Stunning shingles

A multi-dimensional enclosure and viewing area for Wellington Zoo’s snow leopards, is clad in Abodo’s newest product – Vulcan Shingles.

The Zoo requested the viewing area have a sense of camouflage, which would allow the cats to relax despite being on display, and that any timbers be Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) certified. This led the architects to specify Abodo Vulcan Shingles for external treatment of the sloped viewing shelters.

Architect: Architecture Workshop
Photography: Grant Davis

What are Abodo Vulcan shingles?

ABODO is thermally modified Radiata Pine timber from New Zealand. Abodo Vulcan Shingles offer a durable, high-end architectural finish for roofs, walls and gable ends - delivering enhanced stability and reduced cupping, even when exposed to harsh weather. 

Vulcan timber has a verified carbon negative status meaning these timber shingles are sure to tick many boxes for architects, designers and homeowners.

The shingles are carefully trimmed to a desired length, ensuring efficient utilisation and reducing unnecessary waste. To achieve the desired width, the short-length pieces undergo an edge-ripping process. This maximises the yield and enhances the shingles' overall strength and durability. The next step is passing the pieces through a horizontal bandsaw, a crucial part of the process that imparts the bevel profile and bandsawn face that characterise the Vulcan Shingles' distinct appearance.