That Wood is on Fire

Shou-sugi-ban, a Japanese wood-charring technique, is emerging as one of builders’ and woodworkers’ favorite trends this year.

From Dwell Magazine, That Wood is on Fire: 5 Examples of Shou-Sugi-Ban.

Shou Sugi Ban 焼杉板 (or Yakisugi) is an ancient Japanese exterior siding technique that preserves wood by charring it with fire. Traditionally, sugi 杉 (Cryptomeria japonica L.f.), also called Japanese red-cedar, was used. The process involves charring the wood, cooling it, cleaning it, and finishing it with a natural oil.

Today Shou Sugi Ban is an environmentally friendly way to preserve timber through charring which, paradoxically, makes it fire-resistant. Chemical preservatives, paints and retardants are therefore unnecessary. In addition to exterior uses, the popular technique is now found in interior rooms, furniture, and artwork.
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