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In Choosing the Right Cladding Material

Cladding is the material placed on top of another to provide a separate layer, either to make a building look more attractive or to keep out the worst of the weather. External cladding is a building’s outer envelope. It can control water run-off and stop water getting into the building.

Cladding is available in various materials, each with different advantages, so the right choice of material is a crucial factor when buying cladding. Whatever material you choose, roof cladding sheets and their fixings must be robust enough to withstand the worst of the British weather.

Steel and other metals are long-lasting, strong and great for keeping wind and rain out, as well as needing no further maintenance or painting once in place, although metal roof cladding should be inspected regularly. This kind of cladding is designed to give many years’ excellent service.

Timber is cost-effective, looks good and performs well in all weathers, as well as being a very sustainable material. It’s also pretty varied, as many different kinds of wood can be used as cladding.

Architects are increasingly experimenting on residential projects with materials which would not normally have been used on non-commercial buildings to create a truly original look.

Polycarbonate, for example, is stronger and lighter than glass, and comes in different colours. Colourless dichroic film can also be used as Cladding, and reflects light in various directions to create an iridescent effect.

Cladding - http://www.decra.co.uk/DecraUK/Technical%20Support/Roofing/Cladding.aspx