Using composite wall cladding is a great way to protect your walls and make them more aesthetically pleasing. Composite cladding is durable, aesthetically pleasing, and ideal for updating the exterior walls of your home. We’ll walk you through the basic steps needed to install composite cladding on your walls to ensure the installation is both beautiful and durable.

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1. Required Items and Materials

Before we start installing composite cladding, we need to prepare the following items and tools:

• Composite wall cladding panels
• Measuring tape
• Level
• Screws and wall anchors
• Screwdriver or drill
• Adhesive (if required)
• Saw (for cutting panels to size)
• Pencil
• Safety equipment (gloves, safety glasses)

2. Installation Instructions for Composite Cladding

2.1 Step 1: Preparation and Measurement

First, measure the area of the wall to be covered. First measure the length and width, then mathematically calculate the square footage. Purchase enough composite cladding to cover this area. Also, remember to buy extra pieces of composite cladding in case something goes wrong or needs to be repaired in the future.

2.2 Step 2: Prepare the Surface

Make sure the walls are clean, dry, and free of any paint or dirt that may be protruding. If the wall is uneven, you may need to add a layer of plywood or other acceptable backing material. This will make the surface smooth and level for the cladding to be laid.

2.3 Step 3: Developing a Layout Plan

Before you start installing composite wall cladding, plan the layout. Choose how the panels will be arranged and oriented. For a neat and tidy finish, most people install from the bottom upwards.

2.4 Step 4: Installing the First Panel

Place the first composite wall cladding panel at the bottom of the wall. Use a level to make sure it is perfectly straight. If desired, use wall studs to secure the panel in place. Drill holes in the panel before screwing to prevent the panel from breaking.

2.5 Step 5: Continue Installing Panels

When adding the next panel, make sure it is securely fastened to the first panel. Use screws and wall studs, if needed, to spread them evenly across the panel. Do the same for the next composite cladding, each time making sure all the wall panels are level and fit tightly.

2.6 Step 6: Cutting and Trimming

If you need to cut panels to fit around windows and doors, or when you cut to the end of a row of panels, measure and mark them. Use a saw to cut the composite cladding to the proper size and shape. Be sure to wear safety equipment during this step.

2.7 Step 7: Adhesive (if required)

2.8 Step 8: Perfecting the Edges

If necessary, add trim to corners and edges to complete the look. In addition, these trims help to secure the edges of the panels.

2.9 Step 9: Final Check

After splicing all the composite cladding together, stand back and look at your work. Make sure that all the panels are joined correctly and flat without any gaps or damage.

3. Important Information for Installing Composite Cladding

Always ensure that there is room for expansion of the composite wall cladding. Leave at least 8mm of space between the butt joints at each end of the boards to allow for thermal expansion of the material.

Allow at least 20 mm of space between the edge of the boards and the wall, object or floor next to them. If sufficient space is not left for expansion, the planks may warp, which could void the warranty.

Drill pilot holes well in advance of installation. When screwing in the composite material, make sure to use appropriately sized pilot holes to prevent the material from breaking. To prevent the board from cracking when exposed to heat, the holes in the board should be at least 2 mm larger than the threads.

Do not share clamps at both ends of the board. Use one full clip and one full bolt on each end of the plank. Clamps should not be shared between butted ends. Instead, use a double press to secure the ends of the planks.

Use butt joint strips when installing composite cladding on top and bottom. For vertical installations, seam strips ensure proper water and air flow.

4. Storage and Handling Recommendations for Composite Cladding

In order to keep composite wall cladding looking good for a long time, it is important to follow the following important storage, movement, and handling instructions.

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4.1 Storage Recommendations

• To keep the surface clean, keep the material covered until it needs to be installed. This is particularly important if it is to be stored outdoors. You will need to use an impervious cover.
• Ensure that all composite cladding is kept flat and level, then set a support point 500 mm above the ground.
• Use battens to separate and secure the stored cladding materials. Ensure that they are spaced no more than 500 mm apart to avoid bending of the battens.
• Stack with the bottom supports and battens all aligned.
• Cladding pallets should not be stacked more than four pallets high or more than three meters high.

4.2 Handling Recommendations

• When unloading composite wall cladding materials place them carefully and do not tip or drop them.
• When removing the boards from the unit, lift and lower them gently. Do not allow the planks to slide against each other when moving.
• To make the boards more stable, use the ends of the boards to carry the composite wall cladding.
• To prevent damage, do not slide or drag any tools over the planks during construction.
• Do not place construction debris or anything else on the surface of the planks as this can damage them.

By following these storage and handling tips, you can ensure that your composite cladding product will look good for a long time.

5. Spacing and Expansion Gap Guidelines

To account for the natural expansion and contraction of composite materials as temperatures change, it is important to ensure that all composite wall cladding complies with the following spacing and clearance standards:

• When using 3.6-meter-long boards, ensure that the gap between butt joints is at least 8 mm. When boards are cut or trimmed, the growth gap between boards should be at least 0.2% of the length of the boards.
• Leave at least 20 mm between the ends of composite cladding used for butt joints.
• Where the cladding touches a wall or other fixing, a gap of at least 20 mm must be left.
• Allow at least 20 mm clearance between the floor and the bottom edge of the cladding panel.
• Ensure that there is a minimum 38 mm cavity behind the cladding to allow for air circulation and water drainage.

6. How to Install Composite Wall Cladding

Either laminated or treated timber battens can be used to securely install composite wall cladding. Here are some important rules to follow in order to achieve a good installation:

• When joining each piece of compression seam strip, they must be secured in at least three places to ensure they are firm and provide the correct support.
• Do not use composite slats for general construction tasks. In some cases, such as installing siding, composite laths will work better than other compression seam strips.
• To ensure adequate air circulation and to allow rainwater infiltrating the cladding to drain freely, vents should be at least 38 mm wide. Using a press-seam strip that is at least 38 mm thick will help to retain the required space behind the cladding panels.
• If you decide to use wooden battens, make sure they are treated in accordance with BS8417.
• To prevent insects from entering the cavity, it is a good idea to cover the opening to the cavity with an insect screen. In addition to keeping bugs out, this will help keep the cladding in good condition.

7. Installing Support Slats for Siding

When installing support slats for composite cladding, be sure to follow the steps below so that you can install good, reliable siding:

7.1 Ventilation and Spacing

Ensure that the spacing of the bracing strips on the wall or structure does not exceed 600 mm. This will provide even and stable support for the cladding.

Leave a space at least 38 mm wide behind the cladding for air circulation. This cavity allows for proper air flow and smooth drainage of rainwater.

For additional support, consider installing a double layer of compression strip construction at the joints between cladding panels.

Adding additional compression seam strips on both sides of the wall makes it stronger and more stable.

7.2 Installation of Bracing Strips

The first support strip should be at least 20 mm above the ground. It is not necessary to activate the pallet to install it.

Use screws to fix the support strip in place. For optimum support, the screws should not be more than 600 mm apart.

Make sure that each screw is level with the wall. If necessary, packing can be used to ensure leveling.

7.3 Double Slat Construction

A double slat structure should be installed at both ends of the wall panel joints (also known as “butt joints”). This double-slat method provides additional support and stiffness at the plank joints.

7.4 Consult a Professional Builder

For your cladding project, it’s a good idea to consult a building professional about vapor barriers and insulation. Their knowledge can help you ensure that your installation matches your building environment and needs.

8. Maintenance Guidelines for Composite Wall Cladding

Taking good care of composite cladding will keep it looking good and lasting longer. Here are some important maintenance tips:

8.1 Cleaning Methods

You can clean composite wall cladding products using soapy water and a soft bristle brush. Alternatively, you can use a power washer with a maximum pressure of 1500psi.

When using a pressure washer, use a fan nozzle tool and always spray in the direction of the grain of the boards. Keep a distance of at least 6 inches from the surface. Make sure to clean with the correct cleaner.

8.2 Grease and Dirt

In most cases, regular cleaning of composite wall cladding with soapy water is sufficient to prevent dust, dirt, and mold buildup. Despite the fact that composite cladding products are designed to prevent mold growth and staining, mold and mildew stains can occur in damp or pollen-filled areas.

8.3 Spot Stains

The best way to remove many stains is to use warm water, soap, or household degreaser. Scrub and soak the area immediately, then rinse with warm water. For more stubborn stains, you may need to use a composite-specific cleaner to better remove the stain.

For some stubborn stains, you may need to lightly sand the damaged area with coarse sandpaper (60-80 grit), which is not common.

8.4 Stain Removal Precautions

Cleaned or sanded areas may look lighter at first, but will usually return to their original state within 8-10 weeks, depending on their location and use.

As with any wood product, composite wall cladding products may exhibit extraction bleed color, also known as “tea stains”. You do not need to worry about this; it is a temporary stain that will disappear on its own over time.

8.5 Scratches and Abrasions

Scratches and abrasions on the surface of the composite cladding will fade over time due to weather. Use a wire brush or coarse 60-80 grit sandpaper to remove scratches and scuffs.

Remove marks, brush, or sand in the direction of the grain of the item. After treatment, the area will weather and recover in 8 to 10 weeks.

8.6 Staining and Painting

It is possible to paint or stain composite wall cladding, but most manufacturers of composite products do not recommend that you do so. This is because composite cladding retains its beautiful appearance over time without staining, and staining may void the warranty.

Before painting or staining, make sure the surface of the cladding is clean and dry, and wait for the product to finish weathering. When applying paint or stain, be sure to follow the instructions that come with the product.

You can follow these maintenance and care tips to keep your composite wall cladding looking great. This will extend its lifespan and allow you to enjoy the outdoors better.

9. Summarizing

Installing composite wall cladding is a fun outdoor project. This is because it can change the way a home looks and is used. With the right tools and attention to detail, you can give your walls a professional finish that will make them look better and last longer.

When installing new wall coverings, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety procedures. You will enjoy your walls for years to come. If you have any questions, please contact us. EVODEK will provide you with meticulous service for all your needs.

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