Cladding has become a popular choice in exterior design, offering a stylish, durable, and protective finish to homes and commercial spaces. Whether you're aiming to elevate your aesthetic or safeguard your building from weathering and wear, cladding can be a transformative upgrade.
But before you dive into your project, understanding the process from start to finish is crucial for a seamless and successful installation. In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the essential cladding tips—from sizing up your space and preparing your surfaces to installation, finishing touches, and long-term care.
1. Sizing Up Your Space
Before you even pick up a cladding board, you need to measure your space accurately. This is one of the most important steps and getting it wrong can lead to excess waste or delays due to under-ordering materials.
Key Tips:
- Use a laser level and tape measure for maximum accuracy.
- Measure both the height and width of the walls and account for any features like doors, windows, and sockets.
- Always order an extra 10% of materials to allow for cuts, errors, and future repairs.
- Use a simple sketch to map your space—this helps visualize layout and joint placement.
Having a precise understanding of the area will make every other step easier and more efficient.
2. Preparing the Surface
Cladding requires a clean and stable base to adhere properly, preparation is key.
Things to do before installing cladding:
- Clean the wall surface – remove dust, grease, mould, or loose materials.
- Install timber batten framework for a flat mounting surface.
- Treat exterior walls for moisture and allow drying time before starting.
3. Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Having the right tools on hand will save time and reduce mistakes. Here’s a handy checklist:
Tools:
- Measuring tape & level
- Spirit or laser level
- Circular saw or jigsaw
- Drill & screwdriver
- Safety gear (gloves, goggles, mask)
Materials:
- Cladding panels or boards
- Adhesive (if required)
- Screws or nails
- Battens (for framework)
- Sealant
- Trims and corner pieces
Optional:
- Insulation (if cladding for thermal/sound benefits)
4. Things to Remember When Installing Cladding
Installation is where precision meets patience. Rushing through this stage can result in uneven boards, gaps, or future problems.
Here are the golden rules:
1. Start from the bottom up.
Always install your cladding from the bottom of the wall and work upwards. This ensures each board supports the next and helps maintain level alignment.
2. Use spacers for consistent gaps.
Leave a 5-10mm gap between panels and edges to allow for expansion and contraction, especially with composite boards.
3. Maintain ventilation.
Ensure proper airflow behind the boards to prevent moisture build-up and mould. This may include ventilation gaps or breathable membranes.
4. Check level constantly.
Even a small deviation at the start can snowball into a major problem. Use a spirit or laser level frequently to maintain straight lines.
5. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Each type of cladding—PVC, timber, stone, composite—has its own recommended fixing and spacing requirements.
5. Finishing Touches
Once the boards are installed, it's time to complete your cladding project with the right finishing touches.
Finishing elements to consider:
- Corner trims – For a clean, professional look around edges and joins
- Skirting and top trims – To cover the start and finish points neatly
- Sealing joints – Use waterproof sealant to close gaps
Pro Tip: Don’t skip trim pieces! They’re not just decorative—they protect vulnerable edges from water ingress and wear.
6. Aftercare and Maintenance
Your cladding may look beautiful now, but regular maintenance is essential to keep it that way.
- Inspect annually for signs of damage, mould, or rot.
- Clean using a pressure washer or soft brush and mild soap.
- Check for loose boards or nails and repair promptly to prevent escalation.
Bonus Tip: Take photos after installation and keep spare boards—you’ll thank yourself later if repairs are ever needed.
Cladding may seem like a straightforward way to refresh your space or protect your home—but it’s a project where preparation, precision, and maintenance matter deeply. By following these essential tips, you’ll ensure a beautiful, functional finish that stands the test of time.
Whether you’re installing stylish interior wall panels or durable exterior boards, think of cladding as an investment in the look and longevity of your space. Take your time, use the right tools, and treat it with care—and your cladding will reward you for years to come.