We started with the question: “Why do most wood facades in Latvia not last over time?” The answer led us to Japan and the Shou Sugi Ban (Yakisugi) technique. When we first saw how wood, charred with fire, becomes stronger, more stable, and visually deeper, it became clear that this was the direction to develop in.
Over 10+ years working with charred wood, we now manufacture Yakisugi solutions for Northern Europe, collaborate with architects and designers, and realize projects in different climates.
We do not just char wood. We test it under real‑world conditions, adapt the treatment to the climate, and work with the whole project, not only the material.
Our solutions perform in different environments. You’ll find our work in Scandinavia, Germany, the United Kingdom, and the USA.
The difference is not only in the material. It lies in how it is developed, tested, and applied in the project.
We constantly test instead of relying on assumptions. Charred wood is not “one standard for everyone.” We test various charring levels, adapt the treatment (for example, for Northern European climates), and improve the technology based on real projects. The goal is that the facade looks good not only today, but also after 10+ years.
Precision that defines the result. Most facade problems arise not from the material, but from details. We control ventilation gaps, wood thickness, treatment, and protective layers. That means less risk and a longer service life.
Experience that reduces mistakes and costs. More than 10 years working with Yakisugi means we have already seen what works and what does not. We help clients choose the right material, avoid expensive errors, and find the optimal solution for their project.
Every project starts with a simple conversation.
Then we understand the project’s goal, propose the most suitable solution, adapt the treatment and technology, and support implementation without unnecessary complexity.
We do not disappear after delivery.
You can rely on consultations during design, technical support during installation, and advice for long‑term maintenance.
With charred wood it is not enough to simply choose the material.
What matters is how it is applied in the specific project. That is why we are involved in the whole process, from the first idea to realization. We help you choose the right charring level and tone, adapt the solution to the climate and building type, and avoid errors that usually only appear after years.
Over the years we have tested and refined different charred wood solutions until we reached the ones that can also be relied on in the long term, not only visually, but also technically.
We do not simply offer a product. We help you make the right decision. And if needed, we remain involved afterward so the result truly performs as intended.
The biggest factor is not the initial price, but what happens afterward.
Usually, costs come from:
– how often the facade must be treated,
– how well it resists moisture and UV,
– how quickly damage appears.
A regular wood facade requires frequent painting and maintenance. Charred wood reduces the frequency of maintenance and long‑term costs.
The real question is not the initial price. The question is, what will it cost after 5, 10, or 15 years?
A regular wood facade needs regular repainting, maintenance, and repairs. Charred wood (Shou Sugi Ban / Yakisugi) is more resistant to moisture, mould, and weather conditions, so maintenance is less frequent.
The result: fewer maintenance tasks, rarer repairs, and a more stable appearance over time.
Charred wood is often not the cheapest option at the start, but in the long term it becomes the economically smarter solution: less maintenance, fewer surprises, and a stable result.
The charring level influences both appearance and durability.
Light charring – keeps a natural wood grain with subtle contrasts. Suitable for minimalist and natural designs.
Medium charring – a balance between aesthetics and practicality. Works well with modern and Scandinavian architecture.
Heavy charring – pronounced texture (“alligator skin”) and maximum durability. Fits bold, high‑contrast designs.
For facades, medium or heavy charring is usually chosen. For interiors, any level can be used, depending on the desired effect. The darker and deeper the result, the higher the durability.
Correct ventilation is one of the key factors determining the facade’s lifespan.
A 20-40 mm gap behind the cladding ensures airflow and prevents moisture buildup.
A 10-15 mm gap between boards allows the wood to “breathe” and reduces the risk of deformation.
The result: a drier structure, fewer damages, and a longer service life.
During the charring process, the wood surface becomes denser, water absorption decreases, and mould and pests are hindered.
This leads to less frequent maintenance, fewer repairs, and a more stable visual appearance over time. It is an investment, not just a finishing choice.
For interiors, pine, spruce, oak, and walnut are most often used.
Softwoods (pine, spruce) deliver a stronger charring effect and are more readily available. Hardwoods (oak, walnut) stand out with deeper texture and higher durability.
The choice depends on whether the priority is visual impact or maximum longevity.
This depends on where the wood will be used.
For facades, medium or heavy charring is usually chosen to ensure higher resistance to moisture, weather, and damage.
For interiors, light or medium charring is more common, to highlight the natural wood grain and create a warm, aesthetic effect, while still balancing durability.
Simply put: outside – durability; inside – visual impact (with a balance between both).
Wood thickness affects both thermal performance and ease of installation.
Thicker boards offer better insulation and more stable temperature conditions.
Boards that are too thick can be heavier, harder to install, and more prone to deformation.
Typically, 20-40 mm thickness strikes the best balance between durability, insulation, and easy installation.
Proper moisture content, high‑quality treatment, and protection are also crucial for long‑term performance.
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