Frequently Asked Questions
Do TimberSIL® products meet AWPA Standards? |
AWPA Standards do not apply to TimberSIL® wood. The AWPA Writes standards for wood treated with preservatives, most of which are hazardous and regulated by the EPA. These standards apply to toxic products used to treat wood that can leach (leave) the wood over time. Because the process used to infuse TimberSIL® wood is non-toxic and non-leaching, TimberSIL® is exempt from AWPA standards.
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Do TimberSIL® products have ICC approval? |
ICC approval is required only when the manufacturing process changes the properties of the wood itself by more than 10%, resulting in a deviation from the UBC standards. Because TimberSIL® 's patented process does not change the properties of the wood itself, USDA rules do not apply. The USDA rules state, "Materials that reduce the properties of wood by 10% or less carry the inspections and certifications of the wood itself." Therefore, TimberSIL® does not require ICC approval. However, TimberSIL® wood products are certified and inspected by SPIB, TPI and WWP, and carries one or more of these stamps of approval on each piece of wood. |
Does TimberSIL® require local or state building code or agency approval? |
Because TimberSIL® is non-toxic, natural wood no special approvals are required for most common uses. However, when used in applications that specifically require Class A Fire Ratings or barrier free certifications, it is best to confirm acceptance with local officials. Most documentation required by state and county agencies can be obtained directly from our website under our Tech Specs page. Each of the documents are in PDF format that are can be downloaded and printed. |
How are TimberSIL® products made? |
In a completely non-toxic and environmentally friendly process, kiln dried Southern Yellow Pine is infused with a patented sodium silicate based formula, heated and dried. This process encases the wood fibers in amorphous glass, thereby increasing the wood's strength, creating a non-toxic barrier and insuring that the wood is rot resistant. |
What is TimberSIL® Glass Wood? |
TimberSIL® Glass Wood is comprised of a fusion of glass with wood. The glassy portion surrounds and protects the wood, making it a long lasting product that is resistant to rot, decay and insects. Further, TimberSIL® wood products are stronger, harder and more insulating than untreated wood and are unlike any other traditionally treated woods. TimberSIL® wood products are non-toxic, non-corrosive and are Class A Fire Rated. |
Can you use standard nails & brackets with TimberSIL® ? |
Yes. The glass encasing the fibers of the wood creates a protective barrier around the nails as they are in use. Any exterior grade fasteners and connectors can by used without fear of corrosion. It is not necessary to use stainless steel or triple galvanized fasteners when using TimberSIL® products. Additionally, TimberSIL® products add fastener holding strength. |
How are TimberSIL® products made? |
In a completely non-toxic and environmentally friendly process, kiln dried Southern Yellow Pine is infused with a patented sodium silicate based formula, heated and dried. This process encases the wood fibers in amorphous glass, thereby increasing the wood's strength, creating a non-toxic barrier and insuring that the wood is rot resistant. |
What TimberSIL® products are available? |
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Will the wood warp or twist? |
Although the TimberSIL® process provides a stronger, longer lasting wood that is resistant to rot, decay and insects, TimberSIL® is still a KDAT (kiln dried after treatment) Southern Yellow Pine wood product. Therefore TimberSIL® has the same characteristics of Southern Yellow Pine. When using TimberSIL® wood products, the product must be stored in a dry location and that all necessary precautions be taken to prevent moisture uptake, just as you would with any KDAT product. |
Does TimberSIL® wood fade in the sunlight? |
Unless coated with a stain, sealer or paint, TimberSIL® will age like any other wood. This is commonly referred to as graying out or turning silver in color. |
Can I use TimberSIL® wood on docks? |
Yes. TimberSIL® wood is great for marine applications over fresh and salt water because it is entirely non-toxic and non-leaching. In fact, because of TimberSIL® 's Class A Fire Rating, marinas can rest assured that if a marine fire were to break out, the flame spread would not be near as great as those marinas built with conventional materials. |
Does TimberSIL® provide protection from fire? |
Absolutely. TimberSIL® wood is a Class A Fire Retardant, without the harmful chemicals used in other products. When fire makes contact with TimberSIL® wood, the flames will not spread. Although scorching or charring may occur, TimberSIL® has an Ignition Resistant Material Rating meaning that TimberSIL® does not ignite. |
Are TimberSIL® products warranted? |
Yes. TimberSIL® carries a 40 year limited, transferable warranty for residential use and a 3 year limited warranty for piers and pilings. |
Is TimberSIL® certified for Green Building Programs? |
Yes. The TimberSIL® process is FSC certified and is Crade2Cradle Certified by MBDC. The US Green Building Council provides LEED points for Cradle2Cradle certification, one of several ways TimberSIL® wood products qualify for LEED credits. |
Can TimberSIL® be painted or stained? |
Yes. As with any wood product, in order to ensure evenly painted and stained surfaces, TimberSIL® should be sanded to ensure a strong bond between the wood and the paint or stain product. Because TimberSIL® is a kiln dried wood, there is no need to wait for the wood to dry before applying the sealer or paint. As with all finish products, simply follow the manufacturer's instructions. |
Does the glass in TimberSIL® wood make it harder to cut? |
Although TimberSIL® wood is southern yellow pine, because the TimberSIL® process creates a product that is harder and stronger, saw blade wear and tear is similar to that of the hardest of hardwoods. However, because of the amorphous glass in TimberSIL, saw cuts are easier and smoother. |
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