External Cladding
PVC external cladding is the perfect alternative to traditional timber cladding. Hard-wearing and long-lasting, PVC cladding helps to protect your home against the elements, whilst also adding an eye-catching and stylish feature.
At Saltire, we offer a wide range of PVC cladding in a variety of different designs and colours. From shiplap and open V joint to woodgrain textured effect, and traditional white and light brown to contemporary anthracite grey and black wood, we’re sure to have a PVC cladding option that suits both you and your home.
Regardless of which design you choose, you will be guaranteed cladding which is weather-proof, easy to maintain, and will not fade or discolour over time.
To see our selection of PVC cladding for yourself, visit your local Saltire branch and talk to one of our friendly team members today.
Cladding FAQs
What are the different types of external UPVC Cladding?
The main types of UPVC cladding are Shiplap, Open V Joint and Featheredge. All types protect your home from the elements and can be used to transform the aesthetics of your property or replace rotting timber boards. The profile of shiplap cladding assists the runoff of water and is often chosen for large projects or where the overlapping design is preferred. Open V joint cladding has a slightly different profile in that it has a distinctive symmetrical V joint giving a contemporary finish while featheredge is designed to mimic the appearance of traditional timber cladding without the maintenance.
What styles of PVC cladding are available?
There are many different designs and a variety of colours on the market. The first option is plain cladding, which often comes in white. If you are looking for a true wood effect, woodgrain textured external cladding is the answer. This realistic-looking PVC alternative to timber is just as attractive as wood but is easier to maintain and longer lasting. The final option is woodgrain external PVC cladding. Although this does not have the textured appearance of a timber board, it emulates wood cladding perfectly. So, whether you live in a country cottage, a 60’s semi or a modern mansion, there is PVC cladding to suit.
How do I install external PVC cladding?
External PVC cladding not only improves the look of your home, but also adds an extra layer of protection against the elements. It is a fantastic alternative to traditional timber - it looks just as good, but it is low maintenance, long-lasting, and you can install it yourself, saving both time and money.
Preparation is paramount - for all installations preparation is key. You will require a sound substrate, good quality battens (suitably treated timber), insulation (if required) and a vapour membrane. If you are replacing existing cladding, you must also remove all old material before starting to install your new cladding. Colour coded - for a safe, successful installation, you must consider the key differences between white and colour/foil cladding, as the installation guidance differs slightly for each.
How do you measure UPVC external cladding?
Basic square areas can be calculated by simply measuring the height and width of the area and multiplying by the following factors depending on the profile chosen:
a.100mm claddings; m² x 2 = number of lengths required to cover that area.
b. 125mm claddings; m² x 1.6 = number of lengths required to cover that area.
c. 150mm claddings; m² x 1.4 = number of lengths required to cover that area.
d. 300mm claddings; m² x 0.7 = number of lengths required to cover that area.
For example, cladding an area of 6m wide x 3m high in 150mm Shiplap = 18m² x 1.4 = 12.6 = 13 x 5m length. If the area includes windows and/or doors or other non-clad areas, these can be calculated in the same way but removed from the overall number of lengths required. These figures do not consider wastage due to cutting to length on site, which is variable, or the use of offcuts and jointing, which may be needed to make a uniform design. A sketch of the area, including non-clad areas, and applying lengths according to the space will allow you to see where the offcuts best fit.
What are the benefits of UPVC cladding?
PVC external cladding is a ‘skin’ for your home. It provides an extra layer of protection to your external walls, helping to increase internal insulation and minimise air leakage, which in turn can improve energy efficiency and running costs. PVC cladding is available in an extensive range of colours – from traditional white and cream to contemporary grey and light blue - and designs, allowing you to add an interesting aesthetic or a new lease of life to your home. Further information about how PVC cladding can help protect your home, the different styles of PVC cladding available – and how to install it – can be found on our blog.