What is cladding on a house? Well, it’s more than just a pretty face; it's the protective outer shell that shields your home's walls from rain, wind, and sun while also adding to your home's style. But it doesn't stop there—cladding can also enhance interior spaces, creating a cohesive design that transforms a basic box into a stunning architectural statement.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the benefits of cladding, different cladding types, installation tips, and common pitfalls to avoid.

By the end of this blog, you'll be well-equipped to make informed decisions about cladding your home, guaranteeing both beauty and protection.

 

Understanding Cladding for Your Home

 

 

What is Cladding?

Cladding is a protective layer or covering applied to interior or exterior walls. Acting as a shield, it safeguards the integrity of structures, providing comfort and protection in any environment.

But that's not all—cladding can also boost a building's architectural appeal, with a variety of materials available to enhance design and character. The right cladding can boost both durability and visual charm, transforming your home into something truly attractive and functional!

Amber presents an exciting array of premium cladding materials designed to elevate your home's exterior! 

Discover our versatile options that will transform your space:

Amber’s Natural Stone Cladding:

  • Quartz: Known for its remarkable durability, quartz is heat and scratch-resistant, making it an excellent choice for wall cladding in busy areas like kitchens and bathrooms. It can also be used for exterior features such as outdoor kitchens or patios, thanks to its easy maintenance and stunning array of colours and patterns!
  • Limestone: This classic stone offers an elegant look with its warm, earthy tones. Ideal for creating a tranquil atmosphere, limestone works beautifully as flooring in living rooms or as wall features in bathrooms. It also enhances outdoor spaces such as garden walls and pathways.
  • Travertine: Characterised by its unique holes and rich textures, travertine exudes luxury and sophistication. It’s perfect for elevating interior spaces like entryways and dining areas, as well as exterior applications such as pool surrounds and patios, adding a touch of nature to your home.
  • Sandstone: With its rustic charm, sandstone brings timeless appeal to any setting. It's perfect for creating warm, inviting interiors like fireplaces or accent walls, and it's also great for outdoor features such as garden borders and retaining walls, making spaces feel cosy and stylish.

Amber’s Ceramic Cladding:

  • Clay: This incredibly versatile material can be shaped into various designs and finishes, making it perfect for decorative art pieces in your home or functional pottery in the kitchen. Clay tiles are excellent for patios and pool areas, providing durability and weather resistance while allowing for endless creativity and self-expression!

By selecting the right cladding material from Amber's extensive range, you can enhance your home's aesthetic appeal and protect it from the elements.

Cladding vs. Other Exterior Finishes:

While cladding is a popular choice for many homes, it's important to understand the differences between cladding and other exterior finishes:

  • Paint: Although it provides colour and protection to surfaces, its durability is often limited against harsh weather conditions. Paint also lacks insulation properties, making it less effective for temperature regulation compared to other options. Regular maintenance and reapplication are necessary to preserve its appearance and effectiveness.
  • Render: This cement coating is applied to exterior walls to enhance their durability and aesthetics. However, it does not protect the underlying structure from moisture and weather damage entirely.  Improper application can lead to reduced insulation and energy efficiency, making it a less favourable choice for modern homes.
  • Weatherboard: Traditionally made from timber, weatherboard offers a classic look and is often used in coastal and rural architecture. Unfortunately, it can be susceptible to damage from the elements over time. Modern variants, like fibre cement, provide enhanced durability and resistance to termites and rots. 

Cladding truly outshines the competition by offering an unbeatable combination of durability and style. 

 

 

Benefits of Cladding

Cladding is a game-changer in building design and construction!

Benefits include:

  • Energy-efficient: Cladding can enhance a building's insulation properties, reducing heat and air conditioning needs and ultimately saving energy costs.
  • Weather protection: It shields the structure from rain, wind, and extreme weather conditions, helping to prevent water damage and deterioration. 
  • Aesthetic appeal: Cladding can be customised to fit any architectural style or design preference. It adds character and visual interest to the exterior of a building, making it stand out from others in the neighbourhood.
  • Soundproofing: Cladding effectively reduces noise pollution from outside sources, creating a quieter and more comfortable indoor environment. 
  • Durability: Cladding can offer long-term durability, reducing maintenance costs and extending the lifespan of a building.

Choosing cladding means investing in a long-lasting and visually striking finish that benefits both the environment and your wallet!

 

Popular Cladding Materials

Consider your climate, budget, and design style when choosing cladding materials. 

Let’s examine some of the most popular types of cladding materials and their features to help you find the right fit for your project.

 

Natural Stone Cladding

Natural stone cladding offers a timeless and elegant look. It's durable, weather-resistant, and provides excellent thermal insulation.

Here are some favourites:

  • Granite: Strong, durable, and heat-resistant.
  • Marble: Luxurious and adds a touch of sophistication.
  • Limestone: Versatile, available in various colours and textures.
  • Slate: Durable, weather-resistant, and ideal for modern designs.


Timber Cladding

Timber cladding brings warmth, character, and a natural aesthetic to your home. However, it requires regular maintenance to prevent rotting and insect damage.

 

Popular timber cladding includes:

  • Cedar: Durable, weather-resistant, and naturally beautiful.
  • Merbau: Hardwearing and offers a rich, dark colour fibre.
  • Pine: Affordable and versatile, often used for budget-friendly projects.

 

Other Cladding Materials

  • Metal: Durable and low-maintenance, this material provides a modern, sleek aesthetic. Popular choices include aluminium, steel, and zinc.
  • Vinyl: Affordable, easy to install, and comes in various colours and styles.
  • Fibre Cement: Durable, fire-resistant, and offers a range of finishes to mimic natural materials.


Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Options

When choosing cladding materials, consider sustainable options:

  • Recycled materials: Opt for cladding made from recycled materials, such as recycled plastic or metal.
  • Locally sourced timber: Choose timber from sustainably managed forests to reduce your carbon footprint.
  • Low-maintenance materials: Materials that require minimal maintenance, such as metal and fibre cement, can reduce the need for harmful chemicals.

By carefully selecting your cladding material, you can enhance your home's appearance, improve its energy efficiency, and contribute to a more sustainable future.

 

 

Do's and Don'ts of Cladding

Do’s

  • Pick the right materials for your climate: Think about your local weather. If you live in a humid area, go for materials that can handle moisture and keep mould at bay. In places with extreme temperatures, look for options that provide great insulation.
  • Hire the pros: It’s a good idea to bring in experienced professionals for your cladding installation. They know what they’re doing and can handle tricky setups. Plus, they often offer warranties, giving you peace of mind about your investment.
  • Keep up with maintenance: Set up a regular maintenance routine to keep your cladding in good shape. This means checking for any damage, cleaning surfaces to avoid dirt buildup, and applying protective treatments if needed. 

Don’ts

  • Watch out for installation mistakes: Be mindful of common installation slip-ups like insufficient waterproofing, improper sealing, and incorrect spacing of materials. These can lead to moisture problems, structural issues, and not-so-great looks.
  • Don’t sacrifice quality for price: While it’s smart to stick to a budget, skimping on quality can cost you more later because of extra maintenance and replacements. Go for high-quality materials and skilled workers to ensure your cladding lasts and saves you money in the long run.

 

Cladding Installation Tips

Proper preparation and execution are key to ensuring your cladding looks great and protects your home from the elements. Here are some helpful tips to guide you through a successful cladding installation!

 

Tools and Materials Needed

  • Measuring tape 
  • Level
  • Chalk line
  • Saw or utility knife 
  • Drill with bits and screws 
  • Hammer and nails (if you’re using wooden cladding)
  • Weatherproof sealant
  • Protective gear 

Ensure that you have enough cladding panels, nails, and screws to complete the project.

 

Step-by-Step Guide for DIY Enthusiasts

Step 1: Measure and Plan

Start by measuring the area where you plan to install cladding. Mark the locations of doors, windows, and other fixtures that will require cuts in the cladding. 

Planning your layout will help you avoid mistakes and minimise material waste.

 

Step 2: Prepare the Surface

Clean and level the surface where the cladding will be installed. A smooth and even surface will improve the appearance and longevity of the cladding. 

Repair any cracks or irregularities, and make sure the surface is dry before starting.

 

Step 3: Install a Weather Barrier (if required)

For outdoor cladding, installing a weather barrier like a waterproof membrane can help protect your structure from moisture damage. 

Staple or nail the barrier securely to the wall, ensuring it covers the entire area.

 

Step 4: Mark Guidelines

Using a level and chalk line, mark guidelines for the cladding installation. These lines will help you install the panels in a straight line, especially for larger projects or uneven surfaces.

 

Step 5: Begin Installing Cladding Panels

Starting at the bottom, align the first cladding panel with your guideline. Use screws or nails to fasten it securely to the surface, ensuring each panel is level and tightly fitted. 

Continue adding panels, checking for level alignment as you go. Leave a small gap between panels if recommended by the manufacturer to allow for expansion.

 

Step 6: Cut Panels for Fixtures

When you reach doors, windows, or corners, cut the cladding panels to fit. Measure carefully and use a saw or utility knife for clean, precise cuts. 

Always check that pieces align correctly before attaching them.

 

Step 7: Apply Sealant and Finish

After installing the panels, apply a weatherproof sealant to joints and edges to prevent moisture from seeping in. This is especially crucial for exterior cladding. 

Allow the sealant to dry as directed by the manufacturer.

Seek professional help when dealing with:

  • Complex designs
  • Large-scale projects
  • Limited DIY experience

Following these steps will help you achieve a professional-looking cladding installation.

 

FAQs About What Is Cladding on a House

  • What Is the Purpose of Cladding on a House?

    Cladding serves multiple purposes, including protecting the structure from the elements, improving thermal insulation, and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of a building. 

    It acts as a shield against rain, wind, and temperature variations, reducing maintenance needs and extending the building's lifespan.

  • What Does Cladding Look Like?

    Cladding can vary widely in appearance depending on the materials used. It can mimic natural materials like wood or stone and is available in a variety of colours and textures. 

    From sleek, modern metal or glass panels to traditional timber-style finishes, cladding can complement any architectural style.

  • What Is the Difference Between Weatherboard and Cladding?

    While weatherboard and cladding are often used interchangeably, there is a subtle difference between the two:  

    Weatherboard is a specific cladding material typically made from timber, vinyl, or fibre cement. It is characterised by its horizontal, overlapping boards that create a classic look.  

    Cladding is a broader term that refers to any type of material used to cover the exterior walls of a building. This can include weatherboards and other materials like brick, stone, metal, or stucco.  

    Therefore, all weatherboards are cladding, but not all cladding is weatherboard.

  • Can Cladding Improve Home Insulation?

    Yes, cladding can significantly enhance a home's insulation by adding an extra layer to the exterior, reducing heat loss. This added layer can help maintain a more constant indoor temperature, ultimately contributing to energy efficiency and lowering heating and cooling costs.

 

Enhance Your Home With Quality Cladding From Amber 

Cladding is more than just a protective layer; it's an opportunity to transform your home's exterior. By selecting the right cladding material and design, you can enhance your home's aesthetic appeal, improve its energy efficiency, and protect it from the elements.

With Amber’s exciting collection of premium cladding, you’re sure to find a cladding solution to match your style, budget, and climate.

Visit your nearest Amber store to see our cladding up close or book a consultation with one of our cladding experts. 

Let’s transform your space together!