What is cladding?
Cladding is a covering or layer applied to the external surfaces of a structure to
protect it or give it a new look. Surfaces can be damaged by fire, harsh weather
conditions like cold or extreme heat and even pests (including termites). Structures
can also begin to break down due to normal wear and tear. You can add cladding to
these surfaces to cover this kind of damage and prevent it from continuing.
Cladding can be made of a variety of materials, such as timber, plastic, brick, stone
and glass.
Why is cladding important?
Cladding performs a number of important functions, including:
Protecting buildings: Cladding protects a building from extreme temperatures,
wind, water absorption, termites, noise, molds and all forms of pollution.
Changing a building's aesthetic: Depending on the cladding choice, it can boost the
appearance of a building, thereby increasing its market worth.
Reducing maintenance: Surfaces with cladding require little or no maintenance,
with most surfaces requiring cleaning only.
Insulating a building: Adding a layer that keeps the building warm during cold
weather and cool when temperatures are high can help with utility bills.
Keeping a building safe: If a building was originally built with material that can
easily catch fire, metal or stone cladding can help reduce the risk of destruction.
Making a building more durable: A structure with cladding has higher mechanical
strength than one with none. Cladding makes the structure stronger, increasing its
durability.
Types of cladding
Brick cladding -
This cladding provides a charming, patterned and traditional appearance similar
to stone. You can install bricks in different designs to create a unique,
authentic look. Cladding bricks come in an assortment of colors and tend to be
light compared to building bricks. Brick cladding is typically preferred since it
can withstand extreme weather conditions. Though the installation can be a bit
expensive, brick cladding is ultimately easy to maintain and long-lasting.
Types of cladding
Wooden cladding
Wood is now increasingly popular for
business and residential aesthetic use
because of its durability, especially when
the external base is coated in paint. The
kind of wood that is typically used as
cladding is hardwood, like cedar, since
termites typically can't eat it. Wood is
environmentally friendly, as it is
biodegradable and can be recycled. Wood
cladding gives an attractive look to a
surface and also provides enough
insulation to meet the labeling standards
for energy efficiency.
Types of cladding
Stone cladding
Natural stone cladding
comes in diverse colors and
sizes. Stone cladding is
mostly used for external
walls, both to give them a
new and genuine look and
also to protect them. Many
people prefer stone
cladding because it's long-
lasting and doesn't soak up
moisture. The types of
stones you can use include
marble, sandstone and slate.
Stones are simple to
prepare as they only need
to be cut to size. Stone
cladding can withstand any
kind of harsh weather,
which makes it a sensible
choice.
Types of cladding
Aluminum ACP cladding
Aluminum is well-liked due to its durability and easy maintenance—it does not
absorb moisture and can take on any kind of weather. When you use this kind
of cladding material, it gives a glossy, contemporary look. Aluminum is also easy
to work with since it is malleable. Other benefits of aluminum cladding are that
it is light, resistant to fire and comes in a variety of colors.
Types of cladding
Scyon cladding or Fibre Cement Cladding
This is also known as fiber cement cladding, Scyon cladding is made of a
material that is a combination of cement, sand and cellulose. It's available in
vertical and horizontal boards as well as square and rectangular panels. The
cladding boards' thermal properties are better than hardwood, and termites
can't destroy Scyon cladding. You can attach the sheets to timber or steel
frames.
Types of cladding
Stainless steel cladding
This type kind of cladding
contains 10% chromium,
meaning it's generally free
of the risk of corrosion.
Since the steel does not
corrode, it can last for a
long time, which gives a
long-term protection to the
wall. The steel cladding is
also relatively cheap and is
easy to install and maintain.
Types of cladding
Porcelain or ceramic tile cladding
This cladding guarantees excellent performance and durability. You can use
it in both residential and commercial buildings, and it comes in a range of
colors and sizes, making it an ideal choice for interior cladding. When used
on walls, the porcelain tile cladding exudes a clean and modern feel. Its
smooth texture makes cleaning and maintenance easy. Tile cladding works
best when it comes to protection of surfaces. It can withstand any outside
pressure and does not absorb water..
Types of cladding
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.
Exterior cladding – typical fixing