Building

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Types of Exterior Cladding

26th February 2021

Last week we took a look at some of the benefits of investing in exterior cladding. There is no doubt that the rising trend of cladding homes and new builds is down to a mixture of home protection and aesthetic advantages. But, as with any home improvement investment, it is important that you make the right choice. There are a range of types of exterior cladding available depending on your budget, location, local weather and personal preferences. Options available include stone, wood, composite, PVC or even aluminium.

Stone cladding

Non-porous, natural looking and low maintenance, stone cladding is a popular choice which uses thin layers of stone such as slate, marble and sandstone. Because it is so natural, stone cladding wears well and is perfectly equipped to stand up against nature without wear and tear.

Brick cladding

If you long to restore your property’s natural brick effect without having to remove render, and with the added bonus of extra insulation, brick cladding could be the best option for you. These thin, brick-effect sheets are easy to install and look totally natural.

uPVC cladding

Durable, totally maintenance-free, waterproof and relatively low cost, uPVC cladding is a good option for people who are more concerned about longevity and low-maintenance than aesthetics. While there are plenty of innovative uPVC cladding styles available, if you prefer a natural look, you may consider upping your budget or changing your priorities.

Timber cladding

For the ultimate log cabin effect, it has to be timber cladding. Warm, natural and a renewable resource, timber ages naturally and beautifully and promises to give your home’s exterior bags of personality. The downside is that wood cladding needs a little more TLC to protect it from the elements, so unlike the other types of cladding which can literally be left for ten or more years, will need regular sealing.

Composite cladding

When it comes to cladding, decking or flooring, composite often offers the best of both worlds. Incredibly natural-looking, hard wearing, and low maintenance, composite cladding can have all the benefits of its natural counterparts, with none of the downsides. Composite literally means “mixture” and generally composite cladding is made up of half wood fibre and half plastic. Once formed, it can be pressed and coloured to look like painted or natural wood grain. Great insulation and superb protection against the elements, composite cladding is a long-term investment in your home.

If you are planning on revamping your exterior this year, cladding can add value, appeal and insulation to your home. It is important that you choose cladding that is in keeping with your surroundings and that compliments your garden. Contact a landscape gardener, designer or wall covering specialist to find out the options available to you.

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