Is cedar good for cladding?
Cedar cladding is the most popular choice for exterior cladding because of its excellent durability, stability and volume to weight ratio. It is the most stable of all softwoods, with a very low tendency to shrink, warp, twist or check. The low density of cedar has many benefits.
Why is cedar good for exterior cladding?
Cedar, a softwood, is highly resistant to decay, as well as resistant to splitting and movement once fitted.
How long does cedar cladding last?
40-60 years
Because it’s soft and brittle, you should only use it in areas where heavy damage is unlikely. American imported red cedar is relatively expensive but has an expected life of 40-60 years. Luckily you can get less costly timber cladding that lasts almost as long.
What is cedar cladding made of?
This material is made using wood from the cedar tree, and is known for its rich texture and heavy grain patterns. Cedar cladding is available in a variety of warm natural colors, ranging from amber to deep reddish-brown. It is also known for its unique, appealing smell that can last for many years after installation.
Which is better for cladding larch or cedar?
Both perform exceptionally well externally, providing top-notch durability and natural rot resistance, as well as looking the part. You can’t go wrong with either of them. Siberian Larch is denser than Western Red Cedar, so if your project is likely to be taking physical contact, larch may be the better option.
How long does it take for cedar cladding to turn grey?
How long does the Cedar cladding take to weather? The natural reddish brown colour of Western Red Cedar won’t stay that way for long if left untreated and can weather to a silver-grey colour within 6-12 months depending on the conditions.
What’s better larch or cedar?
Durability, stability & performance Thanks to its very slow growth time in an extreme climate, Siberian Larch timber is resinous and dense — 590kg/m³, in fact — making it denser and stronger than cedar, although with marginally less stability.
How long will cedar last outside?
In outdoor structures that are not in contact with the ground, such as decks, gazebos, pergolas and fence boards, cedar may last 30 years or longer. When in contact with the ground, such as when it’s used for fence or support posts, it can last between 15 and 20 years.
Is cedar more expensive than larch?
Cost. Cladding projects undertaken with larch usually come in at a cheaper price than those with cedar, although the latter is by no means unaffordable. If you’re on a tighter budget, Siberian Larch offers a particularly cost-effective cladding solution if the B Grade version is selected.
Which is cheaper cedar or larch?
Cedar and larch boast a number of important natural properties — as well as an attractive appearance — making them both perfect for fencing. The key difference is cost; larch usually comes in at a cheaper rate than cedar, although cedar is still affordable for most projects.
How do you keep cedar cladding from turning grey?
There is a way to preserve Cedar’s natural colour The recommendation is that two coats are applied to new Cedar, and the oil slows the change of colour by a factor of 12. Depending on the rate of weathering your Cedar cladding is exposed to, the UV oil needs to be re-applied every 3 to 4 years.
Should cedar be oiled?
Cedar is a long-standing choice for outdoor furniture, and some unfinished cedar pieces are used indoors. Its natural resistance to insects, disease and water-induced rot are factors in cedar’s longevity, but a protective application of oil can enhance the wood grain and increase the lifespan of the furnishing.
What can I use instead of cedar?
Western Red Cedar alternatives for your next project
- Alaskan Yellow Cedar. As the name rather aptly suggests, this species is a close cousin of Western Red Cedar, retaining all of its incredible natural properties, but differing in terms of appearance.
- Heat-treated Tulipwood (Thermo Tulipwood)
- Douglas Fir.
- Siberian Larch.
Does outdoor cedar need to be sealed?
Cedar offers a durable option for exterior and interior building projects with natural resistance to rot and decay, so a protective finish is optional. If you want to enjoy the aroma of varieties such as Western Red Cedar and incense cedar, leave the wood unsealed.
What wood is best for exterior cladding?
Western red cedar, European larch, European oak and Douglas fir are among the most popular species to use in cladding as they don’t require any preservative treatment, because they’re naturally resistant to insects, moisture and rot. On the other hand, species such as spruce, fir and pine have to be treated.
Should I oil both sides of cedar cladding?
For the best overall protection, we recommend that wooden cladding is treated with a wood preservative and wood oil before being installed. Ideally, both sides, edges and cut ends should be treated with 2 coats of wood preservative followed by 2 coats of an exterior wood oil.