Red LBP Blog Series: Weatherside Cladding- The Down Low

Let's talk about Weatherside cladding, a building material that had its moment of fame in the 1970s and early 1980s. Made from tempered hardboard, it often resembled fibrous cement weatherboard at first glance, but it had some distinct characteristics and issues that have become more evident over time. In this blog, we'll dive into the history of Weatherside cladding, its appearance, vulnerabilities, and the lessons learned.

A Trip to the Past

Weatherside cladding, also known as tempered hardboard, was a popular choice in construction during the 70s and 80s in NZ. It was favoured for its affordability and ease of installation. But over time, its limitations started to surface.

A Closer Look

One of the notable features of Weatherside cladding was its appearance. It had a wood grain and band saw finish that gave it the look of natural wood. Though it could be easily mistaken for fibrous cement weatherboard at first glance, it was a different material.

Weatherside cladding also came in sheet form, which closely resembled profiled fiber cement sheets. This made it versatile and suitable for various architectural styles. However, appearances can be misleading.

Vulnerabilities Revealed

As time passed, Weatherside cladding's vulnerabilities became apparent. It was not as resilient to weather and moisture as initially thought. When exposed to moisture, it tended to swell, similar to MDF reveals when they get wet. Damage to the paint coating, like nicks or unsealed boards, made it susceptible to moisture-related problems.

Issues with Weatherside cladding arose when it wasn't properly maintained and protected. This has lead to structural problems and exterior damage, which posed challenges for property owners over time.

Lessons Learned

The story of Weatherside cladding teaches us the importance of understanding a building material's limitations and potential issues before widespread use. While it offered affordability and easy installation, long-term durability should never be compromised.

For property owners with Weatherside cladding, regular maintenance and inspections are crucial. Keeping the paint coating in good shape and addressing damage promptly are key to preventing moisture-related issues.

It is extremely important to ensure Weatherside is identified where possible during property transactions. Understanding the issues it has created in the past, and the ongoing replacement or maintenance needed to ensure it is not a risk to the weathertightness of a home is crucial for buyers and sellers.

Conclusion

Weatherside cladding, with its tempered hardboard composition and wood-like appearance, had its moment in the 1970s and 1980s. Over time, its vulnerabilities became evident, especially in relation to moisture. The lessons learned encourage us to make informed material choices and prioritise the long-term performance and reliability of our buildings.