From Drab to Fab: new research predicts summer cladding boom as UK homeowners seek to enhance property values

Houses featuring timber or artificial cladding boards have become a more common sight around Britain in recent years.

We wanted to learn more about what’s driving demand, and how many people might choose to clad their property in the near future.

So, in May 2023 we commissioned what we think is the first national survey of UK homeowner attitudes to cladding to get some answers.

This revealed that almost half (46%) of British homeowners have considered using timber or artificial cladding to improve their property's exterior and a remarkable 70% plan to undertake cladding projects this year.

It’s clear cladding has never been more popular and practical, with millions of homeowners seeking to improve the look of their home, whilst also making it more durable and saving money on energy bills.

This is great news for carpenters and specialist cladders around the country, so if that’s you, we wanted to share the results to help you prepare.

Below are the highlights of the research report – if you’d like to get all the insights, just click here to download the report for free.

UK Homeowner Demand for Exterior Cladding 2023: report highlights

The research reveals that 46% of British homeowners have considered using timber or artificial cladding to improve their property's exterior.

Out of these homeowners, a remarkable 70% plan to undertake cladding projects this year, potentially resulting in a cladding facelift for 2 million British properties by the end of 2023.

The decision to choose cladding is driven by several key factors, with the top three reasons being:

1. Enhancing Property Appeal – 48% of homeowners seek to improve the overall look of their property.
2. Weather Protection – 40% are motivated by safeguarding their homes from the elements.
3. Energy Efficiency – 39% aim to insulate the exterior of their property to reduce energy costs.

The significant increase in UK energy bills, with a 54% surge in April 2022 followed by a further 27% increase in October*, likely explains the growing emphasis on insulation.

And if you want to learn more about explaining this important benefit of cladding, check out our post on how cladding can save on energy bills here.

Interestingly, the research shows a strong correlation between age and the desire for cladding. Among 18-24 year-old homeowners, 45% already have cladding installed, and 39% express interest in pursuing cladding projects. In contrast, only 6% of homeowners over the age of 55 have implemented cladding, with just 19% considering it.

The five UK cities with the highest percentage of homeowners interested in cladding their houses are all located in coastal areas, exposed to extreme weather conditions and salty air, necessitating enhanced protection. These cities are:

1. Brighton (55%)
2. Belfast (47%)
3. Southampton (41%)
4. Plymouth (39%)
5. London (32%)

Cladding has the potential to transform homes from drab to fab, offering a wide range of benefits such as weather protection, improved energy efficiency, and enhanced aesthetic appeal," according to Sitebuddyz founder and CEO, James Gibbens. "We anticipate a substantial surge in cladding demand this summer, as more property owners and developers recognise the numerous advantages it offers. Younger homeowners, in particular, seek a modern, stylish look and are more likely to invest in long-term home improvement projects."