Charred Timber Cladding

Charred timber cladding: the Japanese Shou Sugi Ban look, made in Europe

Charred timber cladding, known in Japan as Shou Sugi Ban or Yakisugi, is wood that has had its surface carefully burnt, cooled, brushed and oiled. Charring closes the surface of the timber, giving a deep, crackled, textured finish that sheds water, resists UV and stays good-looking for years. Our SertiWOOD® Charred range is charred and finished in a controlled factory process for consistent colour, board after board, and comes with a 15-year warranty.

Why choose charred wood cladding?

• Striking, modern look: rich black, grey, brown and white tones that suit contemporary homes, garden rooms, extensions and commercial buildings.
• Low maintenance: the charred layer protects the timber, so there is no regular painting or staining.
• Naturally durable timber: we char durable species such as larch and Accoya® that already perform well outdoors.
• Sustainable: a natural, renewable material that locks up carbon, with no plastic or cement.

Colours and finishes

• Ebony (brushed and oiled): our most popular charred black, brushed to reveal the grain and sealed with oil.
• Deep Charred: a heavier char with the classic alligator-skin texture.
• Misty Grey: a soft, weathered grey that blends with stone and render.
• Charred Brown and Antique White: warmer and lighter options that keep the charred texture.

Profiles and accessories

Choose tongue and groove (UTS), shadow gap or planed square edge (SH) boards, typically 21 x 140mm or 21 x 145mm in 4m lengths and sold by the square metre. Matching charred L corners give clean, finished external corners. For fixing, use our black-headed stainless steel charred timber screws so the heads disappear into the board, and touch up cut ends with charred wood sealer.

Installing charred cladding

Fix boards over treated battens at 400 to 600mm centres with a breathable membrane behind and a ventilated cavity of at least 25mm. Leave the bottom of the cavity open with an insect mesh, keep boards at least 150mm above ground level, and pre-drill near board ends. Wear gloves when handling: charred boards can mark hands and clothes until fixed.

Charred timber cladding FAQs

How long does charred cladding last?

With good detailing, charred larch cladding can last for decades. SertiWOOD® Charred carries a 15-year warranty.

Does charred wood rub off?

Brushed and oiled finishes such as Ebony are sealed, so very little char comes off once installed. Deep charred boards have a looser surface and are best kept out of reach of regular contact.

Can I use charred cladding inside?

Yes. Brushed and oiled charred boards make dramatic feature walls and ceilings indoors.

Can I see a sample first?

Yes. Order a free timber sample of our charred finishes, delivered free in the UK.

Also see external timber cladding, our guide to SertiWOOD® Charred and DragonWOOD® charred effect cladding.