The issue stems from a combination of building practices, materials and design trends that were common in Auckland in the 1990s and early 2000s:

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• Monolithic cladding systems like stucco or fibre-cement without proper cavity systems
• Untreated timber framing that absorbs and retains moisture
• Poor flashing or detailing around windows, decks, and penetrations
• Minimal eaves, creating direct water exposure to walls

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Over time, water makes its way behind the cladding and gets trapped, leading to rot, mould, and serious structural damage.

While some homeowners choose to reclad their home for a modern aesthetic, recladding isn’t just an exterior makeover. It’s a deep, structural process designed to bring your home up to modern weathertightness standards and improve everything from energy efficiency to resale value.

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Here’s what a full reclad typically involves:

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• Full removal of existing cladding
• Timber frame inspection and replacement of any decayed sections
• Installation of a building wrap and cavity system for proper moisture drainage
• New cladding installed to NZ Building Code standards (timber weatherboards, vertical cedar, or modern composite systems)
• New window joinery (often a smart time to upgrade to double glazing)
• Exterior painting and finishing
• Interior repairs and painting to any affected areas (e.g. replace damaged linings or sills)

You can reclad your home whenever you like. If you are not seeing any visible signs of water damage, a moisture test and inspection from a licensed building practitioner can reveal underlying issues. 

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Here are some signs that your home may be due for a reclad:

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• Bubbling or cracking plaster cladding
• Persistent damp or mould inside
• Soft spots in window sills or skirting boards
• Sagging or discoloration around deck connections
• High moisture readings from a building inspection

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In addition to the health and safety benefits, recladding also protects your biggest asset from further deterioration. There is a demand in the property market for code-compliant, modern homes. Recladding also helps you reduce costs in the long run. As the damage gets worse, it can be more expensive to fix.

We understand that these things are easier said than done. A full home renovation is never an easy feat, but with the right team at your side, it doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. 

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Bare Construction handles everything, from initial inspection and architectural redesign, to council consent and delivery of a warm, dry, stunning exterior. We are happy to tailor the process around your needs, whether you’re living in the home during construction or planning to pair it with other renovations.

If you’d like to schedule an appointment, or have any questions, please contact Michael Sutherland here.