Why Thermally Modify Black Locust Lumber? A Sustainable Comparison

Why choose a product that harms the environment, lowers quality, and drains your wallet? Why change what nature has already perfected?

In this post, we break down the key differences between natural Black Locust Lumber and thermally modified Black Locust products—so you can make the smartest, most sustainable decision for your decking and paving projects.

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Natural Black Locust vs. Thermally Modified: The Sustainability Issue

Sustainability should be the foundation of every building decision. The materials we choose affect both the planet and our personal well-being.

Thermally modified wood may sound like a modern innovation, but the process behind it tells a different story. This treatment uses extremely high heat—often up to 374°F (190°C)—and requires the wood's moisture content to be reduced to 12% or lower before treatment. That means added time, energy, and cost, not to mention a much higher carbon footprint.

There are six different thermal modification methods, but all of them increase emissions, consume large amounts of energy, and compromise the wood’s natural qualities.

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Environmental Trade-Offs

One of the biggest drawbacks of thermal modification is the loss of structural integrity. Black Locust is prized for its natural strength, but that strength can be reduced by up to 30% after thermal treatment—especially its bending strength.

Even more concerning, the natural anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties of Black Locust are diminished through the modification process, requiring ongoing treatment with mold-resistant products to maintain longevity.

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Durability: Go Natural, Go Long-Lasting

When it comes to longevity, natural Black Locust wins by a landslide. While thermally modified Black Locust may last around 20 years, natural Black Locust can last 50 years or more—without chemicals, sealants, or stains.

Black Locust lumber is inherently rot-resistant and requires minimal maintenance. Its natural durability makes it an ideal material for decking and permeable paving systems like our Proflow product line.

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Let’s Talk Cost

Thermally modifying Black Locust doesn’t just hurt the environment—it also raises the price. The extra energy usage, time, and processing steps all add up. Worse, you’re paying more for a product that does less and lasts half as long.

Final Thoughts: Nature Knows Best

Black Locust doesn’t need to be changed to perform. Its natural strength, durability, and resistance to decay make it one of the most sustainable hardwoods available today.

Thermally modifying it is not only unnecessary—it’s wasteful. Be a good steward of your wallet and the environment.

Stay natural. Keep it clean and green. Choose natural Black Locust.