With all the planning, budgeting and patience required to build a new home, it may seem surprising that one of the most important decisions is choosing the right house cladding. Although it can seem like a small detail, exterior cladding can elevate the look, durability and curb appeal of your home. Whether it’s a sprawling villa or a minimal single storey home, cladding is the final piece of the puzzle. In this article, Stonewood Homes takes a closer look at the different types of cladding, and the factors you should consider before making your choice.
What is Cladding?
Exterior home cladding plays many different roles once it is installed. Not only is it a barrier that protects against harsh weather such as rain, heat or wind, it also acts as a kind of thermal insulation. The materials used keep the house cool on hot days and warm on cold nights, resulting in lower energy bills. However, the style of cladding that you choose will also have an impact on the look of your home, which is why home builders use it as a way to make a home stand out.
Types of Cladding Materials
There are numerous house cladding options available in the market today, each of them offering something different in terms of aesthetic and function.
- Classic timber cladding has a familiar, natural charm, but requires more maintenance due to wear and tear caused by the environment.
- Brick and stone offer greater durability and a traditional look. However, this type of cladding requires expertise and can be time consuming.
- Vinyl cladding is cost-effective, aesthetically versatile but prone to fading and warping over time.
- Fibre cement boards are perhaps the easiest to install and require very little maintenance. However, the excess weight can be a drawback, as well as their tendency to expand and contract over time.
- Steel and aluminium cladding offer the widest range of colours and styles. These materials are sure to last for decades but tend to be more expensive than other options.
Factors to Consider Before Purchasing Cladding
When it comes to affordable cladding options, it’s about more than just the cost of the material. Here’s what to consider before making an investment.
- The right cladding should provide reliable and long lasting protection against the weather in your area.
- Cladding must do more than just look good; it is a critical part of a home’s energy saving capabilities and must provide quality insulation and thermal resistance
- Cheap cladding may feel like a good deal in the short term, but if it requires a lot of maintenance and repairs, the overall cost can get out of hand.
- It’s not all about function with cladding, be sure to browse as many stylistic options as you can to find the one that best suits your home.
For more information on timber, fibre and aluminium cladding, contact the team at Stonewood Homes.
High-Quality and Weatherproof Cladding Products
If you’ve ever found yourself asking the question ‘what is cladding?’ contact the team at Stonewood Homes today. We specialise in energy efficient home builds and high-quality cladding for innovative, modern homes in New Zealand.
