Recent Timber Clad Projects : Choosing the Right Species

September 15, 2017

We often get asked whether or not we work on timber frame projects. In short, yes! We love designing with timber, and believe it is a durable, robust and energy efficient way to build sustainably. Beyond the frame, one of the most important decisions to make is what to clad it with! Timber is often the natural choice for this method of construction (though not the only option), and selecting the most appropriate species needs some careful consideration. Factors to consider include aesthetics, durability, robustness, lifespan, weathering, discolouration, sizes and detailing. Some images below show 3 recent timber clad projects that are completed, or nearing completion. Siberian Larch (top 2 images) is a slow grown, durable species with a strong grain pattern and is available in long lengths. It will weather to a silver grey if left untreated, and the eveness of this depends on the detailing. This project has a deep projecting canopy which could cause un even weathering. Because of this, we specified that the timber was pre-treated with a Sioo coating. This will accelerate the silvering process and give a more even finish across the building and canopy. The boards used here are open jointed with a narrow 75mm coverage giving a fine grain and texture to the overall appearance.

Siberian Larch treated with Sioo - Chorlton cum Hardy, Manchester

Siberian Larch treated with Sioo - Chorlton cum Hardy, Manchester

Western Red Cedar (below) is often considered the 'Rolls Royce' of cladding. This is due to its high natural oil content and slow growth which make it a very durable species. For this project we specified it untreated, since the detailing of the zinc roof has minimal overhangs and should ensure even weathering. Its initial colour varies from light orange to dark brown, but it will quickly silver to an even grey. The diagonal cladding boards with a square edged tongue and groove profile ensures a crisp contemporary finish.

Untreated Canadian Western Red Cedar - Keynsham nr Bath

The project below was completed a couple of years ago in Long Ashton and used European Redwood pressure impregnated with a colour tinted treatment. This timber species left untreated would be less durable than Larch or Western Red Cedar, but with it has protection against rot and fungal decay for many years with a manufacturers warranty. It retains its colour much better than natural boards, but has a knottier appearance typical of faster grown softwoods from warmer climes. Here we used a deep batten on board profile which gives the building real character and texture, and forms balustrades to a Juliette balcony, The horizontal boarding to the lower level has mitred corner joints and a simple appearance. at ground level.

European Redwood treated with Norclad 'Microshades Brunea'