Residential Reclad Design in Auckland
A reclad is more than choosing a new cladding. We resolve the design and junction detailing, and prepare the Building Consent documentation.
Discuss Your Reclad ProjectStart With the Existing Building
Two houses built in the same year can need very different reclads. The scope depends on what exists and which problems actually need resolving.
Where problems are suspected but not confirmed, specialist investigation may be needed before the scope can be set.
- The existing cladding system and how it was built
- Known leaks, reports and previous investigations
- Windows, doors, decks and balconies
- Roof-to-wall junctions and penetrations
- Past alterations and existing consent records
The Junctions Matter Most
Most cladding systems perform well across a flat wall. Problems occur where the wall meets something else.
- Windows and doors
- Heads, jambs and sills are common areas where weathertightness issues can occur. Cladding, cavity and flashings must meet the joinery properly.
- Decks and balconies
- Enclosed or wall-fixed decks often need rebuilding so they drain and connect correctly.
- Roof intersections and parapets
- Apron flashings, kick-outs and parapet cappings are exposed and easy to get wrong.
- Penetrations
- Pipes, vents, meter boxes and fixings each need a sealed, flashed detail.
- Ground clearances
- Existing ground and paving levels can conflict with required clearances.
- Material transitions
- Where claddings change, or new work meets retained work, the junction needs deliberate design.
Improving the Home at the Same Time
With the exterior open and joinery removed, it can make sense to resolve other changes now rather than alter the building twice. Many reclads, though, are best kept to the reclad itself.
For larger changes, see renovations and extensions.
- Relocating or enlarging windows
- Changing door positions and indoor-outdoor flow
- Redesigning the entrance or street elevation
- Simplifying complicated exterior forms
- Incorporating an addition or extension
- Improving insulation and building performance
Consent Documentation
On a reclad, most of the documentation effort goes into the details rather than the elevations.
For background, read our guide to building consent in Auckland.
- Existing and proposed drawings
- Cladding and cavity systems
- Junction and flashing details
- Windows and doors
- Structural and consultant coordination
- Building Consent documentation
When Specialist Input Is Needed
These are separate services to ours. Identifying them early avoids surprises once the cladding is off.
- Structural engineer
- Where bracing, lintels, decks or other structural elements are affected.
- Weathertightness specialist
- To advise on known or suspected failures and remediation.
- Building surveyor
- To assess and report on the existing condition of the building.
- Invasive investigation
- To establish the extent of moisture damage before the scope is fixed.
Reclad Questions
Do all reclads require Building Consent?
Many residential reclads require Building Consent, depending on the building, cladding system and scope of work. The consent pathway should be confirmed for your property rather than assumed.
What investigations should happen before design begins?
Start with existing reports, consent records and any known leaks. Where moisture damage is suspected, an invasive investigation by a qualified specialist is often worthwhile, as it can significantly change the scope.
Can I change windows and doors while recladding?
Often, yes. Joinery is usually removed during a reclad, so it is a sensible time to change positions or sizes. These changes can affect structure and consent, so decide on them before the design is finalised.
Who determines whether framing needs replacing?
A qualified specialist, such as a building surveyor or weathertightness specialist, usually once the cladding is removed. The documentation needs to allow for that outcome.
Do you carry out moisture testing or building inspections?
No. Vista Architectural provides architectural design and consent documentation. Testing, inspections and weathertightness assessments should be carried out by appropriately qualified specialists.
Considering a Reclad?
We can discuss the scope, consent requirements and any other changes before you commit to the next stage.
Discuss Your Reclad Project