Installing and caring for charred timber cladding

Before you start

• Store boards flat, dry and covered, with spacers between packs.
• Wear gloves and keep tools clean to avoid transferring soot.
• Plan layout to minimise cuts and hide end joints.
• Mix boards from several packs as you fix, so tone and texture blend across the wall.

Battens, cavity and ventilation

• Fix a breather membrane to the wall. Use a black one behind open-joint and shadow gap profiles.
• Fit vertical battens over the membrane to make a ventilated cavity of 20 to 25 mm.
• For vertical boards, add horizontal battens over vertical counter battens so water can still drain.
• Protect the open cavity at the base and top with insect mesh, so air can flow but insects cannot enter.
• Keep the bottom of the cladding well clear of the ground and any splash zone.

Fixing

• Use stainless steel fixings, ideally black or colour-matched. Ordinary steel will stain the boards.
• Pre-drill near ends and edges to avoid splitting.
• Allow for movement across the width of each board and do not over-tighten screws.
• Concealed clips give a cleaner face where the profile allows them.

Cutting and sealing ends

Cutting exposes bare timber. Seal cut ends and any scuffs with a matching black end-grain product so they blend in and are protected from moisture. Do this as you go, before the boards are fixed where possible, and again where a cut has to be made on site.

Ongoing care

• Rinse with water and a soft brush to remove dirt and cobwebs.
• Re-oil when the surface starts to look dry, using a product suited to charred timber.
• Touch in any damage promptly.
• Avoid pressure washers and abrasive tools, which wear the char.

Shop and specify

• Charred timber range
• Charred wood sealer and paints
• Cladding insect mesh
• Screws, nails and accessories
• Secret fixing clips

Frequently asked questions