Vastern Timber supply sell larch cladding for the exterior of old and new buildings. Hardwood flooring supplier supplying oak beams and oak flooring

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British Oak

British Oak feather-edge cladding

British Oak (Quercus species) (hardwood)

Oak grows widely across the whole of Europe and has been used in all aspects of construction, for centuries. Despite the loss of much of our native woodland, there continues to be a viable supply of British oak. We make every effort to ensure that all oak logs supplied to Vastern Timber originate from either FSC-certified woodlands or those managed under the strict guidelines of the Forestry Commission. Locally grown oak has many environmental benefits, including a reduction in carbon emissions from transport and the contributing of funds to our native forest management.

Freshly cut oak (often referred to as green oak) has a light honey colour. After the surface of the sawn wood has dried, the colour deepens to a golden yellow. After machining, the dry wood can range in colour from silver to dark brown. A large variation of colour is quite normal for oak.

The knot content of British oak will vary greatly. Unselected boards will contain many small pin knots, small knot clusters (cat’s paws), sound medium-sized knots (up to 25mm), and occasional larger knots, some of which may split as the wood dries. Boards may also show some tight heart splits and small fissures.

British oak is a popular choice for cladding because of its density, strength, and durability.

One feature of oak that must be considered is the high tannin content. During the first few years after the cladding has been attached, tannin will exude from the boards, resulting in streaks down the cladding and stains on masonry. Tannin also corrodes ferrous metal, so it is therefore important to use either stainless-steel or at least good galvanized fixings. (Picture of streaking on oak)

BS EN350-2 British oak is classed as durable and does not require treatment for external use, as long as the sap is excluded.

Workability: Working properties vary widely. Green oak cuts well, and takes fixings satisfactorily, but the tannins can corrode tools if not cleaned properly after use. Dry oak can be brittle and prone to splitting. Fixings should always be pre-drilled.

Available with FSC certification
British-grown