RW014
Standard widths: 92mm
Standard thickness: 24mm
Architect Select® Larch
Architect Select® Larch is Russwood’s premium grade of vertical grain European Larch. With its naturally durable heartwood and consistent figuring, Architect Select® Larch is ideal for most external cladding applications. The boards are quarter sawn for a consistent, vertical or semi-vertical grain appearance, enhancing both stability and aesthetics. As Larch experts, we further regrade in-house to our exacting standards, including ensuring that the face of each board is sapwood-free. Additionally, we process the boards into narrow yet thick 92mm x 24mm profiles to further minimise movement.
At a glance
Species
European Larch
Origin
Europe & UK
Modified timber
No
Grade
Our Architect Select® grade of larch is quarter sawn to produce a vertical / semi-vertical grain appearance with a maximum knot size of 45 mm diameter. We guarantee the face of the board will be sapwood free.
Weathering
If left uncoated, Architect Select® Larch will weather to a muted shade of silver/grey when exposed to the elements. Consistent weathering is subject to a number of factors including building design, orientation and location.
Sustainability
Like all our timber, Architect Select® Larch is sustainably sourced from well managed forests. FSC®-certified.
SiOO:X coating
Architect Select® Larch is an ideal substrate for coating with SiOO:X. This revolutionary product eliminates differential weathering issues by providing a consistent weathered appearance at an accelerated rate. We recommended choosing SiOO:X Light Grey or Mid Grey for an immediate colour.
Durability
Architect Select® Larch is a naturally durable species which is classed as 'moderately durable' according to Class 3 BS EN 350-2.
Coatings
Ideal for coating with translucent Woca oil. Choose from black for a contemporary finish or teak for a natural larch effect. Architect Select® Larch can be painted, however, when using opaque paints, we recommend choosing a lighter colour to reduce heat gain which can result in resin exudation. Painting in dark colours is not recommended for this reason.
Appearance
Vertical and semi-vertical grain appearance with most growth rings running in straight lines along the length of the board. Warm mix of colours, from light reddish brown through to golden browns.
Density
Medium - classified by BS EN 350-2 as approximately 556 Kg/m³ at a moisture content of approximately 18%.
Fire retardant coating
Architect Select® Larch is suitable for treating with Burnblock® Fire Retardant.
Application
Highly versatile and suitable for a wide range of cladding applications, the narrow profiles make it perfect for contemporary projects.
Stability
Good natural stability, with the growth ring orientation and narrow profiles reducing movement.
Surface finishes
Both profiles are produced in a Microtex® finish, providing an optimal surface for coatings. Boards can be wire brushed to accentuate the natural figuring.
See how Architect Select® Larch compares with other species
Expert View
With over two decades of experience working with Siberian Larch, we knew that finding a suitable alternative was essential. Architect Select® Larch not only meets but exceeds the expectations we've built around larch cladding. Through careful selection, and processing, and the development of our unique profiles, we've created a product that offers durability, enhanced stability, and visual appeal.John Russell Founder
Profile options
Architect Select® Larch is available in two profiles: our popular RW014 horizontal open rainscreen and the contemporary RW082 vertical profile, which features a 7mm wide square-edged channel. Both profiles are offered in a narrow yet thick 92mm x 24mm sizes to achieve greater stability and are held in stock, making them ideal for quick-turnaround projects (subject to additional processing lead times such as coatings).
RW082
Standard widths: 92mm
Standard thickness: 24mm
Surface finishes
Architect Select® Larch is offered in two profiles, both of which come with a Microtex® finish. Boards can be wire brushed to accentuate natural figuring.
Wire brushed
Wire brushing accentuates the grain and creates a beautifully textured surface.
Learn more
Microtex®
A fibrous surface finish designed to provide optimal performance of SiOO:X coatings.
Learn more
Coated options
We recommend coating with Woca oil in black or teak for a translucent coloured finish or SiOO:X for an accelerated weathered appearance. Architect Select® Larch can be painted, however, when using opaque paints, we recommend choosing a lighter colour to reduce heat gain which can result in resin exudation. Painting in dark colours is not recommended for this reason.
Woca oil
A coloured finish that allows the natural beauty of timber to shine through.
Learn more
SiOO:X
SiOO:X Wood Protection eliminates differential weathering and provides a consistently weathered tone.
Learn more
Recommended fixings
How timber is fixed is fundamental to its long-term performance in terms of both appearance and durability. These are the recommended fixings for use with Architect Select® Larch.
L-GoFix® A2 stainless steel screws
Face fix
Cladding screw for effective fixing and neat detailing.
Learn moreRusswood Battening System
Substructure
Non-toxic, engineer-assessed, method of fixing timber cladding. Circular economy ready.
Learn moreFassadenClip®
Secret fix
An innovative secret-fix solution for open rainscreen cladding.
Learn moreFrequently asked questions
How much is Architect Select® Larch cladding?
Uncoated Architect Select® Larch cladding starts from £50 per m² excluding VAT. Prices are based on a minimum quantity of 50 m² and factory applied coatings add an additional cost of approximately £20-25 per m². Prices are subject to change due to the fluctuating prices of timber and should be used as a guide only. For the most up-to-date prices please contact our sales team.
Can you help with NBS specification?
Yes, Russwood’s dedicated Architect Liaison Team can assist architects with selecting the best timber cladding species, coatings and fixings for their projects, ensuring both the performance and aesthetic requirements are met. We can also assist with writing the H21 (external timber cladding) National Building Specification (NBS). Find out more about the services we offer to architects.
How do I order Architect Select® Larch cladding?
To receive a quotation or place an order, get in touch with our Technical Sales Team who will be happy to assist.
Can I order a sample of Architect Select® Larch cladding?
The quickest way and most sustainable way to view cladding samples is to browse our range of Virtual 3D Samples. Physical samples can be ordered by contacting our sales team who can assist with selecting the most suitable cladding for your project and send out appropriate samples.
How does Architect Select® Larch compare to other species?
Our handy Cladding Comparison table allows you to compare species information and timber properties at a glance.
Where do you deliver to?
We offer UK wide delivery on all of our products. Please contact our sales team for a quote.