The hidden costs of neglecting timber cladding
Barrettine Products, explain why the price of neglecting your timber cladding may be much higher than you think, and share how you can protect your investment and maintain the beauty of your cladding for years to come.
PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
Barrettine Products, experts in woodcare, explain why the price of neglecting your timber cladding may be much higher than you think, and share how you can protect your investment and maintain the beauty of your cladding for years to come.
Timber cladding, with its natural beauty and insulating properties, is a popular choice for homeowners seeking to enhance their property’s aesthetic appeal.
However, this attractive exterior covering represents a significant investment that requires careful maintenance to protect its value.
“Homeowners often underestimate the impact that weather and the environment can have on their timber cladding,” says Steve Bailey, Group Managing Director for Barrettine Products.
“Neglect can cause costs to soar in the long run, both in terms of repairs and the eventual replacement of the cladding.”
“In comparison, regular maintenance using quality preservatives and protection oils is a fraction of the cost,” Bailey adds. “By investing in a robust timber care regimen, you extend the life of the cladding and avoid expensive replacements.”
Long-term consequences and costs
Neglecting timber cladding doesn’t just create an eyesore. Over time, the damage caused by water infiltration, rot, and UV exposure can compromise the structural integrity of the home, leading to larger repair bills for structural damage.
Beyond that, damage that is not visible to the naked eye, such as moisture build-up within the wood, can encourage the growth of fungi and attract pests, leading to hidden repair costs.
“Moisture damage can result in mould growth, which poses health risks and requires expensive remediation,” Bailey warns.
Without proper maintenance, timber cladding becomes vulnerable to environmental damage.
The cost of replacing damaged or weathered timber cladding can be substantial, especially when left unaddressed for long periods.
Depending on the type of wood, homeowners may be looking at anywhere between £100-£180 per square metre for replacement cladding*.
This means that the cost of a replacement for a single-storey property can easily reach a few thousand pounds in material and labour costs.
For multiple-storey buildings, scaffolding costs can add approximately £200-600*.

Protected Timber Cladding
The Barrettine solution
With more than 145 years of experience, Barrettine offers high-quality products designed to protect and preserve timber cladding.
“Our Universal Preserver Primer and Armourflex® UV Cladding Protection Oil work together to create a barrier against environmental damage, significantly extending the life of your timber,” says Bailey.
This comprehensive two-step system ensures that your timber cladding remains both structurally sound and visually appealing, even in the harshest conditions.
Firstly, the Universal Preserver Primer provides a deep-penetrating foundation, safeguarding against rot, fungi, and insects.
Its colourless finish ensures compatibility with various topcoats, and the premium formula provides high-performance, long-lasting protection.
Following the primer, Armourflex® Ultimate Cladding UV Protection Oil adds a resilient shield against the harsh effects of the sun and weather.
This premium blend of natural oils and waxes not only repels water but also prevents wood from warping and discolouring.
Together, these products create a durable barrier that preserves the beauty and integrity of your timber cladding for years to come.
Using Barrettine’s two-step system, homeowners can ensure their cladding remains an asset rather than a liability.
Investing in professional timber care and applying these treatments every 2-3 years can save thousands in replacement costs over the long term.
“When you take the time to maintain timber cladding, you’re protecting your home’s value,” concludes Bailey.
“It’s an investment in both the present and the future of your property.”
By taking preventative steps and using the right products, homeowners can enjoy the long-lasting beauty of their timber cladding and avoid the costly consequences of neglect.
For more information, please email [email protected] or visit www.barrettinePro.co.uk.

Modern Home with Protected Timber Cladding
*Figures from www.checkatrade.com/blog/cost-guides/house-cladding-cost/