Most residents aren’t even aware of the differences between traditional and rainscreen claddings. That’s why picking the suitable home cladding doesn’t seem easy.
But the question is, how does rainscreen cladding compare to the traditional type? Are the differences worth looking at? Today’s article offers insights into these different cladding types, how they perform, and their efficiency level.
Brief Look at The Concept of Cladding
Firstly, what is cladding? Cladding is the outer covering added to a building’s exterior for various purposes, primarily aesthetic and functional. In essence, it’s used to enhance the appearance of buildings and, at the same time, offer valuable protection against external forces.
When deciding what cladding type to adopt, the primary question is, do you opt for the more traditional styles, or do you look for rainscreen cladding? How do you make up your mind?
Overview Of Traditional Cladding
Traditional cladding has been a significant part of architectural finishes for centuries. It has been an integral part of home facades for as long as possible, and there are good reasons why. It’s a basic cladding system, but it does well when protecting buildings from harsh conditions.
It also boosts the appearance of any home, making it a great addition to any construction plan or project. Traditional cladding is mainly made from materials such as wood and brick. Customers looking for a protective barrier for their building exterior can quickly go for conventional cladding.
At the same time, it’s a good choice for complementing the look of any building without breaking the bank. However, when it comes to efficiency, customers should be ready for regular maintenance as these cladding panels need it for a sustained lifecycle.
Maintenance and regular repairs are time-consuming and can cost a lot in the long run. Aside from that, some traditional cladding materials aren’t the best options when considering energy efficiency and the environment. This, itself, is enough to reduce the sustainability of home exteriors.
Overview Of Rainscreen Cladding
Taking it up a notch, a cladding system protects a building’s façade from the full force of the weather. In addition, rainscreen cladding helps improve the thermal performance of any building while complementing its appearance. The major perks of rainscreen cladding are divided into the following:
- Weather Resistance: rainscreen cladding helps keep water out of buildings when it rains. It also keeps the exterior in good shape when decisive winds blow by.
- Fire Resistance: Due to the increased need for homeowners and landlords to adhere to fire safety regulations, rainscreen cladding has been designed with materials that offer fire resistance and prevent damage from such elements.
- Thermal Insulation: Keeping the rain and fire out also helps keep the heat in. Due to its cavity, the cladding can create an air barrier that ensures your home is thermally insulated.
However, there are still drawbacks to rainscreen cladding. It’s not 100% watertight or airtight, so that it won’t keep all the water out. Luckily, it keeps the building safe from dampness and mould by allowing the circulation of air that dries out excess moisture.
Wrapping Up
Various factors influence your decision when picking a cladding type. This article has outlined the vital ones, making it easier to conclude.
