Cladding Types Explained

January 16, 2025

It’s important to understand the different options when you’re thinking about cladding for home or commercial property improvements. Because cladding entails a whole lot more than just aesthetics.

Yes, it looks fantastic. But it also brings durability and weather resistance into the mix, not to mention character to your space. In fact, it can literally transform your home or office, whether you’re going for rustic charm or sleek modernity.

Additionally, there’s costs to consider. And the good news is it’s a budget worthy, low cost option for an exciting, quality product.

Let’s take a look at some of the most popular cladding types and their best uses, so you’re well-equipped to make the best choices with ease.

Why Choose Cladding?

Cladding is a standout choice for both exterior and interior projects. Its natural beauty and longevity make it a firm favourite among homeowners and tradesmen alike. Furthermore, it can last years and withstand tough weather conditions when looked after properly, without losing a bit of its charm.

The main reasons people are drawn to cladding include:

Aesthetic Appeal – Brings warmth and natural character to any design.
Versatility – Suitable for homes, sheds, garages, wo/man caves and commercial spaces.
Cost-Consciousness – Affordable yet premium products to suit all budgets.
Sustainability – Carbon neutrality and environmental friendliness continue to be increasingly influential factors.

In addition, it blends beautifully with natural surroundings. This quality makes it an especially attractive choice for projects that aim to harmonise with the environment.

Plus, there’s the added bonus of its insulating properties, which can help improve energy efficiency.

Common Uses

You might automatically think about cladding on walls. Yet its versatility makes it a go-to choice for a variety of other projects such as:

Furniture – Add texture and warmth to bespoke pieces.
Doors and Windows – Frame your views with durable beauty.
Floors – Create natural transitions indoors.
Sheds and Fences – Protect and lift your outdoor spaces.

How to Choose the Right Cladding

It’s a common sense approach to think about the following factors. They’ll signpost you towards the best type/s of cladding for your job:

Purpose – Is it decorative, structural, or both?
Environment – Will it face harsh weather or high humidity?
Style – What’s the project aesthetic your cladding needs to match in with?

Get clear on functionality first. It forearms you to decide between the different types of cladding available, rather starting from a place of not really knowing what you’re looking for.

Redwood Matchboard

Redwood matchboard has a sleek, polished finish, making it ideal for interior and exterior projects where quality is key. This is because it’s made from kiln-dried European Redwood, renowned for stability and durability.

Features:

Tongue and groove construction for easy installation
Ready for painting, staining, or varnishing
V-jointed finish adds visual appeal

Best Uses:

Interior walls in need of a refined touch
External walls of homes or outbuildings

Log Lap

Log lap blends functionality with rustic charm, with rounded boards mimicking the look of a log cabin. Each board overlaps for a water-resistant seal, and the flat reverse side enables secure fixing.

Features:

Durable and thicker than standard cladding (log lap’s added thickness also boosts its insulating properties, making it a smart choice for projects optimal energy efficiency)
Weather-resistant overlap design
Rustic, log-like appearance

Best Uses:

Garden sheds with cabin vibes
Buildings in rustic or rural settings

Shiplap

Shiplap’s timeless design was originally used in shipbuilding and has a clean, overlapping profile. Its watertight construction makes it a reliable choice for outdoor structures.

Features:

Resilient even in harsh weather conditions
Easy to maintain and install.
Adds character to both contemporary and classic designs.

Best Uses:

Shed exteriors for long-lasting protection
Accent walls or garden buildings

Expert tip: Shiplap’s versatility also extends to interior projects, where it can create cosy, textured feature walls in living rooms, kitchens, and bedrooms.

Feather Edge

Feather edge exudes rustic elegance with its tapered, overlapping boards. Although it complements both modern and traditional styles, making it a highly flexible cladding choice. Additionally, it also provides excellent weather protection.

Features:

Natural rainwater run off prevents water damage
Added insulation for energy efficiency (like log lap)
Sturdy and cost-effective with minimal maintenance

Best Uses:

Traditional homes and outbuildings
Fences and outdoor structures

Black

Black cladding is a bold, cutting-edge choice that makes a real statement, while ranking high on the functionality scale.

Features:

Fire, insect, and fungus-resistant
Available in pre-treated, ready-to-use options
Lustrous, modernistic appeal with a warm timbered finish

Best Uses:

Modern residential facades
Commercial properties looking for standout design

Get Expert Advice

Still unsure which cladding type is right for you? Our team is here to help. With years of experience, we’ll guide you to the perfect solution for your project, whether you’re tackling it yourself or opting for our professional fitting service.

Ready to get started? Contact us today with your questions or enquiries. And get set to supercharge your project with cladding designed to stand the test of time in both style and substance, without blowing your budget.

View our full range of Wall Cladding products

New styles added regularly!

Cladding Types Explained