Is oak timber suitable for garden fencing and exterior panelling?
Yes. Oak is durable, strong, and due to the tannin content it's naturally resistant to decay and insect damage, making it ideal for long-lasting screening when installed and maintained correctly.
Can the slats be used on external areas?
Yes, solid oak slats can be used in external applications. The timber is kiln dried for improved stability and can be acclimatised before installation. For best performance and to extend lifespan, it is recommended to treat the slats with a suitable exterior finish or preservative to protect against weathering and UV exposure.
What internal applications can oak slats be used for?
Oak slats can be used in many interior applications, including decorative wall cladding, ceiling features, room dividers, and bespoke architectural designs. Their versatility makes them suitable for both modern and traditional interiors.
The slats are planed all round for a smooth, consistent finish and are supplied untreated, allowing you to achieve a natural look or match existing finishes. They can be easily customised with oils, stains, varnishes, or lacquer to suit your desired aesthetic and level of protection.
How does European oak perform outdoors compared to softwood?
European oak performs better outdoors due to its natural density and tannin content, which help resist moisture and decay. Softwoods generally require more frequent treatment and maintenance to achieve similar levels of durability in external environments. While softwoods appear more cost-effective, oak provides a longer lifespan and higher aesthetic value, making it better suited for external applications and high-traffic areas.
What preparation is required before installing exterior oak slats?
Before installation, exterior oak slats should be acclimatised on-site for at least 72 hours in the exact environmental conditions where they will be installed. The timber should be stored flat, fully supported, raised off the ground, and protected from direct rain and standing water while allowing free air circulation around all faces.Moisture content should be checked and allowed to stabilise with the local climate before fixing. Installation should be avoided during periods of heavy rain or extreme humidity changes. Proper acclimatisation helps reduce post-installation movement such as expansion, contraction, or warping once exposed to external conditions.
Will oak slats change colour over time?
Yes, untreated oak naturally changes colour when exposed to sunlight and weather. Left untreated, over time it will change from a honey tone and develop a silver-grey patina. This is a natural ageing process that does not affect the integrity of the timber. To reduce the UV exposure, it is recommended to protective with a high quality UV timber oil protection product and re-apply for good maintenance.
What type of fixings should be used for oak cladding?
For external oak cladding, stainless steel fixings (A2 or A4 grade) are essential. Oak contains tannins that can react with iron-based metals, leading to black staining and corrosion. Stainless steel avoids this issue and offers durability.
Best Fixings:
Stainless steel screws are preferred for structural security, removability, and precision. We recommend using 4-5mm diameter wood screws and drilling pilot holes to avoid oak boards splitting, especially near ends.
Alternatives:
Stainless steel annular ring nails may be used for a cleaner aesthetic or in traditional applications, especially in hidden fixing. Pneumatic nail guns are often used for speed, however you must be careful not to split the oak cladding boards.
Avoid:
Galvanized, zinc-coated, or mild steel fixings as they will corrode and stain oak.
How should external oak cladding be fixed?
Its important leave expansion gaps (at least 3–5 mm) between boards to allow for natural movement between seasons.
We recommend using 4–5 mm diameter stainless steel wood screws and drilling pilot holes to avoid splitting the oak cladding boards, especially near ends. You may wish to countersink your screws if you plan to leave them exposed.
