Choosing the right cladding for your home can be a difficult task. House cladding doesn't just make your home more aesthetically pleasing. Cladding also affects the longevity of your home, the maintenance requirements and even your home's energy efficiency.

Because there are so many materials to choose from, it's important to identify exactly what you need before you choose cladding for your home. Focus on the following seven factors when choosing cladding for your home.

1. Insulation properties

Good cladding should help to keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer. Good cladding should also have good sound insulation, especially if you live in an urban environment. Be aware of this when choosing a cladding material. If you choose a metal cladding, for instance, steel or aluminium, its thermal and sound insulating properties will be minimal compared to other materials.

2. Durability

The more durable your cladding is, the less you'll need to maintain it and your home. If you choose wood cladding, which can rot and be susceptible to water damage, be aware that you may need to carry out regular maintenance.

3. Cost

The cheapest is not always the best choice. For instance, vinyl cladding is cheaper than most other cladding materials, but it isn't waterproof and severe weather can damage it. Try to balance cost with durability.

4. Style

The style of the cladding you choose should match the style of your home and the surrounding environment.

5. Installation process

Some materials take longer to install than other materials. This can increase the cost of installation. If this is an important factor for you, then consider choosing vinyl or timber cladding for your home.

6. Weather

The climate and weather conditions of your area should also play a part in your house cladding choice. If you live in a humid, hot environment, with severe weather and rampant bugs like termites, weatherboards may be a good choice for your home.

7. Installer

The final, but no less important, consideration should be the installer. The right cladding installer will offer quality materials and installation along with warranties for work done and the materials used.

If you are thinking of investing in cladding for your home or new build home, then remember to keep these considerations in mind when choosing a material. Choosing the right material — and the right installer — will ensure the longevity and success of your house cladding.