If your home or building still has its original exterior cladding, it might be time to ask a serious question: Is your old cladding a fire risk?
From ageing timber to older metal systems and high-pressure laminate (HPL) panels, many legacy cladding materials used in the UK simply don’t meet today’s fire safety standards. At Concept Facades, we specialise in helping homeowners and property managers replace unsafe or outdated cladding with fire-resistant, low-maintenance composite alternatives.
The Hidden Danger: Fire Risks in Outdated Cladding
While timber cladding is the most commonly known fire risk, it’s not the only one. Many older homes and buildings across the UK were built or renovated using materials that are now deemed non-compliant with current fire safety regulations.
Here are some types of cladding that could pose a fire hazard:
- Timber Cladding: Dry, cracked, or untreated wood is highly combustible.
- High-Pressure Laminate (HPL) Panels: Some HPL systems have been found to fail fire safety tests.
- Older Metal Cladding Systems: If improperly installed or with flammable insulation backing, metal panels can spread fire.
- Polystyrene-backed or uPVC Cladding: Lightweight and cost-effective, but often lack flame retardancy.
Image: Collage showing different outdated cladding types with captions like “Potential Fire Risks.”
If your cladding was installed more than 15–20 years ago, or you’re unsure of the material used, it’s worth scheduling an expert inspection. Safety standards have changed significantly, and what was compliant in the early 2000s may now be considered high risk.
Common Signs Your Cladding Needs Replacing
Even if there’s no immediate safety risk, ageing cladding often brings other problems. Keep an eye out for these telltale signs:
1. Cracks, Warping, and Surface Damage
Cracked, warped, or splitting cladding isn’t just unsightly—it can allow moisture to seep in, creating conditions for rot, insect infestation, and increased flammability.
Image: Damaged timber or warped cladding boards vs. neat, modern composite finish.
2. Timber Rot or Fungus
If your property has timber cladding, look for signs of dry or wet rot:
- Musty smell
- Discolouration
- Crumbling or softened wood
Rot makes cladding structurally weak and far more vulnerable to fire.
Image: Close-up of rotting wood compared to healthy composite boards.
3. Insect Damage
Tiny boreholes, sawdust-like debris, or larvae in the cladding indicate insect infestation. Beyond weakening your home’s exterior, pest-damaged wood also contributes to faster fire spread.
Image: Close-up of infested/insect cover wood compared to healthy composite boards.
4. Failing Fasteners or Fixings
Cladding systems that are loose, sagging, or improperly fixed can create gaps for fire and moisture to penetrate, reducing the fire integrity of the entire structure.
Image: Shot of an old façade with sagging panels and rusted fixings.
Why Choose Composite Cladding from Concept Facades?
We exclusively install premium composite cladding systems that are safe, modern, and built to last. Whether you’re replacing timber, HPL, uPVC, or older composite materials, our solutions provide:
- Fire resistance in line with UK Building Regulations (look for A-rated and B-rated options)
- Durability against weather, insects, rot and UV damage
- Zero maintenance—no staining, sealing, or sanding required
- Modern aesthetic to instantly boost kerb appeal and property value
Image: Before-and-after project images with Concept Facades branding.
Future-Proof Your Home with a Safe Cladding Upgrade
Replacing your old cladding isn’t just about modernising your property’s appearance—it’s about protecting your home, your family, and your investment.
Whether you’re dealing with fire-risk timber, outdated HPL systems, or simply want to update your exterior, Concept Facades is here to help with expert advice and professional installation.
Contact us today for a free cladding consultation, and let’s discuss how to upgrade your home safely and stylishly.
