How Much Does Composite Cladding Cost in Australia?
Composite cladding in Australia typically costs AUD $80 to $160 per square metre for materials, with professional installation adding AUD $60 to $120 per square metre. Total installed cost for a standard single-storey home usually falls between AUD $140 and $280 per square metre. It depends on board profile, wall access, and site conditions.
For most homeowners, the highest unexpected costs often come from auxiliary materials such as furring strips, waterproof membranes, and trim pieces. These items can add 30% to 40% to the total cost on top of the cost of the sheathing. The second surprise is the price difference between residential cladding profiles and wider facade profiles.
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How Much Does Composite Cladding Cost by Wall Area?
A 30 sqm single facade cladding project in Australia typically costs AUD $4,200 to $8,400 fully installed, while a 60 sqm full perimeter project ranges from AUD $8,400 to $16,800. The table below breaks down materials and labour at three common sizes.
| Wall area | Materials (AUD) | Installation (AUD) | Estimated total (AUD) |
| 15 sqm (feature wall) | $1,200 to $2,400 | $900 to $1,800 | $2,100 to $4,200 |
| 30 sqm (single facade) | $2,400 to $4,800 | $1,800 to $3,600 | $4,200 to $8,400 |
| 60 sqm (full perimeter) | $4,800 to $9,600 | $3,600 to $7,200 | $8,400 to $16,800 |
These estimates include boards, battens, stainless steel fixings, and standard trims. They do not include scaffolding for upper storeys, waterproof membrane (if required), or council Development Application fees. For a project-specific estimate, request a quote from your nearest EVODEK Australian distributor.
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How Does Composite Cladding Compare to Other Materials Over 25 Years?
The upfront material cost of composite cladding is higher than treated pine weatherboard but lower than hardwood species such as Spotted Gum or Blackbutt. The real cost difference appears over 25 years when maintenance is included. Timber cladding requires sanding, priming, and repainting every three to five years. Composite cladding requires only occasional cleaning.
| Material | Material cost/sqm | Install cost/sqm | Maintenance over 25 years | Estimated 25 year total (30 sqm) |
| Treated Pine Weatherboard | $30 to $60 | $50 to $90 | Repaint every 3 to 5 years (~$3,000 to $5,000 total) | $7,500 to $13,500 |
| Fibre Cement | $50 to $90 | $60 to $110 | Repaint every 7 to 10 years (~$1,500 to $3,000 total) | $6,300 to $12,000 |
| Composite Cladding | $80 to $120 | $60 to $120 | Wash only, no repaint ($200 to $500 total) | $4,400 to $7,700 |
| Hardwood Timber (Spotted Gum, Blackbutt) | $120 to $200 | $80 to $150 | Oil every 1 to 2 years (~$5,000 to $8,000 total) | $11,000 to $18,500 |
Composite cladding typically delivers the lowest 25 year total cost despite its higher upfront price because it eliminates repainting and sealing cycles.
What Factors Affect Composite Cladding Installation Cost in Australia?
Four factors drive most of the cost variation between projects: wall size and height, existing wall condition, bushfire compliance requirements, and council approval fees.
Wall Area, Height, and Access
Larger walls cost more in total but often less per square metre because setup and scaffolding costs are spread across a bigger area. Upper storey walls require scaffolding, which can add AUD $15 to $40 per square metre. A ground-level feature wall on a single-storey home is the most affordable starting point.
Existing Wall Condition and Subframe Requirements
If the existing wall is sound and flat, battens can be fixed directly to it. Walls with loose render, moisture damage, or significant unevenness may need repair before the subframe goes on, adding both labour and material costs. A waterproof membrane behind the battens is recommended on exposed or moisture-prone walls and adds approximately AUD $10 to $20 per square metre. The same principles described in how to create a waterproof deck apply to wall membrane installation.
Bushfire Rating and Compliance Costs
Properties in designated bushfire-prone areas must comply with AS 3959, which may restrict exterior cladding materials based on the BAL (Bushfire Attack Level) rating. Higher BAL ratings can require specific fire-rated systems, additional testing documentation, or alternative products, all of which increase project cost. Confirm your BAL rating with your local council before selecting a cladding material.
Council Approval Fees
Changing an exterior wall finish may require a Development Application (DA) with your local council, especially for front elevations or heritage-listed properties. DA fees vary by council but typically range from AUD $200 to $1,000 or more. Check requirements before starting work.
How to Reduce Composite Cladding Costs
The most effective way to reduce composite cladding costs is to start with a single feature wall (15 to 20 sqm) rather than a full perimeter project. Other strategies include:
- Scheduling installation between March and August when demand for exterior trades is lower.
- Choosing the residential profile over the wider facade boards.
- If the wall structure allows it and the existing subframe is in good condition, you may choose to reuse it.
DIY installation is realistic on a low, flat, single-storey wall with safe ground-level access. Professional installation is recommended for upper storeys, complex openings, and any project requiring compliance with NCC or AS 3959.
Conclusion
Composite cladding in Australia costs AUD $140 to $280 per square metre fully installed, depending on board profile, wall access, and site conditions. Over 25 years, composite cladding typically costs less than timber or hardwood when repainting and maintenance are included.
You can use the EVODEK Color Selector to preview various exterior siding options. You can also order free samples to see if the product is right for you. For colour guidance, see which is the best colour for composite cladding.
FAQ
How much does composite cladding cost per square metre in Australia?
Composite cladding materials typically cost AUD $80 to $160 per square metre in Australia depending on board profile and manufacturer. Professional installation adds AUD $60 to $120 per square metre, bringing the total installed cost to approximately AUD $140 to $280 per square metre.
Is composite cladding cheaper than timber cladding?
Composite cladding has a higher upfront material cost than treated pine weatherboard, but a lower 25-year total cost. Timber cladding requires sanding and repainting every three to five years, which adds AUD $3,000 to $5,000 or more in maintenance over 25 years. Composite cladding requires only occasional washing, making it the more cost-effective option over the life of the building.
What is included in the composite cladding installation cost?
A standard composite cladding quote should include boards, treated pine or aluminium battens, 316 grade stainless steel screws, starter clips, corner trims, edge trims, and installation labour. Items that may be quoted separately include scaffolding, waterproof membrane, window and door trims, council approval fees, and removal of existing cladding.
Does composite cladding need council approval in Australia?
Changing an exterior wall finish may require a Development Application with your local council, particularly for front elevations, heritage-listed buildings, or properties in bushfire-prone areas. DA fees vary by council but typically start from AUD $200. Strata-titled dwellings require additional approval under strata bylaws. Always confirm requirements before ordering materials.
How long does composite cladding last?
High-quality co-extruded composite cladding typically lasts 25 years or more with minimal maintenance. EVODEK composite cladding carries a 25 year residential warranty and a 10 year commercial warranty. The coextruded cap layer protects against UV fading, moisture absorption, and surface wear.
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