Frequently Asked Questions – British Cedar Cladding
1. What is British cedar cladding? How it it produced?
British cedar cladding is timber cladding produced from cedar grown and harvested in the UK. It’s prized for its natural durability, attractive grain and resistance to rot, decay and insects, making it ideal for outdoor walls and garden buildings.
2. Is British cedar suitable for outdoor use in the UK?
Yes, it performs very well in the British climate.
British cedar naturally resists moisture, fungal growth and insect attack, which makes it a reliable choice for house façades, sheds, garden rooms and other outdoor structures.
3. Does cedar cladding need to be treated?
It doesn’t have to be, no. Cedar can be left untreated and will weather naturally over time to a soft silver-grey. If you’d like to maintain the warm, rich colour for longer, you can apply a clear or lightly tinted exterior wood oil.
4. How long does British cedar cladding last?
When installed correctly with good airflow and suitable fixings, cedar cladding can last 25+ years.
Regular maintenance, such as occasional oiling, can extend its lifespan even further.
5. What profiles are available in your cedar cladding range?
This range includes:
Each profile offers a different finish, from traditional overlapping styles to clean, modern architectural looks. Email us if you're unsure: info@tradewarehouse.co.uk.
6. Is British cedar better than standard softwood cladding?
In most outdoor applications, we'd say probably yes. Cedar is naturally more resistant to rot and insect damage than standard softwoods like pine or spruce. It also requires less chemical treatment and tends to perform better over time in exposed conditions.
7. Will cedar cladding crack or split over time?
Some natural movement is normal with any real wood, especially in changing weather. Cedar is relatively stable compared to many other timbers, and correct installation with proper spacing helps minimise cracking or splitting.
8. Can British cedar cladding be used indoors?
Yes. Many customers use cedar cladding indoors for feature walls, ceilings and decorative panels thanks to its attractive grain and warm colour.
9. How do I calculate how much cedar cladding I need?
You can calculate coverage by measuring the total wall area in square metres and working out the effective coverage of the boards after overlap. We recommend adding 10–15% extra to allow for offcuts and waste. You can also use our cladding guide for a quick estimate.
10. What fixings should I use for cedar cladding?
Stainless steel screws or nails are recommended, as cedar contains natural oils that can react with standard steel and cause staining. Stainless steel fixings also offer better corrosion resistance outdoors.
11. Does British cedar come from sustainable sources?
Yes, British cedar is responsibly sourced from UK-managed forests, helping to reduce transport miles and environmental impact compared to imported timber.
12. How does British cedar compare to larch or Thermowood?
British cedar sits nicely between standard softwood and more premium options. It generally offers:
- Better durability than standard softwood
- Similar natural resistance to larch
- A more natural look compared to engineered products like Thermowood
It’s a great balance of price, performance and appearance.
13. Can I cut and install cedar cladding myself?
Yes. Cedar is lightweight and easy to work with, making it ideal for DIY projects. Standard carpentry tools are normally all that’s required.
