The composite slatted cladding option is the best way to give your home a sophisticated and unique exterior design. Made from an exclusive capped composite that is eco-sensitive, the slatted panels mimic the appearance of separate timber slats. They are very easy to fix and need minimal care.
In this article, we’ll discuss composite slatted cladding and how to select composite cladding boards in Canada.
What is Composite Slatted Cladding?
Composite slatted cladding is an advanced construction material prepared from wood fibers and recycled plastic. The main feature of this material is that it is designed to provide the look of natural wood but has better durability and low maintenance frequency.
This cladding option is usually characterized by slatted profiles that can be laid in various directions, providing the architects and designers with astonishing façade and interior designs. This composite cladding offers a sustainable and aesthetically pleasing solution for modern construction.
Types of Composite Slatted Cladding
Here, we explore the various types of composite slatted cladding available:
Wood Polymer Composites (WPC)
Of all the types of composite slatted cladding, WPC, or wood polymer composite, is one of the most often used.
WPC slatted cladding is produced by mixing wood fibers or flour with plasticizers, usually polyethylene or polypropylene. This combination creates an outward appearance of wooden material with the ruggedness and capacity to withstand diverse harsh weather within rooms, termites, and mold.
Aluminum Composite Panels (ACP)
Aluminum composite material comprises two thin aluminum faces with a non-aluminum core in the middle. This light but tough material cannot be molded into different shapes and surfaces.
ACM panels have a respectable modern look and resist environmental conditions.
Aluminum composite cladding is one type that has been praised for durability. It can be profiled to mimic the texture of wood or stone, among other materials.
Vinyl Cladding
Vinyl composite slatted cladding, commonly called wicker, is made from polyvinyl chloride material model PVC, which is easy to handle and fix. Vinyl cladding can be designed to resemble timber since it is on the exterior. This makes both aspects appealing, considering it does not fade, peel, or crack easily.
Fiber Cement Cladding
It consists mainly of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. Fiber cement does not burn, making it ideal for building structures in regions prone to wildfires.
Composite Slatted Cladding Applications
· Exterior Facades for Residential and Commercial Buildings
Composite slatted cladding is used regularly in building envelopes. It enhances a structure’s modern design while protecting it from sun, water, and temperature.
The features that give it slatted construction also make it easy to ventilate so that moisture does not accumulate on the building, reducing its lifespan.
· Garden Walls, Fencing, and Privacy Screens
In landscaping, composite cladding boards are used to construct fences, privacy panels, and sometimes gazebos. The material provides a good appearance and improves surface color best for natural working conditions.
It is resistant to rotting and pests, making it a superior natural alternative to wood for fences and partitions that require shade and good air circulation.
· Outdoor Living Spaces and Decking
Composite slatted cladding is commonly used to construct outdoor structures, including pergolas, gazebos, and patio wall walls.
Decks are used for casing railing, screening, and periphery or hue divider. They are highly weather-resistant and, therefore, ideal for exterior applications.
Interior Feature Walls and Decorative Accents
In the interior, composite slatted cladding is often used to differentiate interiors using feature walls and ornaments.
Combined with its smooth, slatted look, it lends a touch of texture and comfort when used to furnish living rooms, lobby, conference, and retail areas.
Shadow gap wall cladding, also used as interior wall cladding, brings warmth, texture, and modern loggia to living spaces, offices, lobbies, and many others.
Ceiling Applications for Acoustic and Aesthetic Value
Composite cladding boards are becoming a popular ceiling application, even in private spaces such as hotels, restaurants, and business houses. The material may alter the acoustics to reduce the noise likely to be produced in any given area. It also provides elegance to higher ceiling heights, which make it suitable for modern and industrial designs.
Composite Cladding Boards Pros
- Weather Resistance: It is recommended for exterior cladding because it is resistant to ultraviolet radiation, moisture, and temperature changes.
- Low Maintenance: It is resistant to rot and insects and needs much less maintenance than ordinary wood, making it suitable for places with heavy traffic and low-maintenance construction.
- Sustainability: The product is made using recyclable material, which makes it eco-friendly.
- Versatility: Composite cladding boards come in various colors, textures, and thicknesses and can be manufactured according to the building’s architectural or design.
- Ease of Installation: Slats and panels can be specially fabricated before being fixed into place, so installation is easy and not time-consuming. Hence, labor costs are incurred less.
Cons
Although composite slatted cladding is hardwearing, easy to maintain, and available in different colors, it has flaws.
Traditional wood may be cheaper than post-consumer reclaimed wood in terms of material and installation price.
In the long run, it may peel off or even change color due to constant exposure to sunlight.
Although it resembles natural wood, composite cladding is criticized for lacking the texture and feeling homeowners want for their houses.
Buy the Best Composite Cladding Boards in Canada
When buying composite cladding boards in Canada, there are some factors to consider, including:
- The quality of the material used.
- The durability of the boards and designs to be used.
- The supplier’s market reputation.
Wiedehopf can also be considered one of the best choices for those ready to pay much more for top-quality architectural cladding in Canada.
We provide incredible-quality custom products with an elegant artificial look, aesthetic, and sustainability. Our cladding products are preferable for residences and various commercial works, as they include extra options such as fire performance and durability in different climate conditions, including Canadian weather.
