What are the Different Types of Cladding Products?

There are many different types of cladding products available from cladding suppliers and companies. Typically, cladding products consist of cladding material; this can include wood, metal, unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (UPVC), stone, concrete, and possibly other materials, depending on the design of the building. Usually, cladding companies will carry most of the aforementioned materials, but depending on inventory and availability, some materials may be more available than others. Such a variance in availability can also effect the price of cladding products.

One of the most frequently used cladding products is UPVC cladding. Also referred to as vinyl siding, UPVC is one of the most common and low-cost cladding products, and it can also be pre-colored to avoid having to paint it. Along with this, UPVC is incredibly weather resistant, and its lack of grain or pores means that it can resist water and moisture far more effectively than wood. Due to this and its aesthetic similarity, it is a common alternative to wood cladding.

Despite the popularity of UPVC, wood is still used. There are many different types of wood available, each of which requiring its own specific maintenance and upkeep. Woods such as cedar and larch are commonly used, as they do not require pre-treating or much upkeep. Cladding companies that supply wood siding will often allow for pre-treated or stained options, with either option having sealed ends. This not only increases the appearance of the wood, but it can also help protect it from harmful elements, such as rainwater and moisture.

Stone is also a common cladding product, often chosen for its incredible durability and aesthetic quality. It is, however, one of the more expensive cladding products, with stones such as marble being very expensive to purchase and install. Stone cladding can also be purchased through masonry suppliers, which in some cases can be less expensive than buying directly from a cladding supplier. Stone is commonly chosen for both homes and buildings, as it creates a unique look that is also incredibly durable.

Concrete is another cladding option with a durability very similar to that of stone. The difference is that concrete is far less expensive than stone, and it is also more aesthetically versatile since it can be molded into nearly any shape or pattern. Concrete also has a long lifespan, and if cured properly, it needs almost no maintenance.

Another cladding product is metal, which is usually found in either industrial facilities or structures located near the ocean. Iron cladding is a popular choice for industrial buildings, as it is very strong and durable. The only downside to iron cladding is rust, but this is preventable by using galvanized steel instead. Homes and buildings located close to the ocean will sometimes use aluminum cladding, as it is both durable and corrosion-resistant.