Accoya: Redefining Sustainability and durability in timber.

Introduction: When it comes to sustainable and durable timbers, Accoya stands out as a groundbreaking innovation that has redefined the possibilities of wood. Developed through a revolutionary wood modification process, Accoya boasts exceptional properties that make it an ideal choice for a wide range of applications. In this blog, we will explore the remarkable benefits of Accoya wood, from its sustainability and dimensional stability to its resistance against decay and versatility in design. Join us as we delve into the world of Accoya and discover why it has become a game-changer in the realm of timber.

Why does Accoya have an unmatched resistence to rot, decay and fungal growth?

Accoya possesses an unmatched resistance to rot, decay, and fungal growth due to its unique wood modification process called acetylation. This process chemically alters the wood at a molecular level by introducing acetyl groups into the wood structure. Here’s why this modification results in exceptional resistance:

Reduced Hygroscopicity: One of the primary reasons for wood decay is its ability to absorb and release moisture, which creates an ideal environment for fungi and bacteria to thrive. Acetylation significantly reduces wood’s hygroscopicity, minimizing its water absorption capacity. This makes Accoya highly resistant to moisture-related issues, including swelling, shrinkage, and subsequent fungal growth.

Increased Dimensional Stability: Accoya’s acetylation process modifies the wood cell walls, making them less prone to movement caused by changes in humidity and moisture content. The acetyl groups introduced during the modification process reduce the wood’s tendency to expand or contract, resulting in exceptional dimensional stability. This stability minimizes the risk of cracks, warping, and distortion over time.

Enhanced Durability: The acetylation process creates a barrier within the wood, making it unappetizing and indigestible to insects and microorganisms responsible for decay. The modified wood becomes highly resistant to wood-destroying fungi, including dry rot and wet rot. The reduced availability of nutrients in Accoya wood inhibits the growth of decay-causing organisms, ensuring its long-term durability.

pH Alteration: The acetylation process also reduces the wood’s pH level, making it more acidic. This change in pH further inhibits the growth of fungi and bacteria, as many of these microorganisms prefer neutral or alkaline conditions for proliferation. The increased acidity of Accoya wood acts as a natural deterrent to decay-causing organisms.

Long-Lasting Performance: Accoya’s exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and fungal growth ensures that the wood maintains its structural integrity and aesthetic appeal over an extended period. The need for maintenance and replacement due to deterioration is significantly reduced, making it a cost-effective and sustainable choice for various applications.

It’s important to note that the acetylation process only modifies the wood’s structure and does not introduce any toxic or harmful substances. This makes Accoya an environmentally friendly and non-toxic option for both indoor and outdoor applications.

In summary, Accoya’s unmatched resistance to rot, decay, and fungal growth stems from its reduced hygroscopicity, increased dimensional stability, enhanced durability against wood-destroying organisms, pH alteration, and long-lasting performance. These properties make Accoya a highly reliable and sustainable choice for applications where durability and resistance to decay are essential.

So should you choose it?

Given the facts above it would seem like the obvious choice for many of your new joinery products, however some people are put off by the additional up front costs. These costs though are significantly balanced by the fact that Accoya can last two – three times longer than timbers that have not been subjected to the acetylation process. Manufacturers will even provide a 50 year warranty against fungal decay and insect attack for timber in an above ground location. For these reasons alone we would recommend the use of Accoya when selecting a timber for locations that are to be exposed to moisture and uv light throughout the year.

When would it not be suitable?

Accoya’s primary advantages lie in its resistance to rot, decay, and fungal growth, making it an excellent choice for outdoor and exposed applications. For interior projects where moisture and fungal exposure are minimal (given the right environment), other wood species that provide the right aesthetics may be more cost-efficient.

Accoya wood has different characteristics compared to non-modified wood. If you were to partner Accoya with existing non-modified wood structures, such as during repair or addition, the visual and structural differences between the two may be noticeable. Consideration should be given to the overall aesthetic coherence and compatibility with the existing woodwork.

In many jurisdictions, alterations to listed buildings, including changes to materials, require consent. It is essential to consult with the local planning authority or conservation officer responsible for the listed building to understand the specific requirements and obtain the necessary permissions.

Conclusion: Accoya wood has revolutionized the timber industry by combining sustainability, durability, and design versatility in a single material. Its remarkable properties, from resistance against decay and dimensional stability to its positive environmental impact, make it an exceptional choice for various applications. As Accoya continues to redefine the possibilities of wood, architects, builders, and homeowners can embrace this innovative material with confidence, knowing that they are investing in a sustainable, long-lasting, and aesthetically pleasing solution. We therefore recommend that you embrace the power of Accoya and embark on a journey of sustainable and durable timber like never before.