I saw a short video on it on TV about a year ago. It was a sales video for siding I think. Didn't pay much attention to it but if it is a fake, they spent a lot of money on a video. It may have been one of those DIY shows. There is a lot about it on the Internet, but as always, take it with a grain of salt. I have never saw any sales paraphilia say anything bad about any product.
Had an architect raving about it, but when I asked, he had never laid his hand on any, nor seen it firsthand, seems he was just "being an expert from a distance".
For fear of invoking the wrath of AI, here is what Chat thinks, (unedited as always)
Shou Sugi Ban (焼杉板,
Yakisugi) is a traditional Japanese wood preservation technique that involves
charring the surface of wood to make it more durable, resistant to insects, and weatherproof—while also giving it a striking, textured, and often blackened appearance.
Key Facts:
- Origin: Japan, historically used on exterior siding, especially for cedar.
- Process:
- Charring the surface (traditionally with an open flame).
- Cooling the wood.
- Brushing to remove soot and expose the grain.
- Oiling (typically with natural oils like tung oil) to seal and enhance the finish.
Benefits:
- Durability: Resistant to rot, insects, and UV damage.
- Low Maintenance: Once finished, it doesn't require frequent resealing.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Deep blacks, silvers, or brown tones with prominent grain patterns.
- Eco-Friendly: No chemicals needed—just fire and oil.
Modern Use:
Shou Sugi Ban has made a major comeback in modern architecture and design for:
- Exterior siding
- Interior walls and ceilings
- Furniture and accent pieces
While traditionalists use Japanese cedar (sugi), it can be applied to woods like pine, spruce, cypress, or oak—though results vary based on wood type.