The Ultimate Guide to Timber Cladding: Installation & Styles

Timber cladding is getting more popular in Australia for residential and commercial buildings. It's seen as a green and natural choice for building exteriors. It brings beauty, and durability, and is easy to install, unlike other materials.

This guide will cover the key points for picking the right cladding. We'll look at the different profiles, how to install the cladding horizontally and vertically, and how to keep them looking good for years.

Key Takeaways

• Timber cladding from FSC-certified sources has a lower carbon footprint compared to other materials.
• Sawn cladding is more traditional, quicker, and cheaper to produce with a lower carbon footprint than moulded cladding.
• Moulded cladding offers a crisper, smoother finish suitable for modern applications but is more expensive.
• Weatherboard cladding allows for natural shrinkage and expansion, preventing gaps and directing rainwater away.
• Board on board cladding provides a clean, contemporary look and allows for mixing different board widths.

What is Timber Cladding?

This is a popular choice for exterior siding. It offers a strong weatherproof barrier and a naturally beautiful look. When picking the right timber, consider its natural durability, stability, and if it's sustainable.

Choosing the Right Timber

Softwoods like Western Red Cedar, Siberian Larch, and Douglas Fir are often used. They're weather-resistant and cost-effective. 

Modified timber products, treated thermally or chemically, can last up to 60 years. It's important to check the timber's quality and any needed finishes for long-lasting performance.

Deciding between hardwood and softwood cladding depends on your taste, budget, and project needs. Both naturally durable and modified timbers can protect well and look great on your property.

Enquire about Types of Timber Cladding Profiles

It comes in many profiles, each with its own look and benefits. You can choose from horizontal styles like feather edge, shiplap, and tongue-and-groove. Or go for vertical options, e.g. board-on-board, shadow gap, and rainscreen cladding. The right choice can greatly affect a building's exterior but also know that some types of profiles are easier to install than others.

Horizontal cladding profiles are great for keeping the weather out and looking good. Feather edge cladding is affordable and has a classic look. Shiplap profiles, popular in the 1960s and 1970s, are water-resistant thanks to their joints. Tongue-and-groove cladding offers a modern, smooth finish.

Vertical cladding profiles are becoming more popular for their modern look. Options like board-on-board, the shadow gap, and rainscreen cladding systems are recommended for vertical processes. Each of them offers unique design options.

The choice of profile depends on the project's style, installation, and weather needs. This process is overall loved for its natural look, light weight, and durability. It also has the advantage of being eco-friendly but to hear more about different types of profiles you can contact our experts.

Timber Cladding Installation process

Horizontal vs. Vertical Timber Cladding

Getting this right is key for its long life. The way you place it, whether horizontally or vertically, matters a lot. Each method needs its own special way to work best.

For horizontal cladding, boards are fixed to vertical battens. This lets the timber expand and contract naturally. It's important to have a dry, well-ventilated space and a breather membrane to keep moisture away.

Vertical process, on the other hand, goes on horizontal battens. Vertical counter-battens help with ventilation and drainage. Just like with horizontal, it's crucial to have gaps for the timber to move. A breather membrane is also key here to keep the cladding dry and lasting longer.

It doesn't matter if it's horizontal or vertical, following the maker's advice is essential. Using the right tools and techniques, like pre-drilling and the right fixings, makes the cladding look and work better.

Timber Cladding Guide

This guide to timber cladding covers key points for Australian homeowners,  builders, and architects. It talks about choosing the right timber, different profiles, and how to place them. We aim to help you make smart choices for your project.

This process is a great choice for exterior walls. It's sustainable, looks good, and is durable. By thinking about these things, you can make sure your project looks and works well.

Looking for a modern or traditional look? This guide has the info you need. It helps you understand Australian cladding, sustainable options, and natural choices.

Timber Species for Cladding

There are over 60,000 wood species for cladding, but some are more popular in Australia:

• Western Red Cedar: From British Columbia, Canada, it's very durable.
• Siberian Larch: From Siberia, Russia, it comes in 'A' and 'B' grades.
• Alaskan Yellow Cedar: From America's north-west coast, it's stable and easy to work with.
• Douglas Fir: From British Columbia, it's strong and has interesting grain.
• European Oak: A hardwood from the UK, it's golden-brown and durable.

Heat-modified timbers like Thermo-Pine and Thermo-Ayous also offer a darker look.

Timber Cladding Profiles

Profiles like V-groove, shadow gap, and featheredge give different looks and protection. You can use them horizontally or vertically to match your style.

Storing, seasoning, and setting timber in place correctly is the key. It ensures your cladding lasts long and looks great. By following best practices, you can create a beautiful, lasting exterior.

Cladding Maintenance and Care

Looking after your cladding is key to keeping it looking good for years. It needs regular checks and upkeep by someone who knows what they're doing. This is to fix any damage or wear and tear.

The person who managed your cladding should tell you how to keep it up. This might include:

• Cleaning process to remove dirt, grime, and any mildew or mould buildup
• Re-applying protective finishes, such as oils or stains, to the timber to preserve its appearance and protect it from the elements
• Addressing any weathering or degradation, such as cracks, warping, or loose boards

It's important to check it often. This way, you can spot and fix problems early. Experts say you should do this every 1 to 5 years, depending on where your cladding is and how much it's exposed.

By sticking to the right maintenance and caring for cladding tips, you can make your cladding last longer. This means your home or building will keep looking great and stay strong for years to come.

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Conclusion

Timber cladding is now a top choice for homes in Australia. It brings many benefits, like its natural look and sustainability. Choosing the right timber species, profile, and how to set it in place, makes your exterior look great and last long.

This guide has all you need to know about this type of cladding. It helps you pick the best option for your home. You can choose different types of wood and each one adds a unique touch to your home.

Choosing Austimber means you get quality and sustainable materials. Your cladding will look amazing and be good for the planet. With proper planning and installation, your home will be beautiful, functional, and eco-friendly.

You're in the right place for whether you're looking for great tips on maintenance requirements, a range of profiles or just want to know more about this type of cladding. Get in touch with our professionals and pick a timber that you will love.

FAQ

What is timber cladding and why is it used?

This process refers to the application of wooden boards to the exterior of a building for aesthetic and protective purposes. It enhances the appearance of the structure while providing insulation and weather resistance. Timber is a popular choice due to its natural beauty, versatility, and sustainability. Different species and material offer unique characteristics, including varying levels of durability against the elements.

What are the different styles of vertical timber cladding?

They can come in several styles, including tongue and groove, shiplap, and feather edge cladding. Each style has its unique characteristics and aesthetic appeal. For instance, tongue and groove boards fit together snugly, providing a seamless look, while shiplap features overlapping edges that add dimension. The choice of style often depends on the desired architectural effect and the type of cladding profile preferred.

How do I choose the right type of timber for my project?

Choosing the right type of timber involves considering factors such as durability, appearance, and maintenance. For example, cedar is naturally resistant to rot and insects, making it a great choice for outdoor use. European oak, on the other hand, offers a rustic appearance but might require more maintenance. It's essential to evaluate the conditions that cladding will be exposed to and select a timber species that suits those needs.

What is the installation process for vertical cladding?

The installation process typically involves several steps. First, ensure the wall structure is prepared and clean. Next, a membrane is often placed to allow moisture to escape while preventing water ingress. After that, battens are fixed to the wall to create a cavity for ventilation. Finally, the cladding boards are attached vertically, using appropriate fixings to secure them in place. Proper spacing and alignment are crucial for achieving a professional finish.

What are the benefits of using timber cladding?

Timber cladding projects provide aesthetic appeal with their natural beauty and unique grain patterns natural material, and renewable resources when sourced responsibly. It helps reduce carbon footprints by storing carbon dioxide and offers excellent insulation properties, leading to energy savings and a healthier indoor environment. Its versatility in cladding material allows it to complement various architectural styles, making timber cladding an ideal choice for sustainable and attractive construction.

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