Cladding vs Siding: What’s the Difference?

Both cladding and siding can be great for helping insulate your home, add some aesthetic appeal and even bump up the value of your property. But what’s the difference between these two popular exterior finishes? And more importantly, which one is right for your home? We’ve got all that and more covered below, so let’s take a look.

What is Cladding?

To put it in just one phrase, cladding is like a protective skin for your house. It’s an extra layer attached to the outside of your home that serves both functional and aesthetic purposes; it helps to insulate your home, protect it from the elements, and can significantly boost its curb appeal.

What is Siding?

Now, you might be thinking, “That sounds an awful lot like siding.” And you’re not wrong. Siding is actually a type of cladding that’s particularly popular in North America, and it typically refers to long, thin panels that are installed horizontally or vertically on the exterior of a building. In the UK, siding and cladding are often used interchangeably, but for the sake of this article we’re going to break down the small differences.

Cladding vs Siding: Key Differences

So, if siding is a type of cladding, what sets them apart?

Material Composition

Cladding comes in a wide range of materials, from traditional options like wood and brick to more modern choices like metal and composite materials. Siding, on the other hand, is typically made from vinyl, wood, or fibre cement.

Installation Methods

The installation process for cladding and siding can also differ significantly; cladding often involves more complex installation methods, while siding, particularly vinyl siding, is generally designed for easier, more straightforward installation.

Aesthetic Differences

While both cladding and siding can dramatically change the look of your home, the sheer number of types of cladding to choose from sets it apart. Cladding generally offers more flexibility in terms of design, and you can even mix and match different materials and styles to create a unique look. Siding, while available in various colours and textures, tends to have a more uniform appearance.

Pros and Cons of Cladding

There’s no two ways about it – cladding has a lot going for it. It offers excellent insulation properties, can significantly improve your home’s energy efficiency, and provides robust protection against the elements. Plus, with so many materials to choose from, you can really let your creativity shine.

On the flip side, cladding can be more expensive than siding, both in terms of materials and installation. It might also require more maintenance, depending on the material you choose.

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance option that doesn’t compromise on style or durability, you might want to consider our quality composite cladding; this gives you the best of both worlds, so you can enjoy the look of natural materials while also getting the durability of modern composites.

Pros and Cons of Siding

Siding, particularly vinyl siding, is known for being cost-effective and low-maintenance. It’s also relatively easy to install, which can help keep labour costs down, and many homeowners appreciate its clean, uniform look – especially if you’re living in a terraced house.

However, siding may not offer the same level of insulation as some types of cladding, and what’s more, it can also be more susceptible to damage from extreme weather conditions. It’s also fair to say that some find its appearance less aesthetically appealing than other cladding options.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Cladding or Siding

All that being said, deciding between cladding and siding isn’t just about aesthetics. You also want to consider several practical factors:

Climate Considerations

Generally speaking, your local climate should play a big role in your decision. And while UK weather does tend to be quite predictable, if you live in an area with more extreme weather conditions (especially as temperatures in the south seem to soar every summer), you might want to opt for a more robust cladding option that can withstand whatever Mother Nature throws at it.

Maintenance Requirements

How much time are you willing to spend maintaining your home’s exterior? Some cladding materials, like wood, require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best. Vinyl siding, on the other hand, is pretty much maintenance-free, as is composite cladding.

Cost Comparison

While the initial cost of siding is often lower, it’s important to consider long-term costs as well; a more expensive cladding option might save you money in the long run through improved energy efficiency and longer lifespan.

The Bottom Line

So, cladding or siding – which one’s right for you? The truth is, they’re incredibly similar – your choice really comes down to materials, your budget, and how much you want to spend on maintenance.

If you’re after a highly customisable solution that can dramatically improve your home’s insulation and weather resistance, our composite cladding is the way to go. But you don’t need to rush into making the investment right away – click here to order a free cladding sample.

Remember, whether you choose cladding or siding, you’re making an investment in your home’s future. It’s not just about protecting your house from the elements – it’s about creating a space that you love coming home to every day.