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Composite Cladding Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs2022-07-29T07:16:43+01:00
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GENERAL

What is composite cladding?2022-02-23T11:16:46+00:00

Wood plastic composite cladding is a fusion of reused wood fibres and recycled plastic that would have otherwise been thrown away. Composite cladding provides superior resilience, durability and a performance that timber can’t deliver. It doesn’t warp or rot, split or chip, this makes it perfect for the British climate! Very popular with homeowners, commercial developers and garden room manufacturers who choose it as an eco-friendly, low maintenance solution for cladding projects.

What is the difference between composite cladding and wood?2022-02-23T11:15:01+00:00

We provide high-quality composite cladding boards which combine the resilience of plastic with the natural aesthetic of wood. Timber cladding requires regular maintenance as it is exposed to the elements. However, composite cladding won’t splinter or warp, is more robust, and will never need painting or varnishing.

Why is composite cladding more expensive than treated wood?2022-02-23T11:13:21+00:00

Composite cladding is more expensive to manufacture, due to the processes required to create it. However, it is a more sustainable solution for the future. Buying composite material is a genuine investment as you won’t need to pay for maintenance, repair and replacement of wood cladding, which is more susceptible to perish, rot, split and warp.

How long will NeoTimber® composite cladding last?2022-02-23T11:11:40+00:00

Composite cladding is strong and durable, by design. You can expect it to last for years with minimal maintenance. All NeoTimber® products come with a 25-year residential warranty and 10-year commercial warranty.

Is NeoTimber® cladding suitable for use in commercial and residential settings?2024-06-01T15:28:46+01:00

NeoTimber® composite cladding is fit for both residential and commercial use. We have been a leading manufacturer of composite materials for over 10 years, supplying private homes and businesses with excellent quality solutions. We have developed products to suit all budgets and requirements. To help decide which product may be best for your upcoming cladding project, please contact a member of our dedicated sales team on 01530 382 180.

What is the difference between your traditional and capped composite cladding ranges?2022-02-23T11:25:03+00:00

Our traditional composite cladding board (Classic range) is made from a single mould of wood and plastic composite material – making is a long-life alternative to timber cladding. The next generation of cladding is our capped composite cladding (Deluxe & Slatted range), these are made with a traditional composite material but with a tough polymer shell applied to its exterior. This wraps around the composite material and provides an impervious barrier with greater resilience to the effects of the weather. This product has all the aesthetic features of traditional composite cladding, with the added benefit of improved stain resistance, anti-mould design and fade resistance.

How are NeoTimber® cladding goods delivered?2022-02-23T11:26:27+00:00

Most orders are delivered on a long wheel-based van by a member of our dedicated NeoTimber® delivery team. For larger deliveries, we will use a suitable heavy goods vehicle with a higher weight capacity. Our logistics team will always contact customers ahead of delivery to ensure all is good to go. We never just turn up unannounced, our driver will also ring you on the day to give you an accurate ETA so you’re not hanging around waiting all day.

PRICING & PURCHASING

Can I collect the cladding from your warehouse?2024-06-01T15:30:17+01:00

As well as a UK nationwide delivery service, we also offer the option of a pickup from our Coalville, Leicestershire based warehouse. Our collection times are Monday-Friday, 09:00-15:00. Simply opt for the ‘Local Pickup’ option on the checkout of our online store, or contact a member of our dedicated sales team on 01530 382 180.

How long does it take for goods to be delivered?2022-02-23T11:35:48+00:00

We keep our entire composite cladding product range in stock, so your lead time is solely governed by the delivery option you choose at checkout: either a 3-5 working day window on our “Express Delivery Service”, or a 7-10 working day window on our “Economy Delivery Service”.

Where can I purchase NeoTimber® cladding products?2024-06-01T15:31:39+01:00

When buying NeoTimber® cladding, you deal with NeoTimber® directly: either buy online or contact a member of our sales team on 01530 382 180. In distributing our own products, we have much better control over the experience that our customers receive.

Do you have a cladding showroom we can visit?2024-06-01T15:32:23+01:00

We have a UK-based composite cladding showroom in Coalville, Leicestershire. Call us on 01530 382 180 to arrange an appointment. Customers are welcome to visit from 09:00-17:30, Monday-Friday.

How much does NeoTimber® cladding cost?2022-02-23T11:43:52+00:00

Initially, composite cladding does cost more when compared with traditional wooden cladding, however – the payoff you get over time in decreased maintenance costs and increased leisure time provides compelling value. For latest prices, please check our online store.

INSTALLATION

Do I have to use NeoTimber® subframe solutions with my NeoTimber® cladding?2022-02-23T11:58:49+00:00

Although we recommend using our subframe options with our composite cladding boards, it is not a necessity. Customers can also opt for timber battens, plastic joists or a metal subframe solution. As long as the principles outlined in our installation guide are followed, our warranty terms will still apply.

How do you fix NeoTimber® cladding trims?2022-02-23T12:01:19+00:00

The primary fixing method for our trims is fixing with a screw. Trims can be affixed to either the composite cladding boards or to the supporting battens around your cladding area. We advise that you pre-drill 3mm pilot holes and countersink all trims prior to screwing them in order to avoid cracking the composite material. For a more discreet finish, we recommend NeoTimber® coloured trim screws. An adhesive can also be used as a secondary fixing solution. See the ‘fixing your composite edging’ section of our online installation guide for more assistance on best practices.

Can composite cladding boards be cut/sawn like traditional wood?2022-02-23T12:04:25+00:00

Yes – composite cladding can be sawn just like traditional wood. You can make cross cuts in composite cladding as you would cut any soft pine – a circular power saw will work fine. A mitre power saw can provide accurate, straight cuts; a table saw with support extensions can make all types of cutting easier. However, because of the plastic elements within the composite we recommend using Tungsten Carbide Tip (TCT) bits and blades.

Can NeoTimber® composite cladding boards be glued?2022-02-23T12:05:40+00:00

Glue cannot be used as a primary fastener, solely as an additional fixing method. Please see our online installation guide for more information including how to install using our recommended concealed screws for a more effective, permanent fixing solution.

Can I use a non-recommended fastener to install NeoTimber® cladding?2022-02-23T12:07:06+00:00

NeoTimber® does not endorse the use of any non-recommended fasteners. If any damage or condition arises which is directly attributable to the use of a non-recommended fasteners, such conditions would not be covered under the NeoTimber® warranty. Please see our online installation guide for guidance on the recommended installation procedure.

TECHNICAL

Does NeoTimber® composite material expand and contract?2022-02-23T12:11:14+00:00

Like all wood-plastic composites, our composite cladding products expand and contract as a result of temperature change. This rate of expansion and contraction is dictated by the outside environment – primarily the temperature. This must be considered ahead of installation as this has a direct impact upon on the “end-to-end” spacing required between boards. For more information on this, please consult the ‘elements to consider’ section of the online installation guide.

Are NeoTimber® cladding boards resistant to staining?2022-02-23T12:14:35+00:00

Our traditional composite cladding board (the Classic range) is composed of wood fibres and recycled plastic and is uncapped, meaning it is not fully resistant to stains. If any spillage occurs, we recommend immediate action – treat the affected area and follow the steps in our care guide. Our capped composite cladding boards (Deluxe & Slatted ranges) are wrapped in a polymer shell that forms a protective barrier around the core of the product. This will provide excellent stain resistance and an easy-clean surface.

What materials are used to manufacture NeoTimber® composite cladding?2022-02-23T12:15:38+00:00

NeoTimber® composite cladding is made from 95% recycled materials, including reclaimed wood and sawdust as well as recycled plastic. The exact material composition is specifically 60% wood powder, 30% recycled HDPE and 10% chemical additives.

How heavy is NeoTimber® composite cladding when compared with wood?2022-02-23T12:16:25+00:00

Typically, NeoTimber® composite cladding boards are between 50% and 70% heavier than comparable section of lumber.

Will NeoTimber® products change colour or fade when installed outdoors?2022-02-23T12:19:43+00:00

All our composite cladding solutions are more fade-resistant than traditional timber cladding. But how well your cladding stands up to the elements depends entirely upon what type of NeoTimber® cladding you choose. Our Classic traditional composite cladding will lighten-up in colour-tone, achieving a weathered colour after a period of up to 6 months. The level of fade thereafter will be minimal once the boards have reached this colour tone. Our Deluxe and Slatted capped composite cladding has protective shell technology which provides excellent fade and stain resistance and will not fade whatsoever.

AFTER CARE

How do I clean/maintain NeoTimber® composite cladding?2022-02-23T12:22:34+00:00

Our entire range of composite materials is very easy to maintain. A basic clean consists of using soap, warm water and a soft-bristled brush. For a deeper clean, a pressure washer can be used on your cladding. We find that a twice-yearly clean is usually enough to keep your composite cladding looking excellent throughout the year. The weather-resistant nature of our products means that you’ll never need to paint, stain or seal the boards. For more information on cleaning and care tips, please visit our care guide.

Can I use a pressure washer on my NeoTimber® composite cladding?2022-02-23T12:24:40+00:00

Our composite cladding boards are low maintenance; we recommend a general clean every 3-6 months to ensure your boards continue to look at their best all year. Using a pressure washer (maximum 3100 psi) is an effective way of cleaning any surface dirt and traffic pollution from hard-to-reach cladding boards. To ensure you do not damage the surface of the boards, use a fan attachment on the pressure washer and applying the spray a minimum of 300mm from the surface. For more information on cleaning and care tips, please visit our care guide.

Can I paint or stain my NeoTimber® cladding boards?2022-02-23T12:26:25+00:00

We strongly advise that customers avoid painting or staining any NeoTimber® composite cladding products. Our products are designed to be a low maintenance alternative to timber cladding. Traditional staining or painting solutions that are usually used on traditional timber cladding will not bond with our products, and the colour consistency of our boards will stay largely consistent throughout the lifespan.

Can NeoTimber® cladding boards be sanded?2022-02-23T12:29:06+00:00

We do not advise that you sand our capped composite cladding boards (the Deluxe & Slatted ranges). The protective polymer shell of the product will be damaged beyond repair if you were to do so, and you would void the product’s warranty. However, we recommend lightly sanding our traditional composite cladding (the Classic range) in order to remove stubborn, deep-set stains. In this instance only, apply a 60-grit sandpaper to the direction of the grain of the board, lightly applying pressure in the affected area. As a result of the sanding, the affected area will initially appear as a lighter colour tone. Please rest assured this will blend-in with the colouration of the board over time as the board is exposed to sunlight.

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Need Further Support or Advice?

If you’ve still got questions that have not been answered here, or you would like additional advice,
support or assistance then please give one of our friendly experts a call and we’ll be happy to help.

Just give us a call on 01530 382 180.