Lunawood ThermoWood®

The Thermal Modification Process

Thermal modification is a natural process that uses only heat and steam to improve wood performance. During production, wood is heated to high temperatures, moisture and extractives are removed, the wood's cellular structure changes permanently, dimensional stability is improved, and resistance to moisture and biological decay increases. Because no chemicals are used, the finished product remains completely natural and environmentally friendly.

Benefits of Thermal Modification

The thermal modification process provides several important advantages over untreated wood.

Improved Stability

Lunawood experiences significantly less expansion and contraction due to seasonal humidity changes.

Reduced Moisture Absorption

ThermoWood® absorbs less moisture than conventional softwood, helping reduce movement and weather-related issues.

Increased Durability

The modification process enhances resistance to biological decay and environmental exposure.

No Chemical Preservatives

Unlike pressure-treated lumber, Lunawood achieves its performance naturally through heat and steam.

Exceptional Dimensional Stability

One of Lunawood's most significant advantages is dimensional stability. Traditional wood expands and contracts as humidity levels change. Thermal modification dramatically reduces this movement, helping boards remain straighter and more consistent over time. This makes Lunawood particularly suitable for exterior cladding, architectural facades, decking systems, screening applications, and outdoor structures. ThermoWood® experiences less swelling and shrinkage than untreated wood, making it an ideal material for projects where precision and long-term performance matter.

Sustainable Building Material

Sustainability is at the core of Lunawood's philosophy. The wood is sourced from renewable Nordic forests and manufactured using environmentally responsible practices. Available certifications include FSC® Certified options, PEFC Certified options, and Nordic Swan Ecolabel Certification. These certifications help support green building initiatives and sustainable construction projects.

Chemical-Free Performance

Lunawood products contain no added chemical preservatives. Instead of relying on chemicals, the thermal modification process naturally improves the wood's performance using only heat and steam. This makes Lunawood an excellent choice for both interior and exterior environments where sustainability and indoor air quality are priorities.

Superior Weather Resistance

Exterior building materials must withstand rain, snow, UV exposure, humidity, and temperature fluctuations. Lunawood ThermoWood® offers enhanced resistance to weather-related deterioration compared to untreated wood, making it suitable for demanding outdoor applications across a wide range of climates.

No Resin Leakage

Traditional softwoods can release resin over time, particularly when exposed to heat. The thermal modification process removes resins from the wood, eliminating resin bleeding and creating a cleaner finished appearance.

Benefits of Lunawood Decking

Natural Wood Appearance

Lunawood preserves the authentic texture and character of real wood while enhancing performance characteristics.

Hidden Fixing Compatibility

Selected decking profiles are designed to work with hidden fastening systems, creating a clean, modern appearance.

Barefoot Friendly

Thermally modified wood remains comfortable underfoot and provides a smooth, attractive surface.

Long-Term Performance

Reduced moisture movement helps minimize cracking, twisting, and warping over time.

Outdoor Applications

Lunawood decking is ideal for backyard decks, rooftop patios, pool surrounds, outdoor entertainment spaces, and boardwalks. Its natural appearance complements both traditional and contemporary architecture.

Architectural Beauty

The rich brown tones of thermally modified wood create a sophisticated appearance that works beautifully with glass, concrete, stone, metal, and natural landscaping.

Consistent Performance

Because of its enhanced dimensional stability, Lunawood cladding maintains a cleaner, more consistent appearance over time compared to many untreated wood products.

Suitable Applications

Lunawood cladding is commonly used for residential homes, modern custom homes, commercial buildings, multi-family developments, hospitality projects, educational facilities, and outdoor feature walls.

Natural Aging Process

When exposed to sunlight and weather, Lunawood gradually develops a beautiful silver-grey patina. This weathering process is entirely natural and does not negatively affect the wood's structural performance, dimensional stability, or resistance to decay. Many architects intentionally choose Lunawood for its ability to age gracefully.

Preserving the Original Brown Color

If you prefer to maintain Lunawood's original rich brown appearance, UV-protective pigmented treatments can be applied. These finishes help slow the weathering process while maintaining the natural beauty of the wood.

Routine Maintenance

Lunawood requires very little ongoing care. Basic maintenance includes periodic cleaning, water rinsing, soft brush cleaning when necessary, and inspection of fasteners and connections. Unlike many traditional wood products, extensive maintenance schedules are generally unnecessary.