Exterior Cladding

New technologies and materials are changing the face of how our homes look and there are a huge number of alternatives out there. Traditional weatherboard has stood the test of time and now there are new products that mimic the look but increase the durability. Concrete block, whether plastered or left natural, brick (also potentially plastered or ‘bagged’), plywood, panels, glass, even fibreglass have all been used. Waterproofing is a huge concern, but building procedures used in the past for certain products that created problems have largely been addressed and homes being built now use specific techniques to avoid these issues.

• Options for external cladding will play a major role in how your home looks, so investigate widely for cladding you like that fits with the style of home you’re building.
• Is the cladding handled and installed as per manufacturer’s instructions and there are no damaged panels used?
• Are the flashings done correctly and properly waterproofed?
• Are the joins in panels even and level and regular?
• If using flat panels, is there sufficient protection from the rain to ensure weatherproofing?
• Are battens used to aid in drainage for water that gets behind the cladding?
• Is the cladding finished properly and the job looks neat?

Website to visit for more information: