The disadvantages of Thermo Ayous + quality alternatives
Ayous is the wood derived from the deciduous tree also known by the names abachi, arere, samba and wawa. The soft without naturally has durability class 5. Thermal treatment makes ThermoWood Ayous much more durable.
Ayous has been a popular choice for cladding for years. It looks sleek, is easy to work with and has an attractive price tag. Yet it is not the best solution for every project, especially long-term or more intensive applications.
In this blog, we list the main disadvantages of Thermo Ayous. And because we at Stevens Wood believe in solutions, we suggest a worthy alternative each time. This way you will make a well-considered choice for your project. Need help? Do not hesitate to contact us.
Disadvantage #1: Ayous is soft and therefore fragile
Ayous is a hardwood species with relatively low density. It is soft, splinters faster and is more susceptible to damage from impacts, transport or hard impact. This is a potential disadvantage especially for facades that are subjected to a lot of stress, such as on a driveway or play area. Because of its soft, open cell structure, Ayous also absorbs dirt quickly and is very susceptible to surface fungus. As a result, it does not age very nicely.
Alternative: Thermo Fraké
Thermo Fraké is heavier and harder. Because of its higher density, it feels more robust and retains its shape better, even in changing weather conditions. That means it also ages more beautifully. Ideal for those looking for cladding that is both attractive and sturdy.
Disadvantage #2: Ayous has a flat and even appearance
This may seem like an advantage, but it quickly comes across as dull or flat, especially on larger façade surfaces. Because of the soft, pale color and fine grain, the wood lacks the character or natural variation that wood facades are so celebrated for.
Alternative: Thermo Radiata Pine
Thermo Radiata Pine does offer that natural look. Thanks to its pronounced flame pattern and slight color variation, you can give facades more character, even without additional treatment. Moreover, this wood is usually knot-free and available in long lengths. That also makes it more visually appealing.
Disadvantage #3: Ayous is not suitable as construction wood
Thermo Ayous is often chosen as a facade finish. Keep in mind, however, that it is completely unsuitable for support structures. It lacks the necessary load-bearing capacity and stability to serve as a structural timber, for example as timber for timber frame construction or for outdoor applications such as canopies or profiled garden timber.
Alternative: Spruce C24
At Stevens Wood you will find a wide range of construction lumber in spruce C24. This is machine sorted for strength, dried and planed to the millimeter. Whether you are making a load-bearing floor, wall or roof, spruce C24 is the reliable, affordable and locally available solution for solid timber construction.
Disadvantage #4: Ayous is a tropical wood species
ThermoWood Ayous is originally sourced from WestAfrica. That means transport over long distances and thus a larger carbon footprint than with local wood. Moreover, felling tropical trees contributes to deforestation and loss of biodiversity, even with controlled harvesting.
Alternative: ThermoWood spruce or pine
Thermo spruce and Thermo pine are European products that underwent the same thermal treatment as Thermo Ayous. It offers similar stability and durability, with a warmer grain pattern and a shorter transport route. Thus, you choose siding with a natural look and a much smallerenvironmental impact. Unlike Ayous, ThermoWood pine does have knots.
Knot-free alternative: ThermoWood Radiata Pine
Radiata Pine also comes from afar, namely from New Zealand. But unlike Ayous, Radiata Pine does not come from tropical forests. In fact, this type of wood is grown on plantations. It is a fast-growing type of wood and always FSC-certified. That makes it a much more environmentally friendly choice than Thermo Ayous – and also knot-free.
ThermoWood Ayous, not always the best choice
Thermo Ayous remains an attractive wood species for those who want a sleek facade with a soft price. Those who look beyond first impressions also notice its limitations. It is very susceptible to damage and often does not age nicely.
Fortunately, there are plenty of alternatives at Stevens Wood that score better on durability, strength and environmental impact. For example, Thermo Fraké offers extra strength and character, Thermo Radiata Pine offers excellent value for money and Thermo Ash offers a local, ecological alternative.
At Stevens Hout you will find the right type of wood, directly from our large stock. Feel free to contact us for personal advice or a free quote. Together we will choose the wood that fits your project perfectly.