The Beauty and Benefits of British Timber Cladding
With everyone focusing on sustainability and buying local, choosing the right materials for a project has never been more important. When it comes to exterior aesthetics and performance, timber cladding stands out for its natural beauty, versatility, and environmental credentials.
But have you thought about using British timber cladding?
Our own woodlands are full of high-quality timber species perfectly suited for creating stunning and durable cladding. Choosing British over imported not only supports our local economy but also offers environmental and practical benefits. Let's find out why British timber cladding is becoming a popular and responsible choice.
What British Grown Timber Species are available?
The beauty of British timber cladding lies in the unique character each species brings to a project. Here are some popular options:
British Western Red Cedar: British Cedar thrives in the UK's climate and is widely grown here. It's renowned for its exceptional durability, natural resistance to decay and insects, and beautiful reddish-brown hue that silvers gracefully over time. Its lightweight nature also makes it easy to work with.
British Douglas Fir: A strong and stable softwood with a distinctive straight grain and warm, honey-like colour. British Douglas Fir offers excellent structural properties and takes finishes well, making it a versatile choice for various cladding styles.
British Larch: A hardy and resilient softwood with a striking grain pattern and a colour that ranges from reddish-brown to yellow. British Larch is naturally durable and weather-resistant, making it a cost-effective and long-lasting cladding option. It develops a beautiful silvery-grey patina over time.
British Oak: A classic and robust hardwood known for its exceptional strength, durability, and distinctive grain. While often used for structural elements, when used for cladding, British Oak offers a timeless and characterful aesthetic. It's particularly resistant to rot and insect attack.
Sweet Chestnut: Similar in appearance and properties to Oak, Sweet Chestnut is a fast-growing hardwood with good natural durability. It's often a more readily available and more cost-effective alternative to Oak for cladding.
Why Choose British Timbers?
Opting for British timber cladding offers several benefits compared to imported timber:
Reduced Carbon Footprint: By choosing locally sourced timber, you significantly reduce the environmental impact associated with transportation. Importing timber involves long journeys by sea and road, contributing to higher carbon emissions. British timber travels shorter distances, minimizing its ecological footprint.
Supporting the Local Economy: Choosing British timber directly supports local forestry businesses, sawmills, and craftspeople. This contributes to rural economies, job creation, and the sustainable management of our native woodlands.
Acclimatization to the UK Climate: British timber species are naturally adapted to the UK's often damp and variable climate. This inherent resilience can translate to better long-term performance and reduced maintenance compared to some imported timbers.
Potentially Lower Costs: Depending on the species, British timber can sometimes be a more cost-effective option than imported hardwoods or softwoods.
Unique Character and Connection to Place: Using British timber connects your building to the local landscape and heritage. The natural variations in grain and colour reflect the unique character of our woodlands, adding a sense of authenticity and place to your project.
Choosing British timber cladding is more than just a design decision; it's a conscious choice that benefits the environment, the local economy, and the longevity of your building. With a diverse range of beautiful and durable native species available, you can achieve a stunning and sustainable exterior that truly embodies the beauty of the British countryside.
