Evaluating external cladding options: balancing durability and sustainability

External cladding is essential for protecting buildings from environmental factors. With a variety of materials available, choosing the right cladding can be complex. This blog evaluates different cladding materials, including composite, fibre cement, hardwood, softwood, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), thermowood, and innovative solutions like MEDITE TRIMAX, based on the durability and sustainability criteria.

Durability

Durability is a crucial aspect of cladding, as it ensures long-term protection against weather, UV exposure. Durable cladding materials help maintain a building’s aesthetic appeal, reducing maintenance needs and extending the lifespan of the exterior.

Fibre cement cladding: Highly durable, fibre cement can last up to 50 years with proper installation and maintenance. It is resistant to rot, pests, and harsh weather conditions, making it ideal for northern climates.

Hardwood cladding: Offers a natural lifespan of up to 40 years untreated, though the durability varies by species. Typically, no manufacturer guarantee is provided, but treatment can enhance its longevity.

Softwood cladding: Naturally less durable, with a lifespan of 5 to 7 years. Options, such as Western Red Cedar[GC1] , can extend its lifespan but require more maintenance.

Thermowood cladding: Offers Class 2 durability due to thermal modification, enhancing resistance to decay and insects. However, it can be brittle compared to other options.

Composite cladding: Combines wood fibres and recycled plastics, providing resistance to rot and insects, typically backed by a 10-year guarantee.

PVC cladding: Durable against rot, mould, and weathering, with warranties ranging from 5 to 20 years, depending on the manufacturer.

MEDITE TRIMAX: An innovative product made from acetylated wood fibre (MEDITE TRICOYA EXTREME[YT2] ), offering Class 1 durability, and a 50-year guarantee on the base panel. It is highly resistant to environmental factors, making it an excellent choice for long-term applications.

Sustainability

Sustainability is a vital consideration in selecting cladding materials, influencing both environmental impact and long-term building performance.

Fibre cement cladding: Utilises recycled materials, while its production water is also recycled. Its long lifespan reduces the need for replacements, enhancing sustainability.

Hardwood and softwood cladding: Can be sourced sustainably, but the sustainability factor decreases if treatments are applied. Western Red Cedar, for instance, is natural durable [GC3] without chemical treatments.

Composite cladding: Made from recycled materials, including plastics, it supports sustainability but can have a higher delivery carbon footprint.

PVC cladding: Recyclable but less sustainable due to an energy-intensive production process and the use of harmful chemicals.

MEDITE TRIMAX: Made from wood sourced from the FSC-certified forests, it uses fast-growing trees that sequester carbon.

Selecting the right external cladding material involves balancing multiple factors, with durability and sustainability being crucial. In part two of this blog series, we’ll explore how different cladding options perform in terms of installation, maintenance, and fire rating.

For more information on innovative cladding solutions and to purchase MEDITE TRIMAX, click here