Shou Sugi Ban wood is used worldwide as cladding for houses, outbuildings, schools, fire stations, pool houses, service buildings, apartments and other facade applications.
One of the most frequently asked questions about this facade cladding is whether it is maintenance-free. In this blog, we take a closer look deeper at the maintenance of Shou Sugi Ban wood and what to expect.
Although Shou Sugi Ban requires significantly less maintenance than untreated or painted wood, it is not completely maintenance-free. Here are a few factors to consider:
• Natural weathering: Wooden facades and roofs are generally heavily exposed to the elements. UV radiation, rain, and hail all contribute to the weathering of Shou Sugi Ban wood. It is possible that, after several years, due to a heavy hailstorm or storm, small pieces of charcoal detach. You will then see slight damage to the charred layer. Once the wood under the charcoal layer becomes exposed, it will age gray. This graying has no technical consequences.
• Periodic inspection: It is advisable to periodically inspect the cladding for any damage or wear. Do not try to refire the wood yourself! Painting the damages in black is also not recommended. It won’t look nice; the appearance of paint is different from the natural luster of the charcoal layer.
• Cleaning: The carbonised Shou Sugi Ban variants with a scaly structure generally require little maintenance. However, the wood may become stained when subject to high humidity. Any stains or dirt can be carefully removed with cleaning vinegar and lukewarm water. Use a kitchen cloth, a soft brush, and/or a spraycan for this. For large surfaces, a knapsack sprayer is recommended.
Compared to untreated or painted wood, Shou Sugi Ban wood offers several which contribute to lower maintenance requirements:
• Protection: The carbonised layer makes the wood less attractive to moulds and insects, making it less susceptible to damage. Additionally, the charred layer provides a fire-retardant layer on the wood.
• No painting or staining: Uncharred wood must be regularly painted or stained to protect it from the elements. The carbonised Shou Sugi Ban variants do not need to be painted or stained. The charred layer is completely UV-resistant and remains black.
To extend the lifespan and appearance of Shou Sugi Ban cladding, please take following maintenance tips in consideration:
• Eaves, roof edges, and drip edges: The lifespan of the wood and the surface is significantly extended by the use of eaves, roof edge profiles, and drip edges.
• Cleaning: Do not use abrasive cleaning agents, high-pressure cleaners, or hard brushes, as these can damage the charcoal layer.
• Professional mounting service: Ensure that the Shou Sugi Ban cladding is installed by a professional. The experts from the Zwarthout Mounting service can mount the wood in the most beautiful (and technically best) way.
Shou Sugi Ban cladding offers an attractive combination of aesthetics and functionality with significantly lower maintenance needs than painted wood. Although it is not completely maintenance-free, the required maintenance tasks are minimal and easy to perform. With proper care, Shou Sugi Ban wood can be a beautiful and durable addition to any facade.
Want to find out more about the different Shou Sugi Ban products?
We have put together two Zwarthout | Shou Sugi Ban sample boxes: one for interior design applications and one for façade cladding.
That way, you can experience the attention, care and love we pour into each piece of wood yourself. And, of course, the beauty and exclusive looks the various textures have to offer.
