Exploring the Pros and Cons of Accoya: Is It Superior to Pinewood?

What is Accoya Wood?

Accoya wood is a modified softwood (unmodified species known as Radiata Pine) that undergoes a unique process called acetylation. In acetylation, the wood is treated with acetic anhydride, which alters the wood's cellular structure, significantly reducing its ability to absorb moisture. As a result, Accoya is less likely to swell or shrink, making it more reliable than untreated timber.

Advantages of Accoya Wood

Durability

The acetylation process improves the wood's natural properties, making it highly resistant to fungi, insects and decay. This durability makes Accoya an excellent choice for structures like windows, decking and outdoor furniture that you would expect to have a long lifespan. In fact, treated Accoya can last much longer in outdoor settings (50+ years) than the traditional Engineered Pinewood (20-40 years).

Stability

Accoya wood maintains its shape and size, even with fluctuations in humidity. Unlike traditional softwoods that can warp or twist with the seasons, Accoya remains dimensionally stable. Its impressive thermal insulation and minimal shrinking or swelling also reduces heat loss.

Environmental Benefits

The acetylation process also employs non-toxic chemicals and the final product is 100% biodegradable at the end of its lifespan. Due to its long lifespan, the need for replacement and repair is reduced, which positively impacts the environment by reducing waste.

Our Accoya wood is sourced from FSC-certified, responsibly managed forests that are always undergoing regeneration in order to minimise embodied carbon and maximise carbon storage.

Disadvantages of Accoya Wood

Cost

While Accoya's benefits are significant, the biggest drawback is its price in comparison to Engineered Pinewood, and sometimes even hardwoods. Its premium cost is owing to the advanced modification process.

The timber contains small amounts of acid due to the chemical treatment, meaning regular screws/nails would rust quicker than the wood can decay. Therefore, high-quality stainless steel (corrosion resistant) fixings and fasteners need to be used, which raises overall costs.

Engineered Pinewood is a generally more affordable and readily available softwood, which is why many opt for it in budget-driven projects.