Yakisugi
Traditional Japanese wood preservation technique
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Yakisugi (Japanese: 焼 杉, lit. 'burnt Japanese cedar '[1]) is a traditional Japanese method of wood preservation.[2][3][1] It is also referred to as shō sugi ban (焼杉板), a term which uses the same kanji characters, but an alternative pronunciation. The ban character means "plank". In the West, it is known as burnt timber cladding.
Process and properties
By partially charring the surface of the wood without combusting the entire piece, the surface becomes water-resistant through carbonization, and its hygroscopy is reduced due to chemical cellular changes during the carbonization process, which results in increased durability.[4][5] It additionally protects the wood against insects, fungi and mold, as well as making the wood more fire-resistant.[6] This traditional technique has several similarities with the modern thermal wood modification[7] methods used in Europe and elsewhere.
However, some studies have shown that surface charring alone does not improve its durability or its resistance to fire or water.[8]
Contemporary applications
Contemporary architect Terunobu Fujimori employs yakisugi in his designs.[9][10] Japanese architect Kengo Kuma also incorporates this charred wood material in his architectural works.[11]
Gallery
In detail
Surface detail showing charred texture
Close-up of yakisugi surface pattern
Yakisugi texture detail from Kyoto
Charred wood surface showing carbonization
In use
Yakisugi treated wood used in a box for sunglasses
Western garden room with yakisugi cladding
