HOME TRUTHS: WALL CLADDING OR RENDERING?
Rendering and cladding are two different types of external home improvements that can both look great and improve your home’s kerb appeal. Both of these exterior improvements are becoming increasingly popular all over the UK. Cladding is much more common in modern times as it has a contemporary feel to it, whereas rendering is much more traditional.
Each of the two types come with their own uses and benefits. They can make a huge difference to the structure, appearance, and value of your home. If you’re considering updating the exterior of your home, you may be wondering which option is best for you. Below, property and construction expert, Gregory Smith at PriceYourJob.co.uk takes a look at the advantages of each to help you decide.
What is Wall Cladding?
PVC cladding has quickly become a favourite amongst homeowners in comparison to rendering. While both methods are designed to improve the appearance of your home, cladding has many additional benefits.
Cladding is an insulator and can protect your walls against a number of things, such as weather, noise and fire. It comes in a wide range of colours, materials, and styles and creates a much more durable exterior for your property. So cladding can improve the appearance of your home, but it can also help to make your building last longer.
Most cladding boards are very durable, and you can expect them to last for around 50 years or more. This means that you can save a lot of money in the long run as you won’t need to worry about continuously updating the cladding or having the boards replaced.
What is Rendering?
Rendering is a type of external wall covering applied to a property’s walls by a qualified plasterer or rendering specialist. People who specialise in rendering are well-trained, as it takes a certain level of skills and knowledge to carry out the work effectively.
Rendering involves applying a layer of cement mix, sand, lime and waterproofing solution to the outside of your property. It is then finished off with a layer of specific paint to help seal it and keep it protected. The sand used for rendering tends to be more coarse than the usual sand used for things such as bricklaying.
Depending on the quality of the work and the condition of your walls, most modern renders can last for many years. However, the overall appearance of the render can quickly deteriorate due to a build-up of algae and mould. With this in mind, it’s important to have your rendered walls professionally cleaned regularly. Rendering can, unfortunately, start to look quite tired and dirty after a few years, so it’s important to keep it well maintained and keep on top of the painting and resealing it as needed.
What Are The Benefits of Wall Cladding?
There are many benefits of cladding, including the following:
- Easy to maintain and clean
- It is known to increase the strength of the building
- Protects the home against the elements
- New roofing/cladding combinations can be very aesthetically pleasing
- Makes the home more resistant to cracks due to temperature or climate changes
- Protects the home from damage due to sunlight, water damage and pollution
- Lasts for longer than renderings
- Provides great levels of insulation
- Available in a range of materials and styles
What Are The Benefits of Rendering?
There are many benefits to rendering, including the following:
- Protects the external walls from the elements
- Protects the external walls from sun damage and pollution
- Strengthens the external walls
- It can look great when well-maintained
- Adds value to the home
Final Thoughts
As you can see, there are many benefits to each of these types of exterior home improvements. Wall cladding is much more common in modern times. Rendering is more commonly seen on traditional homes. While both can add value to the home, cladding can last for an extremely long time, so it may be the best option in terms of investment. However, both types offer a different aesthetic appeal, so consider your preferences and review the benefits listed above when making your decision between wall cladding and rendering.