Composite cladding is highly weather-resistant and designed to withstand rain, wind, sunlight and changing temperatures throughout the year.
Its combination of wood fibres and plastic polymers provides greater resistance to moisture-related deterioration than untreated timber, while capped composite cladding has an additional protective outer layer.
However, no cladding material is completely unaffected by the weather. Its performance depends on the board’s construction, correct installation and the conditions it is exposed to.
So, how does composite cladding perform in different weather conditions?
How Resistant is Composite Cladding To The Weather?
Composite cladding is designed to resist the effects of everyday weather exposure, including rainfall, strong sunlight and seasonal temperature changes.
Wood-plastic composite materials combine wood fibres with plastic polymers, helping reduce moisture absorption compared with untreated timber.
Capped composite cladding has an additional protective polymer layer that improves resistance to moisture, staining and UV exposure.
However, the level of protection depends on the particular product, and composite cladding should not be confused with a complete waterproofing system. The underlying wall still requires suitable weather protection.
Correct installation, including appropriate ventilation, drainage and fixing methods, is important for long-term performance.
Below, we’ll look at how composite cladding responds to different weather conditions.
Rain
Composite cladding is highly resistant to rain and moisture, particularly when using capped boards with a protective polymer outer layer.
Unlike untreated timber, composite cladding absorbs relatively little moisture, helping reduce the risk of swelling, decay and moisture-related distortion.
However, the boards themselves should not be relied upon to waterproof the building. A properly designed wall assembly, including appropriate weather protection, drainage and ventilation, remains essential.
Wind
Composite cladding can provide good resistance to wind when installed using the correct fixing system and appropriate structural support.
The ability to withstand strong winds depends on the particular cladding system, fixing method, supporting structure and exposure of the building.
Ecoscape’s cladding systems have undergone technical testing, although the relevant performance ratings and installation requirements should always be checked for the specific product.
Correct installation is particularly important on exposed buildings or in locations regularly affected by strong winds.
For more detailed fitting guidance, see our composite cladding installation guide.
Heat
Composite cladding is designed for outdoor exposure, including warm weather and direct sunlight.
However, like other composite materials, it expands as temperatures increase and contracts as they fall. Sufficient expansion gaps are therefore important to prevent restricted movement from causing distortion.
Capped composite cladding also offers improved resistance to UV exposure, helping reduce changes in appearance caused by prolonged sunlight.
For further information, read our guide to composite cladding expansion and contraction.
Ice & Frost
Composite cladding is designed to withstand cold weather, including frost and freezing temperatures.
Because composite materials absorb less moisture than untreated timber, they are generally less susceptible to moisture-related deterioration during repeated freezing and thawing.
However, performance depends on the board’s composition, protective layer and installation.
Appropriate drainage and ventilation remain important to prevent moisture accumulating behind the cladding.
Composite boards can also contract during colder weather, so the manufacturer’s expansion-gap requirements should always be followed.
Is Composite Cladding Suitable for Coastal Properties?
Yes, composite cladding can be suitable for coastal properties because its combination of wood fibres and plastic polymers provides good resistance to moisture and weathering.
However, buildings near the sea face additional environmental challenges, including salt-laden air, strong winds and increased exposure to driving rain.
When using composite cladding in coastal locations, consider:
- Salt exposure: Composite boards resist moisture-related deterioration, but salt deposits may accumulate on their surfaces and require occasional cleaning.
- Strong winds: The cladding system, fixings and supporting structure must be suitable for the property’s wind exposure.
- Corrosion resistance: Metal fixings and accessories should be specified for the coastal environment.
- Cleaning: Periodically removing salt deposits and airborne debris helps maintain the cladding’s appearance.
Always check the manufacturer’s technical specifications and installation requirements before using a particular cladding system in an exposed coastal location.
FAQs
Here is some further note-worthy information regarding composite cladding boards and why they are a better option compared to timber cladding or wood cladding.
Does composite cladding fade in colour?
Composite cladding can experience some colour change after prolonged exposure to sunlight, although capped composite boards have an additional protective layer designed to improve UV resistance.
The amount of colour change depends on the product and environmental conditions.
For a fuller explanation of fading and long-term appearance, see our guide to how long composite cladding lasts.
My composite cladding is showing watermarks; what should I do?
Composite cladding is highly water-resistant, but watermarks can sometimes appear after heavy rain. They’re usually caused by tannins, natural compounds in the wood fibres, being drawn to the surface, especially if the boards were fitted during a long dry spell.
This mainly affects first-generation (uncapped) composite cladding, where the wood fibres are exposed. Ecoscape doesn’t supply first-generation cladding: all of our cladding, including Forma Panel, Forma Slatted and Forma Click for Grad®, is capped and co-extruded, with a protective outer layer over the core, which greatly reduces the risk.
If tannin marks do appear, they usually fade naturally over a few months of normal weathering and won’t leave a permanent stain.
Final Thoughts
Composite cladding is designed to withstand a wide range of weather conditions, including rain, wind, sunlight and frost.
Its moisture resistance and protective construction make it a durable alternative to traditional timber cladding.
However, long-term weather resistance depends on choosing a suitable cladding system and following the manufacturer’s installation requirements.
With appropriate installation and maintenance, composite cladding can provide reliable outdoor performance for many years.
