The impact of UK weather on timber cladding performance

Thinking of installing timber cladding but not sure how it will fare in UK weather? With plenty of wind and rain, you are right to be hesitant – but that does not mean that timber is not the right choice. As a sustainable, durable material which brings plenty of eco-friendly charm to exterior walls, timber is actually the ideal choice as long as you are prepared for what British weather throws at you.

Learn more in this guide about the impact of weather on timber cladding performance and how to choose the right timber species.

How Moisture Affects Timber Cladding

With high rainfall and year-round humidity, moisture should be on your list of top considerations when choosing timber cladding. Timber naturally absorbs and releases moisture as humidity shifts, causing individual boards to swell and shrink. While normal, if you choose the wrong timber species, you will see far too much movement and put the structural integrity of your cladding at risk.

There is also the issue of rot. With a lot of rain, an unsuitable species will rot quickly as it becomes saturated with water, making it vital that you choose a durable timber for your exterior cladding.

Temperature Changes

Although the UK does not experience the extreme heat or cold of other climates, temperature still plays a role in how cladding performs. As our country starts to experience more drastic heatwaves, this is likely to become more of an issue that engineers and architects need to consider.

In particular, watch out for rapid changes in temperature, such as cold mornings followed by hot afternoons. These fluctuations will put stress on timber which is not suitable for outdoor use, leading to movement, splintering and the potential for cracks.

UV Exposure and Weathering

Even on cloudy days, UV light gradually changes the colour of timber. Over time, all exterior timber shifts to a silvery-grey patina in a process known as weathering. Many architects and building owners embrace this shift, enjoying the rustic aesthetic which weathered timber lends to exterior walls.

However, there are also many timbers which are well-loved because of their natural colour, e.g. Western Red Cedar and Ipe. In these cases, it is a great idea to apply a UV-protective treatment which will slow the process and keep your timber cladding looking bright and naturally beautiful for years to come. (Note that this requires ongoing maintenance to ensure year-round UV protection.)

Timber Cladding Along the Coast

For projects near the sea, salty winds and high humidity are key concerns. These can speed up surface weathering and affect metal fixings, with less durable timber species quickly rotting in these wetter environments. For coastal cladding, we recommend using a timber which is well-suited to high humidity and marine environments, such as Ipe, Opepe and Cumaru. Each of these species copes exceptionally well with both salt and moisture.

Choosing the Right Timber Species

When it comes to timber performance, the main factor affecting your cladding will not be the weather, but the species you choose. Ensuring that you pick a timber which is suitable for outdoor use is a must for the aesthetics, longevity and integrity of your exterior cladding.

Aside from those we have already mentioned, some of our favourite species for long-lasting cladding include:

• Larch
• Chestnut
• Douglas Fir
• Oak

It is also worth looking into ThermoWood, which packs a punch in terms of durability and can be a more cost-effective option for cladding projects on a budget.

Work With EcoChoice for Reliable Timber Cladding

If you are not sure which timber species is right for your cladding project, we can help. EcoChoice supplies FSC and PEFC-certified timber cladding to projects around the UK, including domestic, commercial and public works. We are experts in matching unique projects to the right timber species, and our team is always happy to chat about your requirements.

To find a suitable timber cladding species, speak with us today