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Siding does more than make your house look good — it protects the structure from wind, rain, and the odd British downpour. Think of siding as a weatherproof coat for your home: it keeps warmth in, damp out, and can boost kerb appeal in a single sweep. If you're planning to improve insulation or simply freshen up the exterior, choosing the right siding pays dividends down the road in energy savings and reduced maintenance.
There’s no one-size-fits-all siding. Different materials suit different budgets, climates, and aesthetic tastes. Below I break down the main options so you can match the material to your priorities — whether that's low upkeep, a classic look, or extra weather resistance.
Vinyl is the low-maintenance favourite for many homeowners. It comes in a wide range of colours and styles, resists rot and insect damage, and won’t need painting. Panels are usually measured by the square foot and installed over a breathable membrane to reduce drafts. If you're after value and ease, vinyl is a great starting point.
Timber delivers a warm, natural appearance that ages gracefully, but it needs regular upkeep — think treatments or paints every few years. For a classic look, cedar or treated softwood boards work well. Timber is also lightweight, which makes it easier to handle during DIY installs if you’re comfortable with carpentry.
Fibre cement mixes durability with a timber-like look and stands up to humidity better than natural wood. Composite boards, often made from recycled materials, combine durability and low maintenance with a modern finish. Both are heavier than vinyl, so you'll want to plan lifting and fixing accordingly.
Metal panels are sleek, durable, and fire-resistant — ideal for contemporary designs. Aluminium won’t rust and is relatively lightweight, while steel options are strong but may require treatments to prevent corrosion in coastal areas. Metal is great if you want a long-lived, modern exterior.
Buying siding is more than picking a colour. Think about weather resistance, insulation value, ease of installation, and the long-term maintenance commitment. Below are the key features to check so you don't get an unpleasant surprise after installation.
UK weather can swing from chilly and wet to bright and blustery, so choose materials that handle moisture without swelling or rotting. Look for products with good warranty terms against damp-related degradation and check for breathable underlays to stop trapped moisture.
Siding can contribute to thermal performance, especially when combined with insulation boards. If you want improved energy efficiency, opt for systems that accept insulated backing or integrative solutions that add R-value to your walls.
Be honest about your DIY skills. Some siding systems are straightforward click-together solutions; others require precise cutting and fixing. Factor in future maintenance like repainting, re-sealing, or cleaning when calculating lifecycle costs.
There are several reliable places to buy siding and accessories across the UK — from national DIY chains to specialist merchants. Below I highlight a mix of suppliers that you'll likely find useful, including a store mentioned in the data you provided, plus well-known builders' merchants and DIY chains.
Expert Electrical is known for electrical supplies, but many branches stock a range of accessory products useful when installing siding, such as sealants, fixing bands, and ventilation components. If you’re installing soffit lighting or routing cables through your exterior, they’re a handy place for compatible Downlights, flexible ducting and related fixings. A typical item you might find is a 4-inch by 10-foot PVC flexible ducting hose for routing ventilation or wiring — small, practical bits that save time on site.
B&Q carries a wide range of siding options, from vinyl panels to timber cladding and composite boards, plus underlays and fixings. Their in-store experts can help with basic estimates and the online toolset often gives guidance on how many panels you need based on square footage.
Wickes is a strong option for those who want trade-quality goods without hunting down a merchant. They stock cladding, trims, insulation boards, and specialist fasteners. Wickes also offers cutting services in many stores, which makes handling long boards or metal profiles easier if you don’t have a van.
Screwfix is the go-to for tools, fixings, sealants, and minor materials. If you need specialist screws, fixing bands, or sealants like a 10 fl oz multi-surface construction adhesive for final detailing, Screwfix can save you a trip to multiple shops.
Builders’ merchants like Travis Perkins and Jewson are ideal when you’re buying in bulk or need expert trade advice. They stock heavier-duty options and often carry professional-grade fibre cement panels, breathable membranes, and specialist insulation boards — perfect for larger renovation projects.
Siding projects need more than panels. The right accessories ensure longevity, a neat finish, and weatherproofing. Below are the small items that make a big difference.
Sealants fill gaps around windows, doors, and joints to keep weather out. A common cartridge size is roughly 10 fl oz, which covers most small to medium runs. Choose a weatherproof, paintable product suitable for multiple substrates — it’s worth paying a little more for flexibility and adhesion.
Trims hide cut edges, and fixing clips secure panels while allowing the system to expand and contract. A fixing band such as the black ARB-style bands are useful for cable management and securing small services along the soffit and cladding runs.
Good ventilation stops moisture building up behind siding. Flexible ducting — commonly around 4 inches in diameter and sold in lengths near 10 feet — helps route air from attic fans or extractor vents to the outside. Proper vents at eaves and ridge are also key to long life.
Thinking of tackling siding yourself? If you’re handy with a saw and comfortable on a ladder, you can save a bundle. But siding requires attention to detail. Poor sealing, incorrect fixing or inadequate ventilation can lead to damp and costly repairs.
You’ll need a circular saw with suitable blades for the material, a power drill, spirit level, and a selection of screws and clips. Metal siding often needs snips or a powered shear. If you’re working above ground level, safe access and scaffold are essential — a tall ladder is rarely enough for a full house.
Call in a contractor for complex wall profiles, multi-storey work, or if the substrate needs structural repair. A pro can also handle insulation upgrades and ensure building regulations are met for fire and thermal performance.
Estimating materials is easier if you measure in square feet. Measure wall widths and heights in feet, multiply to get area, subtract openings for doors and windows, then add 10–15% for waste and cut-offs. For example, a simple 1,200 square foot exterior might need roughly 1,320 square feet of panels with that waste factor included.
Trim runs are usually measured in linear feet along corners and openings. Fasteners are sold in boxes by count; a handy rule of thumb is to order an extra box or two beyond the calculated need in case of missed screws or rusted ones during work.
Costs vary hugely with material choice. Vinyl is generally cheapest, timber mid-range, and fibre cement or metal at the higher end. Factor in tools, scaffolding, and accessories when budgeting. If hiring trades, labour can account for a significant portion of total cost — often comparable to the materials on complex jobs.
Little acts of upkeep prevent big bills later. Rinse vinyl occasionally, repaint timber every few years, and inspect seals after storms. Keep gutters clear to prevent overspill onto cladding and replace cracked sealant promptly to avoid water ingress.
Choosing siding is a balancing act between look, durability, and cost. If you want low maintenance, vinyl or composites are sensible. If you want character, timber or fibre cement can deliver. And remember: buying from reputable suppliers — whether a local builders’ merchant or an electrical specialist for accessories — will save headaches.
Siding transforms both the look and performance of your home when chosen with care. Start by deciding what matters most — budget, appearance, or longevity — then match materials and suppliers to those priorities. Consider local suppliers such as Expert Electrical for accessory items and national chains like B&Q, Wickes, Screwfix, Travis Perkins or Jewson for panels, trims and technical advice. Measure in feet, plan for waste, and don't skimp on proper ventilation and sealing. With the right materials and products, your home will be better insulated, better protected, and looking smarter for years to come.
| Siding | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Specialist Wiring Accessories Arb12 Bl Fixing Band Black Colour | £ 10,42 | |
| Telemecanique Single Speed N C N O N C Staggered | £ 23,18 |
