Charred timber cladding, also known as yakisugi or shou sugi ban, has its surface burnt under controlled conditions to create a dark, textured finish. It can then be left as it is, or brushed and oiled. The right choice depends on your building, location and how much upkeep you want.
About natural charred wood
Durability and fire
How long cladding lasts depends on the timber, finish, exposure and maintenance. Fire classification depends on the exact product, thickness, finish and installation. Charred larch cladding in our Carbon finish, 19 mm or thicker, is classified D-s2,d0 under EN 13501-1. Ask us for the certificate covering your chosen product, and check your project’s requirements with building control.
Appearance
Charring brings out the grain, and natural variation means no two boards are identical. Use it on walls, fences and interior features. Samples are a useful guide, but the finished look will vary across a project.
Planning your project
Keep boards flat, ventilated and protected from sun and rain before fitting. Acclimatise them on site for at least 72 hours, use corrosion-resistant fixings, and coat any cut ends. Our installation guide gives full details.
How it is finished
Carbon is left unbrushed. Black, Anthracite, Grey, Walnut, Teak and Natural are brushed after charring, then coated with oil to add colour and stabilise the surface.
Which charred wood finish should I choose?
CARBON
Carbon has the deepest texture because the charred surface is left unbrushed. It is recommended for walls, fences and ceilings. The surface is soft, so handle it carefully. The char layer gradually wears over time, particularly on south-facing or exposed walls, and this can change its appearance.
BLACK, ANTHRACITE, GREY, WALNUT, TEAK, NATURAL
These finishes have a smoother surface because the loose char is brushed away. The oil sets the colour, from deep Black to lighter Grey and Natural. They can be used on vertical and horizontal surfaces, including terraces, and colours can lighten gradually over time.
Charred wood maintenance
Upkeep depends on the finish and how exposed the building is. Carbon needs little or no routine maintenance, while brushed finishes need their oil renewed.
To preserve the colour of brushed finishes, renew the oil:
- Every 4-5 years on vertical surfaces such as fences and cladding.
- Every 2 years on horizontal surfaces such as terraces.
Terraces should also be cleaned at least once a year.