Where does cladding come from around the world?
Cladding is defined as the outer layer or covering of a building that helps to play a crucial role in both the aesthetic and functional aspects of architecture. These two key attributes have always sustained a strong demand for timber as a cladding option. With advances in material technology and a variety of durable alternatives why has timber remained so popular?
Timber cladding is the most renewable and sustainable option. It blends with its natural surroundings, has insulating properties and above all helps us connect with our natural environment. The most exciting thing about large scale timber production is the role it plays in securing forests as a lucrative use of land management. This in turn guarantees widespread programmes for essential carbon sequestration.
The Timber cladding Industry was estimated to be worth USD 237.70 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach USD 386.04 billion in 2030. This demand will ensure widespread availability across the world and accessibility to all types of consumer.
Timber cladding is very versatile, thanks to the different types of timber available and their unique aesthetics. For example, Larch and Cedar are two excellent examples of timbers that are strong and can be used for cladding. Cedar can have a more reddish brown colour with a more subtle grain pattern, whereas Larch is similar to pine with its pale straw-like colour and characterful knots. This versatility allows for customers to find the right timber for them and their ongoing project.
Have you ever wondered where the various types of cladding around the world comes from? Below, we have put together where some of the most common types of timber cladding come from around the world.
Timber cladding locations across the world
Looking at the map, it shows many of the softwood cladding timbers like Cedar, Larch and Douglas Fir are in the northern hemisphere. Hardwood cladding options such as iroko and sapele are in the tropics. This is no coincidence as cladding timbers are selected for their notable durability. Resilience to moisture can occur in timbers where they have evolved to suit extremes in temperature and moisture.
Europe is another area where many popular timbers are located, including European Oak and Larch. It is important to note that a lot of European equivalents of Cedar, Larch and Fir can have a lower durability level to that of their counterparts in the Northern Hemisphere.
Demystifying fears over cladding
Choosing a cladding material can be a daunting process with so many factors at play and concerns over building regulations. Below, we’ve addressed some of the most common questions related to cladding issues.
Is timber cladding a fire risk?
With so many people owning wood fires and stoves, one can easily be forgiven for confusing fire wood with building wood. Wood cladding does not mean you are covering your home with an alarmingly combustible material. In fact recent studies have shown that large flat masses of timber are difficult to ignite quickly. This is due to the surface charring and forming a protective layer that protects the core reducing the rate of spread. This is why CLT (cross laminated timber) is being used in a revolution of commercial building applications in replacement of steel. Steel is more likely to melt and buckle compared to timber combustion.
What types of cladding are considered high risk?
There are a number of cladding types that are more likely to cause a greater fire risk no matter what precautions are taken, such as aluminium composite materials (ACM) with a polyethylene core. These types of cladding can cause serious fires, at a fast pace. This type of cladding is now banned in the UK, and there are many other types of safe cladding on the market.
Is timber cladding safe?
Yes, timber cladding is one of the safest forms of timber when correctly installed and maintained. When it comes to fire safety, important fire-resistant treatments are used such as fireproof panels and intumescent fire paint. To keep the fire rating, the panels need to be painted every few years, which will keep them safe for many years to come.
Is timber a durable option for cladding?
Provided timber cladding is installed correctly and sufficient externally rated timber is selected it is a very durable option. Lifespan can far exceed 30 years especially when keeping up with maintenance.
Photo Credits: Timber Development UK
Do you need ventilation behind cladding?
This is another question often asked, and also works in line with reducing the risk of the buildup of cladding moisture. Ventilation is important to help allow air and moisture to escape, reducing the likelihood of cladding overheating, warping and failing.
