Cladding Materials That Improve the Value and Appeal of Your Home
Some houses do not have an attractive façade, no matter how grand its architectural features may be. Fortunately, there’s no need to tear down the walls and replace them with something that catches the eye.
Materials such as cladding improve the appearance of any existing structure. And they only need to be attached to the wall surface. It’s not as easy as it sounds, though. First, you have to choose the material.
PVC
You can always go for a budget-friendly option. This requires careful selection, though. While low-cost PVC panels tend to discolour over time, high-end products come in several colours. Moreover, they resist fading for at least two decades.
For Australian houses, a good choice is the Palliside UPVC weatherboard, which insulates against the heat, cold and noise.
Timber
Softwood cladding, including pine and spruce types, are cost-effective. But if you have money to spare, choose high quality timber to get that classic look.
However, you must know one thing about timber weatherboards: They need constant maintenance. Peter Bracey explains that timber cladding for houses use exposed wood, which is prone to cracking, shrinking and rotting.
To minimise damage due to natural elements, you have to spend a lot for sealants or choose the types of hardwood that resist weathering and insect damage. Before getting wooden cladding, enquire about the suitability of timber applications to your local area.
Brick and stone
Another costly, but sensible option is brick cladding, which adds value to a property. It is one of the most versatile and popular cladding materials in Australia.
Stone is another favourite because of its elegance and class. While other materials can be secured in place by amateurs and DIY aficionados, stonework requires professionals handling, especially since its installation may call for the use of special cutting and shaping tools. Stone is the most expensive of all cladding options.
Aside from PVC, hardwood, brick and stone, you may also check stucco, reconstituted timber, fibre cement, plywood sheeting, vinyl and steel cladding. With many cladding options, inspect each type to find what suits your house best.
