Has Anyone Else Seen This? Yakisugi - Japanese Charred Wood Siding

Recently, I was asked to inspect a waterfront home with a fireplace at the enclosed patio area. The patio was an A-frame design, and the black wood siding on the fireplace extended from the floor to the ceiling. When I first saw the fireplace, I just assumed the siding had been stained or painted, but when I got closer it was obvious that the wood was charred. I immediately began looking for other signs of the fire that had caused the damage, but I found nothing. Soon I realized that the charring was consistently even at the front, the sides, and all other areas, and I began to wonder if the charring was intentional. The next day I saw a friend who had just come back from Japan, and I told him about the fireplace. He told me it was very likely planned that way, and that in Japan charred wood is used as a design element. I think he was right and that’s exactly what I was seeing – just when you think you’ve seen it all!    Has anyone else ever seen this? 

Like others, when I’m not inspecting, I’m marketing to increase my business. I’m trying to attract new Clients, and I’m hoping to be added to your List of Approved Inspectors. I have an extensive history of experience in both Residential and Commercial Construction, which is why I chose to become a Professional Inspector My professional qualifications include:

ü45+ years Residential and Commercial Building Experience.

ü24+ years, Owner, Walsh Building Company, Licensed General Contractor, New Braunfels, Texas.

üDeveloper and Builder, Thorn Hill Subdivision, Gruene, Texas.

üDirector, Thorn Hill HOA, 18+ years.

üDeveloper, Walsh Subdivision, FM 1044, New Braunfels, Texas.

üMember, Four Rivers Association of Realtors, New Braunfels, Texas.

üMember, Board of Directors, Habitat for Humanity of Comal County, 3-year term.

üMember, Engineering and Facilities Start-Up Team, MGM Grand Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas, 1993 - 1998.   

üRegional Vice President, Central Texas office, NAH Inc, Commercial Contractor, 5 years. 

While training to qualify for licensing, I was surprised to learn that approximately 85% of the other candidates had no building experience whatsoever. In addition to being a TREC licensed Inspector, I’m also a licensed General Contractor. As a homebuilder, it’s been my responsibility to identify building Deficiencies, and recommend solutions to my clients. I’ve been doing that for more than for 45 years, and that is the biggest benefit I provide over less qualified Inspectors. I also understand that time is a critical factor at the time of sale, and I start my day very early so that I can provide Inspection Reports to my Clients by the end of the business day. I would appreciate an opportunity to earn your business, and I’m hoping you’ll feel the qualifications I’ve listed are sufficient. 

Previous Red Flag Posts

Understanding Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Requirements.

A Dryer Vent blocked by a screen will trap lint, creating a Fire Safety Issue!

A high voltage water heater contacting a soaking tub is a BIG Red Flag!