Selecting the ideal material for external cladding is a significant decision in the construction of a new build home. Among the myriad options available, Cemintel and Cedar stand out as popular choices at the moment, with a particular trend emerging utilising the contrast of these products against a dark secondary cladding like brick or Stria, each with its distinct advantages. Understanding the differences between these materials is crucial in making an informed decision that aligns with your preferences and requirements for your new home.
Cemintel: A Durable and Versatile Choice
Cemintel cladding, crafted from fiber cement, offers several notable advantages that make it a compelling choice for external cladding.
- Durability and Low Maintenance: Cemintel is exceptionally durable and requires minimal maintenance. It’s resistant to rot, termites, and fire, ensuring a longer lifespan without the need for regular upkeep. Unlike cedar, it doesn’t weather and remains consistent in appearance without the need for sealing, staining or frequent maintenance.
- Versatility in Design: With a wide range of design options, Cemintel can replicate the look of various materials like timber, stone, or other finishes. This versatility allows homeowners and architects to achieve different styles, from modern to traditional, without compromising on durability.
- Weather and Fire Resistance: Cemintel cladding demonstrates excellent resistance to harsh weather conditions and UV exposure, making it a suitable choice for diverse climates. Its remarkable fire resistance is a significant advantage, especially in fire-prone areas or for homeowners seeking heightened fire safety.
- Cost-Effectiveness: In the long run, Cemintel can be more cost-effective due to its low maintenance requirements and prolonged lifespan without the need for regular care. To view the Cemintel Territory Product Brochure click here.
Cedar: Embracing Natural Aesthetics and Sustainability
On the other hand, cedar cladding offers a timeless and natural appeal, along with several unique advantages.
- Natural Aesthetics: Cedar cladding exudes a warm and organic charm with its distinctive grain patterns and warm tones. It adds a classic and elegant look to the exterior of a home, providing a unique visual appeal that some homeowners find irresistible.
- Sustainability: Sourced from responsibly managed forests, cedar is a renewable resource, making it an eco-friendly choice. Its biodegradability and lower carbon footprint compared to some materials contribute to sustainable building practices.
- Natural Insulating Properties: Cedar possesses inherent insulating properties that contribute to the thermal efficiency of a home. This can aid in regulating indoor temperatures and potentially reducing energy consumption.
Stria: Elevating Modern Homes with Style & Substance
Stria cladding is a form of external wall cladding made from high-quality, durable, and weather-resistant materials. Offering the home-owner several distinct advantages over traditional timber cladding options:
- Aesthetic Appeal: Stria cladding enhances a new build home’s appearance with its sleek, contemporary lines. The clean, horizontal or vertical boards add a sense of sophistication and modernity, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a minimalist or architectural style. Available in various colors and finishes, it offers flexibility for homeowners to achieve their desired look, whether it’s bold colors, or muted tones.
- Durability and Weather Resistance: One of the primary advantages of Stria cladding is its exceptional durability and ability to withstand various weather conditions. Engineered to resist moisture, rot, and termites, this cladding material ensures the longevity of the home’s exterior.
- Low Maintenance: New build homeowners often seek materials that not only look good but also demand minimal upkeep. Stria cladding fits the bill perfectly. Its low maintenance requirements save both time and money in the long run.
- Thermal Efficiency: Apart from its visual and protective qualities, Stria cladding also contributes to a home’s thermal performance. When properly installed with insulation, it can enhance the overall energy efficiency of the building. By helping regulate temperature, it can reduce heating and cooling costs, providing a comfortable living environment while being environmentally friendly.
- Versatility in Design: One of the key benefits of Stria cladding is its versatility. It suits various architectural styles, from contemporary to traditional. Whether used as the primary cladding material or combined with other facade materials, it can create striking visual contrasts, adding depth and character to the building’s exterior. To view the Stria Cladding Product Brochure click here
Brick: Embracing Brick Cladding for New Build Homes
- Tradition Meets Modernity: Brick cladding, a revered choice for centuries, seamlessly blends traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. It lends an air of timelessness to a new build, preserving a sense of history and solidity while also adapting to modern architectural styles. From rustic to sleek and industrial designs, brick cladding accommodates various aesthetics, making it a versatile choice for homeowners seeking enduring elegance.
- Unmatched Durability: Brick, recognized for its exceptional durability, stands as a testament to resilience in the face of weather, time, and wear. Its robust nature provides a formidable shield against the elements, ensuring longevity and low maintenance. With its ability to withstand extreme temperatures, resist fire, and require minimal upkeep, brick cladding offers homeowners peace of mind and cost-efficiency over the years.
- Thermal Performance: An outstanding feature of brick cladding is its thermal efficiency. With its natural insulation properties, bricks help regulate indoor temperatures, keeping homes cool in summer and warm in winter. This characteristic reduces reliance on heating and cooling systems, thereby contributing to energy savings and a more environmentally sustainable living environment.
- Design Flexibility: Brick cladding presents a myriad of design possibilities. The variety of brick types, colors, textures, and patterns allows homeowners to create distinct facades, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the home. From traditional red bricks to modern, sleek designs, the versatility of brick cladding enables it to adapt to a range of architectural styles, ensuring a unique look for every new build.
- Sustainable Choice: Beyond its durability, bricks are an eco-friendly choice. Made from natural materials, they are recyclable, non-toxic, and contribute to healthier indoor air quality. With their extended lifespan, bricks reduce the need for replacement or extensive maintenance, making them a sustainable choice for environmentally conscious homeowners.
Considerations for Choosing the Right Cladding
Several factors are essential to consider when choosing your new home cladding:
- Aesthetic Preference
- Maintenance
- Climate and Environment
- Cost Consideration
Consulting with a professional architect or builder, like DW Homes, is highly recommended to ensure the selected cladding aligns with the design, functionality, and overall vision of the new build home. We can provide insights on the best material based on the property’s specific requirements, local building codes, and long-term implications.
The choice between cladding options for a new build home depends on a combination of personal preferences, budget constraints, durability, maintenance, and the desired aesthetic. Careful consideration of these factors, alongside expert advice, will guide homeowners toward selecting the most suitable cladding material to achieve their dream home’s exterior look and functionality.
