Price & Spec
When considering facade materials, timber can offer a distinctive, natural aesthetic, but it may not always be the most practical choice. While timber brings warmth and a strong biophilic connection, architects must weigh the challenges of ongoing maintenance, weathering, and environmental conditions.
Our expertise in timber design allows us to offer an extensive range of battens, screens, and cladding that give you the flexibility to explore creative design solutions. Our modular products enable a broad range of options—including custom and abstract designs. However, it’s essential to consider whether timber’s unique textures and tones, which other materials may struggle to replicate, align with the long-term durability and performance needs of your project.
Timber Facades for a Bold and Stunning Design
Our hardwood timbers offer unique textures and rich warm tones and when regularly maintained with a coating will retain their colour, or if left to age, will naturally grey over time. When timber is exposed to a changing climate, a durable timber species like Spotted Gum is one of the best options.
Timber Batten Facade
Timber battens are an excellent way to add linear texture and rhythm to any facade. Their clean lines and natural warmth offer a refined aesthetic that complements both contemporary and traditional architectural styles. Sculptform’s Click-on Battens system allows for quick installation and customisation, making it easy to adapt the design to the specific needs of your project. While timber battens offer unparalleled beauty, it’s important to account for factors like UV exposure and weathering, which may require regular maintenance to preserve their look over time. Alternative finishes, such as powder coating or wood-look wraps, can also be considered for projects where durability and minimal upkeep are top priorities.
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Timber Screen Facade
Timber screens provide a versatile solution for privacy, shading, and design enhancement on facades. With Sculptform’s Click-on Screens, you can create a visually striking effect while incorporating biophilic elements that soften the building’s exterior. The natural grain of timber adds texture and a sense of connection to the surrounding environment. However, as with any exterior timber application, careful consideration must be given to the maintenance required to prevent weathering or discoloration. Our modular system offers the flexibility to integrate both timber and more durable materials, ensuring long-lasting performance without sacrificing aesthetic value.
Tongue & Groove Cladding
For projects where a sleek, seamless finish is desired, tongue & groove cladding offers an elegant solution. Timber’s natural tones and textures provide a rich, organic facade, lending warmth to any building. Sculptform’s Click-on Cladding system combines the beauty of timber with the ease of modern installation techniques, reducing time on site. The interlocking design of tongue & groove cladding creates a polished, uniform look. Considerations around timber weathering and the local climate must be factored into the design process to ensure the longevity of the facade, with finishes or alternative materials available for higher resistance to environmental conditions.
Pros and Cons of Timber Facades
There are several factors to consider when selecting timber facades. Here, we examine the advantages and disadvantages of each option:
| Timber Facades | Pros | Cons |
| Natural Aesthetic | Delivers unparalleled warmth and organic beauty, enhancing both modern and traditional designs. | Susceptible to environmental factors such as UV exposure, moisture, and humidity, requiring upkeep. |
| Sustainable Material | When sourced responsibly, timber is a renewable resource with a low carbon footprint. | Maintenance is required to preserve its appearance and prevent weathering (e.g., silvering). |
| Versatile Finishes | Can be treated with a wide range of coatings to achieve desired tones and durability. | Coating selection impacts long-term maintenance – penetrating coatings need more frequent reapplication. |
| Thermal Properties | Provides good natural insulation, improving energy efficiency in buildings. | Timber can expand, contract, and move with changes in temperature and humidity, requiring careful detailing to mitigate movement. |
| Variety of Profiles and Sizes | Available in a wide range of profiles, sizes, and textures to match architectural intent. | Requires design consideration for movement and leaching in exposed areas. |
| Weathering | Can be allowed to weather naturally, developing a unique silvery patina with minimal maintenance. | Regular upkeep is necessary to maintain the original colour if silvering is undesirable. |
| Project-Specific Fire Options | Can be fire-treated for specific projects, with concessions available under NCC guidelines. | Fire performance can limit the use of timber in certain building classes and heights. |
Key Considerations for Timber Facades
Timber facades bring natural elegance and architectural versatility, but to maximize their potential, a well-considered approach is essential, particularly in areas like fire compliance and long-term maintenance.
Fire Compliance
Timber facades are classified as combustible materials, meaning fire regulations must be carefully considered. For specific project applications, always consult your fire engineer to ensure compliance for your local region.
Maintenance Strategies
- Allow Natural Weathering: Timber naturally weathers to a silver-grey tone, a low-maintenance option that retains the material’s organic charm.
- Coating Selection: Choosing the right coating is vital for maintaining the desired look. Film-forming coatings last longer but require professional reapplication, while penetrating oils are easier to maintain but fade more quickly. Read more about coatings here.
Inspirational Timber Facade Projects
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Let’s chat about your next timber facade project
Our clients are at the heart of every project, and we’re here to bring your vision to life—down to the finest detail. As your proactive design partner, we listen, collaborate, and ensure that your curved timber facades are designed to perfection. Contact us today to discuss your project and see how we can make your ideas a reality.
