Wood cladding is more than just a design choice—it’s a practical investment in durability, insulation, and timeless appeal. Whether you prefer modern shiplap or rustic board-and-batten, wood cladding can transform the look and performance of your home. With the right installation and care, wood cladding will last for decades while keeping your home stylish and energy-efficient.
Wood cladding has become one of the most popular choices for modern homes, blending natural beauty with practical benefits. From adding warmth and character to improving insulation and protecting walls, wood cladding is a versatile solution for both interiors and exteriors.
In this guide, we will explore the types of wood cladding, textures, installation process, benefits, FAQs, and design ideas—so you can make an informed choice for your home.
What is Wood Cladding?
Wood cladding is the application of wooden boards or panels over a wall surface to provide protection, insulation, and an enhanced appearance. It can be used on exterior walls, interior feature walls, and even as a finish for wood-clad windows.
Cladding not only protects walls from weather and damage but also creates a stylish, natural aesthetic that can transform any home design.
Benefits of Wood Cladding
- Natural Aesthetic – Brings warmth and timeless charm to both interiors and exteriors.
- Durability – Certain hardwoods like cedar, oak, and larch are resistant to rot and pests.
- Thermal & Sound Insulation – Improves energy efficiency and reduces external noise.
- Eco-Friendly – When sourced sustainably, wood is a renewable, low-carbon material.
- Versatility – Available in different textures, finishes, and installation styles.
Types of Wood Cladding
1. Shiplap Cladding
- Smooth, overlapping boards create a clean, modern look.
- Popular for exterior walls and garden buildings.
2. Tongue & Groove Cladding
- Boards interlock neatly for a seamless finish.
- Works well for both interiors and exteriors.
3. Board and Batten Cladding
- Wide boards fixed with narrow battens for a rustic look.
- Commonly seen in farmhouse-style homes.
4. Bevel / Weatherboard Cladding
- Angled boards that shed rainwater easily.
- Ideal for harsh weather regions.
5. Timber Types for Cladding
- Cedar: Lightweight, naturally weather-resistant.
- Oak: Durable, long-lasting, premium appearance.
- Larch: Affordable, strong, and resists decay.
- Thermowood: Heat-treated timber for stability and durability.
Wood Cladding Textures & Finishes
- Natural Finish – untreated for rustic beauty.
- Painted Wood – customised colours for design flexibility.
- Stained & Oiled – enhances grain while adding protection.
- Brushed Texture – creates depth and highlights wood patterns.
How to Install Wood Cladding (Step-by-Step Guide)?
- Preparation
- Ensure the wall surface is clean, dry, and level.
- Fix vertical or horizontal battens depending on design.
- Weatherproofing
- Use a breathable membrane behind the cladding for moisture protection.
- Fitting the Boards
- Fix cladding boards with stainless steel nails or screws.
- Maintain expansion gaps for ventilation.
- Finishing Touches
- Apply wood stain, paint, or oil for protection.
- Seal edges and corners to prevent water ingress.
Wood-Clad Windows – What Are They?
Wood-clad windows are windows that combine a wooden exterior with an interior frame, offering durability, insulation, and a natural finish. They blend seamlessly with wood cladding on walls, giving a cohesive look.
Can Stone Cladding Be Done on Wood?
Yes, stone cladding can be installed over wood, but it requires a proper supporting frame and moisture barrier. This prevents cracking, warping, or damp issues over time.
Maintenance Tips for Wood Cladding
- Regularly clean with mild soap and water.
- Reapply wood oil or stain every 2–3 years.
- Inspect joints and corners for water damage.
- Protect from termites and pests with treatments.
FAQs
What is wood cladding?
Wood cladding is the process of covering exterior or interior walls with natural timber boards or panels to improve aesthetics, insulation, and protection.
What are the disadvantages of wood cladding?
Requires regular maintenance (painting, staining, sealing)
Vulnerable to moisture, termites, and rot if untreated
Higher cost than some alternatives like PVC or metal
Can be a fire risk without treatment
What type of cladding is best?
The best cladding depends on your needs:
Wood – natural look, eco-friendly
PVC – low maintenance, cost-effective
Composite – durable, weather-resistant
Brick/Stone – highly durable but costly
Is wooden cladding safe?
Yes, if properly treated with fire-retardant coatings and installed correctly. Untreated wood may pose fire risks.
Is wood or PVC cladding better?
Wood – natural, eco-friendly, stylish, but higher maintenance.
PVC – cheaper, waterproof, low-maintenance, but less authentic in appearance.
Is wood cladding high maintenance?
Yes. It requires cleaning, sealing, and re-staining/painting every few years to prevent fading, rotting, and weather damage.
What is the difference between PVC and cladding?
PVC is a material used for cladding. Cladding itself is the covering layer, which can be wood, PVC, composite, metal, or stone.
Is cladding good or bad?
Cladding is good when installed properly—it protects walls, improves insulation, and adds beauty. Poorly installed or low-quality cladding can trap moisture and cause damage.
How to weatherproof cladding?
Use weather-resistant wood (cedar, oak, larch)
Apply sealants and protective coatings
Ensure proper ventilation and drainage
Add a waterproof membrane underneath
Is wood cladding cheap?
No, wood cladding is usually more expensive than PVC or vinyl. Softwood is cheaper than hardwood.
Is cladding good for walls?
Yes, cladding protects walls from rain, wind, and sun damage while improving insulation and appearance.
Is cladding waterproof?
Not by itself. Proper installation with membranes, sealants, and treatments makes cladding water-resistant.
How much does cladding cost?
Cost varies:
Wood: ₹250–₹600+ per sq. ft.
PVC/Composite: Cheaper (₹150–₹400 per sq. ft.)
Full installation for a 3BHK house can range from ₹3–8 lakhs, depending on the material.
What is the cheapest form of cladding?
Vinyl or PVC cladding is usually the cheapest, followed by basic softwood.
Is cladding good or bad for a house?
Good, as it adds protection and aesthetic appeal, but bad if poorly installed or low-quality material is used.
Is cladding cheaper than bricks?
Yes. Cladding (wood, PVC, or composite) is generally cheaper than full brick walls.
Is wood cladding expensive?
Yes, hardwood cladding is costly, though softwood or engineered timber can be more affordable.
How much to clad a 3-bedroom house?
Typically ₹3–8 lakhs depending on area, wood type, and installation costs.
What wood is best for cladding?
Cedar, larch, oak, teak, and thermally modified wood are best due to durability and weather resistance.
Is cladding cheaper than painting?
Initially, painting is cheaper. But cladding lasts longer and can reduce repainting costs over time.
Can I put wooden cladding on my house?
Yes, most homes can be fitted with wooden cladding if the walls are properly prepared.
Which is cheaper, wood or composite cladding?
Composite cladding is generally more expensive than softwood but cheaper than hardwood in the long run due to low maintenance.
Does cladding add value to a house?
Yes, high-quality cladding improves aesthetics, insulation, and resale value.
Is wooden cladding a fire risk?
Yes, untreated wood is flammable. Fire-retardant coatings reduce this risk.
How long does wood cladding last?
With proper maintenance, 30–50 years. Without maintenance, much shorter.
What cladding to avoid?
Avoid untreated, low-quality wood or cheap PVC that cracks and fades quickly.
How thick is wood cladding?
Typically 16–22mm, but the thickness can vary by design.
What is an alternative to wood cladding?
PVC, composite, fibre cement, stone veneer, or metal cladding.
How do you install wood cladding?
Prepare the wall surface
Fix battens and waterproof membrane
Nail or screw wood boards horizontally or vertically
Seal joints to prevent water ingress
Does wood cladding fade?
Yes. Sunlight and weather cause fading, but staining, oiling, or UV-resistant finishes slow this process.
Do I need a membrane under cladding?
Yes, a breathable waterproof membrane prevents water from reaching the structural wall.
Can water get through cladding?
Not if installed correctly. Gaps and poor sealing may allow leaks.
How do you maintain wood cladding?
Clean annually with a mild detergent
Re-stain or paint every 3–5 years
Inspect for cracks, rot, or termites