What is Shou Sugi Ban?

Timber is one of the world’s most popular cladding options. It’s bright, warm and sustainable, and it gradually fades to blend in with its surroundings.

There’s no shortage of timber claddings available, but Shou Sugi Ban is one of our favourites.

Shou Sugi Ban is a Japanese technique that has become popular all over the world. These blackened timbers can lend a touch of sophistication to any project, providing a high-performance yet stunning finish.

But what is Shou Sugi Ban? It can be sold under lots of different names and styles, so it may be confusing to sort through your options. In this article, we’ll learn more about Shou Sugi Ban, how it’s used and why it’s an excellent choice for any project.

What is Shou Sugi Ban?

Shou Sugi Ban used in designNewport Charred Cladding by Modinex

Why You Should Consider Shou Sugi Ban Cladding

Shou Sugi Ban is one of the most popular cladding materials in Australian architecture. While the charring technique we use is centuries old, it’s still one of the best ways to create high-performance, stunning timber cladding.

There are lots of reasons charred timber has become so popular. A few of the major benefits include:

Highly durable

The charred layer on Shou Sugi Ban cladding is much more durable than raw wood. This means Shou Sugi Ban is resistant to UV, moisture, bugs, rot, mould and fungus.

Fire resistance

It might sound counterintuitive, but Shou Sugi Ban is highly resistant to fire. The charred outer layer is more difficult to ignite than raw timber. When combined with the right timber species, Shou Sugi Ban allows us to achieve a BAL19 or BAL29 fire rating.

Low maintenance

Shou Sugi Ban is highly stable and requires very little maintenance, especially when it comes with a factory oil finish.

Long-lasting

Shou Sugi Ban can last for decades with proper care, further improving its sustainability.

Stunning aesthetic

The firing process used to create charred cladding highlights the grain of the timber. It offers a modern aesthetic that allows the natural beauty of the timber to stand out.

Multiple finishes available

Shou Sugi Ban techniques can be used to produce a range of surface finishes. This includes relatively flat, matte finishes, as well as a more detailed crackle finish. We can also alter the colour of the finished product by varying the char depth to create deep blacks, silvery greys and everything in between.

Sustainable

Shou Sugi Ban is one of the most sustainable types of timber cladding. It is produced from responsibly-sourced timbers, and the Shou Sugi Ban process is low-impact. At the end of its life, the timbers can be recycled without harming the environment.

Does the Char Rub Off Shou Sugi Ban Timber?

Wider shot of Shou Sugi Ban in a house design Newport Charred Cladding by Modinex

Can Shou Sugi Ban Be Used Indoors?

How to Maintain Shou Sugi Ban Cladding

Long range shot of Shou Sugi Ban cladding used in house design Newport Charred Cladding by Modinex

Elevate Your Project with Architectural Shou Sugi Ban Cladding from Modinex!

Article By   Joel Leitch

| 19 February 2024

Joel Leitch

Project Consultant

Joel is an integral team member of NSW projects division with over a decade as a consultant to architects and builders. With extensive experience as a head of projects, Joel Leitch combines deep knowledge of natural timber, aluminium, and concrete to provide innovative and inspiring design solutions.