Siberian Larch

(Larix sibirica new)

Siberian Larch trees are composed of 75-90% heartwood in their natural existence, which is denser, less permeable and more durable than sapwood. Siberian Larch grows in an 'extreme continental climate' which is characterised by long cold winters and short hot summers.

As a consequence trees grow more slowly and contain a high proportion of latewood. This is the part of the wood in a growth ring of a tree that is produced later in the growing season. The cells of latewood are smaller and have thicker cell walls than those produced earlier in the season. The resulting wood fibre is tight grained, dense (650 - 780 kg/m3 when dry) and hard. In fact Siberian Larch is the hardest of all commercially available softwood species.

It has a Janka scale rating of 1100 lb/in2 which is similar to English Oak 1120lb/in2 (European Redwood is 480 lb/in2). This makes it more resistant to impact and abrasion than many other wood species and therefore well suited for use in public areas where wear and tear may be of concern.

Siberian Larch is a sustainable, old-growth timber that has been used in construction for centuries. Today it is used extensively throughout Europe, primarily for external applications such as cladding and decking, and for other uses including flooring. Natural resins and extractives in Siberian Larch provide a high level of resistance against decay and rot. Larch heartwood is strong and is durable outside without the use of preservatives. The primary extractive in Siberian Larch is arabinogalactan which is toxic to fungi. Siberian Larch is rated as Durability Class 3 according to BS EN 350-2.

Siberian Larch boasts an impressive set of natural attributes that make it ideally suited for use as timber cladding and decking. This unique wood species has a pleasing appearance and is durable, stable and dense. It will provide excellent long term performance even in the harshest of environments.

Our Siberian Larch is sourced directly from leading sawmills in Central Siberia, from a consistent and reliable raw material that exceeds the official GOST (26002-83) grading standards. Kiln dried at source to a moisture content of 9-10% (+/-2%) allowing for immediate application of a finish and minimal acclimatisation on site.