Find answers to common questions about PVC cladding and fibre cement boards, including Fortex, Cedral and James Hardie systems. Learn about installation, maintenance, fire performance, trims, colours and choosing the right cladding for your project.
What is the difference between PVC cladding and fibre cement cladding?
PVC cladding is lightweight, easy to install, low maintenance and ideal for residential projects. Fibre cement cladding is denser, highly durable, fire-resistant and often chosen for premium residential and commercial applications. CABP supplies leading PVC systems such as Fortex and fibre cement ranges including Cedral and James Hardie.
Which type of cladding requires the least maintenance?
PVC cladding generally requires the least maintenance as it does not need painting and can be cleaned with soap and water. Fibre cement cladding is also low maintenance but may require periodic inspection depending on the installation and environment.
Is PVC cladding waterproof?
PVC cladding is designed to provide a weather-resistant external finish and helps protect buildings from wind and rain when installed correctly with suitable trims and ventilation systems.
Is fibre cement cladding better than timber cladding?
Fibre cement cladding offers several advantages over timber, including resistance to rot, insects, moisture and warping. Products such as Cedral and James Hardie provide the appearance of traditional timber with significantly lower maintenance requirements.
What is Fortex cladding?
Fortex is a premium PVC cladding system available in several styles, including Double Shiplap, Feather Edge, Click and Naturale wood-effect finishes. It provides a durable, attractive and low-maintenance alternative to timber cladding.
What is Fortex Click Cladding?
Fortex Click Cladding features a modern V-groove shadow-gap appearance and a Click & Fit installation system designed to speed up fitting while creating a contemporary exterior finish.
What is Fortex Feather Edge Cladding?
Fortex Feather Edge Cladding is a 170mm weatherboard-style PVC cladding system that replicates the traditional New England weatherboard look while offering excellent durability and low maintenance.
What is Fortex Naturale Cladding?
Fortex Naturale uses advanced digital printing technology to create realistic timber-effect finishes, giving homeowners the natural appearance of wood without the maintenance challenges associated with timber.
What is fibre cement cladding?
Cedral and Jamies Hardie fibre cement cladding systems are designed to provide a long-lasting, rot-free and low-maintenance façade solution. It is available in a range of colours, profiles and matching trims.
Is fibre cement cladding fire resistant?
Yes fibre cement boards offer enhanced fire performance compared to many traditional external cladding materials, making them a popular choice for residential and commercial projects.
What colours are available in fibre cement cladding?
Both Cedral and James Hardie cladding ranges are available in a wide selection of contemporary and traditional colours, allowing homeowners and specifiers to match virtually any building style.
Can cladding be installed on existing walls?
In many cases, PVC and fibre cement cladding can be installed over properly prepared existing wall structures using appropriate battens, membranes and fixing systems. Installation should always follow manufacturer guidelines.
Do I need trims when installing cladding?
Yes. Trims help create professional finishes around corners, edges, joints, windows and doors. CABP supplies colour-matched trims and accessories compatible with Fortex, Cedral and fibre cement cladding systems.
What are the benefits of external cladding?
External cladding can:
• Improve kerb appeal
• Protect external walls from weather
• Reduce maintenance compared to painted masonry or timber
• Enhance thermal performance when combined with insulation systems
• Increase property value and longevity
Which cladding is best for a modern home?
For contemporary designs, Fortex Click Cladding and Hardie VL Plank are popular choices due to their clean lines, shadow-gap detailing and modern colour ranges.
Does CABP supply cladding accessories?
Yes. CABP supplies a full range of colour-matched trims, starter profiles, corner trims, joint profiles, ventilation products and fixing accessories to complete professional cladding installations.
Does CABP offer UK delivery on cladding products?
Yes. C & A Building Products supplies PVC cladding, fibre cement boards, trims and accessories throughout the UK with delivery options available across its product range.
Does EPDM crack, peel, or blister over time?
High-quality EPDM membranes are designed to remain flexible and resistant to cracking, peeling, blistering, and splitting. Their resistance to UV rays, ozone, and temperature extremes contributes significantly to their long-term performance.
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