How to Install Tongue and Groove (T&G) Cladding Like a Pro
Tongue and Groove (T&G) cladding is a popular choice for exterior and interior walls, thanks to its seamless finish and timeless appeal.
Whether you're transforming a garden building, shed, or home facade, proper installation is key to achieving a professional and long-lasting result. In this guide, we'll take you step-by-step through the process of installing T&G cladding, so you can create a stunning finish with confidence.
Why Choose Shadow Gap Cladding?
Tongue and Groove cladding is a time-tested way to help protect your project from the elements. Suitable for both modern and traditional buildings, T&G's interlocking design means it can be installed with relative ease by novices, without much fear of things going too wrong.
Tools and Materials:
Before you begin the installation of your T&G, you'll need a few essentials:
- Your Tongue Groove cladding
Please note that at Ruby, we only supply boards that are suitable for exterior cladding. Don’t forget trims to complete your corners and edges. - Timber battens
These are used as a go-between, providing a fresh surface to affix nails and fastenings to, and for connecting the cladding to the exterior of your project. - Your fixings
Most wood species are best fixed with stainless steel fixings, as they're more resistant to corrosion. Be sure to get the appropriate fixings for your wall type. - A Breathable membrane
This protects against moisture penetration into the main structure of your project, and also provides ventilation allowing any moisture to escape, preventing rot. - Drill or nail gun
You could also do things the old-fashioned way with just a hammer, but why make the extra work for yourself? - Saw (hand or power)
It's like a piece of cladding but made out of metal with sharp teeth - used for cutting things - Spirit level and tape measure
To ensure your cladding is straight and level, and to make sure you don't cut your gorgeous new cladding too short - Weatherproof finish such as an oil or stain
(Optional, but highly recommended) - Safety gear
(Goggles, gloves etc.)
Featured collection
Shop now
Step 1: Surface prep
The most important part of many projects is to get off on the right foot.
Start by inspecting the surface of your project to ensure it's clean, dry, and stable. Assuming you're good to go, this is the time to attach your weatherproof membrane. You can temporarily put it up with tape, before affixing it properly with galvanised staples, nails or screws with washers.
Step 2: Install the Battens
Treated timber battens provide the foundation for your cladding.
- Measure and mark where the battens will go. For horizontal cladding, position them vertically; for vertical cladding, position them horizontally.
- Space the battens evenly, around 400–600mm apart. Ensure additional battens are placed at corners, window edges, and joints for extra support.
- Secure the battens to the wall using screws or fixings appropriate for your wall type.
Step 3: Prep the T&G Boards
Inspect your T&G boards to ensure they are free of defects. It helps if the boards are acclimated to site conditions, so leaving them outside (but covered) for 5-7 days is a good idea. This allows the wood to do most of its moving before we add any weak-points in the way of holes. Cut them to the required length, leaving a 2mm gap at edges to allow for expansion. Remember that wood is a natural, breathable material and so will be affected by the weather and time of year, so this step is crucial.
Step 4: Start Cladding
Now it’s time to start attaching the boards!
- Begin at the bottom for horizontal cladding or one side for vertical cladding.
- For horizontal cladding, position the groove edge downward to prevent water ingress.
- Use a spirit level to ensure your first board is perfectly straight.
Step 5: Fix the Boards
Secure each board with screws or nails, ensuring a snug fit between the tongue and groove. For a seamless look, fix through the tongue (hidden fixing) or use face-fixing where preferred. Slide the next board into place and repeat the process.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Cut the boards to fit neatly around windows, doors, and other openings. Add trims or corner mouldings for a polished, professional finish.
Step 7: Protect Your Timber
To maintain your cladding’s beauty and durability, apply a protective finish such as oil, stain, or paint. This will help preserve the timber’s colour, prevent cracking, and guard against weathering.
