Wood finishing is not merely an aesthetic decision—it’s where craftsmanship meets longevity, and artistry meets performance. At Inflamed, we specialise in traditional Shou Sugi Ban (Yakisugi) and offer three key surface treatments: Raw Char, Brushed, and Oiled. Each provides a distinctive texture, tone, and durability level for different design needs, from bold facades to warm interior features.
As manufacturers, we treat each plank as a canvas shaped by fire and precision. Here’s everything you need to know to choose the ideal finish for your project.
Raw Char Finish
Distinctive & Protective
The raw charred finish embodies the traditional Shou Sugi Ban method in its purest form. After flame-treating the surface, we leave the carbonised layer intact, forming a natural protective shell.
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Look & Feel: Jet black, cracked texture with organic variation; visually dramatic
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Durability: Naturally resistant to UV, pests, and weather without chemicals
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Best Use Cases: Exterior cladding, fencing, feature walls
Care Tips:
Raw char is extremely low-maintenance. Minor shedding is natural. We recommend a visual inspection every 3–5 years. If needed, a clear coating can stabilise the surface. Avoid pressure washing—use a soft brush or cloth to clean.
Brushed Finish
Tactile & Architectural
After charring, we brush off the fragile soot using specialised brass or steel brushes. This reveals the grain’s depth and texture, resulting in a dimensional, tactile surface ideal for both traditional and contemporary settings.
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Look & Feel: Textured, pronounced grain patterns with natural depth
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Durability: Excellent for exterior and interior use with moderate care
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Best Use Cases: Interior panels, facades, rustic or modern furniture
Care Tips:
This surface requires minimal upkeep. Dust occasionally with a soft brush or cloth. In high-touch areas, re-brushing may be needed over time to refresh texture. No oiling is necessary unless added protection or aesthetic enhancement is desired.
Oiled Finish
Elegant & Enhanced
This finish begins with brushing, followed by the application of natural wood oil. The oil penetrates the grain, deepening the tone and providing additional moisture resistance.
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Look & Feel: Warm, matte, and rich in contrast; enhanced colour tones
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Durability: Increased protection with a refined finish for interior and exterior use
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Best Use Cases: Interior walls, design elements, high-end commercial applications
Care Tips:
We recommend reapplying oil every 5–10 years. Simply wipe oil onto a clean surface using a lint-free cloth—no buffing needed. For minor blemishes, lightly sand and reapply oil to the affected area.
Choosing the Right Finish
Choosing between finishes depends on your project’s location, design intent, and maintenance expectations:
Finish | Ideal For | Maintenance |
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Raw Char | Exterior cladding, fencing, rustic aesthetics | Very low – inspect every 3–5 years |
Brushed | Feature walls, interiors, textured design | Occasional dusting, optional re-brushing |
Oiled | Interiors, refined finishes, hospitality | Re-oil every 5–10 years |
Crafted in Our Workshop
All treatments are done in-house using certified wood species such as Spruce, Larch, and Accoya®. Each board is carefully selected, charred, and finished to meet rigorous quality standards. We don’t just make timber—we craft architectural materials with purpose.
Your Vision, Realised
Whether you’re an architect, builder, or homeowner, our finishes offer tailored solutions that merge beauty and function. Explore your options by ordering a sample box, or reach out for a personalised quote.