Choosing the right roof cladding can make a huge difference to the appearance of your home. There are a variety of types of cladding, including fibre cement, metal, and rainscreen. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to consider them carefully before making your decision.
Metal roof cladding
Using metal roof cladding is a great way to increase the protection of your home. Aside from that, it will increase the aesthetic appeal of your property.
This type of cladding is available in various metals, including aluminum, zinc, and copper. Each of these materials has its own benefits and shortcomings.
Aluminum is one of the lighter materials and is easier to machine. However, it is susceptible to denting when branches fall on it.
Copper is a great choice for architectural metal cladding because of its rust-resistant qualities. Copper is also durable, meaning it will last a long time.
Steel is another popular choice for metal roofing. Steel is not only durable, but also affordable. It is also one of the most recyclable materials.
Zincalume is another metal roof cladding material. This sheet has a luminous glow and is a great choice for architectural metal tinkering.
Metal roof cladding is also a great choice for commercial and industrial roofing. Metal roof cladding is easy to install and allows for long wall elevations.
Using metal cladding is also easy to transport. This is especially useful if your roof is sloped. Metal cladding is easy to install on sloped roofs without reinforcement.
Metal cladding is also easy to clean. This is because it is non-porous. However, metal cladding can suffer from sealant erosion without maintenance.
Fibre cement cladding
During the construction of buildings, fibre cement roof cladding is often used in conjunction with other materials. Fiber cement roofing sheets are an excellent choice for those looking for a long-term investment. They can last for decades without any maintenance. They are also eco-friendly.
Fibre cement roof cladding provides excellent levels of acoustic insulation. It also reduces the amount of condensation on the roof.
In addition to its excellent acoustic insulation properties, fibre cement roof cladding is highly resistant to weather conditions and fire. It also has a low thermal conductivity.
These roof cladding sheets are also durable, strong, and rust-free. They are suitable for any type of structure, including small residential buildings.
Depending on the manufacturer, fibre cement roof cladding may include corrugated profiles that improve its impact resistance. Alternatively, it may have a simple, single skin construction.
Fibre cement roof cladding is highly suited for agricultural buildings. It improves the flow of clean air and creates a comfortable environment for livestock. Most agricultural buildings take animal welfare into account.
Fibre cement roofing products are asbestos-free replacements for asbestos-based roofing. They continue to be widely used in North America and other parts of the world.
Depending on the manufacturer, fibre-cement boards pass through a curing stage within 6–8 hours. The boards are manufactured using an autoclave and pressure. This manufacturing process ensures that the boards have high mechanical strength.
Rainscreen cladding
Whether you’re building a new house or renovating your old one, you should consider installing a rainscreen cladding for your roof. In addition to providing acoustic insulation, it helps reduce noise and improves thermal insulation. This is particularly useful for buildings in areas with heavy rainfall.
The best rainscreen cladding systems use high quality materials to complete your project. These include an insulation layer, a waterproofing layer and an air barrier layer. The insulation layer provides superior thermal performance and minimizes thermal bridges. It also helps reduce environmental pollution.
The waterproofing layer is a vital element of timber rainscreen cladding. It must be a material that is backed up by a warranty that is applicable to the design life of the project. It should be compatible with all roofing membranes and provide non-penetrative fixings.
The ventilation of a rainscreen cladding is essential for optimal performance. This air cavity drives excess moisture out of the structure. It also prevents condensation. In addition, the “chimney effect” allows the interior temperature to remain stable during the winter. It also helps prevent overheating in the summer.
The installation of a rainscreen cladding is easy. It requires the removal of existing cladding and a clean bearing wall. Once the new outer wall is attached, a small gap is created between the layers.