Incorrect processing of wood sheet material causes damage

In practice, there are two common issues when processing wooden panels: a lack of expansion joints and a lack of ventilation. Ultimately, these issues cause damage. If expansion joints aren't applied, paint and moisture damage often occur. The lack of an expansion joint causes the panel to delaminate. If a corner isn't rounded properly, it results in poor edge coverage. Wood is a material that moves, and this movement causes the paint layer to crack. This creates openings for moisture to penetrate the wood and cause damage.

Regarding ventilation, there are two important considerations when installing wooden panels. First, it's important to keep both the top and bottom open. Second, it's important to choose the direction of the battens. Battens with a thickness of at least 22 millimeters should always be installed vertically, as the facade doesn't ventilate well horizontally. Poor ventilation causes blisters to form on the wooden panel material. This occurs on average after 24 months. If vertical battens aren't possible, it's best to opt for double battens to prevent damage.

It's striking that incorrect installation of wood paneling doesn't often occur in larger projects, such as facades, but rather in smaller jobs. This includes replacing fascia boards, where the boards are often butted together. This choice is often made for aesthetic reasons, but it's certainly not recommended. Moisture can get between the two boards, leaving no way for the moisture to escape. It's important to leave a 10-millimeter gap between two boards.

Damage can occur relatively quickly when wooden panels are installed incorrectly. When you buy a home, you want to be sure that existing wooden panels have been installed correctly and are of high quality. During a building inspection by Homekeur, wooden panels are always examined. We incorporate our findings into a building report for you. Would you like us to perform a building inspection? Then schedule your appointment online. Of course, you can always contact us for more information or advice without obligation.

The cost of a building inspection (up to 250 m²) is only €489 including VAT. We'll conduct a comprehensive building inspection and you'll receive a building report. Do you have any questions? We're happy to help and can schedule an appointment with an expert inspector right away if you wish!