Thermal treatment of timber

Thermal treatment of timber - quality, sustainability and practicality

What Is Heat Treatment?

Thermal modification is a process in which wood is treated at high temperatures in a controlled steam environment without the use of chemicals. This natural method enhances the wood’s properties, making it more resistant to moisture, biodegradation, and deformation, while also reducing its thermal conductivity.

For Individuals and Companies

Sigulda Timber offers thermal modification solutions for façade boards, terraces, saunas, interior finishes, and flooring - improving durability, longevity, and visual appeal.

For Companies

Sigulda Timber provides thermal treatment services for companies seeking to improve timber quality for construction, finishing, and interior projects.

Thermally modified wood offers greater durability, improved moisture resistance, and long-term stability, making it ideal for façades, terraces, and flooring in commercial environments.

For Individuals

Thermally modified timber is also available for private customers for both aesthetic and practical purposes - such as terrace construction, façade upgrades, and residential flooring.

The material is visually attractive, dimensionally stable, and durable in various weather conditions, while preserving the natural character of wood.

Why Choose Thermal Modification?

Thermal modification, carried out at high temperatures in a steam-controlled environment, significantly improves the performance of wood — without chemical additives.

This 100% natural process makes timber a sustainable and durable material suitable for modern construction and architectural applications.

Natural Durability

Improves resistance to moisture, rot, and biodegradation.

Suitable for demanding outdoor applications.

Stability and Longevity

Enhanced dimensional stability - reduced warping, cracking, and shrinkage.

Ideal for façades, terraces, flooring, and interior use.

Visually Appealing

Thermally modified timber develops a warm, uniform brown tone that ages elegantly over time.

It can be oiled or tinted to match various architectural designs.

Environmentally Friendly Solution

No chemicals — only heat and steam.

Biodegradable and recyclable material.

Lower Thermal Conductivity

Improved thermal insulation properties contribute to better energy efficiency.

Thermal Modification Process

1. Heating

The timber is placed in a specialized thermal chamber.

Temperature is gradually increased to 160–215°C.

Steam is used to protect the wood from cracking or burning.

2. Heat Treatment Phase

The timber is maintained at high temperature for several hours.

During this stage:

• Moisture content is significantly reduced.

• Natural resins are removed.

• Nutrients that attract fungi and insects are minimized.

3. Cooling and Conditioning

After the heating phase, the timber is slowly cooled using steam or water mist.

A controlled moisture level (approximately 4–7%) is restored to ensure stability and usability.

Quality Assurance

Sigulda Timber is committed to delivering the highest quality services. The company works with certified materials and modern equipment, conducts regular quality inspections, and provides professional consultation on post-treatment maintenance.

By choosing thermally modified timber from Sigulda Timber, you gain improved resistance to rot and microorganisms, reduced moisture absorption and deformation risk, enhanced thermal insulation, and a rich, natural brown tone.

This solution is ideal for both private customers and companies seeking durable, sustainable, and high-quality timber for their projects.