5 Essential Tips to Complete Wall Cladding Installation Like a Pro
Posted on: 13 October 2020
More and more households across Australia are taking advantage of interior and exterior wall cladding. Not everyone is brave enough to try the DIY approach because of the complexities involved. However, this article is for you if you are relatively savvy with home renovations and love adventurous home improvement tasks.
Read on for five helpful tips to consider when planning to install unique wall cladding.
Choosing the Right Cladding
Today, various cladding systems exist, each with its pros and cons regarding cost, suitability, installation, and durability, etc. When picking a particular cladding system, choose beyond its appearance. For example, cladding material for your kitchen, bathrooms and exterior walls must be moisture-resistant. For this reason, vinyl stands out as the perfect choice for this type of cladding because of its strong resistance to warping.
Wall Priming
Wall preparation on bare surfaces is crucial before you can apply your preferred cladding. Start by cleaning your wall using a damp, lint-free rag. Besides, apply an appropriate coating after wiping the surface with damp clothing and isopropyl alcohol.
Using Proper Adhesive
Not all adhesives you find off the shelf will be ideal for securing your cladding firmly. Consider using neutral, non-cure adhesives, such as Dow 995 or 795. Furthermore, never mix your adhesives when cladding your home. Always stick to one adhesive type throughout your project. Moreover, allow for at least three weeks for your adhesive to fully cure before cladding.
Paying Attention to the Setup
The cladding environment is a crucial consideration, as well. For areas exposed to harsh conditions like rain or sunlight, consider performing proper treatment to prevent warping or shrinking. It'll be wise to leave treated cladding panels loose in locations where they require at least a couple of weeks to apply before actual installation. This method ensures that any expansion or contraction happens before any wall attachment.
Cladding Maintenance
Maintaining your wall cladding is pretty straightforward, and requires little professional assistance. A damp cloth and soap will be sufficient to wipe off any discolouration, blemishes or dirt. Additionally, you can use wooden fillers to correct visible cracks and irremovable marks on cladding surfaces. You can also apply treatment to achieve a uniform tone and colour to your cladding after repair.
Cladding is a task best left for experienced contractors. Achieving a professional finish requires extreme precision. Consider a little extra special care and time to achieve the desired results. Pay attention to the five tips discussed above for a successful cladding project. Don't be afraid to seek help from cladding contractors if you get stuck.
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