Thermal beech
[Ther-mo-bu-che] [Fagus sylvatica] [Trade names: Thermo Beech (EN), Thermobuche (DE)]
|
Origin |
Central Europe, native beech stands |
|
Raw density |
approx. 650-720 kg/m³ (slightly reduced after heat treatment) |
|
Durability class |
Class 2-3 |
|
Radial shrinkage |
significantly reduced compared to untreated beech |
|
Tangential shrinkage |
greatly reduced |
|
Wood color |
dark brown to chocolate brown |
|
Wood structure |
Homogeneous, smooth surface, fine pores |
|
Use |
Indoor and outdoor areas, facades, terraces in moderate use |
Origin and character of the wood
Thermo beech is based on European beech, a widespread native hardwood that is made more resistant by thermal treatment. The modification improves dimensional stability and durability; however, beech remains a fundamentally sensitive material.
Thermoprocess: improvement with downsides
Through heat, steam, and controlled oxygen reduction, the cell structure is stabilized, and the durability classes increase to 2–3. The mechanical strength decreases during thermal modification: Thermo beech tends to be brittle, can splinter under load, and is sensitive to point loads. Experience reports show that terrace decking made of thermo beech develops cracks more quickly under intensive use than other thermo woods.
Sources:
pur natur – experiences with thermo ash,
Holzhandel Deutschland – Thermoholz
from 9,80 €
Garapa decking boards, FSC 100%
Price from: € 65 per m2, resistance class: 1-2
Advantages: ✓ smooth surface ✓ homogeneous, light color
Disadvantages: ✗ Ferrous materials lead to discoloration ✗ Tendency to warp if not screwed down
Tip: patio cleaning removes discoloration and
professional interim storage prevents warping.
from 6,90 €
Teak decking boards, FSC 100%
Price from: € 130 per m2, resistance class: 1
Advantages: ✓ Best durability and dimensional stability ✓ Lowest risk of cracking and splintering
Disadvantages: ✗ Relatively expensive ✗ Not very long planks
Tip: Lay decking boards together.
from 11,85 €
Cumaru decking boards, FSC 100%
Price from: € 70 per m2, resistance class: 1
Advantages: ✓ best durability ✓ particularly robust and scratch-resistant
Disadvantages: ✗ Partly rough surface ✗ High force development
Tip: Sand the boards after the first weathering.
