Cladding

What is Cladding?

Cladding refers to the application of a protective or decorative covering on the interior or exterior of a building or structure. In the case of timber and natural cladding, it involves the use of timber or bamboo boards to enhance the appearance and weatherproofing capabilities of the structure. Fountain Timber offers a wide range of timber and bamboo cladding products, each with unique properties and aesthetics to suit various design needs.

Is timber and natural cladding eco-friendly?

Yes, timber and natural cladding are extremely eco-friendly construction materials, especially when sourced from responsibly managed forests and manufactured using sustainable processes. Timber is a renewable resource, meaning that new trees can be planted to replace the ones used for cladding. Bamboo, in particular, is known for its rapid growth rate, making it a highly sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to other building materials.

Eco-friendly cladding materials like Bamboo Cladding can help reduce the environmental impact of construction and promote sustainable building practices. Timber cladding will also offer a lower carbon footprint compared to energy-intensive materials like concrete, steel, or composites.

How long will timber cladding last?

The lifespan of timber cladding can vary depending on factors such as the type of wood used, the climate it is exposed to, and the maintenance it receives. High-quality natural timber cladding, when properly installed and maintained, can last for several decades.

Thermowood®-D (pine) cladding, for example, with a desired service life of up to 30 years, is specifically designed to be durable and low-maintenance, making it an ideal option for long-lasting cladding. Linax Cladding, meanwhile, crafted from durable Swedish redwood and treated with linseed oil, comes with a 12-year product warranty and a 50-year rot warranty, ensuring long-lasting performance.

With proper maintenance and care, these timber cladding products can continue to enhance buildings and structures with their aesthetic appeal and weather-resistant properties for many years.

Do you need planning permission for timber cladding?

The need for planning permission for timber cladding will depend on local building regulations and the scale of the cladding project. In some cases, adding timber cladding to a building may fall under permitted development rights, allowing the work to be done without the need for formal planning permission.

However, larger-scale projects or those in conservation areas may require planning permission. It is crucial to check with the local planning authority or a qualified professional to determine the specific requirements for your area.

Should wood cladding be horizontal or vertical?

The orientation of timber cladding, whether horizontal or vertical, is a design choice based on aesthetics and the desired visual impact. Both orientations can be visually appealing and suitable for different architectural styles.

Horizontal cladding can emphasise the width of a building and create a sense of stability and balance. It is commonly used for both traditional and modern designs. Vertical cladding, meanwhile, can make a structure appear taller and more imposing, making it suitable for structures with higher elevations or those aiming for a distinctive look.

The choice between horizontal and vertical cladding is subjective and depends on the design intent and the overall architectural concept.

Does timber cladding need ventilation?

Yes, proper ventilation is essential for timber cladding installations. Adequate ventilation helps to prevent moisture from accumulating between the cladding and the structure itself. It allows air to circulate behind the cladding, reducing the risk of trapped moisture, condensation, and rot.

To achieve proper ventilation, installers often use a rainscreen system or create an air gap between the cladding and the underlying structure. This airflow helps maintain the health and longevity of the cladding and the building or structure.

Does timber or natural cladding add value to a house?

Natural and timber cladding can potentially add value to a house, especially if it enhances the building's appearance, improves weather resistance, and provides additional insulation. Cladding can give a fresh and modern look to an older property, increasing its curb appeal and making it more attractive to potential buyers. What’s more, if the cladding material is eco-friendly and sustainable, it may appeal to environmentally conscious buyers, adding further value to the property.

Do you insulate behind timber cladding?

Yes, insulating behind cladding is a common practice to improve a building's energy efficiency and thermal performance. Adding insulation between the cladding and the underlying structure helps to create a thermal barrier, reducing heat transfer and preventing heat loss during colder months.

The type of insulation used can vary depending on the building's construction and the specific requirements of the cladding material. Common insulation materials include mineral wool, foam boards, and rigid insulation panels. These materials are installed within the cavity space between the cladding and the wall, providing an additional layer of thermal protection.

Insulating behind the cladding not only helps keep the interior spaces warmer during colder seasons but also helps maintain a more stable indoor temperature throughout the year. It can also contribute to energy savings by reducing the need for heating and cooling systems.

Proper installation of insulation is essential to ensure its effectiveness. Any gaps or voids within the insulation should be minimised to prevent thermal bridging, where heat can escape through areas with lower insulation levels.

It is crucial to follow building codes and regulations when adding insulation behind cladding, as improper installation can lead to moisture-related issues or compromise the structural integrity of the building.

How far off the ground should cladding be?

The distance between the cladding and the ground should be sufficient to prevent moisture-related issues and potential damage to the cladding material. Elevated cladding reduces the risk of water splashing onto the bottom of the cladding during heavy rain or flooding.

The specific recommended distance can vary depending on local building codes, the type of cladding material, and the site conditions. However, a general guideline is to keep the cladding at least 150mm (6 inches) above ground level.

In situations where the building is located in flood-prone areas or exposed to heavy rainfall, the elevation may need to be higher. It is essential to consider the building's surroundings and potential water flow patterns to determine the appropriate height for the cladding.

How do you prepare a wall for cladding?

Preparing a wall for cladding involves several steps to ensure a proper and durable installation:

Clean the wall surface to remove any dirt, dust, or debris. This helps ensure the cladding adheres well to the wall.

• Repair any cracks or damage on the wall surface to create a smooth and even base for the cladding.

• If necessary, install a vapour-permeable membrane or building wrap to provide a weather-resistant barrier and manage moisture.

• Install furring strips or battens on the wall to create a level and stable surface for the cladding to be attached. This also helps provide an air gap for proper ventilation.

• If insulation is required, place it between the furring strips or battens to improve energy efficiency.

• Ensure proper spacing and alignment of the cladding panels or boards before fixing them to the wall.

• Follow the manufacturer's guidelines and best practices for the specific cladding material being used.

• Proper preparation of the wall surface is crucial to ensure a successful and long-lasting cladding installation.

Can you clad over brickwork?

Yes, timber cladding can be installed over existing brickwork, provided that the brickwork is in good condition and properly prepared. Cladding over brickwork is a common practice in renovation projects to update the appearance of older buildings without the need for extensive demolition.

Before cladding over brickwork, the brick surface should be thoroughly cleaned and any damaged or loose bricks repaired. A vapour-permeable membrane or insulation can be added to improve the building's energy efficiency.

Using timber cladding over brickwork can provide a fresh and natural look to a building’s exterior while preserving the structural integrity of the original brick walls.

How is timber cladding attached to a building or structure?

Cladding is typically attached to a house using various methods, depending on the type of cladding and the building's structure. Here are some common ways cladding can be attached:

Nails or Screws

For timber cladding, such as shiplap, tongue and groove, and waney edge boards, nails or screws are commonly used to attach the boards to the underlying framework or battens. The nails or screws are driven through the cladding boards into the wooden framework, providing a secure attachment.

Interlocking Systems

Certain types of cladding, like tongue and groove or shiplap boards, have interlocking profiles that fit together to create a seamless and secure attachment. This method helps to prevent water penetration and provides an aesthetically pleasing finish.

Does natural or timber cladding make your house warmer?

Cladding can contribute to making a house warmer by providing an additional layer of insulation. Properly installed and insulated cladding can help reduce heat loss, especially if the cladding material has good thermal properties.

The insulating effect of cladding can enhance the building's energy efficiency, potentially reducing heating costs and making the interior more comfortable during colder months.

Will timber cladding stop damp?

While cladding can help reduce the likelihood of dampness, it may not entirely eliminate it. Properly installed and maintained cladding acts as a barrier against moisture penetration, protecting the building's structure from rain and external damp conditions.

Other factors, however, such as proper ventilation, effective drainage systems, and maintaining the cladding's integrity are also crucial in preventing damp issues. It’s important to remember that cladding cannot address damp problems caused by internal sources, such as plumbing leaks or inadequate insulation.