Timber cladding is an attractive external finish that works across a wide range of schemes and architectural styles. Its cost varies based on timber type, project size, and maintenance needs.
A broad selection of wood species offers options at both ends of the price scale. Cheaper timber reduces initial costs but lacks the durability and maintenance benefits of pricier alternatives. Considering both upfront and long-term maintenance costs is essential for any external finish.
Understanding costs is key, whether self-building, renovating, or adding an extension. This includes timber price, preparation, installation, and maintenance.
Types of Timber Cladding
Timber cladding provides natural insulation and is popular for updating property exteriors, creating modern facades, and adding character. Different wood species and treatments offer various cost, lifespan, and maintenance advantages.
Hardwood timber cladding In the UK, oak is a classic choice for its strength and charm. It can develop a silvery patina untreated or retain its honey tones with protective coats every few years. Budget from £65 per m².
Softwood timber cladding Larch and cedar are popular UK softwood options. “Naturally durable species like western red cedar and larch are ideal for external use,” says Steven Newman, managing director at Millworks. High-quality softwoods have fewer knots, suiting contemporary finishes. Budget from £45 per m².
Modified timber cladding Treated timbers like ash, pine, and radiata pine enhance performance and stability, resembling hardwood durability. Budget from £80 per m².
Brimstone Ash cladding from Vastern, thermally modified for stability and durability, is available from £84 + VAT per m².
Cost Influences
Modified pine and UK-grown species are more affordable, starting around £40 per m². Mid-range choices like Ash start at £65 per m², offering aesthetics and performance. Premium species like Abodo Vulcan cost more due to material and processing.
“Consider durability, service life, and maintenance, not just initial cost,” advises Steven. Higher upfront investment can offer better long-term value. Balancing appearance, performance, and budget is key.
This home features ThermoWood Ash cladding from Millworks, priced at £85 per m².
Factors like grade, dimensions, profile, coating, and fire treatment also impact cost. Profile is significant. “Overlapping or tongue-and-groove boards use more timber per square metre than open rainscreen profiles,” Steven explains. Project complexity and fixing systems further affect costs. Comparing complete cladding systems is advisable.
Preliminary Works Impact
Timber cladding requires proper wall preparation. Renovation projects may need existing walls adapted for the new system. Costs depend on the wall’s condition and construction. Straightforward walls require less work, while older or damaged walls may need levelling before installation.
A well-ventilated cavity behind the cladding is vital for air circulation and moisture drainage. “Keep the cladding base at least 200mm above ground level, with detailing to manage water,” says Steven. Openings, corners, and junctions require careful attention.
Preliminary costs include creating the cavity, fixing plane, and detailing around openings. Existing walls must be assessed for condition and support capacity. Damp, damage, insulation, and window areas need special care. “Assessing the wall before selecting cladding avoids unnecessary costs,” Steven advises.
Timber Cladding Fixing Systems
Cladding boards are often fixed to treated timber battens with visible or concealed screws. Battens should match the cladding’s durability. “Highly durable cladding is pointless if supporting components need early replacement,” Steven notes.
Fixing methods depend on timber species, movement, and profile. Building construction and substrate also influence details. Early technical advice is valuable.
One method uses mechanical screws to secure boards to a subframe. This has lower material costs but is more time-consuming with visible fixings.
Concealed fixing systems use hidden fasteners for a clean finish. Special profiles like tongue-and-groove are required. “Concealed systems cost more upfront but can be 50% faster to install, reducing labour costs,” says Steven.
Concealed systems are ideal for modern aesthetics and coated cladding, maintaining coating integrity and reducing maintenance. They suit modern homes, extensions, and larger elevations.
The Grad x Millworks clip system offers a clean finish and faster installation, reducing skilled labour costs.
Installation Costs
Installation costs vary by timber and profile. Tongue-and-groove systems are labour-intensive, while thermally modified timber may require pre-drilling. Half-lap boards can be fixed efficiently with nail guns, reducing costs. Simple elevations with standard profiles are generally cheaper.
Complexity drives costs. Contemporary designs with concealed fixings or detailed work increase installation time and precision. “Allow at least 10% extra for cutting and wastage,” advises Stefan Tyrie of Vastern Timber. Complex elevations may require more.
Key cost drivers include:
- Contemporary designs with concealed fixings or detailed work.
- Corners, openings, junctions, and direction changes.
- Unusual shapes, curves, and complex elevations.
Window and door detailing should be considered during design. Building height adds costs due to scaffolding and safety requirements. Experienced builders or confident self-builders with thorough planning are best for installation.
Case Study: Farmhouse Extension
Near Aberdeen, a farmhouse was transformed by Rachael Walker Architects with a contemporary extension. Black timber cladding contrasts the new extension with the existing period charm.
Russwood’s Thermopine cladding, factory-coated black in the RW119 tongue-and-groove profile, was chosen. Made from thermally modified Scandinavian Scots pine, it enhances stability and durability, reducing shrinkage and swelling. This aids coating longevity, lowering maintenance.
The dark timber exterior defines the new architecture while providing a cohesive finish across its angular form.
Finishes and Maintenance
Timber cladding can weather naturally or be coated to retain colour. UV-protection oils require recoating every two years. “Hand-applied finishes cost around £4 per m² plus labour,” says Stefan.
Factory-applied coatings last around five years before maintenance. They offer consistency but are pricier. The finish affects maintenance frequency and cost, so consider this during design.
Maintenance depends on building orientation, shade, weather exposure, and coastal location. Shaded or exposed areas require more care. Cladding near ground level may need more maintenance due to splashback. Natural weathering minimises costs, but cleaning and recoating add expenses for finishes.
Replacing Timber Boards
Replacing damaged boards depends on timber, profile, and fixing system. Concealed systems can make replacement harder, increasing costs. New boards may not match weathered cladding immediately but will blend over time.
Square-edge boards are easier to replace, while tongue-and-groove boards may need cutting. “Keep spare boards from the original installation for future repairs,” Stefan recommends.
