Timber Cladding
Premium British timber cladding
At The Larch Cladding Company, we are your trusted source for premium timber cladding options in Wales. Here, we’ll introduce you to the world of timber cladding and the different types of timber such as Larch Cladding, Cedar Cladding and Douglas fir cladding.
– British timber sourced in Wales
– From FSC managed forests
– Supplied uncoated
We offer a range of timer cladding profiles that can be viewed on our timber cladding profile page.
Timber cladding provides a natural and durable option for enhancing the exterior of buildings. The following guide outlines the steps for installing timber cladding, ensuring both an aesthetically pleasing and long-lasting finish. Whether you’re working with larch, cedar, or another type of timber, these steps can guide you through the installation process.
Tools and Materials Needed:
- Timber cladding boards: Choose based on the desired appearance and properties.
- Stainless steel nails or screws: To avoid corrosion and ensure longevity.
- Hammer or screwdriver: Depending on your choice of fasteners.
- Saw: For cutting the timber to the necessary lengths.
- Spirit level: To guarantee a straight and level installation.
- Breathable waterproof membrane: Essential in some installations to protect against moisture.
- Battens: For creating a ventilation gap behind the cladding.
Preparation Steps:
- Measure Your Space: Determine how much cladding you’ll need by measuring the area you plan to cover.
- Choose Your Timber: Select the grade and profile of timber cladding according to your project’s aesthetic and functional requirements.
- Prepare the Wall: Ensure the wall surface is clean, dry, and smooth. Install horizontal battens if you’re cladding over insulation or an uneven surface to provide a level framework.
Installation Process:
- Install a Breathable Waterproof Membrane: If required, apply this over the wall or insulation, starting at the bottom and overlapping each sheet by at least 150mm as you move upwards.
- Fix Horizontal Battens: Space the battens according to your cladding profile. Ensure they are level and allow for proper ventilation at both the top and bottom of the wall.
- Begin Cladding at the Bottom Corner: Use the spirit level to place the first board horizontally. This ensures the rest of your cladding aligns correctly.
- Attach the Cladding Boards: Secure them to the battens with stainless steel nails or screws, leaving a small expansion gap (around 2mm) between the boards.
- Overlap or Join Boards: Follow your chosen style (e.g., ship-lap, tongue and groove), staggering joints across the wall for better strength and visual appeal.
- Work Upwards: Maintain level alignment for each board as you progress. Trim boards as necessary to fit around obstacles like windows or corners.
- Finish the Cladding: Depending on the timber type, you might want to apply a protective oil. Some timbers can be left to weather naturally, while others may require a protective oil to maintain their look.
Timber Cladding Range
Larch Cladding
Larch cladding is renowned for its natural resistance to decay and unique ageing process, as it transforms into a charming silver-grey patina over time. This type of cladding is versatile, making it ideal for various architectural styles.
Cedar Cladding
Cedar cladding is known for Its natural resistance to decay, insects, and moisture making it a popular choice for high-end residential properties, resorts, and commercial buildings, where both aesthetics and durability are paramount.
douglas fir cladding
Douglas fir cladding, with its reddish-brown to pale yellow hues, offers strength and stability. Ideal for modern designs, its dense grain ensures durability and structural integrity, making it suitable for residential and commercial projects.
Why Choose Timber Cladding?
Timeless Beauty
Timber cladding adds warmth and character to any building, with its natural grains and tones providing a timeless and elegant look.
Sustainability
Timber is a renewable resource, making timber cladding an eco-friendly choice when sourced responsibly.
Durability
High-quality timber cladding, when properly maintained, can last for decades, ensuring a long-lasting investment in your property.
Insulation
Timber has excellent insulating properties, helping regulate indoor temperature and reduce energy consumption.
Versatility
Timber cladding is incredibly versatile, and suitable for a wide range of architectural styles, from traditional to contemporary designs.
Timber Cladding FAQ
Timber cladding, also known as wood cladding, involves covering the exterior of a building with wood panels or planks to protect it against the elements and to provide aesthetic appeal. It’s a popular choice for its natural beauty, versatility, and sustainability. Timber cladding can come in various types, including hardwoods and softwoods, each with unique properties and appearances suitable for different climates and design preferences.
The durability of timber cladding can vary depending on the type of wood used, the quality of installation, and the climate. Hardwoods generally offer more durability than softwoods. To ensure longevity, timber cladding requires regular maintenance, including:
- Protection: Applying a finish or sealant to protect against moisture, UV rays, and insects.
- Cleaning: Gently cleaning the surface to remove dirt, algae, or moss can prevent decay.
- Inspection: Regularly inspecting for signs of damage or wear and addressing issues promptly can extend the cladding’s life.
Choosing the right type of wood and adhering to proper maintenance practices can make timber cladding a long-lasting and beautiful choice for any building.
Choosing the right timber for cladding involves considering several factors:
- Climate: Select a wood species that is suited to your local climate. Some woods are better for wet climates, while others are suited for dry conditions.
- Aesthetic Preference: Consider the colour, grain, and texture of the wood. These characteristics will significantly impact the building’s appearance.
- Durability: Look for woods that are naturally resistant to rot, decay, and insect infestation. Hardwoods generally offer more durability than softwoods but may come at a higher cost.
- Sustainability: Opt for timber sourced from sustainably managed forests to ensure your cladding choice is environmentally responsible.
- Maintenance Level: Some types of wood require more maintenance than others to retain their appearance and durability. Consider how much time and effort you are willing to invest in upkeep.
Consulting with our professional team who can help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences, ensuring that your timber cladding serves both functional and aesthetic purposes effectively.
Our Reviews
glen britton28 April 2023The service and quality of the timber outstanding
Nick Woodcock8 April 2022Very help and will be ordering soon
Rob Monshin2 April 2021As always fantastic service , timber cut to size perfectly , delivered on time .
Peggy Romer29 October 2020Possibly the most friendly and helpful company I've used. Always kept me up to date and provided useful advice. Will be using them again soon!
Lloyd English14 July 2020Super company to work with. I found Mathew and his team really helpful, and the examples they have of different cladding helps no end when deciding what to go for. Great value and the fact the wood is grown, felled and sawed in Wales proves it truly is a local product. Highly recommend this company.
James Scott-Cook18 December 2019Bought some waney Edge larch cladding from this company good price, good quality did two gable ends with it looks great