Timber Cladding System Companies in the UK

Tongue and Groove Timber Cladding System

Tongue and Groove timber cladding (T&G) is a popular profile for machined timber cladding. It can be used both internally and externally. External timber, dependent upon the species, may need treatment to protect it from the decay caused by water penetration.

There are numerous variants which are available in different widths, thickness and profiles notably used for interiors. These include:

• 9mm Match boarding VT&G: mostly used for decorative effect
• 14mm VT&G Reeded and Beaded: with additional moulding often used for wainscot panelling
• 18mm Log Lap Cladding: which has a radius profile to each side of the board
• 12mm Shiplap: for horizontal cladding with square cut to the bottom edge and bevelled at the top

Because of the tongue and groove, natural movement in the boards is controlled to mitigate damage to any applied paint finish. Also fixing of the boards to the background of battens can be concealed either by secret nailing or by using proprietary galvanized steel clips.

Kiln dried timber can usually be installed immediately upon delivery to site which means that expensive timber is not lying around acclimatising. Kiln dried timber is also suitable for finishing immediately with a paint or stain, which means that the wood can be protected without delay.

Modern dry kilns allow tight control of air flow, temperature and humidity so that all the timber dries uniformly and to the precise moisture content required. Kiln-dried Western Red Cedar can be machined to a superior finish and therefore problems such as raised grain are virtually eliminated.