what is cladding in construction

Cladding in construction refers to the application of one material over another to provide a skin or layer on the exterior of a building). The purpose of cladding is to provide a degree of thermal insulation and weather resistance, and to improve the appearance of buildings). Cladding can be made of a wide range of materials including wood, metal, brick, vinyl, and composite materials that can include aluminum, wood, blends of cement and recycled polystyrene, or wheat/rice straw fibers). Rainscreen cladding is a form of weather cladding designed to protect against the elements, but also offers thermal insulation). The cladding does not itself need to be waterproof, merely a control element). Between the cladding and the wall, there is a cavity where rain can run down). Cladding can affect vulnerability to fire. Some benefits of cladding include increased life expectancy of the building, increased value of the building, elimination of internal issues, protection from water, improved air tightness, improved exterior appearance, lower maintenance costs, and lower energy costs.