Choosing the right cladding material is crucial for the durability, energy efficiency, and appearance of any building. In Australia, EPS (Expanded Polystyrene), timber, and fibre cement are among the most commonly used cladding options. Each offers distinct benefits—but also notable drawbacks. Here’s how they stack up:
EPS Cladding (Expanded Polystyrene)
EPS panels are made from rigid foam, coated with a high-quality render finish. Lightweight yet durable, they offer excellent insulation and a modern look that closely resembles rendered brickwork when complete.
EPS Cladding Pros
- Superior Insulation: Delivers outstanding thermal efficiency—reducing energy bills and improving comfort year-round.
- Lightweight & Fast to Install: Cuts down on labour time and cost.
- Moisture Resistant: Prevents water ingress, mould, and rot.
- Cost-Effective: Lower material and install costs than timber or fibre cement.
- Eco-Friendly: Recyclable and supports lower energy consumption in buildings.
- Modern Aesthetic: Once rendered, it achieves a clean, solid finish with the visual appeal of brickwork.
EPS Cladding Considerations
- Surface Damage: While minor dents or scratches can occur, proper render systems help protect and maintain visual appeal.
- Fire Risk: EPS must be installed with certified fire-retardant systems, particularly in high-risk zones.
Timber Cladding
Timber offers a timeless, natural aesthetic. Popular in residential builds, it creates warmth and character—but at a cost.
Timber Cladding Pros
- Visual Appeal: Rich in natural texture and variation; adds charm to any building.
- Versatility: Works well in traditional and modern designs.
Timber Cladding Cons
- High Maintenance: Requires frequent painting or staining to protect against UV, moisture, and pests.
- Costly: Both the timber itself and installation are expensive, especially with hardwoods.
- Slow Installation: Labour-intensive compared to panel systems.
- Environmental Impact: Often harvested unsustainably, and not always a renewable choice.
- Pest-Prone: Even treated timber remains vulnerable to termite damage without ongoing treatment.
Fibre Cement Cladding
Made from cement, sand, and cellulose fibres, this rigid sheet cladding is commonly used for its durability and fire resistance.
Fibre Cement Cladding Pros
- Fire Resistant: Non-combustible—ideal for bushfire zones.
- Weather Durable: Resistant to rot and insect damage.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal upkeep compared to timber.
Fibre Cement Cladding Cons
- Movement & Cracking: Prone to visible cracks due to expansion/contraction, leading to increased maintenance.
- Poor Insulation: Offers little to no thermal performance.
- Health Risk During Install: Dust from cutting is hazardous; requires special tools and PPE.
- Flat, Unrefined Look: Lacks depth around windows and finishes with a low-end aesthetic.
- Environmental Impact: Cement production is energy-intensive, contributing to a larger carbon footprint.
What Cladding Is Best?
-
- What look do you want to achieve?
-
- Options for every desire.
EPS cladding stands out for its thermal performance, cost-efficiency, and clean, rendered-brick appearance—making it a smart choice for modern builds that prioritise energy savings, aesthetic appeal, and long-term value. It’s no surprise that EPS is one of the fastest-growing construction methods around the world.
Beyond its practical benefits, EPS offers design flexibility. It can be taken to the next level with a sleek, contemporary finish by applying Tufftex Polished Plaster or Micro Cement—giving façades a luxurious, high-end look without the high-end price tag.
Timber, while naturally beautiful, comes with significant maintenance demands and high costs. Fibre cement provides fire resistance and durability but lacks insulation, visual depth, and sustainability.
For most residential and commercial projects, EPS provides the best balance of performance, style, and affordability.
