Three TOP TIPS

To find the design you want, the benefits the materials offer and the upkeep required

Styles of cladding

The most typical styles are tongue and groove, where a tongue of wood slips into a V-groove in its neighbour; shiplap, which has a curve leading up to the tongue; and feather-edged, where the boards are overlapped by the board above. Alternative designs are shadow gap, with an indent between boards, and rainscreen, with an open joint and strong shadow lines.

Insulation advantages

Wood contains pockets of air so is a natural insulator – superior to masonry, steel or aluminium – keeping the building it covers warm. It can act as a barrier to reduce noise as well, useful in homes on busy roads (or with noisy neighbours). Composite cladding is also an effective insulator. Wood-look fibre cement cladding can disguise insulating material.

Keeping up appearances

Cladding is long-lasting, but may need maintenance depending on the material. Timber should have a UV and water-resistant protective coating. Wood can be freshened with a clear specialist oil every few years. Semi-transparent stains can shield the wood and show off its character. Cladding paint or opaque stains will protect but cover the grain.