Considering Shou Sugi Ban for My Cabin Build – Thoughts on DIY vs. Pre-charred?

[Liam2018]

Hi everyone,

I’m currently planning a small cabin build and I’ve been thinking about using Shou Sugi Ban for the exterior cladding. I love the idea of the rustic, charred look and the added durability, especially with fire resistance and weathering. However, I’m stuck deciding whether to go the DIY route and char the wood myself or purchase pre-charred boards.
I’ve seen a few suppliers, like TimberSol, offering pre-charred timber, but I’m curious if anyone here has worked with Shou Sugi Ban or similar techniques in their builds. What’s the long-term maintenance like? Is it worth the extra cost to buy pre-charred wood, or is DIY the way to go?

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts and experiences!

 

[Millie Master]

You don't exactly say if your "small cabin build" is going to be a mobile one, i.e. as either a trailer or indeed a van conversion or a static/fixed adaption of a shed.

If it is a mobile item than as far as I am concerned then this stuff would be a none starter due to the weight implications.

Phil