Cement cladding is used to improve the appearance and insulation of buildings, and can be installed in the interior or exterior of a structure. Cement fibre boards, planks and panels are typically attached to brick, timber or plasterboard with screws or a dedicated adhesive. Cement is used as a binding agent in a variety of applications in the building trade and is a major component of concrete. Natural cement is comprised of a mixture of clay and limestone, and is produced in a fine powder form. Cement is typically first spread, then mixed, compacted and finally cured. Curing is when the cement sets and acquires it strength, and requires adequate moisture. Mixing water with cement causes hydration to take place, after which it dries to form a hard water resistant substance. Portland cement, a more complex mixture of mineral elements, has superseded natural cement, and together with aggregates such as gravel - are the principal ingredients of concrete.

There is a range of cladding available from building supply outlets, including:

• cement
• timber
• vinyl
• acrylic
• stone; and
• PVC

Installing cement cladding can benefit your home in a number of ways, including:

• providing critical insulation for your home
• economising on energy bills
• improving the appearance of your home
• boosting the retail value of your home
• reducing long-term maintenance costs

Use the directory on this site to locate a material supplier who stocks cement cladding.