Roofing and cladding have two main uses: to protect your home from rain and snow and to provide a decorative aesthetic. For both purposes, there are a variety of options. Metal roofing is a common choice for cladding and is typically composed of large, corrugated sheets that overlap at the edges. Metal roofing is lightweight and requires little maintenance, and it can last for more than 50 years. While metal roofing is very durable, the appearance of the building is rather utilitarian, and it is typically used in industrial and commercial construction rather than residential settings.
Modern construction methods are causing a significant impact on the natural environment. The move towards sustainable green building represents both a challenge for the industry and an opportunity. Rhino Roofing & Cladding is committed to the principles of green building and supports the aims of BREAM, LEED, and Green Building Councils. It aims to foster better communication and collaboration between contractors, designers, and other members of the building team.
The main benefits of roof cladding are a durable, watertight, and aesthetic layer. Depending on the type of cladding used, the cladding can be one large sheet or many small overlapping units. In the US, many homes have shingled roof cladding. These shingles are made of a thin flat material that is applied in an overlapping fashion. Asphalt and concrete are common shingle materials.
Depending on the climatic conditions of the area, your choice of cladding will affect the overall cost of the project. If your house is in an area with high levels of humidity, you may want to consider cladding made of concrete, or terracotta. Concrete, on the other hand, is heavier and is more prone to rain than terracotta. Additionally, concrete roofing needs to be underlain with protective sheeting. The downside is that concrete roofing can have a short lifespan, relative to its cost. Typically, it will last for up to thirty years.
Regardless of the type of roof your home has, metal cladding is one of the best options for commercial properties. It has many advantages over other materials and is suitable for a wide range of roof cladding solutions. When installing metal cladding, large corrugated metal sheets are overlapped to prevent water from entering the structure. Metal cladding can also be painted or coloured, which is an important benefit when choosing this type of cladding.
Timber roof cladding is another option that works well with many styles of architecture. Unlike other types of cladding, real timber offers an abundance of species and finishes. Furthermore, a timber-clad roof doesn’t need to be replaced entirely. If a wooden plank roof board breaks, a replacement board can be installed without tearing down the entire structure. The material is dimensionally stable and watertight, and it can withstand even the worst weather conditions.