What is Cladding in Construction?

What Exactly is Cladding?

Cladding refers to any material that is added to the exterior of a building to protect the underlying structure from the elements while providing aesthetic appeal. It’s essentially a protective layer that’s non-structural, meaning it doesn’t support the building, but significantly contributes to its longevity and energy efficiency. The cladding system itself could include things like an environmentally exposed outer layer, insulation, cavity barriers and many other components.

Is Cladding Dangerous?

Cladding isn’t inherently dangerous, but depending on the type used it could pose a potential fire risk. Cladding made from panels fixed to the framework of a building – and that use combustible materials in their design – do potentially pose a fire risk. So, the question of whether cladding is dangerous depends on the materials used and the implementation methods.

Some materials can pose fire risks if not properly installed or if they fail to meet safety standards. However, with proper selection and adherence to building codes, cladding can be made safely integral to modern construction. It’s equally important to keep cladding in good condition, so building fabric maintenance can help ensure cladding is kept safe at all times.

What is the Purpose of Cladding?

Cladding serves several important functions in building construction that make it useful across many different projects. There are three main areas where cladding can provide benefits to buildings, which are:

• Enhancing Aesthetic Appeal: Cladding offers a significant transformation in the external look of a building, providing architects and designers with numerous style, texture and colour options.
• Providing Insulation: Cladding is also a useful form of insulation, helping maintain internal temperatures which reduces energy costs and promotes sustainability in construction.
• Protecting Against Weather Elements: Cladding materials protect the building’s structure from weather damage including rain, snow, heat, and wind, thus prolonging the building’s life.

Most Common Types of Cladding

The choice of cladding material for a building can depend on several factors such as aesthetic preference, the surrounding climate and environment, budget costs, and its intended use. The most common types of cladding used include:

Stone Cladding

Stone cladding offers a natural appearance and substantial durability. It is frequently used for both interior and exterior walls, giving a classic, rugged beauty that also helps in insulation. Stone is highly durable but can be more expensive and heavier, which may influence structural considerations.

Brick Cladding

Brick cladding is favoured for its traditional aesthetic and its ability to blend into various designs from rustic to contemporary. It is exceptionally durable, low maintenance, and provides excellent thermal mass, keeping buildings cool in summer and warm in winter.

Metal Cladding

Metal cladding is made from various metals including aluminium, steel, and copper. It is chosen for its modern look, lightweight properties, and high durability. It’s often used in commercial buildings and is appreciated for its easy installation and minimal maintenance needs.

Timber Cladding

Timber cladding is prized for its natural beauty and the warmth it adds to buildings. It is sustainable and carbon-efficient but requires regular maintenance to protect against weather and decay. Timber cladding is versatile and can be used in both traditional and modern architectural designs.

Glass and Composite Materials

Innovations in glass cladding allow for energy-efficient and visually appealing exteriors that maximise natural light. Composite materials, such as fibre cement, offer high durability and resistance to decay, pests, and fire. They are increasingly popular due to their ability to mimic other materials like wood and stone but with less maintenance and often at a lower cost.

Cladding Regulations in the UK

Following major events such as the Grenfell Tower fire, the UK has tightened regulations regarding building cladding by implementing the Building Safety Act 2022. These tragedies highlighted the dangers of combustible cladding materials on high-rise buildings, leading to rigorous assessment and replacement of unsafe cladding across the country. The latest regulations are strict with a clear focus on fire safety, requiring materials to meet specific safety standards to be approved for use on buildings.