Looking for Cladding Installers near me? We’ll Help You Find the Best

Why Invest in Professional Cladding Installation?

While the temptation for a bit of DIY or hiring a general handyman might be strong, cladding installation is a specialist skill. A flawless finish that stands the test of time requires precision, experience, and an understanding of building science. An improper installation can lead to costly problems down the line, such as water ingress, damp, and poor thermal performance, completely negating the benefits.

Here’s why using a dedicated cladding installer is a wise investment:

• A Flawless Finish: A professional installer ensures every board is perfectly aligned, every corner is neatly trimmed, and the overall aesthetic is sharp and uniform. This attention to detail is what separates a stunning transformation from a subpar job.


• Durability and Weatherproofing: The primary function of cladding is to create a protective outer skin for your home. Professionals understand how to correctly install ventilation gaps, waterproof membranes, and sealants to prevent moisture from becoming trapped, which can cause damp and damage the building's structure.


• Enhanced Thermal Performance: Many homeowners choose to add a layer of rigid insulation behind their new cladding. An experienced installer will fit this correctly, eliminating thermal bridges and significantly improving your home’s energy efficiency, which can lead to lower heating bills.


• Safety and Regulatory Compliance: Since the Grenfell tragedy, regulations surrounding the fire performance of external wall systems have become rightly stringent. A professional cladding installer will be up-to-date on current Building Regulations, especially those concerning fire safety, ensuring the materials and installation methods used are fully compliant for your type of property.


• Guarantees and Warranties: Reputable tradespeople will stand by their work. You can expect a guarantee on the workmanship, alongside the manufacturer's warranty on the cladding material itself. This provides valuable peace of mind that you’re covered if any issues arise.

Understanding Your Cladding Options

The material you choose will have the biggest impact on your home's appearance, maintenance requirements, and the overall project cost. Each option has its own unique set of characteristics, and the best choice often depends on your property's style, your budget, and your long-term priorities.

Timber Cladding

Timber offers a classic, natural beauty that is hard to replicate. Popular choices in the UK include softwoods like Larch and Cedar, which are naturally resistant to decay, and hardwoods like Oak for a premium, long-lasting finish. It can be installed horizontally or vertically and finished with a variety of stains and oils to achieve your desired colour.

The main consideration for timber is maintenance. To keep it looking its best and protect it from the elements, it will need re-staining or re-oiling every few years. However, for many, the timeless aesthetic is well worth the upkeep.

uPVC Cladding

Unplasticised Polyvinyl Chloride (uPVC) is a highly popular and cost-effective cladding solution. It's a practical choice for homeowners looking for a low-maintenance finish that cleans easily with just soap and water. Available in a huge range of colours and styles, including convincing wood-effect finishes, uPVC offers great versatility.

While it may not have the premium feel of timber or fibre cement, modern uPVC cladding is durable, lightweight, and won't rot or corrode, making it a reliable and budget-friendly option.

Composite Cladding

Composite cladding is a modern material that offers the best of both worlds. Typically made from a mixture of recycled wood fibres and plastics, it captures the warm, textured look of natural wood without the demanding maintenance schedule. It’s incredibly durable, resistant to fading, and won't warp, splinter, or succumb to rot or insect attacks.

The initial cost is higher than uPVC, but its longevity and low-maintenance nature make it a fantastic long-term investment that retains its colour and quality for years.

Fibre Cement Cladding

Regarded as a high-performance, premium material, fibre cement cladding is made from a mix of cement, sand, and cellulose fibres. Brands like HardiePlank® are market leaders in this category. It is exceptionally robust, offering superior resistance to fire, rot, pests, and weathering. It can be manufactured with a smooth finish or a realistic wood grain texture and holds paint exceptionally well, offering a huge palette of colour choices.

Due to its weight and specific installation requirements, fibre cement must be fitted by trained and certified installers. It sits at the higher end of the price spectrum but provides unparalleled durability and a high-end finish.

Metal Cladding

For a contemporary, architectural, or industrial aesthetic, metal cladding in materials like zinc, aluminium, or steel is an excellent choice. It is incredibly long-lasting, requires virtually no maintenance, and offers superb fire resistance. Metal cladding can be supplied in a range of profiles and finishes, creating a sharp, modern look that makes a bold statement.

This is a specialist material that requires expert installation by tradespeople experienced in metalwork. It is one of the more expensive options, typically reserved for high-end architectural projects.

The Cost of Cladding Installation in the UK

It is important to remember that all prices are estimates. The final cost of your project will depend on several key factors, including the material you choose, the size and complexity of your property, your location in the UK, and any preparatory work required. Costs are generally higher in London and the South East.

Breakdown of Cladding Costs

To help you budget, here is a rough guide to supply and installation costs per square metre (m²). These figures typically include the cladding material, standard fixings, and labour.

• uPVC Cladding: £70 - £110 per m²


• Timber Cladding (Softwood): £80 - £140 per m²


• Composite Cladding: £120 - £180 per m²


• Fibre Cement Cladding: £140 - £220 per m²


• Metal Cladding (Aluminium/Zinc): £160 - £300+ per m²

Additional Factors Influencing the Final Price

Your written quote should be itemised so you can see exactly what you are paying for. Be sure to account for these potential additional costs:

• Scaffolding: This is a legal health and safety requirement for working at height and is essential for most two-storey properties. Scaffolding hire can add anywhere from £700 to £2,500+ to the total bill, depending on the size of your house.


• Removal of Old Cladding or Render: If the existing wall covering needs to be removed, this will incur additional labour costs and the cost of skip hire for waste disposal.


• Substrate Repairs: Once the old covering is off, the wall beneath may need repairs before the new cladding can be installed. This is often quoted as a day rate for a general builder.


• Insulation: Adding a layer of high-performance rigid insulation board is highly recommended for improving energy efficiency. This will add to both the material and labour costs.


• Trims and Accessories: The cost of corner trims, window and door reveals, and starter strips can add up, so ensure these are included in the quote.


• Property Complexity: A simple, square bungalow will be far quicker and cheaper to clad than a three-storey period property with bay windows, multiple dormers, and other complex architectural features.

How to Find and Vet the Best Cladding Installers

Finding a reliable tradesperson is the most important part of the process. ServiceTasker is designed to make this simple and transparent.

Step 1: Gather Your Requirements

Before you seek quotes, have a clear idea of what you want. Decide on your preferred material, take some rough measurements of the areas you want to clad (length x height to get the approximate square meterage), and establish a realistic budget.

Step 2: Post Your Job on ServiceTasker

This is where we do the hard work for you. Create a job posting on our platform with a clear description of your project. Include the type of property (e.g., semi-detached house), the cladding material you are interested in, and your postcode. The more detail you provide, the more accurate the quotes you will receive from interested tradespeople.

Step 3: Shortlist and Compare Quotes

Aim to receive at least three written quotes. A professional quote will be detailed and itemised, breaking down the costs for materials, labour, scaffolding, and waste removal. It should also clearly state whether VAT is included. Be wary of quotes that are significantly lower than the others; this can be a red flag for a cowboy builder cutting corners.

Step 4: Check Credentials and Past Work

Once you have a shortlist, it's time to do your due diligence. Don't be afraid to ask questions and verify their credentials.

• Check Experience: Ask specifically about their experience with the material you have chosen. Installing fibre cement is very different to installing timber.


• Review Their Portfolio: Ask to see photos of recently completed projects similar to yours. A reputable installer will be proud to show off their work. For extra peace of mind, you could even ask for the address of a local installation to drive by and see the quality for yourself.


• Verify Insurance: A legitimate business must have Public Liability Insurance. This protects you and your property in the event of an accident. Ask to see a copy of their current insurance certificate.


• Look for Accreditations: While not mandatory, membership of a trade body like the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) is a good sign of professionalism. If you're using a specific brand like HardiePlank®, check if they are a certified or preferred installer.

Essential Questions to Ask Your Potential Cladding Installer

Asking the right questions will help you gauge an installer's professionalism and expertise, ensuring there are no surprises during the project. Here is a checklist of key questions to ask:

• Are you experienced with installing [Your Chosen Material]? Can you show me examples?


• Can you provide a detailed, itemised quote breaking down all costs?


• What is the estimated timeline for the project, from the start date to completion?


• Who will be on-site managing the work? Will you be using your own team or subcontractors?


• How will you protect my property, such as windows, pathways, and garden plants, during the installation?


• What guarantees do you offer on your workmanship, and what is the manufacturer’s warranty on the materials?


• How is rubbish and waste handled? Is the cost of a skip and its removal included in the quote?


• Are you fully insured? May I see a copy of your Public Liability Insurance?


• What are your payment terms? A reputable installer will usually ask for a deposit and then stage payments, with the final balance due upon satisfactory completion. Avoid paying the full amount upfront.


• Will we be using a formal written contract? A professional will insist on one. The JCT "Homeowner Contract" is a good, standard template.


• Are there any planning permission or Building Regulations issues I should be aware of for this project? (They should be knowledgeable about this, though the ultimate responsibility lies with you, the homeowner. Check with your Local Council or the Planning Portal if unsure).

Ready to Transform Your Home? Find Your Cladding Installer Today

Armed with this knowledge, you are now ready to take the next step towards enhancing your home's exterior. The right cladding, fitted by the right professional, is an investment that pays dividends in both pride and property value for many years to come.

Start your journey today with ServiceTasker. It’s simple, free, and connects you directly with the experts. Post your job description, enter your postcode, and get ready to receive no-obligation quotes from trusted cladding installers near you. Your home's stunning new look is just a few clicks away.