What is Weathered Timber
Weathered timber is a stylish and durable finish for any home.
It’s a style loved by many and can be the architectural centrepiece for your next project.
In this article, we’ll discuss weathered timber in detail and how it can be used in timber cladding.
Weathered Timber Basics
Weathered timber is any timber product that has faded due to age, exposure to UV rays, rain and storms, and other normal weather conditions. As timber ages, its colour fades and the surface dries out, creating an aesthetically appealing patina.
Weathering is a normal process that happens to all timbers. Weathering can be sped up if the timber is exposed to harsh weather, direct sunlight and certain coatings that accelerate the process.
The unique patina of weathered timber is prized as an interior cladding and exterior finish. Faded timbers blend into the surrounding landscape to soften the appearance of homes and other buildings.
What Causes Timber to Weather and Fade?
Timber fades due to a change in its cellular structure. When timber is exposed to sunlight, the UV rays break down the lignin in the cellulose.
Lignin transports water between cells and plays an important role in timber’s colour. As the lignin is broken down, the timber’s colour starts to change and fade, with most timber species developing a silver-grey patina.
Rain and storms are the other major cause of weathering. As rain hits the timber, it strips natural oils and tannins out of the wood, accelerating the greying process.
Timber that’s installed indoors still weathers, but it happens at a much slower rate. Indoor timbers generally fade due to UV exposure and wear and tear. The process is the same, but it may take years for treated indoor timbers to develop a patina.
Factors Affecting the Weathering Process
Because weathering is a natural process, each project will take on its a unique character over time. The patina your timber develops depends on factors like:
– Timber species and density – Each species of timber ages at its own pace. This is affected by things like the density of the wood, its grain, moisture and oil content, and more.
– Your local environment – Wood turns grey when it’s exposed to sunlight, storms and natural conditions. Your local climate has a big impact on this process. For example, homes in coastal areas often weather faster than homes that are built inland.
– Building orientation – Your property’s orientation, facing and how it’s placed on the block will affect the amount of sunlight that reaches the external walls. Walls that are shaded by things like trees and bushes will also weather at a slower rate than the rest of the property.
How to Achieve a Weathered Finish On Your Timber
The best way to achieve a weathered timber finish is to allow your cladding to age naturally. While some products claim to accelerate the process, faux-weathering can give your cladding an unnatural and uneven appearance.
Timber must be oiled prior to installation, even if you want to allow the wood to weather. The oil protects the wood in the short term and provides stability, which prevents cracking and warping as the wood dries.
Allow the timber to be exposed to your local conditions. It should only take a few months for most timber species to begin fading.
How to Maintain Weathered Timber
Weathered timber is a prized finish in architectural design. Its understated aesthetic is visually appealing and it can help your project blend into its surroundings.
Weathered timber is low maintenance when compared to finished timber. Despite this, it still requires coating every 4-5 years to protect the timber.
You can maintain the patina of your weathered timber finishes by doing the following:
– Repair cracks and damage – Deep cracks and damaged sections of timber can allow moisture to penetrate into the board, causing decay. Make sure damaged areas are repaired or replaced before the board begins to rot.
– Keep the timber clean – Use mild soap and a soft-bristled brush or room to clean the timber every 12 months. This removes surface contaminants like dirt and pollutants that can affect the finish. Weathered timber should also be cleaned beforehand if you are applying a fresh coating.
– Apply an oil coating every 4-5 years – Weathered timber needs a coating of exterior timber oil every few years. This protects against moisture, UV rays, pests, dirt and pollution. Avoid sanding the timber to help maintain its silver patina.
Can Weathered Timber Be Restored?
Weathered timber can be restored by sanding away the top layer of wood.
This removes the cells that have been affected by the sunlight, enhancing its natural colour.
Timber should be sealed with oil or another protective coating after sanding to slow down the weathering process.
Achieve the Perfect Weathered Timber Look With Modinex
Modinex supplies a broad variety of interior and exterior timber cladding products.
We can also provide timber products that will age alongside your property.
Talk to Modinex about your project and we can choose the right weathered timber finish for you!
Article By Joel Leitch
| 11 November 2024
Joel Leitch
Project Consultant
Joel is an integral team member of NSW projects division with over a decade as a consultant to architects and builders. With extensive experience as a head of projects, Joel Leitch combines deep knowledge of natural timber, aluminium, and concrete to provide innovative and inspiring design solutions.
