Cladding: What it is and Why It’s Important

When you think about home improvements, what comes to mind? A new kitchen? Maybe a loft conversion? What if we instead said: cladding. Look, it might not be as glamorous as a shiny new cooker, but it’s a game-changer for your home’s exterior. But why is cladding so important for your home, and do you really need it? 

Let’s take a look at why it’s more than just a fancy word for ‘outer layer’.

What on Earth is Cladding?

Cladding is essentially an extra skin for your house, but this additional layer isn’t just for show – it’s a hardworking part of your home’s structure that protects, insulates, and beautifies all at once.

What are the Benefits of Cladding?

You might be thinking, “My house has walls. Job done, right?” Not quite. Here’s why cladding deserves your attention:

Home Protection

Think about the beating your house takes from the weather. The never-ending UK rain, the wind, sun, maybe even the occasional hailstorm – your home faces it all. Cladding acts like a bodyguard, taking the brunt of these elements so your actual walls don’t have to.

It’s a Cost-Effective Investment 

Here’s where it gets interesting: cladding can also significantly improve your home’s insulation. This means your heating system doesn’t have to work as hard to keep you toasty in winter, and your house stays cooler in summer without cranking up the air con. The result? Lower energy bills. And who doesn’t love that?

And you don’t need to cover your home in metal, either; our durable outdoor composite cladding is a prime example of how modern materials can offer superior insulation and durability.

Beautifies Your Home

Let’s be honest – appearances matter, especially on the housing market. Cladding can transform the look of your home faster than you can say “extreme makeover”, and in some cases, can even boost the price of your property in the event of a re-sell. And whether you’re after a sleek, modern vibe or a more traditional look, there’s a cladding option to suit your style. 

Low Maintenance

Unlike bare walls that may require frequent repainting or repairs, cladding is typically low maintenance. In fact, most modern cladding materials are designed to be durable and weather-resistant, requiring only occasional cleaning to keep them looking their best. This means less time and money spent on upkeep, allowing you to enjoy your home without the hassle of constant maintenance.

Choosing Your Cladding:

Picking the right cladding isn’t just about choosing a colour you like – although that certainly does come into it! But aside from aesthetic concerns, you’ll also want to consider the following factors:

Material Matters

From traditional wood to modern composites, each material has its own set of pros and cons. Think about factors like durability, maintenance requirements, and how it’ll look in 10 years’ time. If you don’t want to spend your time maintaining and cleaning your cladding, we’d recommend composite cladding; it’s eco-friendly, aesthetically pleasing and only needs to be cleaned around twice a year with soap and water.

Installation:

While you might be tempted to save a few quid by installing cladding yourself, it’s usually best left to the pros. Proper installation is absolutely essential in order for your cladding to be able to do its job effectively.

Keeping Your Cladding Happy

Once your cladding is installed, a little TLC goes a long way:

Regular Check-Ups

It’s a good idea to give your cladding a once-over every now and then; look for any signs of damage or wear and tear, and make sure to tackle any small problems early, so they don’t become bigger ones. Catching issues early can save you a headache (and a lot of money) down the line.

Cleaning

It’s also important to keep your cladding clean. How often depends on the material, but generally, a good wash every year or so will keep it looking its best.

The Bottom Line

So there you have it – cladding protects, insulates, and also makes your home look pretty. And yes, it’s an investment, but it’s an investment that pays off in protected walls, lower energy bills, and a home that looks great for years to come. 

So, next time you’re considering a home improvement project, don’t overlook cladding! It might just be the upgrade your home needs – after all, who doesn’t want a house that’s efficient, protected, and looks great to boot?