Cladding is the process of applying or layering one material over another. When it comes to construction, external cladding provides insulation, protection and weather resistance. Cladding can also improve the appearance of a structure as well as control noise or sound. Cladding can be installed on new or old buildings because it does not affect the structural composition of the construction. Before starting any cladding work on a building, here are a few things you should carefully think about.
The Government Regulations
Before starting any work on a building, there are regulations you should follow as stipulated by the government. The most important consideration is the fire resistance of the cladding material. Because of bushfires, it is crucial to ensure the material used for cladding has a high fire resistance rate. Aluminium, reconstituted timber products, fibre cement and steel have high fire resistance, while timber and plywood sheets have low resistance.
Why External Cladding
Reasons to install external cladding can include beautification, noise reduction, waterproofing and insulation. The cladding material should also serve the intended purpose. If you want to beautify an old building, aluminium cladding will not only improve the general look, but it also has the highest fire-resistance rating. It is durable, low maintenance and has high weather resilience. Metal makes an excellent choice for rain-screen cladding as well. Additionally, it is important to choose a material that is termite resistant and that does not rot, split or crack.
The Cost
The cost of cladding will highly depend on the cladding material. More expensive materials will cost more to install. Also, the cost may depend on the extent of the surface to be covered with the external cladding. It is essential to set up a budget beforehand and to then select the materials without compromising on the quality of the materials and always keeping in mind your preferences.
The Contractor
It is critical to have a professional cladding contractor. This will enable you to choose the right materials and cladding systems for your building. The contractor may also help you clearly understand the available materials and the structure's cladding needs, and they can help ensure all government requirements are in place. Some options, such as hardwood cladding, can be a simple DIY exercise, while complicated work can only be done by a professional. Make sure you check the contractor's work rating and previous cladding projects before giving them the green light to start the project.