Weatherboard cladding is an increasingly popular option for the exteriors of modern homes and commercial properties. Not only does it provide a contemporary aesthetic, it also helps to make buildings more thermally efficient and weather resistant. While timber cladding may be the traditional choice for weatherboarding, fibre cement weatherboards are another option, and they can bring a host of benefits to a project. So, which is better – natural wood or fibre cement?
Is fibre cement cladding any good? Both timber and fibre cement cladding are easy to install – they’re simply nailed or screwed onto an underlying structure, made of timber battens, secured to the backing wall. But, compared to timber, fibre cement weatherboarding offers better performance and easier maintenance. In terms of fire performance, fibre cement weatherboarding can achieve up to a Class A fire rating, meaning it will not ignite when exposed to direct flame or extreme heat. Timber cladding, on the other hand, typically achieves Class B or C fire ratings, depending on the timber treatments used.
Is fibre cement board cladding waterproof? Fibre cement weatherboarding can easily withstand storms and cold weather, while those same conditions can cause wood cladding to rot, swell, or shrink, leading to peeling paint and other potential problems. If moisture does creep into fibre cement weatherboarding, the material is resistant to rot, as opposed to timber, which is likely to degrade over time. Fibre cement is also resistant to insect and rodent attack, unlike wood.
Appearance: what is the best weatherboard? Fibre cement weatherboard is an attractive option for new builds and can also be used in refurbishments, where cladding over pre-existing brickwork can give the property a fresh appearance. For many people, one of the main benefits of weatherboarding is the look of natural woodgrain. It provides a connection with nature that many people find attractive, and research indicates that woodgrain can boost mental wellbeing, increase performance and reduce stress. Natural woodgrain is also associated with quality, such as hardwood floors or antique timber furniture. But you don’t need timber weatherboarding to enjoy the look of natural woodgrain. Fibre cement weatherboarding can be provided with an incredibly realistic timber effect, meaning you can have all the benefits of fibre cement while retaining the visual impact of natural timber. Plus, as already mentioned, it’s much easier to maintain the appearance of fibre cement weatherboarding, as it doesn’t crack or split and doesn’t need to be refinished every few years.
Marley weatherboard The Marley range of fibre cement weatherboarding is available in three colours: white, light grey and slate grey, and is provided with a beautiful woodgrain finish. We also offer a complete range of colour-matched trims and accessories for easy specification. To find out more, please visit our dedicated fibre cement sales weatherboard page. You can also contact our technical team for additional information and project support.