" It ' s something that is en vogue ," – Richard Prior , Rhino Wood .
FEATURES
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 .
Visit our Warehouse at : Bridge Road , Stikland , Cape Town
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 //