Heat
treatment has long been known as a way to improve the resistance to
decay of wood. Past generations charred the parts of the timber to
be inserted into the ground, as this resulted in a significant increase
in the service life of structures in contact with the ground.
............Todays heat treatment
has lasting effects on the properties of wood. In addition to its
being more resistant to decay and weathering, the insulation characteristics
of wood improve and the expansion and contraction of wood as influenced
by variations in its moisture content are reduced as are changes in
shape. The colouring of wood darkens beautifully during treatment.