here:

The advantages are many. ThermaWood FR:

• Has several coveted characteristics similar to high-density hardwood lumber, but ThermaWood FR is lighter to carry and easier to cut.
• Is less brittle than traditional kiln-dried lumber. Because it uses heat combined with pressurized steam, thermally modified wood is more resilient and easier to handle during installation, with less splitting or breakage.
• Is very resistant to insect damage, significantly more so than non-modified hemlock and other softwood decking and siding options.
• The thermal modification process removes the tempting wood sugars from the hemlock,
• Has a fire retardant treatment that further hardens the wood.
• Insects do not find thermally modified wood attractive or easy to chew.
• Is thermally modified with a natural process using only heat and water.
• Whether you live in an area with fire hazards or not, the permanent fire retardant treatment is an added bonus for your exterior project. ThermaWood FR is WUI and IWUI certified, so will meet the strictest building fire codes in all areas of the U.S. easily.
• Has a fire retardant treatment that is non-toxic and not boride-based. So, ThermaWood FR does not shed airborne boride particles like most other fire treated lumber. It is safer for contractors to install, and for families and pets to live around.
• It is very low maintenance and resistant to UV, storm debris, harsh weather, scratches and gouges.
• It is a sustainable, renewable siding and decking material.
• It is harvested, processed, and treated in North America with a lower carbon footprint than exotic lumber.
• It is more affordable than exotic wood lumber and much more affordable than western red cedar.

RELATED: Download the ThermaWood FR Hemlock Characteristic Siding Sheet PDF

Durability vs. Traditional Wood Decking and Siding Options

ThermaWood FR Siding was chosen to fully renovate the exterior of this beautiful Lake Tahoe residence

ThermaWood FR goes beyond mere good looks (although it has that, too). It can claim higher durability and resilience, withstanding harsh weather, strong UV, and the usual exterior wear-and-tear beautifully over time.

In comparing ThermaWood FR with popular wood choices like Western Red Cedar and Redwood, the difference in strength and durability is found in the thermal modification and fire retardant treatment process.

These processes enhance the strength of your exterior siding or decking material. They also improve the resistance to insect damage, rot, and decay compared to non-modified hemlock and 

Is ThermaWood FR the right decking material for your wood deck project?

Grab your copy of the Ultimate Guide to Selecting the Right Decking to find out more. 

Lower Maintenance and Higher Longevity

This project used the Climate-Shield Wood Rainscreen System installation for both horizontal and vertical exterior design

One of the “built-in” features of ThermaWood FR is the reduced maintenance requirements. Homeowners and builders alike will appreciate the ease with which ThermaWood FR will maintain its quality - and looks - over the years.

This translates to a longer lifespan for wood decks, ensuring that your outdoor space remains both beautiful and functional for an extended period.

Interested in more exterior design flexibility?

Download your copy of the Ultimate Guide to Wood Rainscreen Siding here:

A Budget-Friendly Alternative

Thermawood FR on a lovely residential exterior

Budget considerations are always a factor in any construction project. ThermaWood FR stands out as a cost-effective option compared to premium hardwood decking alternatives.

It's a wise financial choice without compromising on quality, making it accessible for a wide range of wood deck and siding projects.

See the beauty and strength for yourself, request a sample of ThermaWood FR Hemlock here:

Long Term Advantages of ThermaWood FR

A mountainside cabin is wrapped with siding and soffits of Thermawood FR on a rustic exterior design

ThermaWood FR, is treated with Thermex-FR fire-retardant treatment by Chemco. This treatment penetrates the wood's cellular structure, providing lasting protection against fire hazards and increasing the strength of the lumber. By choosing ThermaWood FR, you're making a smart investment in the longevity and safety of your wood deck.

From its fire-retardant properties to enhanced durability, low maintenance requirements, and budget-friendly nature, ThermaWood FR ticks all the boxes for a successful and long-lasting wood siding or deck. Invest wisely, and enjoy the benefits of a resilient and beautiful outdoor space.