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Finishes and Material

Domestically Sourced,
Thermally Modified Ash
Dimensionally stable, sustainable, highly durable, and ideal for outdoor use.
Domestically Sourced, Thermally Modified Ash

The Weathering of Wood —
A Natural Process

Weathering is the general term used to describe the physical change materials exhibit with exposure to the outside elements.. Materials may encounter moisture, sunlight, heat/cold, chemicals, abrasion, etc.—all factors in the natural weathering process. The natural wood options that Landscape Forms offers will maintain their structural integrity and resist rotting for many years without any kind of treatment. They will, however, exhibit signs of natural weathering, which include graying, checking and tannin leaching (Jarrah only):
Domestically Sourced, Thermally Modified Ash
Weathering


Graying
Unfinished wood will weather to a natural gray patina.

Checking
During the initial drying process the outside of the wood dries quicker than the interior, which causes differential stresses to develop. The combined effect of these drying stresses in wood often results in the formation of a check or a split. These seasoning characteristics are not problematic; it is important to remember that as wood dries, it becomes stronger. The development of these seasoning characteristics is quite normal.

Tannin Leaching (Jarrah only)
Tannins are natural organic compounds present in certain timbers; leaching of tannins can cause discoloration on surrounding materials. Tannin leaching commonly occurs when certain timber are exposed to rain or other sources of water (e.g. sprinklers.) This leaching process only occurs for a short period of time while the wood naturally weathers in its outdoor environment. (Tannin bleed is unlikely in thermally modified woods as the tannins are naturally removed during the thermal modification process.)
Natural Graying of Wood
Weather wood colorings
Ipe
Jarrah
Domestically Sourced Thermally Modified Ash
Finishes Not Recommended


Wood Finishes
Finishes applied in an attempt to maintain the new color of wood are not recommended. No wood finish is weather-proof; most finishes are weather resistant for a period of time but require ongoing maintenance. Finishes like exterior varnish or polyurethane will break down in the outdoor elements. The addition of UV inhibitors will delay the deterioration of the finish but will not stop this deterioration completely. Seasonal expansion and contraction will rupture the finish and expose the wood beneath creating an unattractive surface condition.
Oil Finishes
Other materials used to finish outdoor woods such as wood penetrating oils will penetrate the wood and highlight the grain and natural color of wood. However, these oils will not harden; the solvents will evaporate leaving the wood to weather with oil residue in the pores. With annual maintenance this may be acceptable for decking, however, this is not a recommended treatment for site furniture where oils and attracted dusts may rub off and stain clothing.