Cladding Install: Your Ultimate Aussie Guide for 2024
Thinking about giving your home a facelift? Or maybe you're keen on boosting its street appeal and protecting it from the wild Aussie weather? A professional cladding install could be just the ticket. Whether you're in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, or even Hobart, quality cladding is a smart investment for any property owner.
This guide is your go-to resource for everything cladding install. We'll break down the materials, the process, the perks, and how to find the right tradie for the job. From popular choices like vinyl and Colorbond, to navigating commercial cladding projects, we've got you covered. Our aim is to arm you with the knowledge to make informed decisions and ensure a top-notch cladding installation that lasts for years to come. With Get3Quote you can find local tradies for your job.
What is Cladding and Why Does it Matter in Australia?

In simple terms, cladding is like a skin or layer that's added to the outside of a building's walls. But it's more than just a pretty face. In Australia, cladding is crucial for protecting our homes and businesses from the elements – think scorching sun, bucketing rain, howling winds, and even bushfires in some areas. It also plays a big role in keeping your place comfy by helping to insulate it and lower your energy bills.
Aside from protection, cladding can seriously boost your property's look and value. A well-done cladding install can modernise an older house, add character to a new one, or simply make your place stand out. With so many cladding options available, the design possibilities are endless, so you can create a unique look that suits your style and needs.
The Awesome Benefits of a Professional Cladding Install
Investing in a professional cladding install offers loads of advantages for your home or business:
- Tough as Nails Protection: Quality cladding acts like a shield against moisture, pests, and harsh weather, which means your building's structure will last longer. This is super important in places like Brisbane and the Gold Coast, where the weather can be pretty intense.
- Better Insulation, Lower Bills: Modern cladding systems create a cozy thermal blanket around your building. This helps keep the temperature inside just right, so you don't have to crank up the heating or air conditioning as much. That translates to serious savings on your energy bills.
- Instant Facelift: New cladding can completely transform the look of your property. Whether you go for sleek aluminium, classic timber, or vibrant Colorbond, the right choice can make your home the envy of the street and boost its value.
- Low Maintenance Living: Many modern cladding materials, like vinyl and Colorbond, are designed to be super low maintenance. That means no more weekends spent painting or fixing things – just more time to relax and enjoy your home.
- Boost Your Property Value: A great-looking exterior, thanks to a quality cladding install, can significantly increase your property's market value and make it more attractive to potential buyers.
- Peace and Quiet: Some cladding materials can even help reduce noise from outside, creating a quieter and more peaceful environment inside. This is especially handy if you live in a busy area like Sydney or Melbourne.
Popular Cladding Materials in Australia: Finding Your Perfect Fit

Australia has a huge range of cladding materials to choose from, each with its own unique features and benefits. To help you make the right decision for your cladding install project, here's a rundown of some of the most popular options:
1. Vinyl Cladding
Vinyl cladding has been a popular choice for Aussie homes for ages. It's known for being super durable, low maintenance, and providing great insulation. It never needs painting, resists dents and scratches, and comes in a huge range of colours and styles, some even mimicking the look of timber. It's also a great option for fixing up or replacing old cladding because it's easy to install and won't break the bank. Plenty of homeowners in Brisbane and Adelaide love it because it can handle the coastal conditions like a champ. If you are looking for a Vinyl Cladding Installers you can find it on Get3Quote.
2. Colorbond Wall Cladding
Colorbond steel is an Aussie icon, famous for its strength, durability, and awesome range of colours. Colorbond wall cladding is super versatile and can be used for both homes and businesses. It's incredibly weather-resistant, fire-resistant, and comes with long warranties. Plus, it's lightweight, which makes it easy to install. Many tradies recommend Colorbond because it's tough and gives a sleek, modern look, especially for roofs and walls.You can find Colorbond Wall Cladding Installers on Get3Quote.
3. Aluminium Cladding
Aluminium cladding is often used in fancy commercial and industrial buildings because it looks modern and sophisticated. It's lightweight, doesn't rust, and can be customized to create complex designs and architectural features. It's a great choice if you want a premium, long-lasting finish and often includes features that help save energy.
4. Timber Cladding
If you're after a natural, warm look, timber cladding is a classic choice. It comes in different types of wood and finishes, provides good insulation, and has a timeless appeal. However, it needs more upkeep than synthetic options, like regular staining and sealing, to keep it looking good and protected from the weather. Timber Cladding Installers can be found on Get3Quote.
5. Fibre Cement Cladding
Fibre cement cladding is super tough and versatile. It doesn't rot, burn, or get eaten by pests. It can be made to look like timber, brick, or smooth render, making it a flexible choice for different styles of buildings. It's a solid option for cladding houses because it provides excellent protection and doesn't need as much maintenance as real timber. Get3Quote can help you find the right installer for Fibre Cement Cladding.
6. Other Materials
Other options include stone cladding for a rugged, natural look, brick veneer for a traditional and durable finish, and various composite materials that combine good looks with performance. For inside spaces, acoustic panels are becoming more popular to improve both the design and sound quality. You can find Acoustic Paneling Installers on Get3Quote.
How Much Does Cladding Installation Cost in Australia?

The cost of a cladding install in Australia can vary quite a bit depending on several factors:
- Type of Material: Some materials, like vinyl, are generally more affordable than others, like aluminium or timber.
- Size of the Project: Obviously, the larger the area you need to clad, the higher the overall cost will be.
- Complexity of the Design: Intricate designs and architectural features can add to the installation cost.
- Location: Labour costs can vary depending on where you are in Australia.
As a rough guide, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200 per square metre for cladding installation. To get a more accurate estimate, it's always best to get quotes from a few different tradies in your area. Get3Quote can help you find local tradies and get multiple quotes for your job.
DIY vs. Professional Cladding Install: What's the Best Option?

While some smaller cladding projects might seem tempting to DIY, it's generally best to leave cladding install to the professionals. Here's why:
- Expertise and Experience: Professional installers have the knowledge and experience to ensure the job is done right, from start to finish.
- Proper Installation: Correct installation is crucial for ensuring the cladding performs as it should and protects your property from the elements.
- Warranty: Professional installers often offer warranties on their work, giving you peace of mind.
- Time and Effort: Cladding installation can be time-consuming and physically demanding. Hiring a professional frees you up to focus on other things.
Finding the Right Cladding Installer in Australia
Choosing the right cladding installer is essential for a successful project. Here are some tips to help you find the best tradie for the job:
- Get Multiple Quotes: Compare quotes from at least three different installers to get a good idea of the market rate. Get3Quote makes it easy to get multiple quotes from local tradies.
- Check Their Credentials: Make sure the installer is licensed and insured.
- Read Reviews: Check online reviews and testimonials to get an idea of the installer's reputation.
- Ask for References: Ask the installer for references from previous clients.
- Discuss Your Needs: Make sure the installer understands your needs and can offer solutions that fit your budget and style.
Cladding Install: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here's a general overview of the cladding installation process:
- Preparation: The installer will prepare the walls by cleaning them and making any necessary repairs.
- Installation of Underlayment: An underlayment is installed to provide a moisture barrier and improve insulation.
- Cutting and Fitting: The cladding material is cut to size and fitted to the walls.
- Securing the Cladding: The cladding is secured to the walls using nails, screws, or other fasteners.
- Finishing Touches: The installer will add any necessary trim and sealants to complete the job.
- Question 1: How long does cladding last?
The lifespan of cladding depends on the material used. Most cladding types, such as vinyl, Colorbond, aluminium, and fibre cement, can last 20 years or more with proper maintenance. Timber cladding may require more upkeep to maintain its appearance and durability.
Cladding Maintenance Tips
To keep your cladding looking its best, follow these simple maintenance tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Wash the cladding regularly with a mild detergent and water to remove dirt and grime.
- Inspect for Damage: Check the cladding regularly for any signs of damage, such as cracks or dents.
- Repair Damage Promptly: Repair any damage as soon as possible to prevent further problems.
- Re-seal Joints: Re-seal any joints or seams as needed to maintain a watertight seal.
Cladding install is a fantastic way to improve the look, value, and protection of your property. By following this guide, you'll be well-equipped to make informed decisions and ensure a successful project.
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