With cladding becoming an increasingly popular option, it is hard to drive down a road without seeing some sort of house cladding. Last week we looked at some basic information about cladding, including the pros, cons, and planning permission requirements. This week, we will take a closer look at the different types of cladding to help you to decide if cladding might be the right option for you.
As with all home improvement projects, the cost of cladding is dependent on the size of your property and the type and quality of cladding that you decide to use. Generally, uPVC and metal cladding are at the lower end of the cost scale, with glass cladding being by far the most expensive option. Fibre cement, tile, composite, brick, timber and stone cladding are all somewhere in the middle.
Fibre cement cladding
Coming in at a touch above metal and uPVC cladding, fibre cement cladding is a great, low-cost option that also offers a high quality finish. Coming in a range of colours and providing a natural wood effect, fibre cement is low maintenance and durable, making it one of the preferred options for people who like the aesthetic elements of cladding but who can’t, or don’t want to, spend excessive amounts of money achieving the look.
Fibre cement cladding is known as a composite material as it is made up of a range of materials: cellulose fibres, clay, iron, limestone and cement. Installed using the feather-board technique, fibre cement cladding can be installed to a high standard by a handyperson, builder or cladding specialist.
Composite cladding
Composite cladding is made up of wood fibres and recycled plastics, which makes it environmentally friendly as well as durable and low-maintenance. Composite cladding adds flexibility in design as it can be installed horizontally or vertically, and can be cut with a wood saw, making it easy to install for DIY enthusiasts as well as professionals.
Wood or timber cladding
Nothing can quite compete with a natural wood finish, which is why some property owners will opt for the higher maintenance but naturally attractive wood or timber cladding. A great option for DIYers and self-builders, timber cladding can be used inside or outside, vertically or horizontally. Unlike the composite equivalents, wood or timber cladding does require maintenance in order to maintain its weather protection properties.
Stone cladding
Another natural option, stone cladding is a great option for areas that experience extreme weather conditions, and where a more rustic feel will fit in better with the local landscape. Stone cladding can be applied using layers of natural stone, or manufactured stone panels. Both options offer advantages and disadvantages but provide a high standard finish.
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