Larch Cladding Boards SHADOW GAP (SG)
Our Larch Cladding Boards, crafted from high-quality slow-grown larch, provide exceptional weather resistance and a distinctive appearance with pronounced shadow lines. These aesthetic shadow lines enhance the building’s length and offer a contemporary, seamless visual appeal, making them ideal for residential and commercial projects.
- Made from premium, slow-grown larch wood, dried to approximately 16-18% moisture content (+/- 2%).
- Fire Treatment: Can be treated to achieve Euroclass B-s1, d0 fire rating.
- Installation: Cladding sections can be mounted both horizontally and vertically.
- Finish: Smooth surface with a 14 mm visible shadow gap.
- Colour: Natural, non-oiled finish.
Unique Properties of Larch Wood
Larch is one of the most unique woods, known for its exceptional durability and resistance to cold, even surpassing metal. It has hardwood properties and stone-like hardness, becoming stronger with moisture over time. This makes it an outstanding construction material, naturally resistant to external elements, decay, and wood pests.
Durability
Larch wood is naturally durable (Class 3 according to BS EN 350-2), ideal for outdoor use due to several factors:
- Chemical Composition: High resistance to decay, making it one of the toughest and most durable softwoods.
- High Density: Prevents decay organisms from penetrating the wood.
- Longevity: With proper treatment and exposure to outdoor conditions, larch wood can last between 50 to 100 years.
- Maintenance: Larch wood does not require treatment, with any coatings used purely for aesthetic purposes.
Density
Larch is an exceptionally dense wood, classified under BS EN 350-2 with an approximate density of 630 kg/m³ at 18% moisture content. This makes it resistant to damage, ideal for exposed locations, or areas prone to scratches and dents.
Stability
Our wood products are dried in convection kilns, ensuring even drying and optimal stability. Better dimensional stability can be achieved with narrower boards, such as 120 mm and 95 mm.
Sizes
Our larch cladding boards are available in various lengths from 2 to 6 metres. The standard board width is approximately 150 mm, a traditional and commonly manufactured size. Narrower board widths offer several advantages, including a wider range of design options and greater dimensional stability.
Technical Specification
Wood Type: Larch
Finish Treatment: None
Density: Approximately 628 kg/m³ when dry
Durability: Proven lifespan of over 50 years
Quality Grades: A+, A, AB (mix of A and B)
Moisture Content: Dried to approximately 16-18% (+/- 2%)
Primary Use: Outdoor applications
Other Uses: Decking, cladding, fencing, panelling, flooring
Appearance: The wood ranges in warm colours from light yellow-brown to golden brown, with a distinct texture similar to pine. Depending on the grade, boards may feature some dark knots.
Weather Exposure: When exposed to atmospheric conditions, the colour of the boards changes to an attractive silvery grey, which is highly desirable in many finishing projects.
Insect Resistance: Resistant
Treatment Class: Resistant
Movement Class: A 145 mm wide board can fluctuate by 3-4 mm annually
Impact Resistance: High
Scratch and Wear Resistance: Resistant
Fire Protection: Can be treated to achieve Euroclass B-s1, d0 fire rating through impregnation
Working Characteristics: Good workability, satisfactorily accepts fasteners
Optimal Installation Time: Best installed during autumn and winter months
