Yakisugi – Japanese Charred Wood

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Yakisugi originated in Japan in the 18th century primarily as way to treat cedar siding to make it weatherproof, the technique – which involves charring a wood surface to render it a deep charcoal black. By slightly charring the surface of the wood without combusting the whole piece, the wood becomes water-proof through the carbonisation and is thus more durable. It also protects against insects, as well as making it fire retardant.