Regarding your home or office building’s exterior walls, composite cladding can transform your space in one afternoon. You can create an architectural element of personality, make your space visually appealing, and add value to it. It is a cost-effective way to transform your property’s facade and improve curb appeal instantly.
Besides curb appeal, there are several advantages of installing composite cladding to your exterior walls. Continue reading to learn how much more you get when you choose composite cladding.
The Advantages of Composite Cladding
Composite cladding is made from recycled materials like reclaimed wood fibre and plastic. It is a synthetic alternative to traditional wood cladding that is far more durable and long-lasting. Timber cladding, on the other hand, is prone to moisture damage and decay and requires regular maintenance to ensure its durability.
During the manufacturing process, composite cladding boards are sealed with permeable polymer casing for additional protection from moisture and weathering. [1] Composite cladding boards come with a weathering warranty, like our Ecoscape Forma Composite cladding boards.
Durability
Composite cladding is engineered to be sturdy, resilient to weather elements, and designed to last for a long time. The average life expectancy of composite cladding is twenty-five years. Unlike wood cladding, which requires routine staining, oiling, and sealing to preserve its longevity, installing composite cladding does not erode under extreme weather conditions.
The most appealing aspect of composite cladding is that you get the real wood finish without the hassle that comes with timber cladding. Composite cladding does not erode or become damaged easily under adverse weather conditions.
Easy to Install
Composite siding can be installed over brick, concrete, or other cladding materials, making it convenient and easy to install for both commercial and residential applications. Assembly is easy and can be accomplished using hidden fasteners.
Composite cladding has a relatively simple installation process and is secured with special aluminium clips that accommodate the expansion and contraction of the fairing. Clips attach to joists or battens made of pressure-treated wood, aluminium, or plastic.
Easy to Clean
Composite cladding is popular because it is low maintenance. Even if your composite cladding is caked in dust and debris, a simple solution of warm soapy water is all it takes to restore it. This will make it look brand new again.
One key aspect of composite cladding requiring less upkeep is that you do not have to spend a dime on products to seal, paint, or stain the cladding materials to protect it. Composite cladding needs a deep cleaning at least twice a year using the warm soapy water method or a pressure washer to remove any dirt and debris.
UV Stable
Composite cladding boards are UV resistant protecting them from extreme heat temperatures. Composite cladding expands and contracts to accommodate the weather; however, it will retain its shape. With UV-resistant cladding, you do not have to worry about any discolouration or fading.
The Forma composite cladding range is coated with a durable HDPE wrap that makes the cladding resistant to colour fading.
Offers Insulation
Composite wall cladding also has the added advantage of insulating your building. The insulation properties of the cladding effectively reduce your energy bills due to excellent heat retention. This makes your building and home more energy efficient when properly insulated. An added perk of insulation is that composite cladding reduces noise levels.
Eco-friendly
Composite cladding is made out of recycled materials, making it an environmentally-friendly choice. Composite cladding is also sustainable since it uses less energy during manufacturing, and there is no need to cut, transport and rework composite cladding.
A sustainable feature is that composite cladding effectively reduces carbon dioxide emissions. Most manufacturers of cars, planes, and construction are looking for composite materials to help with decarbonisation in the fight against the climate crisis.
Water-Resistant
Composite cladding is impervious to water, essentially making it water-resistant. Traditional timber cladding absorbs moisture which causes the wood to swell and expand. When moisture is absorbed, it dries out the timber cladding boards resulting in cladding splitting and cracking.
Wood cladding is prone to fungal issues like mould and mildew when consistently exposed to moisture and condensation. Ecoscape’s composite cladding is weatherproof and UV stable and has a waterproof outer layer to ensure that no moisture or water is absorbed.
Cleaning mildew and mould from composite decking and cladding since it only sits on the surface. With wood cladding, you would need to treat the timber cladding to prevent the spread and absorption of fungal diseases.
Stain-Resistant
High-quality composite decking and cladding are stain-resistant, and it does not absorb liquids or oils and grease from food debris. A simple wipe with warm soapy water and a soft-bristle brush will remove any stubborn spot stains on the cladding’s surface layer caused by dirt and debris.
Insect-Resistant
Timber and wood panels are susceptible to insect infestation and wood rot, and Termites can burrow into the wood cladding, jeopardizing the structure’s structural integrity. Rest assured that insect infestation is not realistic with composite cladding material.
Versatile and Aesthetically Pleasing
Composite cladding materials come in various colours and textures, allowing property owners to find the most appropriate option for their homes. Not to mention, improving the attractiveness and curb appeal of your home can increase the value of your property.
Composite Cladding Commercial Applications
Composite cladding is available in residential and commercial spaces. The benefits of composite cladding in commercial buildings are pretty on par with residential buildings.
For businesses, thermal insulation can reduce overhead costs, and help save on the overall energy bills.
Additionally, composite materials help maintain air ventilation within the building. The cladding acts as a weatherproof skin that provides heat retention and acoustic insulation.
Design Ideas For Composite Cladding
With the range of benefits installing cladding has to offer, the design and aesthetics should be worth considering. With a wide range of colours and textures to choose from, composite cladding is a popular choice with many architects and homeowners.
Choosing a design with the right colour and texture can boost the value of your home and improve your home’s appearance.
Match Up your Home and Garage
Exterior composite wall cladding can be used in various ways. Consider installing composite cladding to your garage or garden building for a cohesive look. Elevate the look with the installation of composite fencing.
Architects have given composite cladding a new lease on life when mixing colours and cutting composite cladding boards into geometric shapes. There is no limit to the design you want.
Hide Unsightly Walls
While painting is a quick and easy way to hide unsightly walls, composite cladding completely conceals them. Cladding can also be added to unsightly garden sheds and granny flats to hide any fading colours or defective wall surfaces.
Be Bold
Consider using composite cladding as a feature wall. Modern composite cladding feature walls can also improve and enhance the interior design of your home. There is no limitation to the design and look you can achieve by using composite cladding indoors.
FAQS
Why is cladding so important?
Composite materials and composite cladding is engineered to be durable and act as a protective cover for exterior walls. It also helps with thermal insulation, effectively providing heat retention.
What are the limitations of cladding?
The initial upfront costs are the only drawback; however, composite cladding is low maintenance and long-lasting, plus adds value to your property, thus, eventually paying for itself in the long run.
What is the most energy-efficient cladding?
Composite cladding is the most energy efficient and has thermal insulation properties that save money.
Can you fit composite cladding vertically?
It is entirely up to the customer’s personal preferences and tastes whether to install composite wall cladding vertically or horizontally. Neither installation method offers any additional benefits.
Final Thoughts
Installing cladding to your home is a quick and cost-effective way to give your home a facelift. Not everyone has the same taste when installing composite cladding, whether at home or in business. Some enjoy moody, darker colours, others prefer natural light, and others like two-toned ones.
Now you know what makes composite cladding such a great choice for your home, why not check out our range? No matter your preference, there is a style and colour to suit your aesthetic at Ecoscape – order your free samples today and find out which style matches your home best!
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