Your cladding of choice makes a significant difference in your building’s appearance, build cost, maintenance requirements and insulation, so it’s crucial to get it right. Your decision should be after careful consideration of the options, keeping in mind the existing environmental conditions.
Material
- Metal is durable and requires little maintenance. It is cost-effective, though you need to be cautious of the insulation properties. Since it is non-combustible, it protects against fire. Some common types of metal are steel and aluminium. Aluminium is cheaper and lightweight, but steel is more durable.
- Stone is excellent for a premium finish and also requires little maintenance. It is expensive, so choose a cost-effective option. Stone is non-porous, so it does not absorb liquid and will provide protection from leaks, making it ideal for locations that experience frequent rainfall.
- Wood can also be a costly option, but it is versatile and aesthetically appealing due to its natural finish. It can be installed on long, narrow boards fitted vertically, horizontally or diagonally. Simple applications are shiplap and overlap cladding in home sheds. Timber may require regular maintenance because it is sensitive to external elements.
- Brick is a classic cladding material that ages well. It is low-maintenance, reliable and durable. It also has good insulation properties.
- Combination cladding uses 2 to 3 materials to achieve a particular style. It may include aluminium, wood and cement or polystyrene.
Installation
Cladding can be installed in two ways: single-skin and double-skin. Single-skin is adding it directly to the building to act as an external barrier, while double-skin includes insulation between two cladding layers. Builders install ventilation to prevent moisture build-up under the panels, but the depth of the cleats can be enough if there is no ventilation.
Considerations
- Cost. Cost includes the amount of required maintenance aside from the initial build. This depends on the material you choose.
- Insulation. Different types of cladding provide different insulation levels, so check the insulation rating of your cladding to see if it is sufficient for your needs and if it can help save energy costs.
- Climate. Take climate and weather into account when choosing the material and installation type. External cladding is exposed to harsh weather, so your builder must know which style best suits your location.
Maintenance: No cladding is totally free of maintenance. All materials require a level of maintenance throughout their lifespan. Pick one that you can maintain with the lowest hassle.
Conclusion
The primary purpose of external cladding is to provide protection to the underlying structure of a building. It should be tough enough to prevent harmful elements from causing damage and help extend the life of the structure. Thus, it should be durable and weather-resistant. Your cladding of choice should have the proper structural property for the building’s design. Look at your surroundings, buildings, the type of property and your budget to help you decide. You can also speak with experts who can provide sound advice with no biases.