Shou Sugi Ban

By Pine1 Posted in - Exterior Products & Cladding & Black Pine Resources on December 11th, 2019

Shou sugi ban is the ancient Japanese technique that preserves wood by charring it. Also known as yakisugi – it began as a way to fireproof fencing and façades of rural homes and storehouses.

Traditionally, three Japanese cedar planks are tied into a narrow teepee and the interior is lit on fire before cooling it with water. The wood is cleaned by brushing and then finished with natural oil, producing a scorched charcoal black colour with a silvery finish.

Today, the same effect is achieved using a propane torch or a kiln for large production. While it seems like a counterintuitive process, burning the timber creates a protective layer making the wood more resistant to fire, water, rot and insects.

Shou Sugi Ban is an environmentally friendly and low maintenance option for cladding. The charring produces a rawness and a realness of character and complements a wide range of design styles.

It’s also worth mentioning that Shou sugi ban can’t be applied to all types of wood. It is recommended that a stable timber is used and a deep char (ideally 2-3mm) needs to be created to achieve a stunning, lasting look.

Applications

• External cladding
• Feature walls – you are only limited by your imagination
• Outdoor furniture
• Doors, fences, gates and landscaping features
• Shutters

Features & Benefits

• Durable, it’s an effective alternative to paint and requires less maintenance
• Insect, weather, UV and fire resistant
• It’s looks great when partnered with traditional wood but also when used as a contrast to modern materials like glass and metal.

Shou Sugi Ban is an environmentally friendly way to preserve timber and an excellent alternative to using black stains and paint. It’s overall safety and low maintenance makes it ideal for use inside and outside your home.