Australia’s weather conditions can be a challenge for homes and other buildings.
Strong UV, harsh storms and the danger of fires mean that our cladding systems need to perform in tough environments.
Modern timber cladding solutions are up to the task, however, they require regular maintenance to protect them from the elements. Recoating the exterior of your entire house is a big job, so it makes sense to opt for a low maintenance finish.
So, what is the best timber exterior cladding for low maintenance? In this article, we’ll take a look at one of our favourite external cladding options, and see why charred timber is the best option for most projects.
What is the Best Low Maintenance Exterior Cladding?
The best low maintenance exterior cladding is charred timber. Also known as Shou Sugi Ban, charred timber cladding is stunning, durable and very low maintenance when compared to other timber finishes.
There is no shortage of exterior claddings on the market. While synthetic materials are a popular choice, natural timber is still the go-to option for most projects. The only challenge is that natural timber requires regular maintenance to protect it from Australia’s harsh weather conditions.
If you like the look of timber but want a low maintenance alternative, charred timber is the answer.
Charring timber creates a shallow layer of charcoal that is naturally resistant to sun, storms, pests, rot and fire. The charred layer is hard wearing, and its life can be further extended with finishing products like oils and other coatings.
But the best part is that charred cladding still looks like timber. The char highlights every grain, knot and detail of the natural patterning, giving you a stunning finish that won’t need to be repainted every year!
Why You Should Choose Charred Timber Cladding
Charred timber is one of our favourite products. This unique style is perfectly suited to the local climate, where the blackened timber naturally fades into the Australian landscape.
This type of cladding looks fantastic and lasts for years. It also offers a few serious benefits when used as an exterior cladding material:
- Low maintenance requirements
- Durability Class 1 rating
- BAL 29 fire rating
- UV and weather resistant
- Naturally resistant to pests and rot
- Environmentally friendly
Charred timber cladding is available in a range of styles and finishes. We produce charred cladding from a variety of sustainable timber species, and each one provides a unique finish and colouration.
That means you have the freedom to select a cladding system that offers colouring, style and functionality that’s tailored to your project.
How Charred Timber is Made
Modern production methods for charred timber can be traced all the way back to ancient Japan, where timber was charred as a method of preserving the wood. This technique is called Shou Sugi Ban, and it has become a popular form of timber cladding all over the world.
These days, we use industrial machinery to deliver uniform charring without combusting the timber. The goal is to create a layer of carbon without igniting the core of each timber board. This requires careful temperature control and feed rates to ensure each piece of timber comes out with an even, low maintenance finish.
Charred Timber Cladding Maintenance Requirements
While it’s one of the best low maintenance exterior cladding options, charred timber does require some upkeep. The exact maintenance schedule depends on the local climate and whether your timber has been supplied with a finish from the factory.
For charred timber that is supplied with an oil finish, the cladding will need to be refinished every 1-2 years. This keeps the timber hydrated, increases its resistance to rot and pests, and prevents the charred finish from being worn away.
Speak with your supplier to find out more about the maintenance requirements for your charred timber cladding. Products supplied by Coach House Timbers come with our specialised sealing system, and we’re happy to provide details on the required maintenance.
Deliver Architectural Design with Charred Timber Cladding from Coach House Timbers!
Shou Sugi Ban and charred timber cladding is one of the world’s most unique exterior cladding solutions.
These products are high performance, durable and incredibly beautiful amongst the Australian landscape. If you’re looking for the best low maintenance exterior cladding, Coach House Timbers has a solution just for you!
Coach House Timbers supplies exterior cladding solutions to clients across New South Wales. Our charred timber cladding is the perfect option for any project. Whether you’re building a country retreat, inner-city home or a beachside oasis, our solutions will keep your property protected.
Charred timber cladding is one of our most versatile solutions.
We supply our products with a unique sealing system that protects the charred layer from harsh weather. This coating is low maintenance and ideal for anyone that wants a stunning home without the effort!
Contact us to find out more about charred timber cladding, or speak with our team if you’d like to plan your next project.