At first glance, it may seem tempting to specify exact board lengths when ordering timber cladding. After all, precision feels like control. But when it comes to thermally modified ash, opting for mixed length parcels isn’t only just practical — it’s also a more sustainable, cost-effective, and a visually beautiful choice.
Better for the Forest – and the Future
When you specify fixed lengths (e.g. “everything at 2.4m”), you’re inadvertently introducing waste into the supply chain as trees don’t grow to order. Some parts of a log yield long, clean runs. Others are shorter, more characterful, or require trimming.
By choosing mixed lengths, you help ensure every usable part of the tree is valued and utilised. This aligns perfectly with our ethos of respectful, full-yield milling — and helps protect the health of British forests by reducing overharvesting.
Thermal Modification Doesn’t Change Natural Variation
Thermally modified ash is renowned for its durability, dimensional stability, and rich colour — but it still behaves like wood. Grain patterns, knots, and board lengths remain naturally variable. Trying to extract only long lengths from a thermal run dramatically reduces yield. You’re paying more for less, and increasing the likelihood of delays or over-milling. Mixed lengths allow the wood to shine as it wants to — not how we force it to.
Smarter Joinery and Easier Installation
Some believe fixed lengths make for easier fitting — but in practice, mixed lengths make life easier, especially for installers:
Less waste on site – shorter boards are perfect for finishing runs or working around obstacles.
Staggered joints create stronger, more stable flooring and cladding.
Natural variation improves the final look — avoiding the artificial, overly uniform effect that can come with all-same-length boards.
Working with a variety of lengths gives your installer more flexibility and saves precious time on the job.
Cost-Effective Without Compromising Quality
Rejecting perfectly good shorter lengths means more selective grading, more waste, and — ultimately — higher prices.
By embracing mixed lengths, you get:
Better overall value
More efficient use of premium British timber
Shorter lead times and simpler logistics
In short: you’re getting more of the wood you love, not less.
In Summary of Mixed Length Thermally Modified Ash
Choosing mixed length thermally modified ash isn’t a compromise — it’s a smart, principled decision rooted in sustainability, practicality, and aesthetic beauty.
At UK Hardwoods, we mill and prepare every parcel with care and attention in our Thermal Modification Plant — so you can trust that each piece has earned its place in your project.
