The Importance of Recladding in Coastal Homes

Here on the Matakana coast, we are lucky to have no shortage of stunning ocean views and fresh sea breezes, but living here also comes with unique challenges—especially when it comes to maintaining your home’s exterior. Salt spray, strong winds, heavy rain, and intense sun can take a toll on your cladding, making regular maintenance and timely recladding essential. A lot of homes in the area are now a decade or two old, and their cladding is reaching the end of its warranty period. Here’s why recladding is crucial for coastal homes and how it can protect and enhance your property.

Salt spray is a particularly corrosive element that can get deep into building materials, causing them to deteriorate. Wind and rain can also speed up the weathering process, and UV radiation can cause fading and discoloration. The combination of these factors can cause a variety of cladding issues, including:

• Rot and decay: Wood cladding is particularly susceptible to rot and decay, especially when exposed to moisture and salt spray.

• Corrosion: Metal cladding can corrode over time, especially if it is not properly protected.

• Fading and discoloration: UV radiation can cause cladding materials to fade and discolor, making them look old and tired.

• Cracking and peeling: Cladding materials can crack and peel due to exposure to the elements, leading to leaks and other problems.

  
  

It is important to keep a close eye on your cladding for signs of deterioration, especially if your home is older than 10 years.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s probably time to call in the professionals!

The Recladding Process

Once you have decided to reclad your home, it's time to start planning. You will need to have an onsite pre-construction meeting to discuss the work with the project manager, builder, home owner,  and the Auckland Council building control inspection officer involved with the inspections.

The Auckland Council Reclad Specialist team carries out multiple inspections throughout the reclad process for you to receive your Code Compliance Certificate (CCC). These include: 

1. Pre-construction site meeting (before the work starts)

2. Strip-off inspection (after you have removed the original cladding and building wraps, but before removing any damaged framing)

3. Remedial works inspection (after you have repaired all affected elements on the building and before they are covered over)

4. Pre-wrap, nib, wall/cavity, substrate, insulation, fire-rating and painting inspections

5. Cladding inspection

6. Painting check before scaffolding is removed

7. Final inspection

The team at Aaron Butler Construction have a proven track record of installing high-quality cladding to protect your home from the elements and keep it looking great. Our builders in Omaha and the surrounding areas work alongside architects and the council reclad team to ensure your project meets all building codes and regulations.

If you’re considering recladding, our team can guide you through the best options for your location and needs. Contact us today for a consultation, and let’s protect your home against the elements for years to come!