Distributed by Kelleher Corp., San Rafael, Ca., the new Pakari Decking begins as moulding-grade raw lumber, all sourced from FSC-certified radiata pine plantations. 

 

After the wood is harvested and thoroughly graded for any defects, it is moved to a specially designed kiln to begin the three-step thermal modification process. Once inside the kiln, temperatures steadily increase to around 500°, effectively dropping the wood’s moisture content to nearly zero. It is at these high temperatures that the chemical and structural changes occur in the wood that make it more dimensionally stable, as well as insect and rot resistant.

 

Once modified, steam is introduced into the kiln in order to recondition the wood, returning its moisture content to 6% to 7%. 

 

Next, the wood is shipped to Sunset’s solar-powered milling facility, for manufacture into a range of interior and exterior products, including 2x6 decking and 1x6 exterior siding.