With so many options available for your cladding material, it can be difficult to determine the correct choice for your requirements. If you are looking for an option that is stylish and is made to last, brick slip cladding is our recommendation. In this blog you will learn the different types available, where they can be used and the benefits they provide when cared for correctly.
So, which cladding lasts the longest? Brick slip cladding can essentially last forever with proper care. Requiring little maintenance, this material can be used in both interior and exterior cladding to enhance your home.
Read on to learn why brick slip cladding is the ideal option for your living areas both aesthetically and to save money on bills.
Which Cladding Material Lasts the Longest?
When considering longevity and affordability, the ideal choice is brick slip cladding. Most commonly used in exterior insulation, this long-lasting material is perfect for reducing your energy bills. When sealed correctly, it handles heat very well and minimises water damage and damp so it makes a perfect choice for bathroom walls and floors. Another opportunity to use brick slip cladding is in a patio for your outdoor living area.
Although the price can vary due to the large variety of colours, styles and shapes, it allows for creative freedom in the aesthetic. You can install brick slip cladding to existing brick or clay wall to revamp the look and protect your home against the elements. In your interior living space, create unique feature walls that match the legitimate brick on the exterior. Choosing a lighter coloured brick can help create the illusion of extra light to brighten up a room.
As they can be cut from real bricks, brick slips provide an authentic look tailored to your personal needs. For more information on the different types of brick slip cladding for your home, get in touch with a member of our expert team.
How do you Install Brick Slip Cladding on a Wall?
Once you have decided on the perfect brick slip cladding for your requirements, follow our handy steps to installation:
- Start by planning how you want the cladding to be laid out, including the size and shape. Make sure the wall you are installing on will support the weight of the cladding.
- Starting in the bottom corner of the cladding area, apply a small layer of construction glue to the back of a full brick and press firmly until it is secured to the wall.
- Repeat this process up the wall, alternating between full bricks and half bricks and leaving a ¼ inch gap between each brick.
- Mix mortar and fill in the gaps left between the bricks.
- While the mortar is drying, wipe the cladding clean with a damp cloth or sponge to remove excess mortar.
- Leave the cladding to dry for several days.
What is Cladding?
Both exterior cladding and interior wall cladding can enhance your living space, improve your quality of life and reduce your bills. Below we detail where cladding can be used in your home:
Exterior Cladding
Exterior cladding is the components attached to the primary structure of a building to form external surfaces. The components do not form basic structural elements such as walls, floors or roofs. Exterior cladding covers the structure’s exterior to create a protective layer over the walls or roof against weather conditions.
The materials used in exterior cladding doesn’t have to be waterproof as it directs rain water away from the building. It can also double up as a decorative feature to hide the aesthetically unpleasing materials used in the primary structure.
Exterior cladding does not directly improve structural stability but it does help to transfer wind pressure and protection against impact and snow. Ventilated cavities within exterior cladding eliminate moisture via drainage and evaporation. Other important benefits of exterior cladding include fireproofing, convenient maintenance and reduced exposure to vandalism.
Interior Wall Cladding
The main purpose of Interior wall cladding is to contribute extra protection to the structure of your building, with the added benefit of insulation for warmth. If you have uneven walls or surfaces that don’t match your aesthetic desires, internal wall cladding can cover it up or change the layout.
Adding interior wall cladding is a unique way to transform the look of your internal living spaces. Cladding offers a wide range of different colours, textures and designs available to meet your personal requirements. The size and shape can even be tailor made, fitting to your home. Make sure to choose an aesthetic that you like as removal or replacements can be costly. Another important thing to note is to keep track of the exact materials used in both your exterior and interior cladding, you will need to provide this information should you ever sell your house.
What Other Materials Can be Used for Cladding?
Wood Cladding
Timber is often used for wood cladding due to its naturally attractive appearance. It also offers excellent durability, making it an easy to maintain option for both exterior and interior cladding. However, there are a range of different softwoods and hardwoods available.
Softwood is more affordable than hardwood while still providing the necessary strength to protect your building against natural deterioration. If you are more concerned about aesthetics, hardwood offers a darker colour. We strongly recommend treating your chosen wood to prevent discolouration and extending its lifespan. Expected lifespan:
uPVC Cladding
PVC cladded walls present a low maintenance option for exterior cladding, often only requiring a wipe down to keep clean. You can also purchase specialised products to prolong the need for cleaning often. Good quality uPVC cladding is weather resistant, meaning damage repair or replacements are rare. One thing to consider is that you will have to take protective measures against discolouration such as purchasing uPVC cladding that has been treated,
Tile cladding
Tile cladding is often used for improving the aesthetic of indoor living spaces, including around fireplaces and kitchen cabinets. You can choose from a large variety of shapes, colours and styles to achieve your dream design. Tiles can also be used in exterior cladding to add a unique texture to the building’s look.
Glass cladding
One of the most interesting material options for cladding is glass. Offering a versatile connection to the outside world, glass can let an abundance of natural light into your home, without compromising on strength. The only downside is lack of privacy, but this can be avoided by strategic positioning or simply covering with curtains or blinds.
Metal cladding
Metal cladding can be added to the exterior of buildings to establish a modern artistic style. Like most materials used in exterior cladding metal can rust and become discoloured when not properly treated, however it is often considered the most durable option and requires little maintenance. Metal cladding uses sustainable materials that reduce carbon footprint on the environment.
Stone Cladding
Stone tiles can be used to give the impression of a real stone building. Easy to install and maintain, stone cladding can be a cost effective option that effectively avoids weather damage. This lightweight alternative to traditional stonework doesn’t require the expertise and cost of a stone mason.
Brick Slip Cladding at Kladworx
As the industry rapidly adapts to using A class external finishes, brick slip cladding is becoming the go to material of choice. We can offer technical information on each of our high quality materials and provide advice to suit your individual requirements.
For cladding expertise, get in touch with Kaldworx and we will help you find your ideal option.
