Wood cladding is not just about aesthetics. Although it is the center of many myths in people, it has several advantages that are unknown to the public. Available in several species options (cedar, spruce, pine, etc.), it will give a unique touch to your home, cottage or business.
More and more popular in Quebec, the wood coating is not only sustainable with the right kind of maintenance, but, according to Maibec, "the wood goes very well with several other types of materials, which allows to integrate to various architectural styles". In this article you will find the benefits, disadvantages and maintenance required for exterior wood flooring.
Depending on the product used and the end use of the timbers it may be necessary to maintain the wood after treatment and during service. As timber is a natural product, you need to make sure it’s well-maintained and protected against the elements. When it comes to timber cladding, you want to make sure it’s in good shape and looking great.
We only use exterior stains of premium quality. Also, depending on the emplacement, type, age and function of the wood we use products taylored made for these characteristics. We use water-based and oil-based stains and both are eco-friendly and easy to maintain.
It must be noted that a translucide or semi-transparent stain for exterior wood should never seal the wood on the horizontal surfaces. Indeed, the constant accumulations of water and humidity makes it so that the wood expands and shrinks much more than vertical surfaces. Therefore, a stain that seals the pores of the wood will most certainly begin to flake before long. Probois uses water-based and oil-based stain that seal the pores of the wood as little as possible.
Stains that do not seal the pores of the wood will fade with time. Therefore, maintenance is much easier because the stain does not flake.
Maintenance of the wooden cladding
With the right processes and the right products, it is easy to maintain your wood covering. The key is to do regular inspection of your coating, especially to see if there is water infiltration. Aside from cedar, natural wood requires minimal maintenance.
However, without a protective treatment, your coating may age more quickly. It is best to apply an oil or a product to treat your wood at about 5 years. All will protect the wood against the surrounding environment. For more precision and advice, you can always get help from a wood siding contractor.
Although it is resistant, the wood is not indestructible. Of course, it could crumble, crack or tarnish. In addition, obviously, a wood coating is more vulnerable in case of fire. If poorly laid, you could give way to mold since it would be susceptible to water infiltration. Be sure to follow the necessary steps during installation to avoid rapid deterioration of your coating.
The benefits of wood flooring
For starters, wood is the most ecological choice to make. Compared to vinyl, which is made of plastic and petroleum product, it produces less CO2 during its manufacture. However, it is important to find out about a supplier that comes from certified forests, leading to waste reduction and sustainable forestry.
Not only recyclable, it offers more cost-effective insulation than other coatings could offer, which will allow you to lower your energy consumption. In terms of sustainability, the wood is stronger than you might think. In addition to being shock-resistant, "solid wood without protection or finish can last a very long time, up to 30 years".
Some disadvantages
Although it is resistant, the wood is not indestructible. Of course, it could crumble, crack or tarnish. In addition, obviously, a wood coating is more vulnerable in case of fire. If poorly laid, you could give way to mold since it would be susceptible to water infiltration. Be sure to follow the necessary steps during installation to avoid rapid deterioration of your coating.
