Premium quality timber cladding is a desirable way to achieve a durable and stunning finish for building renovations, extensions and developments. With so many timbers available, which do we recommend for external cladding?
Charred Timber Specialist
Exterior Solutions Ltd has specialised in the manufacture and supply of charred timber cladding since 2015. Based on the traditional Japanese technique of wood preservation, our finishing techniques have been thoroughly tried and tested on a wide range of timbers.
To satisfy demand from both heritage renovations and contemporary builds, we are keen to experiment with a range of timber and approaches. Some fail to meet our exacting quality standards, but others prove to be popular additions to our portfolio.
We now focus our range on six timbers, which have consistently delivered the premium quality finish that is suitable for the Shou Sugi Ban® range of external timber cladding.
7 Timbers for Exterior Cladding
Lathams Yũkari Hardwood Timber Cladding
Yũkari is a Japanese hardwood with a deep colouration. It has a very subtle grain and minimal knots, so can be cut and sanded to a smooth, flat finish. Hardwoods are ideal building materials, as they are naturally strong and durable and Yũkari is no exception. As hardwoods go, it is relatively fast-growing and we source FSC timbers to ensure long-term sustainability.
Our exclusive range is sold through James Latham. It includes Yũkari Numachi, a desirably smooth, grey-toned charred timber and Yũkari Umi for a traditional crackle char. To make a statement, Yũkari Kõsui has been finished in oriental red; the vibrancy altered by the natural tones of the grain.
Premium Oak Cladding
In the UK, there is a long tradition of using oak as a strong, long-lasting construction material. Oak exudes quality and when air-dried or kiln-dried, it offers structural stability with minimal maintenance. This is a product that can stand the test of time.
We offer two charred oak cladding options; Oak Charred Honshu, with a textured finish and Oak Wire Brushed Hokkaido with a smooth finish. Although highly desirable, oak is a premium product and has a price tag to match. For a large cladding project, it is beyond most client’s budget.
Grained Siberian Larch Cladding
One of the most popular options for external timber cladding is larch. It offers a distinctive grain pattern which can be emphasised with heavy brushing after the charring process. As an example, our Larch Charred Shiberiatora product delivers a tactile rustic texture. If you prefer a modern twist, Larch Coloured Karafurutaiga offers a beautiful, tinted finish.
As a quick-growing softwood, Larch is a cost-effective cladding solution. Unlike other softwoods, it does not require regular treatment to remain resilient against the demands of exterior applications. Our charring process enhances the natural protection from UV exposure and weathering.
Western Red Cedar
Known as a durable timber, cedar cladding is widely used as a building material. It is a strong softwood, with desirable colour and natural grains, which makes it a popular choice for external applications.
As with all types of timber, we source Western Red Cedar from reputable, local saw mills. Here the air or kiln drying process reduces the moisture content in the timber, which stablises the wood. Our charring process and finishes offer additional preservative treatment to aid weather resistance.
Vibrant Douglas Fir Cladding
Another softwood, Douglas Fir is best known as the Christmas Tree. This timber has a natural resistance to rot and insects, meaning it is favoured as an affordable and durable material for external projects. When felled and sawn, it reveals a striking grain pattern that can be used to great effect.
Douglas Fir should be treated to provide added protection and performance. Fortunately, it takes on stains and finishes exceptionally well. We use this timber to create a colourful collection of contemporary finishes. Douglas Fir Orenji offers an effect that resembles tiger print, whilst the blue Douglas Fir Ao is a popular choice. We also personalise finishes with RAL colour-matched Douglas Fir for interior and exterior cladding.
Accoya® Timber Cladding
Accoya® is a timber that has been modified by acetylation. The process delivers dimensional stability that removes the risk of shrinking, expanding or warping. It will retain the sharp architectural design that is desired on many contemporary new builds. In short, Accoya® cladding offers all the desirable features of wood whilst eliminating the challenges.
The deep tone of Accoya® Dorai is a popular option, which contrasts well with other architectural features and building materials. The peacock colouration of Accoya® Tobu is a modern twist on the traditional technique and has earned many admirers.
Kebony Timber Cladding
Kebony is another modified wood that delivers excellent performance when used as external timber cladding. The eco-friendly chemical process increases durability, stability and resistance to weathering.
Our Kebony Timber Scots Legima offers a distinctive, light, warm tone and uniform finish that contrasts with the dark charred wood in our range. These include the dark black of Kebony Timber Radiata, that blends perfectly into rural and urban settings. Brooks Timber is a supplier of our Kebony range.
Premium Cladding Suppliers UK
Our Shou Sugi Ban® cladding range is a market-leading product that is ordered for architectural projects across the globe. As FSC and PEFC members, we are committed to sustainably sourced materials and processes. From small areas of internal décor to full exterior wood cladding, we are trusted suppliers of quality charred timber building materials.
Please get in touch on 01494 711800 to request a quote and samples from our portfolio. The Shou Sugi Ban® catalogue is available to download from the Charred Timber Cladding page on our website and you can order directly from us.
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