If you’ve been researching thermally modified wood, you’ve probably come across comments suggesting it’s “more complicated” to install than traditional lumber.
We hear it all the time:
“Thermory looks great, but I’m worried it’ll be difficult to work with.”
The reality is much simpler.
As Thermory USA Territory Manager Sean Leary puts it:
“I tell people: If you can install wood, you can install Thermory. You’re not learning a completely new building material—you’re working with real wood. Follow our installation guidelines, just as you would with any premium wood product. Take a little time to understand the recommendations, and you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful, long-lasting result.”
Thermory Is Real Wood
Let’s start with the most important point. Thermory isn’t a composite. It isn’t plastic. It isn’t a synthetic building material.
It’s real wood that has been enhanced through a thermal modification process using only heat and steam.
That means many of the tools, techniques, and installation practices contractors and DIYers already know still apply. You’ll still cut it, fasten it, and install it much like other wood decking, cladding, porch flooring, and sauna materials.
For most installers, the learning curve isn’t about learning a new material—it’s about understanding the specific recommendations that help any wood product perform at its best.
Why Some People Think Thermory Is More Complicated
Thermally modified wood is often discussed alongside phrases like:
- Ventilation
- Fastener selection
- Expansion gaps
- Rainscreen assemblies
- Proper detailing
To someone researching the material for the first time, that can sound intimidating.
But here’s the truth: those aren’t unusual requirements. They’re simply good building practices.
In reality, some Thermory products include features specifically designed to make projects faster, cleaner, and more efficient. A great example is Thermory’s JEM (Joint End Matched) profile, available on many of our decking and cladding products. By allowing boards to be joined between supports, JEM helps reduce waste, improve material yield, and simplify installation compared to traditional wood products that often require additional trimming and cutoffs.
As Thermory USA Territory Manager Steve Butler explains:
“Compared to traditional materials which need to be back-cut to the joist in decking applications or trimmed to eliminate checking and square up the butt-joints in cladding, Thermory products with the JEM joint are 100% usable. The value is in the much smaller waste factor that must be ordered to complete the job.”
Whether you’re installing cedar, hardwood decking, cladding, or Thermory, details matter. Proper spacing, ventilation, and fastening help ensure long-term performance and appearance. Thermory’s installation guidelines aren’t there because the product is difficult—they’re there because we want every project to perform exactly as intended for years to come.
Thermory: Designed for Builders. Accessible for DIYers.
Every year, Thermory products are installed on:
Many installers are using Thermory for the first time.
That’s why we’ve invested heavily in installation resources designed to make the process straightforward and predictable. Whether you’re a seasoned contractor or a homeowner tackling a personal project, you don’t have to figure it out on your own.
Start With the Installation Guide
The easiest way to ensure success is simple:
Read the installation guide before you begin.
Our guides cover:
- Recommended fasteners and clips
- Ventilation requirements
- Board spacing
- Framing recommendations
- Cladding details
- Best practices for specific applications
A few minutes spent reviewing the guide can answer most questions before they arise.
Need Help? Talk to a Real Person.
One of the biggest advantages of working with Thermory USA is that you’re never on your own. If you have questions about your project, our team is available to help.
Need guidance on fasteners?
Wondering about spacing?
Working through a unique installation detail?
Our territory managers, technical experts, and customer support team regularly help installers navigate projects of every size—from backyard decks to large commercial developments.
If You Can Install Wood, You Can Install Thermory
Thermory isn’t difficult to install.
It’s real wood, installed using familiar woodworking principles and supported by detailed installation guidance.
The key is the same as it is with any premium building material: follow the recommendations, use the right details, and don’t hesitate to ask questions.
If you can install wood, you can install Thermory.
When you’re ready to get started, we’ll be here to help every step of the way.
