Charred Timber Cladding

Charred timber cladding is a stunning and durable choice for modern architectural projects, offering a unique and refined aesthetic. At The Larch Cladding Company, we specialise in charred Larch cladding and burnt timber cladding that enhances the design of any building.

Charred Timber Cladding Sourced in Wales

Charred Timber Cladding, also known as Burnt Timber Cladding, is created through a traditional Japanese technique called Shou Sugi Ban. This process involves carefully charring the surface of the wood to enhance its durability and resistance to weathering and pests. Our Charred Larch Cladding provides a distinctive blackened finish that not only protects the wood but also creates a striking visual impact, making it ideal for both contemporary and traditional designs.

At The Larch Cladding Company, we pride ourselves on offering high-quality Burnt Larch Cladding that combines beauty with longevity. Our Charred Timber Cladding is sourced from sustainably managed forests and treated to ensure it withstands the elements while maintaining its elegant appearance. Whether you are looking to enhance the exterior of a residential property or add a unique feature to a commercial building, our charred wood products provide an exceptional solution.

– British larch sourced in Wales
– From FSC managed forests 
– Overall finished widths 70mm / 95mm / 145mm
– Supplied uncoated

We offer a range of timer cladding profiles that can be viewed on our timber cladding profile page.

Installing charred timber cladding, also known as Shou Sugi Ban, involves several careful steps to ensure both durability and an aesthetically pleasing finish. Charred timber cladding offers a unique, striking appearance and enhanced durability due to the charring process. Here’s a short guide on how to install charred timber cladding:

Tools and Materials Needed

  • Charred timber cladding boards
  • Stainless steel nails or screws
  • Hammer or screwdriver (depending on your choice of fasteners)
  • Saw
  • Spirit level
  • Breathable waterproof membrane (if required by your application)
  • Battens (for creating an air gap behind the cladding)

Preparation

  1. Measure the area to be clad to determine the amount of charred timber cladding needed.
  2. Select the grade and profile of charred timber cladding according to the desired appearance and functionality.
  3. Prepare the wall surface, ensuring it is clean, dry, and flat. If you’re applying cladding over insulation or to an uneven surface, you might need to install a frame of horizontal battens fixed to the wall.

Installation Process

  1. Install a breathable waterproof membrane: If necessary, start from the bottom and overlap sheets by at least 150mm as you move up.

  2. Fix horizontal battens: Attach these to the wall if required, spaced to match the cladding profile. Ensure they are level and allow for ventilation at the top and bottom.

  3. Start cladding installation: Begin from the bottom corner of the wall. Use a spirit level to ensure the first board is perfectly horizontal.

  4. Attach the cladding boards: Fix the charred timber cladding boards to the battens using stainless steel nails or screws. Leave a small gap (typically 2mm) between boards to allow for expansion.

  5. Overlap or join the cladding boards: Follow the chosen style (e.g., ship-lap, tongue and groove). Ensure any joints between boards are staggered across the wall to enhance strength and appearance.

  6. Work upwards: Continue to work your way up the wall, ensuring each board is level before fixing it in place. Trim any boards to fit around windows, doors, or corners.

  7. Finishing: Charred timber cladding typically does not require additional treatments due to the protective properties conferred by the charring process. However, you can apply a suitable exterior-grade oil or sealant if desired to enhance the color and longevity.

Benefits of Charred Larch Cladding

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Increased Resistance to Rot

The charring process enhances the wood's resistance to rot, making Charred Timber Cladding a durable choice for various climatic conditions.
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Absence of Pests and Other Insects

Charred Timber Cladding naturally deters pests and insects, reducing the need for chemical treatments and ensuring a healthier environment.
Charred Timber Cladding

Long Life and Minimal Maintenance

With its robust and resilient finish, Charred Timber Cladding offers a long service life and requires minimal maintenance, providing an economical and practical solution for building exteriors.
Charred Timber Finishes Explained

Charred Timber Cladding can be customised to achieve different levels of charring, often referred to as rare, medium, and well-done finishes. Each level offers a unique aesthetic and degree of protection for the wood.

Rare

Appearance: A rare burn provides a light charring that retains much of the wood’s natural grain and texture. The finish is subtle, with a slightly darkened surface that highlights the wood’s inherent beauty.

Benefits: This level of charring offers moderate protection against weathering and insects while maintaining a more natural look. It is ideal for those who want a touch of the charred effect without completely altering the wood’s original appearance.

Medium

Appearance: A medium burn results in a more pronounced blackened finish while still allowing some of the wood’s grain to show through. The surface is darker and more uniform compared to a rare burn.

Benefits: Medium charring enhances the wood’s resistance to rot, pests, and weathering more effectively than a rare burn. It provides a balanced combination of aesthetic appeal and durability, making it suitable for a wide range of architectural styles.

Well Done

Appearance: A well-done burn creates a deep, blackened surface with a strong, textured finish. The wood’s grain is heavily charred, resulting in a dramatic and bold look.

Benefits: This level of charring offers the highest degree of protection against environmental factors, including moisture, UV radiation, and pests. The robust finish ensures long-lasting durability and minimal maintenance, perfect for those seeking a striking and resilient cladding option.

Charred Timber Cladding FAQ

Charred Timber Cladding, also known as Burnt Timber Cladding, is a type of wood cladding that has been treated using a traditional Japanese technique called Shou Sugi Ban. This process involves charring the surface of the wood to enhance its durability and create a distinctive blackened finish.

Yes, Charred Timber Cladding is highly durable. The charring process increases the wood’s resistance to weathering, rot, and insects, ensuring a long-lasting and low-maintenance exterior for your building.

Charred Timber Cladding requires minimal maintenance. Its natural resistance to decay and pests means that it does not need frequent treatments or upkeep. Occasional cleaning with a soft brush or water can help maintain its appearance.

Yes, Charred Timber Cladding is an eco-friendly choice. Our timber sourced from sustainably managed forests, and the charring process eliminates the need for chemical treatments, making it a responsible and sustainable option for building exteriors.

Our Reviews

glen britton
glen britton
28 April 2023
The service and quality of the timber outstanding
Nick Woodcock
Nick Woodcock
8 April 2022
Very help and will be ordering soon
Rob Monshin
Rob Monshin
2 April 2021
As always fantastic service , timber cut to size perfectly , delivered on time .
Peggy Romer
Peggy Romer
29 October 2020
Possibly 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 English
Lloyd English
14 July 2020
Super 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-Cook
James Scott-Cook
18 December 2019
Bought some waney Edge larch cladding from this company good price, good quality did two gable ends with it looks great