Plato® technology brings you the next generation of thermally treated timber. Platowood has undergone a natural heat treatment process which transforms less durable FSC certified spruce into a class 1 durable timber and improves its dimensional stability.

There is no loss of flexibility, which can often result from traditional heat treatments, as it retains a high cellulose content due to a carefully-managed five-stage process.

This flexibility means that larger sizes of board can be used, which leaves more scope for imaginative bespoke design concepts. Wider profiles and longer lengths can be safely used without risk of movement.

Platowood products use no chemicals in production, and even incorporate environmentally-friendly sourcing of the electricity and steam used in the production process. These features mean that it scores high on EcoHomes points, and it is guaranteed for 15 years for durability and stability.

The reduced hygroscopicity (absorption and loss of water) of Platowood means that swelling and shrinkage of wood is also greatly reduced.

A simple idea coupled with modern technology transforms FSC certified softwood into a very durable, stable timber product of durability class 1, where the wood is manageably lightweight, as are the prices.

Since 2000 several hundreds of projects have been realized in the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany. You can see these in our gallery of pictures.

More information can be found on Plato’s own website.

Data Sheet

• Plato® technology improves the dimensional stability and durability of wood without compromising the mechanical properties.
• FSC Certified – Platowood is certified to prove that the timber is sustainable and legally sourced.
• No chemicals used – Only heat and steam are used in the Platonisation process, meaning that Platowood is entirely recyclable.
• Enhanced durability and stability – class 1 durable timber. Hygroscopicity (its ability to absorb or lose moisture) is reduced by 50%. In other words, tendency to shrink or swell is reduced by half.
• Wide and thick sections available – which means that non-standard ideas can be investigated and unique profiles produced.
• More cellulose – means that Platowood is less brittle than other thermally-modified timbers. More flexibility and decreased breakage leads to less waste and thus cost savings.
• Warm brown colour – will fade to a silvery grey.
• 15 year guarantee - for durability and stability.