Question 1

What is cladding?

Accepted Answer

Cladding is the application of one material (typically timber, metal, vinyl, stone, or composite panels) over another to create a protective, insulated, and aesthetically pleasing exterior skin on a residential or commercial structure. This layer significantly enhances the structure’s aesthetics and weather resistance.

External cladding Cairns doesn’t have any structural functionality. Instead, the main structure supports the cladding by providing a stable framework and transferring its loads safely to the structure’s foundation. Cladding by itself is usually non-load bearing, meaning it doesn’t stabilise the building but is latched onto the structural frame.

The types of cladding include:

Timber cladding: This natural wood version creates a warm, natural aesthetic.
Composite cladding: Made of wood fibres and recycled plastics, this alternative resembles natural wood and offers enhanced durability and lower maintenance.
Metal cladding: The strength, durability, and weather resistance of metal cladding (which is usually made of aluminium, steel, zinc, or copper) appeal to many homeowners.
Vinyl (PVC) cladding: This cladding’s polyvinyl chloride plastic material contributes to its lightweight, affordable, and low-maintenance features.
Fibre cement cladding: This version combines cement, sand, and cellulose fibres to create a fire-, rot-, and pet-resistant exterior skin for houses and commercial structures.
Brick or stone cladding: Brick or stone cladding provides a timeless appearance and strong durability.
Stone veneer cladding: This cladding’s thin stone or engineered stone panels resemble natural stone with less weight and easier assembly.
Glass cladding: Many modern commercial buildings install glass cladding to create an elegant, modern aesthetic that maximises natural light and enhances energ efficiency.

As an experienced and trusted exterior cladding Cairns provider, we do not recommend aluminium composite panels (ACP) and expanded polystyrene (EPS). Their combustible composition can spread fires quickly. EPS cladding’s poor structural integrity, susceptibility to moulding, and high environmental impact make it an inferior choice.

Instead, choose non-combustible cladding, such as mineral wood panels, fibre cement boards, or aluminium steel cladding panels, to enhance safety and experience long-term peace of mind.

Question 2

Can you clad over brick?

Accepted Answer

Cladding over brick is a simple, proven strategy for fixing diminished facades and restoring their aesthetic appeal. Not only that, but it also provides homeowners and employees with effective thermal insulation and comfortable, consistent indoor temperatures.

This option also prevents expensive demolition costs and facilitates efficient renovation while staying within budget.

Question 3

What is Hebel cladding?

Accepted Answer

Hebel is a premium, block- or panel-shaped Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) construction material that significantly strengthens the exteriors of residential and commercial structures. Hebel cladding's fire- and pet-resistant nature makes it ideal for many homes, offices, and various businesses in Cairns, QLD, and surrounding areas.

Question 4

What is EPS cladding?

Accepted Answer

Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is a combustible cladding material that accelerates the spread of fire. Extreme weather conditions also increase the risk of shrinking, melting, or igniting.

Many manufacturers use EPS cladding to reinforce homes and businesses with EPS cladding due to its low cost and lightweight construction. They apply render (a finish commonly applied to brick, concrete, or AAC surfaces) to EPS cladding.

Nowadays, cladding trends have shifted toward more durable, fire-resistant versions than the EPS version. Many Australian homeowners and businesses have used mineral wood panels, fibre cement boards, or aluminium steel cladding panels to significantly enhance their safety.

Question 5

Can I paint cladding?

Accepted Answer

You can spray, brush, or roll paint on cladding. It's important to note that the appropriate painting technique depends on the cladding material: brushing is often recommended by cladding professionals for smaller areas; rolling is recommended by experienced cladding suppliers to achieve a sleek, consistent finish in bigger residential or commercial areas; and spraying is ideal for smooth, consistent finishes on large or textured surfaces, though it should be avoided when windy outdoor conditions can cause overspray, or when small areas require accurate touch-ups, where a brush may be more appropriate.

Question 6

Can I paint vinyl cladding?

Accepted Answer

We recommend painting a primer layer before applying the desired colour on vinyl cladding because its smooth properties can compromise paint adhesion. Vinyl can also expand in fluctuating temperatures; that's why a high-quality plastic or multi-primer improves the paint's flexibility and prevents cracking or peeling. We recommend using a roller to apply the primer and achieve a smooth, consistent finish.

Question 7

What is shiplap cladding?

Accepted Answer

Shiplap cladding is a type of exterior skin made from wooden boards designed with special overlapping edges so they fit seamlessly and create a weather-resistant surface. It's often used for homes, sheds, outbuildings, and coastal or weather-exposed areas.

Question 8

What is timber cladding?

Accepted Answer

Timber cladding Cairns is a type of external skin made of wood, enhancing a structure’s aesthetics, weather resistance, and energy efficiency. Manufacturers source this cladding from either natural timber (cedar, oak, pine, or hardwood) or engineered timber. Installers often leave a cavity between the cladding and the main wall to eliminate moisture that permeates the structure through the boards.

Whether installing timber decking horizontally, vertically, or tongue-and-groove style, it delivers a high return on investment.

Question 9

Can I install cladding over weatherboards?

Accepted Answer

Cladding over weatherboards is a wise, long-term financial strategy because it significantly enhances a home’s aesthetics, durability, and property value. This strategy provides an additional protective layer over weatherboards, protecting them from rain, wind, and harsh sunlight. Cladding minimises the risks of moisture damage, rot, and pest infestation in older timber boards, delivering long-term peace of mind.

A professional installer must analyse the condition of the weatherboards and ensure they’re durable to ensure a seamless assembly, maintain structural integrity, and prevent moisture accumulation.

Question 10

Can I drill external cladding?

Accepted Answer

Drilling external cladding is a typical technique for installing lights, house numbers, or similar applications. We recommend hiring a professional contractor to ensure proper drilling techniques, structural integrity, safety, and optimal, long-term results.

Question 11

Can I paint aluminium cladding?

Accepted Answer

Aluminium cladding's hard surface can be challenging to paint. However, you can apply a water-based, anti-rust paint formulated for metal cladding surfaces, creating a durable moisture barrier and preventing corrosion over time. A well-painted metal cladding offers several benefits, including protection, as painting aluminium cladding prevents corrosion, UV deterioration, and weathering, extending the material's lifespan, and practicality, as well-painted metal cladding is a cost-effective alternative to pricier, brand-new versions, saving time and money. As a trusted cladding supplier in Cairns, we recommend using a water-based, anti-rust paint specifically formulated for metal cladding surfaces, protecting the structure from moisture and corrosion in the long run.

Question 12

Can I paint cedar cladding?

Accepted Answer

Painting cedar cladding offers several unique advantages, including enhanced protection from weathering, reduced maintenance, improved aesthetic appeal, upgraded pest protection, and long-term durability.

Question 13

Can I paint fibre cement cladding?

Accepted Answer

It's possible to paint fibre cement cladding. However, we recommend cleaning, sanding down, and evaluating the material before proceeding. Painting fibre cement cladding with a paintbrush, a roller, or a paint sprayer ensures optimal, long-term results. Brushes work well for corners and trims at the top and bottom areas.

Question 14

Does cladding enhance insulation?

Accepted Answer

Although cladding's primary goal is to protect homes, offices, and businesses from moisture and harsh weather, it can enhance sound and heat insulation. The cladding creates a protective outer layer, slowing heat loss in winter and reducing heat gain in summer. This external skin also prevents heat from escaping through timber studs or metal framing, ensuring comfortable indoor temperatures year-round. On the other hand, house cladding Cairns enhances sound insulation by reducing the transmission of noise into a structure. For instance, thicker cladding panels (timber, composite, or fibre cement) absorb and block sound waves, significantly reducing noise entering the premises. Installing premium cladding improves both heat and sound insulation, creating a comfortable, cosy indoor environment.

Question 15

What distance do you recommend between battens for cladding?

Accepted Answer

As a reputable cladding contractor, we strongly recommend 600 mm gaps between battens. However, you can improvise depending on the board depth and project location. If you're unsure about your options, consult an experienced contractor who can offer valuable insights and guidance.

Question 16

How do builders install cladding on structures?

Accepted Answer

Builders install cladding on residential and commercial structures in Cairns following a simple, four-step process: surface preparation, where contractors thoroughly sanitise and clear the surface to ensure proper adhesion and prevent long-term damage, with irregular surfaces sometimes requiring levelling to facilitate a seamless installation; framework assembly, an optional step depending on the preferred cladding type, for example aluminium cladding requires a durable framework that allows it to endure extreme climates such as windy conditions or torrential rainfall; panel assembly, where builders attach the panels to the structure using nails, screws, or clips, installing them from the bottom to the top to facilitate efficient drainage and levelling; and sealing and finishing, where contractors apply a sealant to the panel edges to prevent moisture accumulation and achieve a sleek, water-resistant surface.

Question 17

How long does timber cladding last?

Accepted Answer

The lifespan of timber cladding often depends on the client’s preferred material. Hardwood versions, such as oak, cedar, or spotted gum, last the longest (25 to 60 years). On the other hand, engineered or laminated timber cladding can last 20 to 40 years, depending on exposure.

Softwood versions usually last 15 to 25 years and require frequent sealing, staining, or painting to protect against rot, pests, and weathering.

Question 18

How long does cladding installation take?

Accepted Answer

Professional builders usually require two to five days to install cladding. The project timeline depends on several factors, including the work's scope and magnitude, sloping blocks, and the structure's size.

Question 19

Can you clad over asbestos?

Accepted Answer

Cladding over asbestos is feasible. However, installers must do this carefully to prevent shifting the material.

Australian laws strictly monitor asbestos handling, so consulting a licenced professional helps prevent safety hazards, ensure long-term compliance, and deliver long-term peace of mind.

Question 20

Is cladding on houses safe?

Accepted Answer

Nowadays, manufacturers create residential safe, durable, long-lasting, and weather-resistant cladding, so it’s safe to install them.

Cladding for homes can protect your family from extreme weather, improve indoor temperatures and comfort, reduce maintenance, and enhance long-term property value, transforming your home into a wise, long-term investment.

Question 21

Can you clad over existing cladding?

Accepted Answer

Cladding over existing cladding is possible. However, this strategy depends on the condition of the older material.

A stable and durable existing cladding allows proper installation of a new one. On the other hand, a professional contractor may need to remove damaged or dilapidated old cladding to ensure a seamless assembly.

Question 22

Can you clad over fibro in QLD?

Accepted Answer

In Queensland, cladding over fibro depends on construction standards, safety, and materials. The state building rules require that external cladding materials meet the National Construction Code (NCC) standards. Combustible cladding materials are restricted or banned on some structure types under the Queensland Development Code rules.

If the fibro contains asbestos, a professional will inspect it and confirm compliance with the NOC. He will also check for structural integrity and code compliance and suggest the appropriate fixing strategies.

Question 23

Can you clad over render?

Accepted Answer

You can clad over render provided that the latter is stable and damage-free. A professional contractor may suggest installing a batten system, which serves as a sturdy framework and a seamless cladding assembly.

Question 24

How long does composite cladding last?

Accepted Answer

Durable, premium composite cladding Cairns often lasts up to 20 years. It can withstand warping, rotting, and pests, making it an ideal, long-lasting, and low-maintenance option for homes or businesses in Australia.

Question 25

How much does it cost to clad a house?

Accepted Answer

The cost of residential cladding depends on the preferred material, property size, and ease of installation.

Cladding prices in Australia usually range from $70 to $250 per square metre. We recommend consulting a reputable and experienced cladding contractor who can recommend the best cladding material, texture, and colour that fits your budget and aligns with your long-term preferences.

Categories

Origin Blackbutt Composite Castellated Cladding Boards 5.4mx219mmx26mm

Semi-Outdoor PVC Castellated Cladding Blackbutt

Semi-Outdoor PVC Castellated Cladding Walnut

Semi-Outdoor PVC Castellated Cladding White Woodgrain

Semi-Outdoor PVC Cladding Blackbutt

Semi-Outdoor PVC Cladding Walnut

Semi-Outdoor PVC Cladding White Woodgrain

4m Teak Noir Exterior Castellated Cladding

4m Oak Noir Exterior Castellated Cladding

4m Super White Noir Exterior Castellated Cladding

Exterior Castellated Cladding Warm Scandinavian Birch

Exterior Castellated Cladding Helena River Jarrah

Exterior Castellated Cladding Stone Harbour Grey

Exterior Castellated Cladding Charcoal Black

Exterior Castellated Cladding Hobart Forest Oak

Exterior Castellated Cladding Hamptons White

Exterior Castellated Cladding Antique Grey

Exterior Castellated Cladding North Queensland Merbau

Exterior Castellated Cladding Super White

Exterior Castellated Cladding Burma Valley Teak

Grey Oak Feature Interior Cladding on Acoustic Panelling 2.7mx600mm veneer finish

American Oak Feature Interior Cladding on White Acoustic Panelling 2.7mx600mm Melamine paper finish

Black Ash Feature Interior Cladding on White Acoustic Panelling 2.7mx600mm Melamine paper finish

Bleached Oak Feature Interior Cladding on Acoustic Panelling 2.7mx600mm Melamine paper finish

Cherry Feature Interior Cladding on Acoustic Panelling 2.7mx600mm Melamine paper finish

Dark Oak Feature Interior Cladding on White Acoustic Panelling 2.7mx600mm Melamine paper finish

Dark Oak Feature Interior Cladding on Acoustic Panelling 2.7mx600mm Melamine paper finish

American Oak Feature Interior Cladding on Acoustic Panelling 2.7mx600mm Melamine paper finish

Black Ash Feature Interior Cladding on Acoustic Panelling 2.7mx600mm veneer finish

Light Ash Feature Interior Cladding on Acoustic Panelling 2.7mx600mm veneer finish

Light Oak Feature Interior Cladding on Acoustic Panelling 2.7mx600mm veneer finish

Rosewood Feature Interior Cladding on Acoustic Panelling 2.7mx600mm veneer finish

End Battens Matching for Acoustic Panels

4mx50mmx50mm Screening Battens

120×60 Decorative Composite Handrail

Interior Blackbutt Castellated Cladding for Walls or Ceilings pvc

Frequently Asked Questions