Filters
Accoya Cladding
Accoya cladding is one of those materials that just feels like a smart choice the moment you use it. If you’ve ever dealt with timber that twists, swells or cracks after a couple of winters, Accoya feels like a bit of a revelation.
It’s a modified timber that’s designed to last. Not just “treated”, not just coated – the wood itself is changed through a process called acetylation, so it becomes incredibly stable and naturally resistant to rot, insects and moisture. No toxic preservatives, no nasty chemicals, just clever engineering and good wood.
Why People Choose Accoya Cladding
Most people who end up choosing Accoya timber cladding are looking for one thing: peace of mind.
You don’t want to install cladding and then worry every year about twisting boards or black rot creeping in. Accoya solves that.
What makes it stand out:
- It has Class 1 durability – the highest rating for timber outdoors
- It barely moves compared to standard wood (very little swelling, shrinking or warping)
- It handles wet, humid and exposed environments easily
- It lasts longer than many untreated hardwoods including timber cladding
- It’s non-toxic, fully recyclable and it is actually sustainably sourced
It’s the kind of timber that quietly does its job without drama.
What it looks like in real life
Fresh Accoya has a pale cream, almost light blonde tone that works beautifully on modern buildings.
Over time, if left untreated, it weathers down into a soft, even silver-grey. It doesn’t go patchy or blotchy the way cheaper timbers can.
You can also paint or stain it really easily. In fact, finishes last longer on Accoya because the timber absorbs coatings so well. Whether you want bold colour, a dark contemporary stain or a simple natural oil, it takes finishes beautifully and holds them for longer.
Where Accoya cladding really shines
Accoya is brilliant when the environment is tough or the expectations are high.
It works especially well for:
- House façades and exterior walls
- Garden rooms and garden offices
- High-end architectural projects
- Coastal and high-moisture areas
- Commercial buildings
Because it moves so little, it keeps its clean lines even when the weather is doing its worst.
A few honest practical points (the stuff installers actually care about)
Accoya is incredibly stable, but it’s also a bit more brittle than standard timber. That’s not a negative — it’s just the nature of modified wood.
That’s why we recommend:
Using stainless steel fixings
Allowing a little extra wastage (around 15–20%)
Taking care when handling and cutting
It’s not difficult to work with, just worth treating with a bit of respect.
How it compares to other timber cladding
If you’re comparing options, Accoya sits in a different category.
It’s more durable and stable than standard softwood.
It outperforms most untreated hardwoods.
And while timbers like larch cladding and cedar cladding are fantastic natural choices, Accoya is the one people choose when longevity and stability are the absolute priority.
Customer FAQs
Is Accoya cladding a real wood or a composite?
Accoya is real timber. It starts as sustainably sourced softwood, but it’s modified through a process called acetylation. That’s what gives it its incredible stability and durability without using toxic preservatives. We also supply composite wall cladding boards.
What types of Accoya cladding do you sell?
We supply a range of Accoya cladding profiles including square edge (PSE) boards, shadow gap cladding, tongue and groove, shiplap, loglap and multiple board widths and thicknesses. This makes it easy to match the look you want, whether it’s modern or more traditional.
How long does delivery usually take?
Accoya cladding is made to order, so typical delivery time is around 3–4 weeks. If you’re working to a tight deadline, it’s always worth getting in touch so we can advise on lead times.
Can Accoya cladding be painted or stained?
Yes, and it takes finishes really well. You can paint or stain Accoya cladding in almost any colour. Because the timber is so stable, coatings tend to last much longer than on standard wood.
Does Accoya cladding need a lot of maintenance?
Very little. You can leave it untreated to weather naturally to a silver-grey, or apply finish if you prefer to keep the original colour. Either way, it won’t rot, twist or swell like untreated timber.
Is Accoya suitable for the British climate?
Absolutely. Accoya is designed to perform in harsh outdoor conditions. It handles moisture, rain, frost and humidity extremely well and is often used in demanding environments.
Do I need special fixings for Accoya cladding?
Yes, we recommend using stainless steel fixings with Accoya. This helps prevent staining and ensures long-term durability, especially for exterior applications.
Why does Accoya cladding cost more than standard timber cladding?
Accoya does sit at a higher price point, but it lasts significantly longer and stays far more stable than most traditional timbers. Many customers see it as a long-term investment rather than a short-term material.
How much extra should I allow for wastage?
We recommend allowing around 15–20% extra material. Accoya can be slightly more brittle than standard wood and it’s always better to have spare boards for cuts and detailing.
What can Accoya cladding be used for?
Accoya is very versatile. It’s commonly used for exterior walls, façades, garden rooms, garden offices, sheds, commercial buildings and modern architectural projects where performance and long life really matter.