Cladding’s primary function is to create a weather proof barrier that is durable and appealing to the eye. Timber cladding, especially if it comes from FSC-certified forests, has a lower carbon footprint. It can also be recycled more easily because it is biodegradable.
When using wood outside, it is important to remember that in humid and dry conditions, the timber will swell. It’s not a big deal, but you should be aware of it.
These cladding options can be used with any type of wood, whether it is treated or natural (e.g. cedar, larch or douglas fir).
Cladding is divided into two categories, sawn and moulded. The sawn cladding has a more traditional look, is easier to produce and faster, and is therefore cheaper and lower in carbon footprint. The moulded cladding, which is made from a mixture of air and small kilns, is then dried before it’s planed. Its edges are profiled in order to fit into various shapes (e.g. tongue and groove). This type of cladding is more expensive due to the added costs of labour and drying, but it gives a smoother, crisper finish that suits many modern applications. For Timber Merchants Salisbury, visit /www.timbco.co.uk/timber-merchants-salisbury/
Sawn Cladding
This type of wood is traditionally called rough sawn because it has not been sanded and planed. However, merchants now use the term “fine sawn” as they can achieve a very smooth finish with modern machinery. The minimal processing of this type of wood makes it a cost-effective product with a small carbon footprint. Sawn wood is usually sold unseasoned, i.e. not dried. If the wood is only to be used for external purposes, it does not have to be dried. It will just get wet. Unseasoned cladding is easier to apply because it’s more flexible.
Moulded Cladding
It is more difficult to produce moulded cladding. To be able to mould and plane timber, it first needs to be dried. This is done by combining small kilns and air drying for a long time. Moulded cladding is also a good option for interior applications. For indoor use, it’s important to dry the timber down to a moisture content of less than 18%.
It is also important that the timber used to mould must be of a better grade, cleaner and straighter. This will allow it to mould more evenly. Boards with knots or springs must be removed from the moulding process as they are likely to be ripped out by cutters.