YOUR ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO CLADDING
WHY IS IT USED?
Cladding is an external covering that’s applied to the outside of a building for various reasons, from protecting the walls from harsh elements and covering up damage, to changing the look of the house and making it more attractive. According to Colin St John of Freefoam Building Products, which specialises in manufacturing PVC products, ‘Cladding is one of the fastest-growing home-improvement projects, as it allows homeowners to give their property an instant makeover! Fitting exterior wall cladding can also help insulate your home.’ Added to this, it can mark out different areas – for instance, cladding on a new extension will set it apart from the main house.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES?
There’s a variety of materials available – things to think about include how it looks, where it’s to be situated and cost. It can be applied in panels or strips, hung in a number of ways to create various effects, or materials mixed to produce a unique look. Opposite are some of the most popular…
HOW TO CHOOSE?
A lot will be down to personal taste, budget, the look you’re seeking and your surroundings, especially if you need to obtain planning permission. In most instances, cladding is covered by permitted development, but if you live in a conservation area, a listed building, a protected area or a National Park, then you’ll need planning permission, which may restrict your choices. And it’s worth remembering that if you live in a terrace or a semi-detached home, you may have to consult neighbours, and their views might have to be taken into consideration. Finally, the level of maintenance required could also influence your decision.
WOULD YOU BE ABLE TO INSTALL IT YOURSELF?
Some cladding can be fitted on a DIY basis, for instance, timber or uPVC, but to be sure of the best end result it’s worth employing a professional who has experience of the type of cladding you want.
WHAT SHOULD YOU CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING?
It’s worth doing extensive research and getting samples of the product you’re interested in to feel the quality and check the colour in daylight. ‘Website and brochure colours can vary due to the photography and lighting,’ says Jack Jago from Norstone UK. ‘We also recommend testing a small area/sample with the sealant for colour safety.’Jack also recommends considering how lighting will enhance the finish. ‘For instance, uplighting and downlighting can create stunning shadow effects both inside and out,’ he says. ‘And don’t forget to add the industry standard extra 10 per cent to allow for wastage from cuts etc.’ Colin from Freefoam adds that it’s important to choose a colour that complements the other exterior elements of your home, for example, the brickwork and window frames. And the advice from all experts is: if you’re in any doubt, contact the company. ‘An established, reputable one will have expert knowledge and give free advice pre- and post-sale,’ adds Jack.
WHAT ABOUT THE FIRE RISKS POST-GRENFELL?
According to Colin St John, all cladding is designed to be safe when used in accordance with the guidelines stated within its fire rating, and is subject to stringent fire testing. ‘Homeowners can find the fire rating for cladding from the manufacturer,’ he says.
AND THE COSTS?
Each material is different. For instance, an average starting price for uPVC is about £20/sq m, while stone can start at £49/sq m.
WHAT KIND OF WARRANTY SHOULD YOU LOOK FOR?
Ten years should be a minimum. HB
‘Cladding is one of the fastest-growing home-improvement projects and give properties an instant makeover’