First build and rather a lot of questions - UK

[Lex]

Good morning / evening,

Although i'm in the UK, there seems to be far more activity and knowledgeable/helpful people in the U.S on the topic of timber framing, so i hope you don't mind me asking for some advice.

I'm starting to design a small single story "L" shaped "cart shed" that i'll build myself. I'm reasonably capable having grown up on a farm, so its more about getting the design and joints right, then i should be OK.

First question . . . Larch or Douglas Fir? I understand Douglas Fir is a bit easier to work with, but i'm not sure how it weathers. I'm keen for it to weather to a silver/grey like Oak and Larch.

Any preferences?

Many thanks

Lex

[rusticretreater]

The Larch is more commonly known as Tamarack in the US.  From what I have read, the Larch is more resilient of the two woods while the fir is easier to handle.  If you are paying for the wood, fir is cheaper.

Just search: which is better larch or douglas fir

and start readin!

[Lex]

Thanks . . . i keep reading and get the wrong answer . I want to use Larch as i love the colour and resilience, everything says Douglas Fir is easier though.

If Douglas Fir will go the same grey colour when weathered, then i'd be happy with it.

[Planeiron]

Are you talking about the actual timbers for framing or the siding? I'm just finishing off a frame in Northern Ireland. Made from local oak but with siberian larch siding and a couple of doug fir boards I had left over. Not all larch is equal though. Agree (Siberian) larch is probably the hardiest and like working a hardwood but you're unlikely to be able to source any of that particular type since the embargo. Douglas fir is used a good bit for framing here. I'll be using it for joists on the ground floor. It's certainly cheaper than the siberian larch that won't be replaced any time soon. I have a barn with board on board larch thats 4 or 5 years and weathering really nicely.

[Lex]

The plan was for the whole structure, timbers and cladding. If the Douglas Fir will weather nicely and in a similar manner to Larch, then i'm happy.
Thanks.

[Brad_bb]

Are those species imported?  What is available locally.  I prefer what's locally available if possible.  Will the timbers be exposed to the elements(infilled walls), or will you have exterior walls covering the frame?  In the US we usually prefer the latter because we probably have more but issues, but you guys do have a lot of moisture.

[Lex]

Both are likely local now . . . Siberian Larch mysteriously not that available right now.
The whole frame bar the front elevation will be clad with feather edge weather board. Douglas Fir less expensive but i think less durable.