CLADDING
Cladding is a non-load-bearing layer attached to the
outside of a building. The choice of cladding you choose
will not only aff ect the look of the building, but also its
thermal performance. Your choice of cladding should be
carefully thought through to ensure it is appropriate for
the style of home you build, as well as the location and
orientation of the building. The right cladding can assist
in a home’s thermal performance, whereas the wrong
choice can make your house a hot box in summer and an
ice box in winter!
Choosing environmentally sustainable materials will
go a long way to reduce the overall impact of a building.
These include brick, timber, metal, reconstituted and
composite materials and fi bre cement, which can be
used horizontally, vertically or angled to create unique
patterns. There is a wide range of textures, colours and
styles available, providing enormous design fl exibility.
A carefully considered combination of materials such
as brick and iron, or timber and zinc can provide a more
interesting appearance than using just one material,
however this choice will depend on the architecture of the
building. Sometimes less can certainly be more.
As with all cladding and roofi ng materials, insulation
is critical. Some cladding materials are supplied with
insulation, however the need for more will depend on
your specifi c location and climate. It’s also important to
consider sound transference when selecting cladding.
Unless you have thick masonry walls, sound can
travel through these materials, so always check
performance ratings.
North Cornwall House from Grand
Designs UK Series 14Kinglake Non-Toxic House from
Grand Designs Australia Series SixRusty House from Grand Designs
New Zealand Series Two