In construction, one of the most successful materials for the construction of houses is considered larch. It belongs to practical tree species, as it is durable, resistant to weather changes, and also attractive in appearance. Building larch houses allows you to get environmentally friendly housing. But do buildings made of this material really have a great advantage, are there any shortcomings in it, and what do people who deal with this tree say?
Benefits
First, it is worth considering what advantages larch houses have (the photo of such buildings is in the article). The immutable properties of this wood include:
- durability;
- strength;
- environmental friendliness;
- resistance to temperature fluctuations;
- appearance appeal;
- fire resistance.
Larch house has good resistance to decay. This conifer is indeed the most durable of all. She will not dry out. Also, this wood does not need to be impregnated with preparations from chemicals.
In the structure of the material there is a combustible substance, but, despite this, larch has a natural resistance to burning. So, in comparison with other wood, this one does not flash like a match. However, since you have to deal with wood, it requires treatment with anti-fire compounds.
An additional advantage is the microclimate, which is created indoors thanks to the antioxidants contained in the wood. This atmosphere allows you to quickly relieve fatigue after an emotionally difficult day. In addition, this conifer acts prophylactically and prevents the development of asthma and hypertension.
Resins in wood
A special point is the presence of resins in larch. Their number is so large that it is impossible to compare with another tree. This suggests that a larch house will have good biological resistance. The facts say that the felling of this needles from all the others is most resistant to the effects of microorganisms and insects.
Another plus of resins is that they make the log house stronger. So, over the years, wood is gaining its strength, as the polymerization of resins occurs. Larch becomes so hard that it is not afraid of decay and other external influences.
Aesthetic side
Many people like its pleasant light honey tint. On the section, pronounced belonging to the sound rock is visible. This is noticeable in pink-amber and brown-red hues.
Also, larch has an unobtrusive, but rich aroma of needles. This influenced the fact that most owners decided not to do any decoration inside the rooms. So the larch house acquires a good microclimate, and the residents, returning after a hard day, immediately feel the healing aromatherapy.
disadvantages
It is worth noting that there are no building materials in which there are no cons. In addition, the advantages of larch to some extent became its disadvantages.
The process of wood processing is very difficult, because larch is rich in resins. Therefore, when working with it, saws are quickly blunted, and more expensive tools are required to perform actions with this material.
The heavy structure also affects the complexity of its transportation. The main place where larch comes from is Siberia. The main means of crossing is the river. But often the weight of the tree pulls the load to the bottom. To deliver material by land, you need to spend a lot of money. Therefore, coniferous wood has a high cost. If fate is a difficult process, then a larch house, in principle, cannot be cheap.
Another disadvantage is the uneven drying of the tree. A competent approach is needed here: on time to pack the ends with varnish, clay or oil paint. If this is not done, the material will begin to “lead”.
Over the years, a larch house is gaining strength and strength, becoming like a stone. This is what complicates the repair, since it seems impossible to drive even a nail.
Lumber obtained from larch can warp, which causes cracking, especially if the board is wide. Such a phenomenon can be substantially reduced by radial sawing.
Larch houses: owner reviews
Undoubtedly, someone sees only one plus in the construction of this durable and fragrant wood. But before proceeding with the construction of such a dwelling, it is worth considering the opinions of those who live in such a house.
Some say that in many regions of the country such construction is not suitable because of the material, because it is cold. Indeed, when compared with pine, the thermal conductivity of larch is about 30% higher. But this does not mean that the finished building will be just as cold. Much will depend on the technology of construction. By the way, this factor also affects how much the house will stand idle.
To be or not to be
Should I build a house of larch? Pros and cons allow you to objectively evaluate this wood and decide whether to make the basis of the building from this material. Having appreciated all the elements that will be made of larch (lower crowns, base, boxes for windows and doors, floors), many realize how expensive this event is and decide to make a home out of more suitable material. But if the customer decides that he is able to afford such a luxury, he will receive a strong and fragrant building for many years and pass it on to his grandchildren.