Larch Cladding Boards TGV
Our premium cladding boards are made from slow-grown larch. The tongue and groove profile of the larch cladding makes installation straightforward and results in a distinctive appearance with a visible 10 mm shadow gap. This profile suits both modern and traditional applications in residential and commercial buildings.
- Material: High-quality, slow-grown larch wood, dried to approximately 16-18% moisture content (+/- 2%).
- Fire Treatment: Can be treated to achieve fire resistance class: Euroclass B-s1, d0.
- Installation: Cladding sections can be mounted horizontally or vertically.
- Finish: Smooth finish with rounded edges and a 10 mm visible shadow gap.
- Colour: Natural, non-oiled finish.
Unique Properties of Larch Wood
Larch is one of the most unique types of wood, known for its exceptional durability and resistance to cold, surpassing even metal. It has hardwood properties and stone-like hardness. Unlike other woods, moisture strengthens larch over time. This makes it highly beneficial as a construction material, offering robust resistance to external elements, decay, and wood pests.
Durability
Larch wood is naturally durable (Class 3 according to BS EN 350-2), making it ideal for outdoor use due to several factors:
- Chemical Composition: Provides 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: The natural longevity of larch means it doesn’t 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 high density 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 come 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
