Kyle enlightens us on various cladding materials, their strengths, and potential pitfalls.
Understanding the Diverse Cladding Types:
From traditional weatherboards and native timber cladding to more modern variations like PVC and fiber cement, each material has unique characteristics that impact a property’s durability and visual appeal.
The Honesty of Weatherboards:
Weatherboard, a favorite in New Zealand, are celebrated for their transparency. Buyers can readily assess the condition of weatherboards, making it easier to identify any issues. However, beware of imposters like weather side cladding, which could pose potential problems like swelling when exposed to water. These are fairly rare now.
PVC Cladding a quiet achiever:
While PVC cladding offers an attractive and cost-effective solution, it has generated mixed opinions. Kyle points out that some modern PVC products due to low costs can effectively be masking existing cladding issues. This makes it essential to engage a professional building inspector to ensure a thorough examination. However this building material can be quite low maintenance with regular washes replacing the need for repainting.
Unraveling the Challenge of Identifying Issues:
Plaster cladding obviously one to watch for depending on age. Between 1990 to 2004 many leaking plaster buildings were produced. Due to the design which lacked a gap for water to escape coupled at times with non treated timber framing.
Unlike weatherboard, plaster cladding does not offer visible signs of damage, requiring moisture meter testing or thermal imagery for a comprehensive inspection. Unforeseen problems may arise when renovations or touch-ups cover underlying issues.
The Advantages of Robust Cladding:
Both Hamish and Kyle agree that traditional materials like weatherboards and bricks have the advantage of robustness. Their transparency and ability to withstand the test of time make them a preferred choice for many buyers, providing a clearer understanding of a property’s condition.
Conclusion:
Navigating the realm of cladding types can be a daunting task, especially for first-time buyers. As Kyle Boonen emphasizes the importance of engaging building inspectors for in-depth assessments, potential buyers gain peace of mind knowing their chosen property is thoroughly inspected. The housing market’s intricacies demand careful consideration, and with the guidance of experts like Kyle, buyers can make well-informed decisions.
