Cladding is the application of one substance over another to form a protective layer or skin. It’s used in architecture to provide thermal insulation, enhance attractiveness, and protect a structure from hostile weather conditions.

But precisely what is sustainable cladding, and how can cladding possibly be sustainable in the first place?

In this article, we will discuss sustainable cladding, why it is vital, and the best options available in Australia. From the types of sustainable cladding to top product recommendations, we’ll provide a complete guide to help you choose environmentally friendly materials for your next building project.

What Is Sustainable Cladding and Why Is It Important?

With renewable energy currently providing more than 30% of the country’s electricity, we can’t deny that Australia has achieved notable progress in sustainability.

The emergence of sustainable materials such as cladding clearly shows this change toward environmentally friendly building.

Cladding has historically come from materials including brick, metal, and wood. But with over 70% of Australians starting to worry about climate change, sustainable building techniques are growing more and more crucial. This includes sustainable cladding choices.

Sustainable cladding is the application of eco-friendly materials and techniques meant to reduce the environmental impact of the product throughout its entire lifecycle. This covers raw material procurement, manufacturing technique application, usage phase, and final disposal or recycling.

Sustainable cladding is becoming rather popular in Australia. Over 2,000 projects were Green Star-certified as of 2021, proving a dedication to sustainable building methods in the country.

So far, the biggest concern that some developers have is cost, and understandably so. After all, sustainable cladding materials do tend to have higher initial costs. Over time, though, their benefits make them a worthy investment. Plus, government policies and incentives meant to boost green building greatly help offset the higher costs.

The Importance of Sustainable Cladding

With almost 40% of the world's carbon footprint attributed to them, buildings are major contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions, according to the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP).

Switching to more sustainable materials will help to greatly reduce these emissions. For a building project, for example, options to lower the total environmental impact include recycled metal, composite materials, or lumber from sustainably grown forests.

Making cladding more sustainable mostly serves to safeguard natural resources, lower carbon footprint, and improve one’s surroundings. This is why many suppliers now offer a selection of sustainable solutions. Luckily, government incentives and laws endorsing green building methods help to encourage the trend.

Apart from environmental benefits, sustainable cladding also brings financial perks.

For instance, the excellent thermal qualities of sustainable materials help to improve the insulation of a structure and lower energy usage. Reduced heating and cooling energy costs will result from this, making sustainable cladding a wise investment over time. Using energy-efficient building materials is also estimated to cut energy use by up to 30%.

Benefits of Sustainable Cladding in Australia

From lowering carbon emissions and increasing energy efficiency to supporting local businesses, sustainable cladding has many benefits, particularly in the Australian setting.

Environmental Impact

Around 18% of Australia's carbon emissions come from the building industry alone. Using environmentally friendly cladding materials can help us reduce these emissions.

Timber from certified forests, which is renewable and responsibly supplied, is one example of sustainable cladding materials. It also works as a carbon sink by absorbing CO2.

By using recycled metal cladding – like aluminium or steel – you reduce the need for virgin resources and also cut manufacturing energy use. These materials also tolerate recycling without losing quality.

Brick and stone cladding from local sources lower transportation emissions, reducing their carbon impact. Modern composite materials such as fibre cement are composed of cement and cellulose fibres, providing a low-maintenance, ecologically friendly, long-lasting cladding choice.

Energy Efficiency

One of the key benefits of sustainable cladding is its support of energy conservation.

Many sustainable cladding materials have great thermal performance, which enhances building insulation and helps reduce the need for synthetic heating and cooling. For families and businesses alike, this not only lowers greenhouse gas emissions but also produces considerable energy bill savings.

With fibre cement cladding, for example, insulation can be enhanced, allowing homes to remain cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

Economic Benefits

Although sustainable cladding materials may have a greater initial cost, their economic advantages are rather significant in the long run.

Increased energy efficiency leads to lower utility bills. The lifecycle of sustainable materials usually means fewer maintenance and replacement expenditures.

For example, recycled metal cladding is quite weather-resistant and durable, which, over time, can help to save repair and replacement costs.

Also, sustainable buildings can draw top rates and usually have better property values. According to the Australian Property Institute, green buildings can fetch up to a 10% higher market value than traditional ones.

Health and Well-being

Sustainable cladding materials help to create better inside environments.

Older cladding materials can compromise indoor air quality because they produce volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other harmful substances. Studies show that these have the potential to endanger health.

Many ecological cladding solutions, such fibre cement and natural timber, on the other hand, are free of these dangerous chemicals.

In Australia, where bad indoor air quality has been connected to respiratory disorders and other health concerns, this is especially crucial. Choosing sustainable cladding will let building inhabitants live or work in better surroundings and breathe cleaner air.

Aesthetic and Design Flexibility

Sustainable cladding provides architectural flexibility and a great spectrum of aesthetic choices.

Different finishes and colours of materials such composite panels, reclaimed metal, and timber let builders and designers produce visually appealing and distinctive designs.

In Australia, where architectural variety and creativity are highly prized, this adaptability helps both residential and business buildings. Sustainable cladding can also improve the curb appeal of homes therefore increasing their appeal to possible tenants and buyers.

Supports Local Economies

Choosing sustainable cladding can help nearby businesses as well.

Many sustainable materials, including stone and timber, are locally sourced in Australia. This promotes local businesses and employment and lessens the environmental effect connected with travel.

For timber cladding especially, buying Australian-sourced hardwood not only supports sustainable forestry methods but also aids local communities in thriving.

Types of Sustainable Cladding

There are many different types of sustainable cladding. Let’s discuss some of the most common ones in Australia.

1. Timber Cladding

(Source: Flickr)

● Sustainability: Highly sustainable if sourced from certified forests.

● Average Cost: $40-$100 per square metre.

● Pros: Renewable, aesthetic appeal, good insulation.

● Cons: Requires maintenance, susceptible to pests.

2. Recycled Metal Cladding

(Source: Flickr)

● Sustainability: Highly sustainable due to recyclability.

● Average Cost: $50-$120 per square metre.

● Pros: Durable, low maintenance, modern look.

● Cons: High embodied energy, potential corrosion.

3. Brick Cladding

(Source: Wikemedia)

● Sustainability: Sustainable when sourced locally.

● Average Cost: $60-$150 per square metre.

● Pros: Durable, good insulation, aesthetic variety.

● Cons: Heavy, labor-intensive installation.

4. Stone Cladding

(Source: Wikimedia)

● Sustainability: Sustainable when locally sourced.

● Average Cost: $100-$250 per square metre.

● Pros: Extremely durable, timeless appearance.

● Cons: Expensive, heavy.

5. Fibre Cement Cladding (Cedral)

(Source: Geograph UK)

● Sustainability: Moderately sustainable, long lifespan.

● Average Cost: $40-$80 per square metre.

● Pros: Durable, low maintenance, fire-resistant.

● Cons: High energy production.

Conclusion

Sustainable cladding is an essential aspect of eco-friendly construction. It offers numerous benefits, from environmental impact reduction to enhanced building aesthetics.

Australian builders and homeowners can choose sustainable cladding solutions to fit different requirements and tastes based on the selection of materials at hand. One thing’s for sure: whether you prefer the resilience of recycled metal or the natural beauty of timber, sustainable cladding is a smart investment for a greener, better future.

FAQs

How to know if a cladding is sustainable?

A type of cladding is deemed sustainable based on factors including raw material source, manufacturing technique, lifetime impact, and end-of- life recyclability,

Is sustainable cladding available in Australia?

A growing number of environmentally concerned builders and homeowners are using sustainable cladding, which is increasingly accessible in Australia. Government incentives and laws encouraging green building methods help incentivize this practice.

Can I DIY sustainable cladding?

Although some types of sustainable cladding can be fitted by experienced DIY-ers we recommend consulting a professional to ensure correct installation.

Is sustainable cladding expensive?

Because of higher material and manufacturing expenses, sustainable cladding can be more costly than conventional cladding. Still, the long-term energy and maintenance savings as well as the environmental advantages usually balance the initial costs.

Is sustainable cladding durable?

Sustainable cladding materials are designed to be as durable, if not more so, than traditional options. Proper maintenance can further extend their lifespan.

Architecture & Design Team

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