All You Need To Know Cladding Choices

Protect the structure, provide insulation and elevate your home’s exterior with these attractive options

- Jacky Parker

Whether your property is country, coastal or more contemporary, there’s a multitude of attractive, sympathetic cladding styles to suit different budgets and buildings, and enhance a period home.

DO I NEED PERMISSION?

Cladding may fall under ‘permitted development’, provided the materials are similar to those used in the construction, but it depends on the extent of the work. If you live in a terrace or semi-detached house, consider neighbours and check with your local authority. Apply for planning permission if you live in a Conservation Area or an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

WILL IT ADD VALUE?

‘Great design always increases the value of a property,’ says Fanis Anastasiadis, lead architect, Facit Homes. ‘If the material is functional, high quality and adds to the aesthetic, this should increase value and reduce maintenance costs. However, without good design, even expensive materials won’t necessarily raise the value.’

WHAT SHOULD I CONSIDER?

Firstly, is it necessary? The carbon footprint of building materials is receiving more attention, although not currently regulated. Will the cost and carbon contribution outweigh any benefits, such as insulation, lower energy bills and saleability? Also, consider the period of your home, as well as the surrounding architecture, and any maintenance required. ‘Planning policies often dictate the material palette,’ says Fanis Anastasiadis.

WHAT ABOUT MATERIALS?