At JA Schiller Building, we’re always on the lookout for building materials that not only offer exceptional performance but also align with our commitment to sustainability and quality. One such material we’re excited to work with more and more is Accoya timber – a product that’s gaining traction with architects and designers for its durability, sustainability, and beautiful aging process.
In this post, we’ll explore why Accoya is a game-changer in the building industry, especially when it comes to sustainable construction. We’re proud to showcase this product in projects like the BENA House, where Accoya’s outstanding features are integral to both the structure’s longevity and its visual appeal.
What is Accoya Timber?
Accoya timber is a modified wood product that has been treated using a non-toxic acetylation process, enhancing its performance and durability. Sourced from sustainable forests, usually Radiata Pine, this process alters the wood’s cellular structure, making it far more resistant to decay, moisture, and insect damage compared to traditional untreated wood. The result is a timber that can last for decades with little to no maintenance, making it a reliable choice for everything from decking and cladding to windows and doors.
Sustainability at Its Core
Sustainability is a crucial factor in modern construction, and Accoya timber stands out for its environmental credentials. The timber is sourced from FSC® certified forests, ensuring that it is harvested responsibly and sustainably. The acetylation process that enhances Accoya’s performance is non-toxic and doesn’t release harmful chemicals into the environment. This makes Accoya an environmentally friendly alternative to pressure-treated wood or tropical hardwoods, which often require harmful chemical treatments or contribute to deforestation.
Moreover, because Accoya is made from sustainably sourced timber, it has a lower carbon footprint compared to many other building materials. Timber naturally absorbs CO2 as it grows, and with Accoya, the carbon remains stored in the wood even after it’s been processed and used in construction. This makes Accoya a great choice for building projects aiming for lower environmental impact.
Longevity: A Timber That Lasts
Accoya timber is incredibly durable. Thanks to its acetylation process, it can withstand harsh environmental conditions, including exposure to moisture, UV rays, and insect damage. This makes it particularly ideal for exterior applications where long-term durability is essential.
The longevity of Accoya is one of the reasons it’s become increasingly popular with architects and builders. With a service life of up to 50 years above ground and 25 years in ground contact, Accoya offers a remarkable lifespan that far surpasses most other timber products. This makes it a great choice for cladding, decking, windows, and doors that need to stand the test of time.
At JA Schiller Building, we’ve used Accoya on several projects and we’ve been impressed by its performance and long-term reliability. The low-maintenance aspect of Accoya also ensures that the homeowner doesn’t need to worry about regular treatments or replacements, which is a significant cost-saving factor in the long run.
Low Maintenance Costs: A Smart Investment
One of the key benefits of using Accoya timber is the reduction in maintenance costs. Traditional timber products often require regular treatments with stains, oils, or preservatives to protect them from the elements. These treatments can be costly over time, and they may need to be reapplied every few years.
Accoya, however, requires minimal maintenance. Its natural resistance to decay and insect damage means that it doesn’t need the same level of care as untreated or pressure-treated wood. The result? Fewer costs for homeowners, less time spent on upkeep, and a material that continues to perform without the need for constant re-treatment.
At JA Schiller Building, we believe that Accoya’s durability and low-maintenance nature make it an excellent investment for both residential and commercial projects. It not only saves money in the long run but also provides peace of mind for homeowners and building managers alike.
A Beautiful Grey Patina: Timeless Aesthetics
While Accoya is available in a variety of finishes, one of the standout features of the timber is its ability to age gracefully. When left untreated, Accoya naturally develops a stunning silver-grey patina over time. This aged appearance is highly sought after for its timeless, natural beauty.
The grey patina gives Accoya a sophisticated, weathered look that adds character to any building or outdoor space. And not only is it aesthetically pleasing, but the natural aging process also contributes to the timber’s durability by creating a protective layer on the surface. This means Accoya continues to look great and perform well, even as it naturally weathers over time.
At BENA House, we are embracing this natural aging process for the external cladding. The beautiful grey finish adds depth and texture to the building’s exterior, enhancing its modern, yet timeless look. Whether used for cladding, decking, or other timber features, Accoya’s unique aging process creates a striking visual effect that requires no additional effort or treatment.
Why Choose Accoya Timber for Your Next Project?
For us, Accoya is a material we’re proud to offer to our clients because of its exceptional performance and aesthetic qualities. Here are just a few reasons why Accoya should be on your radar for your next construction project:
- Sustainability: Accoya is sourced from FSC® certified forests and undergoes a non-toxic modification process, making it an environmentally friendly choice.
- Longevity: With up to 50 years of service life above ground, Accoya is a durable solution that performs exceptionally well in exterior applications.
- Low Maintenance: Accoya requires minimal upkeep, saving both time and money in the long term.
- Natural Beauty: Accoya’s stunning grey patina creates a timeless, sophisticated aesthetic that enhances any design.
Accoya at BENA House
For us, Accoya is more than just a building material – it’s a long-term investment in quality, sustainability, and performance. And we’re excited to continue offering this incredible material to our clients who want the best for their homes and businesses.
Conclusion
Accoya timber is a standout material that combines sustainability, durability, low maintenance, and natural beauty. It’s the perfect choice for anyone looking to create a long-lasting, environmentally friendly building that will age gracefully. Whether you’re building a new home, renovating an existing space, or tackling a commercial project, Accoya is a material that will stand the test of time.
At JA Schiller Building, we’re proud to work with Accoya timber, and we look forward to seeing more architects and builders specify this remarkable product in the years ahead. If you’re interested in incorporating Accoya into your next project, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’d be happy to discuss how this sustainable timber solution can elevate your build.