Over the decades, there have been many developments in building technologies—the introduction of thermal insulation, double glazing, high-efficiency boilers, etc., all of which have helped people to be more comfortable in their homes. In the last couple of years, cladding has become a hugely popular development which makes it much easier to create a more contemporary look and feel to any home. Let’s look at what cladding is and the different types of materials used in its application.
What Is Cladding?
Cladding is a description of the outer layers or finish of a home. It’s a way of giving a house a new visual appearance, as well as adding insulation and durability by using different materials and combinations of materials. A standard cladding package can include the actual cladding itself as well as an under-cladding to provide insulation.
Types of Cladding
Cladding can be made from many different materials, including timber, metal and plastic, as well as combinations of materials. The most common types of cladding are:
Hardwood Cladding – This is the most traditional form of cladding, which has been used for centuries. It involves fixing sheets of timber to the exterior of a house, which can make a home appear more attractive, with a more contemporary feel. Hardwood cladding is best for properties that are in rural areas and for detached properties, as it can be very difficult to install and as it is a very high maintenance material, which often makes it expensive for flats.
Cladding made from natural timber is becoming more popular. It can be treated, primed and painted to create a variety of different effects, which can be better than those created using other types of cladding.
Stone Cladding – Stone cladding is another very popular option, which is usually installed using brickwork. Stone cladding can be really expensive to install, but it makes a home much more appealing as it can provide a timeless, classic look. Stone cladding requires regular cleaning and maintenance, as well as repointing every few years.
In terms of cost and maintenance, stone cladding is more expensive than other types of cladding, and it’s not suitable for properties that get a lot of rain and snow. However, a stone cladding can produce unique, timeless looks on a residential property.
Metal Cladding – Metal cladding can come in a huge variety of colours, shapes and sizes; every material is available, and it can be used in any form. Metal cladding is easy to install, very cost-effective and has huge potential. There are many different types of metal cladding on the market, each with its own benefits and drawbacks.
For instance, a carbon steel cladding will be much cheaper, but it requires regular cleaning and repainting. On the other hand, stainless steel cladding is much more expensive, but it doesn’t require regular cleaning and repainting.
uPVC Cladding – This type of cladding has become very popular in recent years as it’s very cost-effective and it doesn’t require regular cleaning and repainting. uPVC cladding is a good option for homes with a flat roof, as it doesn’t require scaffolding to install, as it can be done on the ground.
uPVC cladding will last for decades, but it can be damaged by the sun, the rain and the wind. A lot of uPVC cladding is manufactured in Europe, which means that it is cheaper to install.
Conclusion
The popularity of cladding shows no sign of slowing down. It’s an excellent way of making a home more attractive and durable without having to carry out a huge renovation project. The different types of cladding available each have their own benefits and drawbacks. In general, there is a huge range of materials that can be used, which allows homeowners to tailor their cladding to suit the style of their house.
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