What is cladding used for?
Cladding is extra material that can be applied to the exterior of buildings and also structures such as sheds. It is used to improve the weather resistance of the building, enhance its appearance and to increase the thermal insulation. Cladding isn’t exclusively timber, and other materials that can be used include stone and timber, as well as brick, glass and metal. Our guide to exterior wall cladding solutions tells you more.
Timber cladding
Timber cladding can be manufactured from a variety of tree species, both softwood and hardwood, including larch and chestnut. It is machined into different ‘profiles’, a term used to describe how the timber panels fit together. The most popular cladding profiles are loglap, shiplap and tongue and groove. The chosen profile will affect the look and the properties of the finished cladding.
Loglap cladding
Log lap cladding panels fit together in a similar way to shiplap cladding; each board overlaps the one before to produce a water resistant surface. Where shiplap boards feature a flat, front facing surface, log lap boards (as the name suggests) have a rounded, machined surface, that mimics a log. This makes the boards thicker than a shiplap board and therefore slightly more durable. The reverse side of the timbers are flat so that they can be fixed securely.
When to use loglap cladding
The rounded profile of loglap cladding boards can give a building or shed the aesthetic of a log cabin and is the ideal choice for rustic settings or anyone wanting to create a rustic look.
The benefits of timber cladding
Heat and sound insulation – the cellular structure of timber makes it an excellent insulator, insulating more effectively than stone or metal. Any building that is clad with timber boards will retain heat in the winter and remain cool in the summer. Timber cladding also acts as a good sound insulator.
Sustainability – timber is a renewable material that can be recycled at the end of its life, reducing its carbon footprint.
Weather resistance – timber will withstand extreme weather conditions including rain and wind and offers excellent resistance against mould, mildew and decay.
Naturally beautiful – the beauty of natural wood is undeniable and timber cladding is perfect for enhancing the appearance of any building. In urban settings, timber cladding can add a calming aesthetic and in rural settings, it will bridge the gap between building and woodland.
Loglap timber cladding from Witham Timber
We supply softwood timber cladding that is pressure treated for durability and rot resistance. It is manufactured from sustainable, slow-grown stock from responsibly managed Scandinavian forests. In addition to loglap cladding, we also stock tongue and groove cladding and shiplap cladding.
For queries regarding any aspect of timber cladding, please chat with our experienced and friendly sales team via email at sales@withamtimber.co.uk or over the phone on 01205 359188.