WHY LARCH FACADES?
Nowadays, modern aesthetics and a modern lifestyle emphasize individuality. Facade boards, planks or battens produced specifically for the facade are the only element of a building that definitely creates a decisive first impression. A wooden larch facade is always unique – a facade board, batten or board will enchant everyone who loves wood with its beautiful properties: natural diversity and lively appearance, durability, good construction properties, environmental friendliness and the speed that is made possible during construction. Wooden larch facades are gaining a reputation for prestige due to all of the above properties and also because their aesthetic value is increasingly recognized in modern architectural approaches.
LET THE HEALING EFFECTS OF LARCH AFFECT YOU
Larch resin has been used since time immemorial against coughs , externally for ear infections . “Venetian turpentine” obtained from wood was used in folk medicine externally for rubbing in nerve pain , internally for stomach and intestinal problems or gall bladder and kidney colic . Crushed bark for external use in the treatment of skin diseases , needles boiled in vinegar for toothache.
When the resin from Larch wood evaporates, it strengthens our natural defenses and its scent is suitable wherever it is necessary to disinfect a space. It cleanses and strengthens the respiratory tract, helping with colds, bronchitis and sinusitis.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SIBERIAN LARCH AND EUROPEAN LARCH?
Siberian Larch and European Larch come from the same scientific classification: class Conifers, order Pinaceae, family Pinaceae, genus Larch. The second botanical name for larch always identifies its place of occurrence, i.e. origin – European Larch grows in Europe and Siberian Larch grows mainly in Russia in the Siberian region, but also in Mongolia and China. This means that they are a tree of the same genus, with the same composition of resin resistant to mold, fungi and UV radiation. It is true that Siberian Larch grows in a harsher climate, so it grows more slowly and has better structural properties. It is also true that due to its growth in harsher climatic conditions, it has a slightly higher resin content, which makes the wood resistant to mold, fungi and UV radiation that decompose the wood cell of Larch, but not more than 10-15%.
From the above information and our long-term experience, it follows that the difference between European Larch and Siberian Larch in its lifespan is approximately 10-15%, so you don’t have to worry about using Larch from our Czech forests for your exterior project at a significantly more reasonable price.
We process and supply material from European Larch from the Kokořínsko, Křivoklátsko, Brdy and Jeseníky regions , therefore we are sure that due to its quality, thanks to the origin of the wood from this location with suitable substrate for the growth of these trees, high-quality technological production process and proper storage of finished products, we are able to supply you with the material in the design in which you wish to complete your project.
VISUALLY ATTRACTIVE LARCH FACADE MATERIAL
Larch is a scenic wood material. The cellular structure of larch is precise and different from other tree species. Larch does not absorb moisture in the same way as, for example, pine. Larch is very resistant to mechanical wear. A characteristic feature of larch is the strongly developed differences between winter and summer growths of wood. In the core of the trunk, the reddish-brown wood alternates with light brown, giving larch a unique visual structure that will caress the eyes of every lover of natural materials. When larch is exposed to weathering, it turns gray over time and changes its structure minimally for a long time.
That is why larch facades are suitable as cladding, and not only for wooden buildings. You can use them for houses built from literally any building material. Thanks to the fact that wooden larch facades are attached to the house using a supporting grid, a ventilated gap is created between the wooden cladding and the building itself. For both brick and wooden houses, a ventilated facade is a safe solution, because even if humidity increases somewhere in the wall, moisture from the building can evaporate through the ventilated gap.
Wooden facades made of larch are suitable for both residential houses and large public buildings, as well as for commercial and residential buildings. The wooden facade protects the basic structure from environmental influences, and is also an important design and aesthetic element of the building.
QUALITY AND DURABILITY OF LARCH FACADE
The quality of a wooden larch facade is determined by the correct selection of tree species, the correct cladding and professional execution of details. The correct integration of wood is of key importance for the durability of a wooden facade cladding. If the design principles of protection are respected and also the fact that a wooden larch facade needs to be ventilated, you do not have to worry about the durability of your facade.
Wood as a basic material for a facade allows for many types of cladding and the use of different profiles and colors. In combination with stone, glass or metal, its properties are even more emphasized.
SHOULD YOU TREAT LARCH FACADES OR LET THEM TURN GREY?
Larch does not need surface treatment in outdoor conditions, as it can last for about 20 to 30 years without decaying without direct contact with the ground. Untreated larch turns grey in about 2-3 years due to sunlight and moisture. The color first changes from the points most exposed to weathering and evens out over a few years, depending on the conditions. The greying of wood can be slowed down by treating the wood with transparent wood preservatives. Exterior cladding made of larch also does not need to be surface treated, as the larch material can withstand UV radiation and moisture. However, the wood will turn grey over the years. Remember that during greying the tone of the surface of the larch facade may become uneven. In order for larch surfaces to remain durable and attractive, it is important to check them annually for damage. If necessary, washing away dirt from the wood surface helps. We produce larch facades with visible or hidden joints in various widths and thicknesses according to the customer’s wishes.
FEATURES
The slower growth than other conifers results in narrow annual rings with a spacing of only 1–1.5 mm between the rings. In addition, there is a clear distinction between heartwood and sapwood, and the proportion of heartwood can often be more than 90%. Heartwood is durable in itself, and European larch wood is therefore often used as a substitute for pressure-treated wood.
Larch is left-handed throughout its growth, unlike spruce and pine, which are left-handed at first and then right-handed. This means that larch twists more, which places greater demands on the fastening of a larch facade.
The knots are blackish-brown and pockets of resin may appear in the wood.
PROCESSING AND PROTECTION
Due to its high heartwood content, larch has greater durability than pine and spruce, without achieving the same durability as pressure-treated pine. This is especially noticeable where the wood is in direct contact with the ground or brick/concrete. In these areas, pressure-treated wood must be used to achieve acceptable durability.
Larch can be pressure treated and this should be done whenever the wood will be in direct contact with soil or brick/concrete. However, the pressure treatment is only on the outer sapwood and therefore the protective effect is limited.
All wood must be protected to the maximum extent possible with “structural protection,” which means you plan and build so that the wood is ventilated and water is drained so that the material can dry out.
Wood is a natural material and will eventually turn grey. It is a good idea to protect the wood when it is dry with suitable wood preservatives – either varnish or transparent wood preservatives. However, it is important to know that larch facades are difficult to treat with water-based wood preservatives.
HOW TO PROPERLY INSTALL A LARCH FACADE?
Installing a larch facade is a process that requires careful planning and adherence to certain principles to ensure longevity and aesthetic appearance. Here are the key steps and recommendations for proper installation.
Preparation and project
Project documentation : It is essential to have the exact composition of the grid, the insulation layer and the facade details from the designer or architect. It is important to ensure that the dew point is located outside the insulation layer and that good ventilation is ensured
Material : Use larch boards with a moisture content of 14-18%, which is ideal for the given climatic conditions.
Before installation, it is recommended to store the wood in its original packaging in a dry place.
Assembly procedure
Basic construction :
Install a subfloor made of wood with the appropriate moisture content. The distance between the battens should be between 50 and 70 cm.
Make sure the substructure is level; use a plumb line and leveling rod to remove unevenness.
Installation of facade boards :
The boards are installed with a gap for wood expansion. It is important to follow the correct laying direction (e.g. horizontally) and use hidden or visible anchoring depending on the type of boards.
When installing, be careful not to drive the screws too deep into the wood, which could cause cracks.
Maintenance
Wood protection : After installation, it is necessary to treat the boards with special protective coatings. It is recommended to renew the coating with oil every two years to increase its lifespan.
Inspection and maintenance : Regularly inspect the condition of the facade and, if necessary, carry out repairs or repainting to ensure the long life of the larch cladding.
Proper installation of a larch facade involves careful planning, adherence to technical procedures and regular maintenance. In this way, not only an aesthetically pleasing appearance, but also functionality and a long service life of the wooden facade can be achieved.
HOW TO AVOID WATER LEAKAGE INTO A LARCH FACADE?
To prevent water from seeping into a larch facade, it is important to follow a few key principles during its installation and maintenance. Here are the main recommendations:
Wood preparation and protection
Quality coating : Before installation, it is essential to treat the wood with a protective coating that is resistant to moisture and UV radiation. The coating should be applied to both sides of the boards, with at least two coats applied to the top side and at least one to the back side.
Edge rounding : The edges of the boards should have a radius of at least 2-3 mm, which helps prevent water penetration.
Facade installation
Ventilated construction : It is important to ensure that there is a sufficient ventilation gap (minimum 22 mm) between the facade and the underlying structure, allowing air and moisture to escape
Correct installation of the boards : The boards should be laid with the tongue upwards and should never be pulled too tight to avoid deformation in high humidity. It is recommended to leave a gap of 1-2 mm between them
Preventing leaks : During installation, it is important to pre-drill the screw holes at least 5 cm from the end of the boards to prevent cracking and subsequent water leaks.
Maintenance and inspection
Regular inspection : It is necessary to regularly inspect the condition of the facade, especially in areas with higher humidity or in the shade, where mold and algae can grow. These organisms can damage the surface and cause other problems
Pest protection : We recommend that the lower and upper ends of the facade be fitted with a grid to prevent the entry of rodents, birds and insects.
By following these principles, you can significantly reduce the risk of water seeping into a larch facade and extend its lifespan.
WHAT IS THE INFLUENCE OF WEATHER ON A LARCH FACADE?
The influence of weather on a larch facade is significant and can affect both the aesthetics and durability of the wood. Larch wood, especially Siberian larch, is known for its high resistance to weathering due to its resin content, which provides it with natural protection against moisture and fungi.
Color change and patina
Larch wood is subject to color changes due to exposure to sunlight, rain and wind. The original red-brown color changes over time to a silver-gray patina, which is a natural oxidation process.
This effect may be desirable for some owners who prefer a natural look, but it may also require maintenance to maintain the original appearance.
Weather resistance
Larch facades are generally very durable. Siberian larch is considered an ideal choice for maintenance-free facades in our conditions, as it can withstand adverse weather conditions for at least 25 years without the need for regular treatment.
However, it is still recommended to carry out occasional maintenance work, such as cleaning and applying protective coatings.
Maintenance and protection
To preserve the aesthetic properties and extend the life of a larch facade, it is important to choose appropriate coatings. Silicone coatings are recommended for their high water repellency and long life, which helps protect the wood from moisture and dirt.
Regular maintenance including cleaning and repainting can significantly contribute to the longevity of a larch facade.
Overall, weather has a significant impact on larch facades, with key factors being color change, weather resistance, and the need for regular maintenance. The right choice of material and coatings can ensure the longevity and aesthetic value of larch facades.
CAN A LARCH FACADE BE USED ON ANY TYPE OF BUILDING?
Larch facades are a versatile and aesthetically appealing material that can be used on various types of buildings. This wood cladding is suitable not only for wooden buildings, but also for houses built of other materials, such as concrete or bricks. Thanks to their structural properties and the possibility of creating a ventilated gap between the facade and the wall of the building, larch facades prove to be a safe and effective solution for moisture removal, which is crucial for the protection of the building.
Properties of larch facades:
Durability: Larch is known for its high resistance to mechanical wear and weathering. It does not absorb moisture like other softwoods, which contributes to its long lifespan.
Aesthetics: Larch wood facades offer a unique look due to their natural diversity and vibrant appearance. Over time, larch wood will turn gray, which can be a desirable aesthetic feature.
Environmentally friendly: Wood as a natural material is an environmentally friendly choice that is increasingly recognized in modern architecture
Use of larch facades:
Residential buildings: They are suitable for family houses, cottages and chalets.
Public buildings: Larch facades can also be used on large public buildings and commercial spaces
Different climatic conditions: Siberian larch is particularly resistant to extreme weather conditions, making it an ideal choice for areas with challenging climates
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