" It ' s something that is en vogue," – Richard Prior, Rhino Wood.
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meant to go on. Prior explains that a structure needs to go in between the wall and the timber.“ You have to build a structure behind it and those details are very important. Many architects do know these details and others don’ t,” he says. There’ s also considerations with certain applications like waterproofing.
Labuschagne advises that contractors should pay careful attention to spacing.“ If spacing is incorrect it will warp the timber, creating gaps between cladding boards. Overtime this may result in rainwater entering the wall cavity, which can cause water damage, fungal decay and so on,” he says.“ Make sure spacing is correct, and fix it with screws so that there are staggered joints,” says Labuschagne.
Overall, getting the specifications right is key. Your fixing details are also important, you’ ve got to know how far you can space timber before you can fix it to structure.“ If you fix it too far, solid wood will always want to try to move,” says Prior. So, your specs and installation must be spot on because redoing it can be difficult.
Prior adds that a high-quality product should be selected,“ Make sure that it will not rot, will remain stable throughout hot summer days and is protected against fungus and insect damage. Softwoods are susceptible to
" It ' s something that is en vogue," – Richard Prior, Rhino Wood.
Careful consideration must be taken for exterior cladding.
Whatever your project- We’ ve got the right piece of Timber for you!
We cater to all your domestic timber needs, including decking, flooring & interior mouldings all three, so if you choose that option, you’ ll have to put on an additional coating to make it last. Modified and hard woods are less susceptible; however, hard woods come in limited profiles and the profile available may not create the desired effect.”
Having a high-quality timber for your cladding means nothing if inferior materials are used for the construction, for example, a cheap screw.“ A cheap screw that isn’ t stainless steel will oxidise, staining the cladding around the area, leaving black marks running down. Don’ t skimp on detail, ensure entire structure specs are met,” says Prior.
Avoiding shortcuts ensures longevity of the wood.“ Make sure the structure is sound. It needs to be sufficient to avoid problems in the long run,” says Prior.
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Tel: 021 949 2600 / 1 / 2 | Email: info @ matimbers. co. za www. matimbers. co. za
KEEPING IT REAL
Most people who use timber as cladding put it up and leave it.“ Timber cladding in its basic form is an aesthetic feature which requires careful product selection,” says Prior.“ Some people want to achieve a certain look throughout and for as long as possible and that means that maintenance is key. Hardwood and rhino wood; you leave it and let it weather into a highly desirable, grey patina that is very complementary to modern building design,” he concludes.
34 DECEMBER 2017 / JANUARY 2018 //