Plywood sheeting, aluminium, fibre cement, and vinyl are all types of lightweight cladding with their own unique benefits.

With the enormous variety of non-structural claddings, linings, and finishes available, lightweight framed construction can be used to create almost any desired architectural form or finish (for example, reconstituted hardwood panels and boards from forestry waste, fibre cement sheet, plywood, timber weatherboard, brick veneer, rendered external insulation systems, or composite metal panels).

Lightweight cladding, such as fibre cement or metal sheet, typically have a lower moisture buffering capacity and are often constructed without a cavity behind the cladding. The result is that the risk of external and internal (condensation) moisture migration to the frame and insulation is increased.

Fibre cement cladding is used on the external walls of homes and building facades. Fibre cement is probably the best materials for eaves and soffits (outdoor ceilings) because it’s lightweight and resistant to damage form moisture which may be the result of a roof leak.