These images show the weathering process of the cladding (click images to enlarge).
Both Western Red Cedar and Larch are naturally resistant to decay and insect attack. WRC has a service life of approximately 60 years and Larch approximately 40 years. If left untreated and exposed to natural sunlight (UV degradation), both cedar and larch will bleach to a particularly lustrous silver grey. The images attached show the colour of the claddings at the fitting and between 18 -24 months later, all these images are of either Cedar or Larch which have never been treated. South facing walls which are exposed the sun for longer will weather at a faster rate than those facing north.
Claddings can be treated on site after delivery or on dedicated lines with specially formulated clear lacquers which will enhance the natural colour and, at the same time reduce the silvering process. Although UV coatings which involve a special pigment are not warranted (most major paint manufactures will not warrant external cladding) they have been tried and tested to maintain the natural colour for as long as possible. Coatings also greatly increase the timber’s ability to repel water.
Both Cedar and Larch have exceptional natural insulating properties which are far superior to other building materials such as brick, concrete and steel. These claddings keep buildings cool in summer and warm in winter (thereby reducing heating costs).
They offer significant acoustic qualities which help with reduce noise reduction and, as they are stable timbers i.e., they have low shrinkage factors, they have minimal warping, twisting and checking.
They offer significant acoustic qualities which help with reduce noise reduction and, as they are stable timbers i.e., they have low shrinkage factors, they have minimal warping, twisting and checking.
