Brimstone poplar: perfect cladding for sustainable homes

Brimstone poplar, the innovative, British-grown cladding from Vastern Timber was the natural choice for twelve affordable and sustainable homes in Shropshire.

The project required a timber cladding product that was British grown, durable and stable, and one with a lifespan of over 50 years. Vastern Timber supplied 2000m² of Brimstone cladding, produced from thermally modified British grown poplar. Thanks to the modification process, Brimstone is ideal for outdoor use and a great alternative to imported hardwoods. This beautiful cladding greys naturally, helping the buildings to blend in with the landscape without the need for any ongoing maintenance.

Affordable, sustainable and locally-sourced

Built to Passivhaus standards to reduce ongoing fuel costs, these homes are at the forefront of sustainable residential development. Commissioned by South Shropshire housing association, they were designed by Architype, the award-winning sustainable architectural practice and built by SJ Roberts Construction. The homes sit comfortably in their rural surroundings, thanks to the use of locally sourced natural materials – including roof tiles from a nearby quarry, locally produced lime render, and Brimstone poplar, a British-grown timber cladding.

Brimstone: thermally modified cladding

Beautiful, versatile and modified to last, Brimstone is a new breed of thermally modified timber for external applications. The natural, toxin-free modification process removes moisture, resin and other extractives from the wood. The result is a durable, stable and consistent material – with Class 1 Durability and low risk of bending or warping.

Perhaps most importantly, Brimstone is produced from the UK’s own fast-growing hardwood species. Using homegrown wood helps to cut carbon emissions, but more importantly it supports the management of our native woodlands. The Brimstone range is GIB certified, which means that architects, builders and their clients can be sure of local provenance and good woodland management.

More information at vastern.co.uk