How to Prepare Your Timber Cladding

Over the years, there seems to be one frequent question that always pops up – “how is timber cladding installed?”

Well, as the experts in timber cladding, we thought we would answer this for you in two parts, with the first being about how to prepare your timber cladding.

Timber Species

The first step in timber cladding installation is to pick a timber species that is appropriate to the project.

There are a number of different timber species, such as Larch, European Redwood, Western Red Ceder etc, each of which looks and behaves differently.

Picking the right timber species is essential as it will impact the colour, grain, appearance, durability and longevity.

Cladding Profile

Next would be to consider the cladding profile, as this affects the character and feel of a building, as well as the installation process.

Tongue and groove is a good option, as it is easy to install and is strong.

Other profiles include face fix, secret fix, swiss painted and even corner profiles.

Treatment and Acclimatising

As timber is a natural material, it will swell and shrink when it absorbs moisture.

Timber acclimatises itself to its surroundings and location. Thus, it is best if the timber is acclimatised fully before it is installed in order to prevent it from changing the size or causing issues later on.

Project Management

Remember to listen to that old expression to “measure twice, cut once”, as you don’t want to be run out when you are nearly done.

Ensure you have the right storage space on site for the timber, somewhere where there is no direct sunlight, water or other elements.

You’ll also need to ensure it is off the ground with polyethene wrapping over the top and with lots of natural airflow.

In our next part of this guide, we shall cover how to install timber shed cladding.

But in the meantime, be sure to contact us if you have any queries about how to prepare timber cladding.