Extreme humidity and cost effectiveness are among the reasons thermally modified ash was selected for exteriors of the new residence hall at Iolani School in Honolulu, Hawaii. The new dormitory
provides on-campus living at the international school for the first time since 1959. Exotic
hardwoods are often specified in the islands to stand up to the extreme heat and moisture. The thermal modification process produces a natural, chemical-free alternative to more
expensive woods, such as ipe and teak. With thermally modified ash, shrinkage and swelling is reduced
by five to 15 times. Over the years, it maintains an attractive color without the usual graying experienced with other woods.