Composite vs PVC cladding: A comprehensive comparison

Key Highlights 

• Choosing the right cladding for your home involves comparing cost, durability, aesthetics, and environmental impact.
• Both composite and PVC are synthetic materials that are popular for cladding due to their low maintenance and durability compared to wood.
• While composite cladding might have higher upfront costs, its longevity and minimal upkeep can lead to long-term savings.

When choosing the right cladding material for your home, making an informed decision is essential. Cladding, or "siding", is critical in protecting your home’s exterior while enhancing its aesthetic appeal. Among the most popular options available today are composite cladding and PVC cladding. Both materials offer distinct advantages and drawbacks, making it important to evaluate them based on features like maintenance, longevity, sustainable practices, cost, and design versatility.

This guide compares the advantages and disadvantages of PVC and composite cladding , focusing on key features to help you choose the right material for your outdoor space.

Understanding composite cladding and PVC cladding: their key features and benefits

Compared to traditional timber cladding, PVC and composite are popular synthetic choices due to their long-lasting, low-maintenance, and durable qualities.

PVC cladding

PVC cladding is a synthetic material made from polyvinyl chloride, a durable plastic. This lightweight material is widely used due to its affordability, ease of installation, and low maintenance requirements. Typically available in various colours and finishes, PVC cladding mimics the appearance of wood or stone while offering the benefits of modern materials.

One of the primary advantages of PVC cladding is its affordability. It is among the most cost-effective cladding options on the market, making it accessible for homeowners on a budget. PVC is also resistant to moisture, rot, and insect damage.

However, PVC cladding has some drawbacks. Over time, it may be prone to fading and cracking under prolonged exposure to UV rays. While it is relatively durable, it does not offer the same level of robustness as composite materials.

Composite cladding

Composite cladding is a modern material composed of wood fibres, recycled plastics, and bonding agents. It is designed to combine the natural beauty of wood with the resilience and low maintenance of synthetic materials. Composite cladding is a premium option that offers enhanced durability and versatility compared to PVC.

The primary appeal of composite cladding is its durability and longevity. It is highly resistant to warping, cracking, and fading, even in extreme weather conditions. Composite materials require minimal upkeep and typically only occasional cleaning to maintain their appearance.

While composite cladding is more expensive than PVC, its long-term durability and minimal maintenance requirements can offset the higher upfront costs.

Millboard composite cladding

If you are considering a composite cladding material, Millboard’s Envello collections stand out from the rest. Unlike traditional composite cladding, Millboard uses a unique polyurethane resin blend rather than wood fibres and plastics. This strengthens the boards, making them more durable and resistant to harsh weather conditions, insects and UV damage.

Millboard composite cladding is lightweight and moulded from real oak to replicate a classic, authentic look. The variations in wood grains and tones make it an excellent, aesthetically pleasing option for a home’s exterior.

Browse the Envello composite cladding collections below, or contact the Millboard team for more information:

Request Free Sample

Comparing composite vs PVC cladding for your outdoor space

Composite and PVC materials both last a long time and need little care. Whilst composite is typically made from wood fibres and plastic, their cladding usually costs more. However, it looks more natural and is better for the environment. PVC, made from polyvinyl chloride, is cheaper and very good at resisting moisture.

In the table below, compare the two cladding materials to find which best suits your requirements:

In summary, while PVC cladding is a budget-friendly option suitable for straightforward projects, composite cladding—particularly from Millboard—delivers superior performance and aesthetics. Homeowners seeking a long-term solution with minimal maintenance should consider investing in composite cladding.

Below, we explore both PVC cladding and composite cladding, comparing them in detail on the highlighted features, including maintenance, design options, and which you should choose for your home:

Maintenance and durability: composite vs PVC cladding

PVC cladding requires minimal maintenance but may need occasional repainting if the colour fades due to UV exposure. Regular cleaning with soapy water is typically sufficient to remove dirt and grime.

Composite cladding, on the other hand, is virtually maintenance-free. Its durable surface resists stains and fading, and a simple wash with water and mild detergent will keep it looking new. Millboard composite cladding stands out further, as its non-porous surface prevents dirt and moisture absorption, making cleaning even easier.

Overall, composite cladding offers a more hassle-free experience for homeowners who prefer minimal upkeep.

What are the design and colour options for PVC and composite cladding?

PVC cladding is available in various colours and textures, often mimicking wood or stone. However, the finishes may not always achieve the realism of natural materials, and the colour options can be somewhat limited compared to composite alternatives.

Composite cladding offers a broader spectrum of design possibilities, from rich woodgrain finishes to contemporary hues. It provides greater versatility and a premium aesthetic.

Millboard’s composite cladding stands out due to how they are created. With hand-moulded designs taken from vintage oak boards, our cladding collections provide a strikingly authentic timber look that adds character and sophistication to any home.

Explore some of Envello Cladding's range of colours below:

Explaining fire safety: composite vs PVC cladding

Fire safety is also an essential factor to consider, as the material is a key component of the home. PVC cladding has moderate fire resistance, but its synthetic composition can release toxic fumes in the event of a fire. While it is treated with fire-retardant chemicals, it is not the most fire-safe option available.

Millboard's composite cladding collections, Shadow Line + and Board & Batten cladding boards have been tested to BS EN13501-1 and have a classification of D-s3, d0 when fitted in accordance with our install guide.

The responsibility for the cladding’s suitability in the required location is to be determined by a certified building professional (building control, building insurance, fire officer, etc).

Millboard will not be held responsible for incorrect specification, application, or product installation in areas not in accordance with government guidance, in the UK or abroad. Current guidance should be gained from the government website relating to the geographical project location. Millboard is not recommended for use as cladding or balcony decking on buildings 11m or above, and for other use, it should be subject to Building Regulations to check suitability, use and proximity.

Certification, along with installation guidance, is available on our website: https://www.millboard.com/en-gb/resources

Cost comparison and financial considerations for choosing exterior cladding

Comparing the cost of composite and PVC cladding involves the initial purchase price and long-term financial considerations, including maintenance, durability, and potential energy savings.

PVC cladding typically presents the more budget-friendly choice upfront, with lower installation costs, making it an appealing option for homeowners looking to minimise immediate expenses. However, while PVC may save you money initially, its shorter lifespan and the need for periodic replacements can lead to higher costs over time.

In contrast, although composite cladding has a higher initial cost, it offers remarkable durability and longevity, leading to substantial savings in maintenance and replacement costs. Moreover, investing in high-quality composite materials may enhance your property’s value, making it a wise financial decision in the long run.

Should you choose PVC or composite cladding for your home?

The decision between PVC and composite cladding depends on your priorities and budget. If cost is your primary concern, PVC cladding offers a practical and affordable solution.

However, composite cladding—particularly Millboard—is the superior choice if you value durability, aesthetics, and sustainability. While it requires a higher initial investment, its long-term performance and visual appeal benefits make it a worthwhile addition to any home.

Millboard Envello Cladding is a perfect solution for transforming a home's exterior, both in performance and aesthetics. Completely wood-free, our composite cladding is extremely low-maintenance and available in various design options - depending on your stylistic preferences.

Browse our composite cladding collections below:

Key features of Millboard Composite Cladding:

If you are interested in our composite cladding, or would like more information, contact the Millboard team today or sample your favourites below.

Request Free Sample

Frequently asked questions

Can either cladding option improve home insulation?

Composite and PVC cladding can improve your home’s insulation if installed correctly. These cladding materials serve as an extra layer of protection, reducing heat transfer and possibly lowering energy bills.

Does Millboard composite cladding require special installation?

Millboard cladding is designed for straightforward installation but may benefit from professional installation to ensure optimal results and longevity. Millboard-approved installers undergo quality training on our products, ensuring all installations are correct and performed with specialist tools, fixings, optional accessories, and finishes.

Knowing that your Millboard cladding is installed to the highest standards gives you peace of mind.

Find your nearest Millboard-approved installer today.