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Choosing timber that ages well

October 16, 2026 · by Mara Halden
White dining table and moulded chairs against a pale wall

Timber is our favourite material, but it changes. Untreated larch turns silver within two years; oak darkens and checks; ash is beautiful inside but unsuitable outdoors.

Outside

For cladding we use larch, Douglas fir or thermally modified ash, detailed so water drains away quickly. We tell clients to expect a silver patina and to enjoy it.

Inside

Oak floors with a hard-wax oil can be spot-repaired forever. For joinery we often use ash or birch ply, which take paint and oil well.

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