Quickly estimate the amount of exterior hardwood cladding and fixings you need with our easy-to-use Exterior Cladding Calculator. Get precise results in both square and lineal metres delivered directly to your email. Please remember to add 10-15% wastage to your calculation for offcuts etc.
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To calculate how much exterior cladding you need, measure the wall area in square metres — multiply height by width and subtract large window or door openings. The type of profile you select will determine how much timber is needed, since each profile has a different cover width (the visible part of the board once installed). It’s standard to add 10–15% for cuts, waste, and future touch-ups. You can use our calculator to estimate this quickly, and if you’re working off plans or a more complex façade, we’re happy to help double-check quantities before you order.
Board width is the full size of the timber plank, while cover width is how much of it is visible after installation, taking overlaps or rebates into account. For instance, a 115mm board might only offer 90mm of cover depending on the fixing style. Our calculator uses the actual cover widths of each cladding profile to give you a more accurate material estimate. If you’re not sure which profile to select, our team can guide you through the options based on your design and fixings.
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Durable hardwoods like Spotted Gum, Ironbark, Tallowwood and Silvertop Ash perform exceptionally well in New Zealand’s weather conditions. These timbers offer natural resistance to moisture, rot, and UV exposure. Reclaimed timber is also a strong choice if you’re looking for a sustainable option with character. LMA Timber specialises in architectural-grade, sustainably sourced hardwoods, and we can advise you on which species are in stock and suitable for your climate zone.
The number of fixings depends on the profile, board orientation (vertical or horizontal), and cavity system. A general estimate is 20–30 fixings per square metre, but this can vary. When you use our calculator, just select your fixing method and cavity setup — we’ll provide an estimate based on your configuration. If you’re unsure which fixing type is best for your project, we can supply specs or recommend options suited to your cladding system.
Yes, in most cases the NZ Building Code requires a ventilated cavity system behind exterior cladding to manage moisture and prolong the life of the structure. The depth and type of cavity can depend on wind zone, building wrap, and profile choice. Our calculator includes common fixing and cavity combinations, and we can also provide technical information to ensure your system meets compliance and performs well in the long term.
Decks in NZ face plenty of UV, rain, and seasonal changes. Here are some key maintenance tips:
Timber cladding prices vary depending on the species and profile. As a rough guide, pine or softwoods can range from $45 to $70 per square metre, while durable Australian hardwoods like Spotted Gum or Ironbark typically cost $90 to $180+ per square metre. That doesn’t include fixings, cavity battens, or finishing products. While the calculator doesn’t display pricing, once you know your quantities, we can provide a tailored quote that includes supply and delivery costs based on your project size.
Yes, the calculator is set up to work with both vertical and horizontal profiles. It calculates based on cover width, so whether you’re using vertical shiplap, weatherboards, or another profile, the estimate will reflect your selected option. If you’re unsure whether your profile is compatible with vertical or horizontal installation, we can confirm that for you and supply profile drawings if needed.
In most cases, yes. Recladding or adding new exterior cladding usually requires consent because it changes the building envelope. The requirements vary by council and depend on whether you’re altering the structure or insulation values. We can provide product specs, durability ratings, and installation documents to help with your consent application or to share with your architect or builder.
When installed correctly and maintained, hardwood cladding can last 30 years or more. High-density species like Ironbark and Spotted Gum are naturally resistant to decay and insects, especially when paired with a well-ventilated cavity. Maintenance includes oiling or sealing the timber every one to two years if you want to preserve the original colour. We can supply pre-oiled boards and also recommend low-maintenance finishes depending on your preferred look and exposure level.
Yes, LMA Timber delivers to residential and commercial sites across New Zealand. Delivery timeframes depend on timber species, volume, and whether your selected profile is in stock or made to order. After using the calculator to estimate your quantities, get in touch with us to confirm lead times and logistics — we’ll make sure your cladding arrives when you need it.
