What is Composite Cladding and How Does It Work?
Hulkwood — Premium Composite Materials for Modern Homes
When it comes to transforming the exterior of a home or commercial building, composite cladding has quickly become one of the most popular solutions. Homeowners, contractors, and architects choose it not only for its beauty but also for its incredible durability and low maintenance. But what exactly is composite cladding—and how does it work?
In this article, we break it down clearly and simply.
Composite cladding is an exterior covering made from a blend of wood fibers and recycled plastic polymers. This combination creates panels that look like natural wood but perform far better in harsh climates.
A typical composite board includes:
60% wood fibers
30–35% recycled HDPE plastic
5–10% additives (UV inhibitors, anti-fungal agents, stabilizers, pigments)
These components are combined and extruded into boards with consistent color, grain, and strength.
At Hulkwood, our composite cladding—such as the Natura Series and WEO-inspired profiles—is engineered to provide premium aesthetics with unmatched weather protection.
2. How Does Composite Cladding Work?
Composite cladding works by creating a protective, ventilated envelope around the building. This system improves both durability and energy efficiency.
How the system functions:
✔ Acts as a protective skin
Composite boards shield the building from:
UV radiation
Rain, snow, and humidity
Temperature fluctuations
Mold and insects
This significantly reduces the wear and deterioration seen on wood cladding.
✔ Allows ventilation
Composite cladding is installed with an air gap between the wall and the exterior boards.
This provides:
Continuous airflow
Moisture evacuation
Reduced heat transfer
The result is a longer-lasting structure with better thermal comfort.
✔ Maintains its appearance
Thanks to UV-resistant pigments and a co-extruded shield, Hulkwood cladding retains its color for years without regular staining, painting, or sanding.
✔ Simple, modular installation
Boards interlock or mount on aluminum/wood battens, making installation faster and more precise than traditional wood siding.
Conclusion
Composite cladding is an innovative, beautiful, and low-maintenance solution for modern exterior design. By combining the natural look of wood with the strength of polymer technology, it offers a long-lasting and eco-friendly alternative to traditional siding.
Whether you’re renovating an old façade or designing a brand-new building, Hulkwood composite cladding gives you a premium finish built to stand the test of time.