How To Install Cladding
Across the UK, cladding is gaining popularity on the front of commercial and residential homes. The design options allow property owners to enhance the kerb appeal while providing protection against the weather. And to top it off, it is easy to put up. This means a frequently asked question centres around how to install cladding.
Cladding installation is easy, but you need to follow a process to make sure it is done correctly so that it will stand the test of time and offer all the benefits that made you choose it in the first place.
At The Gutter & Cladding Company, we have been fitting cladding to residential homes for over 20 years, working with a number of cladding suppliers to offer a comprehensive selection of options that means you will find one that perfectly suits your home. However, while working with several suppliers, we can guarantee one thing - the installation doesn't differ.
In this blog, we share a step-by-step guide to installing cladding to a property.
Tools and Materials Needed for Cladding Installation
Before jumping into the step-by-step on how to install cladding, you need to make sure you have all the tools and materials for the process.
You will need:
- Cladding boards or panels
- Fixing systems such as clips, screws, nails, or adhesive, depending on the system you are using
- Insulation boards (if applicable)
- Measuring tape
- Spirit level
- Saw
When you are choosing your cladding boards or panels, it is important that you opt for high-quality materials. This will ensure longevity, durability and aesthetics, meaning your work will last rather than need to be re-done in a few year's time.
We recommend brands such as:
How to Install Cladding
There are several steps that need to be taken when installing cladding. Each one is as important as the other, so you will need to follow the stages to ensure you don't miss anything.
Step 1 - Planning and Preparations
Planning is key to every project, especially your outdoor cladding installation.
In this stage, you will need to:
- Assess the property - inspect the exterior surface where you will be working to check it is structurally sound and free from damage.
- Measure the surface - accurately measure the area you will be cladding, and work out how much cladding you will need. It is always a good idea to add 10% to account for waste and cuts.
- Choose a cladding option - complete research and select a cladding option that provides the features you are looking for and matches the aesthetic style you envision.
Step 2: Gather Tools
Gather all the tools you will need for the work.
You can use the above as a checklist to make sure you have everything you need.
Step 3: Prepare the Wall Surface
Before you begin placing and fitting the cladding panels on the wall, you need to make sure the wall is prepared.
This includes:
- Clean the wall - remove dirt, debris, old paint, pebbledash or rendering to ensure a smooth surface.
- Install a weatherproof membrane - attach a breathable waterproof membrane to protect the wall from moisture. Ensure the membrane is secure and overlaps to prevent gaps.
Step 4: Install Battens
Now, it is time to start working out where the battens will go to start putting the panels in place.
This requires careful attention as you will need to make sure the markings are accurate and evenly spaced for a successful installation.
This step involves:
- Mark the batten positions - mark horizontal or vertical batten positions using a spirit level. You need to ensure that the battens are evenly spaced. Typically, they should be 400mm–600mm apart.
- Attach the battens - once you know where they are going, you can start putting the battens in place. While you are doing this, you should check the alignment regularly.
Step 5: Fit the Starter Trim or Base Profile
With the battens in place, it is time to move on to actually fitting the panels.
The first step in this process is to start with a "starter trim" or "base profile". This is placed on the bottom row, which you will use as a guide when installing the first row of the panels.
Putting this in place is vital as it ensures a straight, even finish and protects the edges.
Step 6: Install the Cladding Boards
Of course, you want to take care when installing your cladding so that it sits straight and in line.
To achieve this, you should follow these tips:
- Start at the bottom - working from the bottom up ensures the first row is straight, which you can use as a guide as you work your way up.
- Fix the boards securely - attach the boards to the battens using screws or nails, leaving a small expansion gap between each board. Follow the manufacturer's guidance on fixings.
- Overlap or interlock - If you are using an interlocking system or click and tongue system, make sure they are fit snugly to prevent water ingress in the future.
Step 7: Trim and Cut for Openings
Of course, you are likely to be working around windows and some doors, so once they are in place, you will need to cut the cladding panels down to work around the openings.
To do this, you should:
- Measure and cut cladding carefully to fit around windows, doors, and other openings. Use trim pieces for a neat finish.
- Install corner trims or profiles to ensure a professional, weatherproof finish at external corners.
Step 8: Finish and Seal
With all the cladding in place and trimmed down to size, you can finish and seal it.
You will need to:
- Check for gaps - inspect the space for gaps or unevenness and make any adjustments that are needed.
- Apply sealant - add a weatherproof sealant to fill gaps or joints in line with recommendations from the cladding supplier.
- Clean the surfaces - give the cladding panels a wipe down to remove any dirt and debris that has settled while you have been working.
Why Choose The Gutter and Cladding Company for Your Cladding Needs?
As you can see, installing cladding isn't overly tricky. However, it can be time-consuming and requires a high level of attention to detail.
Therefore, in some cases, it might be easier to employ professional cladding installers, such as the team at The Gutter & Cladding Company.
Our cladding services are tailored to meet your needs and house, so you can rely on us to pick up any part of the installation you need us to. Whether you need guidance on the best cladding option for you, or you already have the materials and just need help getting it on the exterior wall, we can help.
Having been offering the service for over 20 years, we have gained a reputation for quality, reliability and excellent customer service. Take a read of our testimonials to see what previous customers have said.
Book your cladding installation with our team today by calling us on 01202 470044 or completing our online contact form.