Choosing the Right Exterior Cladding: A Guide to your New Home🏡
Choosing the best cladding for your home in New Zealand is crucial, given the country's diverse climate and environmental factors. When it comes to balancing aesthetics, durability, and performance, there are a lot of exterior cladding options to consider. This might leave you overwhelmed and wondering: What is the best cladding to use for my home in New Zealand?
With so many options out there, we at Nest Build can help answer all the hard questions when it comes to choosing the right exterior cladding for your home.
Timber Weatherboard:
One of the top contenders is weatherboard cladding, which remains a popular choice across New Zealand. Its versatility, classic charm, and ability to withstand the country's varying weather conditions make it a reliable option. Typically made from timber, weatherboard cladding offers a natural look that complements both traditional and modern architectural styles. It provides good insulation properties, helping to regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy costs. However, it requires regular maintenance, including painting or staining, to protect it from moisture and decay.
Fibre Cement Weatherboard:
Alternatively, fibre cement cladding has gained traction in recent years due to its durability and low maintenance requirements. Made from a mixture of cement, cellulose fibers, and other additives, fibre cement cladding offers excellent resistance to rot, fire, and pests. It comes in various textures and finishes, allowing homeowners to achieve the desired aesthetic without compromising on performance. While initially more expensive than timber, its longevity and minimal upkeep make it a cost-effective choice in the long run.
Metal Sheets:
For those seeking a contemporary look with eco-friendly benefits, consider using metal cladding such as zinc or steel. These materials offer exceptional durability and require little maintenance. Zinc, in particular, develops a natural patina over time, giving your home a unique character while offering robust protection against the elements. Steel cladding comes in a range of profiles and colors, providing endless design possibilities. Both materials are lightweight yet strong, making installation easier and reducing structural strain.
Standard Brick
Another option worth considering is brick cladding, known for its timeless appeal and longevity. While initially more expensive than other options, brick cladding offers superior thermal mass, helping to regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy consumption. It requires minimal maintenance and is highly resistant to fire, pests, and rot. Additionally, brick cladding provides excellent noise insulation, creating a quieter and more comfortable living environment.
Ultimately, the best cladding for your home depends on various factors, including your budget, design preferences, and local climate conditions. It's essential to weigh the pros and cons of each option carefully before making a decision. Additionally, to gain more valuable insights tailored answers to specific needs, feel free to reach out to our team here.
We suggest employing a method of elimination when selecting your wall cladding. Begin by gathering images of homes that appeal to you and take note of the types of cladding they utilize (often, there will be more than one, so make note of all). Once you've identified the types of cladding you prefer, delve deeper into the options available within those categories – examining shapes, forms, styles, and colors. Request samples of your top five choices to experience the tactile and visual differences firsthand. Consult the manufacturer's color charts to ensure the availability of your desired color.
Keep in mind – the cladding of your home constitutes the most visible exterior surface. Choose thoughtfully, as it will serve as a prominent feature each time you arrive home.
Additionally, if you seek further information on building your home, budgeting, and the optimal process to follow, feel free to reach out to the Nest Build team!
