Imbue Joinery
Imbue™ Joinery combines refined natural timber aesthetics with modern thermal modification technology to deliver stable, durable, and versatile timber for internal and external joinery applications.
Imbue combines two decades of thermal modification expertise to create heat tempered timber engineered for reliability. Computer controlled kilns and species specific schedules deliver stable, low maintenance products suited to harsh climates. With FSC certified supply chains and long term test data, Imbue offers a renewable alternative to old growth hardwoods.
Imbue is the outcome of sustained innovation in timber modification, uniting Maxwell Wood’s early large scale thermal plant experience with Abodo’s leadership in plantation based modification. Through precision controlled heat tempering, the wood’s cellular chemistry is refined to reduce hygroscopic behaviour, improve dimensional stability, and increase biological resistance. The result is a consistent, homogenous material that machines well, takes coatings predictably, and holds its form in service.
Behind the product is a rigorous technical platform. Imbue Radiata uses FSC certified New Zealand plantation pine that is heat tempered at or above 230°C, then carefully cooled and reconditioned to an equilibrium moisture of about seven percent. Extensive testing over more than 15 years, supported by in service history, confirms durability, stability, and termite resistance. Architects and builders gain a renewable material option with clear grade lengths, reliable supply, and verified performance.
Imbue™ Joinery combines refined natural timber aesthetics with modern thermal modification technology to deliver stable, durable, and versatile timber for internal and external joinery applications.
Imbue™ Screening combines refined aesthetics with thermally modified performance to deliver beautiful, low-maintenance architectural screening solutions.
Imbue™ Decking combines natural hardwood warmth with advanced thermal modification for a durable, stable, and sustainable outdoor solution.
Imbue™ Cladding delivers the refined beauty of thermally modified New Zealand Radiata Pine with enhanced stability, durability, and environmental performance for modern architectural projects.
Imbue is a specialist in heat tempered timber, built on the combined expertise of Maxwell Wood and Abodo. Using purpose-built, computer-controlled kilns, Imbue applies species-specific schedules to refine timber at a molecular level, improving stability, durability, and coating performance.
Imbue Radiata is manufactured from FSC® certified New Zealand plantation pine and tempered at high temperature with steam. Long-term laboratory and field testing, together with real-world in-service history, underpins the brand’s reputation for reliability in demanding climates.
Process: Heat tempering uses steam and high temperatures at or above 230°C, followed by controlled cooling and reconditioning to around 7% EMC. The process permanently changes the wood’s chemistry to reduce hygroscopic behaviour and improve resistance to decay.
Indicative Technicals: Average dry density ~420 kg/m³, pH ~3.9, Janka hardness ~2.5 kN, MoE ~8 GPa, MoR ~50 MPa. Thermal conductivity ~0.095 W/mK, approximately R1.35 per 25 mm thickness. Use stainless steel fixings externally, separate from zinc if required due to acidity.
Workability: Excellent machinability with sharp tools, pre-drill for fixings, manage fine dust extraction. Smooth dressed timber should be sanded before coating, always confirm systems with coating suppliers.
Fire: D-s1-d0 (EN 13501-1), Class C (ASTM E84), Group 3 (AS/NZS 3837), subject to project-specific compliance and installation details.
Contact Duce Architectural Timbers for detailed TDS, profile lists, and specification notes for cladding, decking, and joinery applications.
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What is heat tempered timber?
Timber modified in computer-controlled kilns using steam and high temperatures to refine cell chemistry, improving stability and durability.
How does Imbue perform compared to untreated radiata?
It has about 50% less swelling and shrinkage, reduced resin, and improved coating behaviour, which supports cleaner detailing and lower maintenance.
Is Imbue suitable for dark coatings on façades?
Yes. The low moisture content and stability support dark colours, even in warm climates, when coatings are correctly specified and maintained.
What durability rating applies?
Imbue Radiata achieves Durability Class 1 under EN 350-1 and Class 2 above ground under AS 5604, supported by long-term testing.
Is the timber sustainably sourced?
Yes. Imbue Radiata is FSC® certified from New Zealand plantation forests, providing a renewable alternative to old growth hardwoods.
Which applications are recommended?
External cladding, decking, and painted joinery, along with interior elements where stability and coating appearance are important.
What fixings should be used?
Use stainless steel fixings for exterior applications. Due to increased acidity, separate from zinc where necessary.
How is the product supplied?
Clear grade, with common nominal sizes such as 100–200 mm widths in 25, 32, and 50 mm thicknesses, and lengths from 2.4 m to 4.8 m, subject to availability.
What is the warranty?
A 15-year warranty against fungal attack applies, subject to terms and conditions. Contact Duce Architectural Timbers for details.
Who can help with specification?
Duce Architectural Timbers provides technical support, detailed data sheets, and supply coordination, including joinery integration with Duce Timber Windows & Doors.
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