Wall cladding has quickly become one of the most popular finishing trends in Kenya—appearing in modern estates, commercial buildings, hotels, and even rural homesteads. Beyond beauty, cladding plays a major role in protecting walls from the elements and improving the durability of a building.

Here’s everything developers, homeowners, and property enthusiasts should know.

What Is Wall Cladding?

Wall cladding is the process of covering a building’s walls—external or internal—with an additional layer of material. This material can be:

• Decorative

• Protective

• Functional (e.g., insulation or waterproofing)

Cladding acts like a shield, guarding your structural wall from rain, heat, dust, and accidental damage. At the same time, it dramatically enhances aesthetics.

Why Wall Cladding Matters

1. Protection From Weather

Rain, UV rays, and moisture are major threats to building walls. Cladding minimizes cracks, peeling paint, dampness, and mould growth.

2. Better Insulation

Materials like stone, fibre-cement and PVC add thermal and acoustic insulation—keeping the house cooler and quieter.

3. Improved Aesthetics

Cladding can instantly transform a plain wall into a premium-looking façade. Developers use it to boost curb appeal and increase property value.

4. Lower Maintenance

Paint needs regular reapplication, but cladding requires minimal maintenance—mostly occasional cleaning.

Types of Wall Cladding in Kenya

1. Natural Stone Cladding

Popular options: quarry stone, granite, slate, coral stone
Best for: exterior walls, feature walls
Pros: long-lasting, luxurious, weatherproof
Cons: heavy, requires skilled mason, higher initial cost

2. PVC (Plastic) Cladding

Best for: interior spaces like bathrooms & kitchens
Pros: waterproof, termite-proof, affordable, quick installation
Cons: less premium look compared to stone

3. Fibre Cement Boards

Brands: Hume, Kalsi
Best for: modern designs, commercial buildings
Pros: durable, weather-resistant, fire-resistant
Cons: needs professional installation to avoid cracking

4. Timber Cladding

Best for: cabins, luxury homes, feature façades
Pros: warm natural aesthetic
Cons: requires treatment against moisture & pests

5. Metal Cladding

Materials: steel, aluminium sheets
Best for: industrial buildings, warehouses, modern homes
Pros: lightweight, durable, sleek look
Cons: can be noisy, may dent over time

6. Brick Veneer Cladding

Thin brick slices attached to walls.
Pros: classic brick look without structural brick cost
Cons: heavy and labour-intensive

7. Ceramic & Porcelain Tile Cladding

Best for: bathroom walls, feature walls
Pros: easy to clean, available in many designs
Cons: can detach if not installed well

Common Applications of Wall Cladding

• Residential homes (feature walls, frontage)

• Apartment blocks

• Office buildings

• Malls and hotels

• Kitchens and bathrooms

• Boundary walls and gate pillars

Costs of Wall Cladding in Kenya (Approx.)

(Prices may vary depending on supplier, region, and design.)

Advantages of Wall Cladding

✔ Long-lasting protection
✔ Adds beauty and property value
✔ Reduces maintenance costs
✔ Enhances insulation
✔ Offers wide design options

Disadvantages

✘ Higher initial cost than ordinary plaster & paint
✘ Some materials (stone/timber) require skilled installation
✘ Poor installation can trap moisture behind panels
✘ Not all types are suitable for all climates

Tips for Developers and Homeowners

1. Match Cladding With Climate

• Wet regions → fibre cement, stone, tiles

• Hot dry regions → metal, stone, PVC

2. Use Skilled Installers Only

Cladding failure (detachment, water seepage) is usually due to poor workmanship.

3. Consider Structural Load

Stone is heavy—ensure your wall can support it.

4. Combine Multiple Materials

Modern homes use mixed finishes:

• stone + paint

• metal + fibre cement

• timber + stone

5. Plan Early During Design Stage

Adding cladding later can be more expensive.

Final Thought

Cladding is no longer a luxury—it’s a practical and aesthetic investment. Whether you want to protect walls, reduce long-term maintenance costs, or give your home a modern, premium feel, wall cladding is one of the most impactful finishes in construction today.