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At EcoChoice, we supply sustainably sourced Larch for timber cladding. Following BS EN 350-2, this is a naturally durable timber species well-suited to outdoor use, making it an excellent choice for exterior cladding. It is also cheaper than Western Red Cedar (another popular cladding choice), striking the perfect balance between durability and cost-effectiveness.

Fun fact: Even though Larches are conifer trees, they lose their needles in the autumn, making them deciduous softwoods! That is rather rare in the world of trees.

Siberian and European Larch

We usually supply both Siberian and European Larch for cladding projects (NOTE: Siberian Larch is currently unavailable because of its status as a conflict timber, which will remain the case throughout the Russia-Ukraine war).


Siberian Larch

Siberian Larch is a durability class 3 timber, meaning that it is slightly to moderately durable. This means it is better suited for above-ground applications and should not come into direct contact with the ground unless pre-treated. Other key characteristics of Siberian Larch include:

  • Straw colour with brown knots
  • Very dense (denser than European/British Larch), which can make it slightly trickier to work
  • Available in two grades: Unsorted (fewer knots) or Sawn fallen (more knots)
  • Also available in longer lengths than European Larch

European Larch / British Larch

As with Siberian Larch, European (or British) Larch is a durability class 3 timber. The same guidelines apply around pre-treating the timber if it is intended to come into direct contact with the ground. Other key characteristics of European Larch timber include:

  • Pale pink in colour with dark knots
  • A more budget-friendly option than Siberian Larch
  • It can be more straightforward to source for UK cladding projects

Why Choose Larch for Timber Cladding?

Larch is a great all-rounder for cladding, and a timber species which we frequently recommend. It performs remarkably well over time (especially as it is not as durable as more expensive timbers, such as Western Red Cedar and Thermally modified Ash), helping it resist decay and weathering without the need for chemical treatments.

It is strong and dense, so it holds fixings well and stands up to a lot of wear and tear. It is well-known for its dimensional stability, meaning that it is less likely to warp and swell with fluctuating weather, giving your cladding a straighter, more stable finish.

In terms of appearance, its light colour makes it a brilliant choice for contemporary builds. To achieve a more rustic aesthetic, leave your Larch timber cladding untreated and allow it to weather to a beautiful silver-grey.

Does Larch Cladding Need Treating?

You do not need to treat Larch timber cladding before installing it, making it a low-maintenance and sustainable choice. You can, if you wish, stain, oil or paint the timber to change or protect the colour.

Sustainably Sourced Larch Cladding

Our Larch timber cladding is sourced from responsibly managed forests, where harvesting is carefully planned to protect biodiversity, support regeneration and maintain healthy forest ecosystems.

We work exclusively with suppliers who meet the strict standards set by independent regulatory bodies, such as the FSC and PEFC. These certifications ensure the forests uphold their sustainable and ethical claims, giving you the certainty that you are making an eco-conscious choice for your cladding project.

Order Larch Timber Cladding

We can deliver Larch cladding directly to your project’s site in a range of profiles, including shiplap, shadow gap and tongue-and-groove. With a trusted team and sustainable suppliers, we are the go-to for timber projects in the UK.

Trade Name Siberian larch
Species Larix siberica
Intended use External cladding
Other uses Decking, joinery, structural timbers
Appearance The wood is a golden yellow colour with a strong grain pattern, similar to pine. Depending on the grade, the boards may include some, or many, dark black knots.
Weathering As the boards weather the colour will change to a silver-grey. Larch is quite consistent although weathering will depend on shade, ventilation, pollution and moisture.
Profiles Shiplap, halflap and splayed profiles. Not recommended with tongue and groove profiles (VTG) due to movement.
Dimensions 20×70, 20×95, 20x145mm
Lengths Random 1.8 – 4.5mt +
Moisture content Approx 16 – 18%
Natural durability (EN350-2) Durable Class 3 (Slightly durable, Moderately durable)
Insect attack Resistant
Desired service life:(BS8417) Occasionally wet 30 yrs
Frequently wet 15 yrs
Treatability class Resistant
Movement class Medium
Resistance to impact High
Resistance to fixing Medium
Mean density 570 – 650 kg/M3 when dry
When to fix Ideally Autumn / winter months.
Grading Grade B (Known in the trade as 4ths or Sawfalling). Too knotty to conform to any standard.
Grade A (Confusingly known in the trade as Unsorted) BS1186-3 1990 Class 2. EN942:2007. J30. CE grade A. Clean with a few sound knots up to 30mm.
Working properties Good workability. Takes fixings satisfactorily, although we always recommend stainless steel fixings.
Extractives Siberian larch contains resin rather than oil or tannin. The resin is fixed by kilning and does not tend to bleed.
Emission of formaldehyde (EN14915) E1 (Not significant)
Reaction to fire (EN14915) Euroclass F (Untested). D-s2, d0
Fire treatment Possible by impregnation after kilning
CE compliant Yes

We took care compiling this info, however Ecochoice Ltd will not be held responsible for any consequences arising from any errors or omissions on this website nor for any damages resulting from the use of the information.

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