Ultimate Guide to Exterior Cladding

With regards to aesthetics and keeping the building structure in its best & pristine condition, Exterior Cladding is considered to be one of the most crucial components. Whether it is an external wall, roof, or any other part of a property, cladding helps in optimizing the overall structure in terms of design and increases its worth as an asset.

This blog will be useful for readers looking for more information about cladding systems such as in which materials they are available, their advantages, how they require maintenance, and how they need to be installed

What Is Exterior Cladding?

Exterior cladding is a type of finishing that is done on the most exposed parts of a building. The covering unit protects the building against rain, wind, sun, and varying temperatures, and provides the opportunity to enhance the look of the building. Beyond its functional role, cladding enhances the insulation, energy usage, and structural strength of a building.

Types of Exterior Cladding Materials

When determining the type of cladding material to use, factors such as budget, the climatic condition of the area, architectural preference or style, and other personal factors may be considered. Let’s take a closer look at the options at our disposal:

• Brick Cladding

Brick as Exterior Cladding material stands the test of time considering its strength, fire resistance, and classic finish. It provides good thermal insulation and requires less maintenance. Although bricks are quite rough around the edges, some thin modern bricks are now used as a part of modern designed houses.

• Wood Cladding

Wood cladding is one of the most popular options as it provides warmth and beauty to a building. Some of the common types of wood used are cedar, redwood, and pine. On the other hand, consistent upkeep in the form of staining and sealing is essential to protect wooden combines against rot, insect harm, and color fading.

• Metal Cladding

Aluminum, Steel, and Zinc materials are used in metal cladding which adds value as a modern industrial appeal. Metal cladding is lightweight, highly durable, and highly resistant to fire and pests. Metal cladding uses pre-finished panels which enhances speed during the installation of construction which is also a cost-reducing measure.

• Stone Cladding

Stone cladding, which can be either natural or artificial, is arguably the most regal and strong of all materials. It is very strong and also has good resistance against weather extremes and can blend into modern or historical designs.

• Fiber Cement Cladding

Fiber Cement consists of Cement, Fine Sand and Plant, and Cellulose Fibers. It is a great substitute for wood as it has relatively the same appearance with added strength, fire, pest, and moisture resistance properties, and most importantly low maintenance. In comparison to wood, it also does not require as much upkeep.

• Glass Cladding

Glass cladding is often seen in Skyscrapers, Commercial Buildings, and many other modern-day designs. Compared to other Exterior Cladding materials, glass is the most popular cladding option when it comes to modern-day architecture. Not only does it provide a mirror-like coating, but it also warms the interior by letting sunlight in.

• Composite Panels

Composite panels are made with a combination of several components like Aluminium, Plastic, or Wood Fibers. The mixtures of various material gives durability, and light weight to Cladding designs.

• Concrete Cladding

Concrete Cladding is an ideal choice for homeowners going for a contemporary & minimalist look. It is very sturdy, has a high fire resistance rating, and is an excellent insulator. The use of precast Concrete Panels makes the entire process of installing it cheaper and less time-consuming.

Benefits of Exterior Cladding

Apart from improving the quality and structure of the building, other Exterior Cladding benefits include:

1. Protection Against Weather

Weather often acts as a contributing factor in depleting the structure of the building. Exterior Cladding in this case shields the building against rain, wind, UV rays, and extreme temperatures which otherwise could have caused great stress to the structure of the property.

2. Improved Insulation

Materials like Fiber Cement and Insulated Panels are designed and engineered with specific properties that aid in thermal and acoustic insulation making for a more efficient building in terms of energy use and operating costs.

3. Aesthetic Appeal

A building cladded is an eye-catching building! Exterior Cladding gives a building a completely different identity, with beauty and grace

4. Durability and Longevity

Having to switch cladding materials is a costly affair, which is why investing in high-grade ones is paramount as they make the buildings long-lasting. They reduce the chances of external damage, rotting, and decaying.

5. Minimal Care Requirement

Vinyl and Metal are examples of contemporary Exterior Cladding materials that saves the property owners time and money.

Installation Process for Exterior Cladding

For exterior cladding to perform optimally and last its intended life, an installation procedure has to be followed. While the specifics vary depending on the material, there is a basic selection of the installation procedure:

• Inspection and Preparation

1. Examine the surface of the building perimeter walls for any defects.
2. Surface cleaning is required before attempting to attach the insulation material.

• Installing a Weather Barrier

1. A moisture-resistant layer, typically house wrap, should be applied that will aid in keeping the structure from coming into contact with moisture.

• Setting the Framework

1. To provide a cladding attachment base, install battens, furring strips, sheet metal or another framework.

• Secure the External Cladding

1. Fitting cladding panels or sheets onto the framework using screws or mechanical fastening, nails or adhesives.

• The Final Touch

1. Seal the seams so that water does not pass through the joints and edges.
2. If required, apply paint or a stain to the cladding.

Maintaining Exterior Cladding

To make sure you enjoy the look and avoid cladding replacement you can do the following maintenance practices:

Regular Cleaning

• Dirt, debris, and even mold can be removed with the use of a soft brush or even pressure washing.

Inspect for Damage

• Look for cracks, looseness of panels, or any wear and tear. Attack the problems as they arise.

Protective Coatings

• Reapplying paint, sealant, or stain is required for other materials such as wood or metal even reapplying is needed to continue providing protection.

Inspect Seals and Joints

• Check seals and joints to make sure there is no water or heat loss.

One of the most important components of any building is Exterior Cladding which combines design and function. By choosing the right material and ensuring proper installation and maintenance, property owners can enhance the durability, energy efficiency, and visual appeal of their structures.

There are so many options available when it comes to Exterior Claddings, you may choose stone for a Classic look, Metal for a sleek modern feel, or WPC panels for a more cost-effective solution. We encourage you to visit Ventura’s Architectural Experience Center to find the right Exterior Cladding for your building.

Manish Maheshwari

Position: Founder – Ventura International Pvt Ltd.

Education: IIT Roorkee (B.E. – Mechanical Engineering) and IIM Lucknow (Marketing & Finance)

Manish Maheshwari, the visionary Co-founder of Ventura International. With a background in Engineering from IIT Roorkee and an MBA from IIM Lucknow, his expertise spans across Finance, Economics, and Strategy. At the helm of Ventura’s vision, Manish leads the charge in planning and executing strategies for growth and innovation. His unwavering passion ensures that Ventura sets the bar high, always striving for unparalleled excellence.