Choose the look and the upkeep
Timber can weather to grey, receive a coloured finish or use a specific profile. Discuss the changes expected from weather and sunlight. Shaded facades may age differently from sunny ones.
Details make the difference
Fixings, ventilation, corners and clearance above the ground all affect timber performance. A beautiful material needs suitable details to work well.
Timber cladding is not the same as the structural frame
The visible facade and the structure behind it are separate decisions. Ask about the layers behind the timber and junctions at windows, corners and the base. Discuss future maintenance access. Choose the appearance from a physical sample and ask how it changes outdoors. When comparing brick, keep insulation, connections and interior finishes equivalent so the price difference genuinely reflects the facade choice.
Choose between weathering and retaining colour
Discuss the appearance you expect after several years. Untreated wood can weather differently on each elevation; coloured finishes need appropriate upkeep. Ask for product maintenance instructions and access above windows. Consider replacement of individual damaged boards so a small repair does not affect the whole facade.