Charred Wood – Forged by Fire
Charred wood or as it is sometimes referred to Carbonised wood or Blackened Wood
Forest fires have a distractive force and wreaked havoc on humans and animal alike. However, forest fires have always played a part in the natural cycle of the forests.
These catastrophic events can benefit the forest ecosystem by rejuvenating soil, eliminating invasive species, clear dead trees and leaves, promoting a healthier forest.
“Out of the ashes one can find the destructive beauty of wild fires”.
Such beauty can be found in Shou Sugi ban or Yakisugi, a particularly striking method of preserving wood by charring it with fire. Originating in 18th century Japan.
Charred wood is a material used normally in the form of planks or timber cladding of contemporary architecture. This process provides a natural waterproofing and a layer of fireproofing without the need to use harmful chemicals. Furthermore the process produces a resistance to rot, insects and solar radiation.
Many modern building materials contain chemicals and VOC’s (volatile organic compounds) harmful to the environment and humans.
The tradition of charring wood has been picked up over the last few years by craftsmen and architects to create striking forms, highlighting the wood grain while using a less harmful methods to preserve and enhance the wood.
The method of making charred wood is controlled and measured resulting in a tactile charcoal-tone plank full of texture:
– Like steel, applying hot flames to both sides of the plank and washing or dipping in cold water harden the wood to increase its durability.
– Depending on the desired finish, the wood planks are brushed to remove any waste particles and exposed the finish product.
Variations in the final colour and texture can be achieved by making small adjustments in the time the wood is charred.
Different textures can be achieved by varying the type of brushes used to remove the charred carbon layer and the amount removed.
Cedar, Larch, Oak and Chestnut, are some of the main wood species used to achieve this method.
FincA Galicia would be using local sourced timber for the construction of the cabins, structure and external cladding.
If you’re interested in learning more about this technique and seeing beautiful examples of contemporary architecture, check out the link below:
Well, or Pues, as they say in Spanish! If you got this far, it means you read the whole post… and I Thank you.
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Don’t do more, do better!
… and always keep on rockin
Danny Shafrir
Founder | FincA Galicia – Outstanding stories, not just a vacation!