Sustainable building with Thermo Fraké:
In conversation with Henk

Can you introduce yourself and explain your role within the timber trade?
Henk te Pas, representative. Advice and sales of wood and wood products. Advice to clients, architects and contractors. Sales to wood and building materials traders.

How did you come into contact with FSC®-certified Thermo Fraké?
In recent years, there has been an increasing demand for sustainable and stable wood species. Thermo Fraké was introduced as an environmentally friendly alternative to tropical hardwood and I became fascinated by the unique properties and versatility of this wood species.

What exactly is Thermo Fraké, and how does it differ from untreated Fraké?
Thermo Fraké is the wood type Limba/Fraké from Africa that has undergone a thermal treatment. During this process, the wood is heated to high temperatures in an oxygen-poor environment. This causes the cell structure of the wood to change, making it more durable, more dimensionally stable and more resistant to fungi and moisture. Untreated Fraké does not have these properties and is less suitable for outdoor applications.

Can you explain how the thermal process affects the properties of the wood?
The thermal process reduces the moisture content in the wood and breaks down the nutrients that normally attract fungi and insects. This not only makes the wood more durable, but also lighter and more stable. It also gives it a warm, dark appearance that architects really appreciate.

Are there specific quality requirements or quality marks that Thermo Fraké must comply with?
Yes, we work exclusively with FSC-certified Fraké to ensure that it comes from responsibly managed forests. In addition, the thermal process must be carried out correctly according to European standards to ensure sustainability and quality.

For which applications is Thermo Fraké most suitable?
It is widely used for cladding, terraces and garden furniture. Its durability and dimensional stability make it perfect for outdoor applications.

What aesthetic features make it attractive to architects and designers?
The warm, dark colour and unique grain structure give the wood an exclusive look. It feels modern, but also retains a natural charm. It fits well with both sleek, minimalist designs and more classic styles.

Do you see any trends in the market in which Thermo Fraké plays an important role?
Certainly, the trend towards sustainable building materials is enormous. Architects are looking for environmentally friendly alternatives to tropical hardwood, and Thermo Fraké is a favourite. Also because this beautiful type of wood falls into fire class D in combination with an open façade.

How sustainable is Thermo Fraké compared to other types of wood?
Thermo Fraké scores high on sustainability. The thermal process gives the wood a sustainability class 1/2, comparable to tropical hardwood. However, it has a much lower ecological footprint, because it uses fast-growing wood species and does not require chemicals during the process.

Is it considered an environmentally friendly alternative to tropical hardwood?
Absolutely. It combines the performance of hardwood with the benefits of locally or regionally available raw materials. This makes it an excellent choice for customers looking for environmentally friendly products.

How do you convince customers to choose Thermo Fraké, for example instead of other thermal wood types?
I emphasize the unique look and the longer lifespan. Furthermore, I give examples of successful projects where Thermo Fraké has been used, which often helps to convince customers.

Are there many returning customers who specifically ask for Thermo Fraké?
Certainly, especially architects and contractors who have worked with it before often choose Thermo Fraké again because of the excellent results and satisfied end users.

Do you have a project or customer case where Thermo Fraké played a decisive role?
Yes, we recently worked on a sustainably built apartment complex where Thermo Fraké was used for the facade cladding. It gave the building a modern look and was perfectly in line with the sustainability requirements of the client.

What do you personally find most fascinating about this product?
I am always impressed by how the Thermal Process can transform a relatively common wood species into a product that is so versatile and durable.

Do you think the demand for Thermo Fraké will continue to grow? Why?
Yes, the demand will continue to grow. More and more customers appreciate it for aesthetic and environmental reasons. In addition, it perfectly meets the needs of modern architecture.

What are the biggest challenges in selling Thermo Fraké?
Price remains a challenge, especially compared to cheaper alternatives. Also, there are customers who are unfamiliar with the product and do not yet see the benefits. That is why good information is important.

How do you deal with customers who are concerned about the price of Thermo Fraké compared to alternatives?
I explain that the initial investment pays for itself through the long lifespan and low maintenance costs. Furthermore, I emphasize that the unique look cannot simply be replaced.

Is there anything you would like to add about Thermo Fraké that we haven't covered yet?
I would like to emphasize that Thermo Fraké is one of the most versatile and sustainable choices we can currently offer. For anyone looking for a high-quality, low-maintenance and environmentally friendly solution, this wood is an excellent choice. Furthermore, it has its own character and ages very nicely.

What is the best way for interested customers to contact you or Boogaerdt Hout?
Interested parties can reach us via our website or contact me directly via (henk.tepas@boogaerdt.nl). We are happy to help with advice and providing samples.

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