Shou Sugi Ban is a wood preservation method that originated in Japan to treat cedar cladding with the aim of making it more durable and resistant. This technique uses wood burning to produce a deep charred black colour on contemporary furniture and exteriors. The Yakisugi technique lasts longer and can withstand severe weather conditions, making it ideal for facades, terraces, fences and interiors.
When the surface of the wood is burned using the Shou Sugi Ban technique, a layer of carbon is produced that acts as a natural shield. This process seals the pores, reduces moisture absorption and eliminates nutrients present in the cellulose that would attract fungi and insects. In addition, the lignin hardens, improving structural strength and slowing down decomposition. The result is a more stable, durable wood with a deeply natural aesthetic.
Below, we present the types of wood we work with using the Yakisugi treatment. Unlike previous article —where we explored the most popular options in Spain—, here we will focus exclusively on the entire range of woods available. Each one offers unique characteristics in terms of stability, durability and aesthetics after the carbonisation process.
1. Accoya
Accoya is a sustainably sourced wood that has been modified through a process of acetylation — a non-toxic chemical technology that transforms its cellular structure to achieve exceptional stability and durability. Classified as Class 1 according to standard EN 350, it can withstand more than 50 years outdoors without the need for additional treatments. Furthermore, it comes from FSC-certified forests and is safe for any use. Its combination with Shou Sugi Ban further enhances its resistance, visual depth and low maintenance — ideal for façades, lattices, terraces or high-performance carpentry elements.
Zenwood ofrece Shou Sugi Ban en Accoya.
2. Fir tree
Fir is a lightweight, affordable wood that is widely available in Europe, making it one of the most popular choices for construction and cladding. Although its natural durability is limited, Yakisugi treatment transforms its properties: carbonisation creates a protective layer that improves resistance to moisture, fungi and insects.
Aesthetically, it stands out for its rustic character, with pronounced knots that gain depth and contrast when burned. It is important to note that, as it is a resinous wood, it can release resin in areas that are very exposed to the sun — especially around the knots. Even so, it remains an excellent choice for those seeking a balance between aesthetics, functionality and budget.
Zenwood offers Yakisugi spruce products.
3. Pine
Like spruce, pine is a soft, accessible wood with a natural aesthetic marked by visible grain and characteristic knots. Although its natural durability is limited, Yakisugi treatment significantly improves its resistance to moisture, fungi and decay.
However, it is not the most recommended option for façades with high sun exposure or extreme conditions, as it can release resin and undergo dimensional changes over time. Even so, pine remains an interesting choice for interiors or protected exteriors, where its rustic texture and competitive price bring warmth and personality to the design.
Zenwood offers Yakisugi spruce products.
In its slow-growing Siberian variety, developed in cold climates, the narrow rings increase density and mechanical strength. Its high resin content acts as a natural barrier against fungi and moisture. Slow, controlled drying prevents cracks or warping. This process can only be guaranteed by a specialised supplier. This level of quality and care means that it may be slightly more expensive. However, it ensures stable, resistant wood with a timeless aesthetic. It is ideal for projects seeking exclusivity and high performance.
Radiata pine is a fast-growing species cultivated in regions such as Galicia, Chile and New Zealand. Its wood is light in colour, lightweight and has abundant visible knots, giving it a highly prized rustic character. Although its natural durability is low, Yakisugi treatment significantly improves its resistance to moisture and fungi. It requires precise control during burning to prevent flaking, and regular reapplication of oil outdoors. It is a practical and economical option for protected façades, interiors or projects that require large surfaces with a natural and affordable finish.
4. Siberische alerce
Siberian larch stands out for its distinctive grain, warm colour and natural resistance to weathering. It is a semi-hard, dense wood that performs excellently outdoors, even in demanding climates such as coastal or mountainous areas. Although its dimensional stability is not the highest among the woods we work with, it offers very balanced performance in well-ventilated and correctly installed projects. Thanks to its durability and the deep finish achieved with the Yakisugi treatment, it is a robust and elegant choice for façades, lattices or terraces exposed to sunlight and humidity.
Zenwood offers Yakisugi larch products.
5. Thermo-D
Thermo-treated wood (Thermo-D) is one of the great new additions to the Zenwood catalogue, and we are pioneers in applying the Yakisugi technique to it with exceptional results. Thanks to its chemical-free thermal modification process, it achieves superior dimensional stability and acquires a dark tone throughout its mass, not just on the surface. Even without burning, it already outperforms many natural woods. But when combined with Yakisugi, Thermo-D is transformed: the contrast of its grain, deep texture and natural resistance make it a technically advanced, visually sophisticated and excellent value for money option.
Zenwood offers thermo-D and thermo-D Yakisugi products.
6. Cedar Japonês
Japanese cedar (sugi) is the original species used for the Shou Sugi Ban technique, developed in Japan centuries ago to protect wood in humid and coastal climates. This light and aromatic conifer provides an elegant texture after charring and also a distinctive natural fragrance that lasts over time. When burned, its surface acquires deep grain, intense tones and a protective layer that reinforces its resistance to moisture, insects and the passage of time. Although its availability in Europe is limited and its cost higher due to importation, it is an exclusive choice for those who value the authenticity of traditional Yakisugi and seek wood with history, sensory presence and refined aesthetics.
WHERE TO GET BURNT WOOD IN SPAIN
Although Shou Sugi Ban has been around for centuries, it is a sophisticated and laborious technique that can ruin the wood if not done correctly. To ensure a perfect result, you need to rely on someone with experience and knowledge. Zenwood is your Yakisugi ally. offering the finest burnt wood products and servicesWe understand how demanding this process can be, and we work closely with you to understand your needs and offer you the best solution.
CONCLUSION
Shou Sugi Ban is a Japanese charring technique that transforms the surface of wood, improving its natural resistance without the need for chemicals. It is a sustainable alternative to dark stains and paints, which often crack and require constant maintenance. When charred, wood acquires unique textures and a visual depth that cannot be replicated with synthetic methods.
There is no single ‘best’ charred wood: it all depends on the climate, the application, and the design of your project. At Zenwood, we help you make that choice, so that the result is not only beautiful today, but also ages with character and durability for decades to come.
Order yours now free samples and discover Yakisugi with your own hands.
