Cost of exterior wall panels
Costs of plastic cladding 2026
Installing plastic facade cladding costs on average between €75 and €125 per square metre including installation. For this job, PVC panels are mounted on your facade for protection against wind and weather and to give your home a new look. The price is determined by the type of panel (for example, Keralit), the surface area of your facade, and the complexity of the installation. In this price guide, you can read about what plastic cladding costs, the Keralit price, and what to look out for when choosing facade cladding.
Table of Contents
- What does plastic cladding cost?
- Cladding costs per material type
- Price-determining factors for plastic cladding
- Additional costs and surcharges
- How does the professional work when installing plastic cladding?
- How can you save on plastic cladding?
- Common problems with plastic cladding
- Find the best professional for plastic cladding
- Frequently asked questions about plastic cladding
- Book a professional for plastic cladding
- Useful links
What does plastic cladding cost?
Installing plastic facade cladding costs on average between €75 and €125 per square metre, including material and labour. This covers a complete project where the professional supplies the material and mounts the panels on your facade. If you only purchase the material, count on €15 to €100 per square metre, depending on the design and quality of the panels.
Overview of average costs for plastic cladding
| Description | Costs |
|---|---|
| Plastic cladding including installation | €75 - €125 per m² |
| Plastic cladding material | €15 - €100 per m² |
| Composite wood cladding | €50 - €65 per m² |
The table shows that the total investment depends heavily on whether you outsource the installation or do it yourself. The Keralit price falls within the higher segment of material costs, with prices averaging between €65 and €100 per square metre for quality panels. Composite wood offers a cheaper alternative but requires different installation techniques.
The costs for plastic cladding are always calculated per square metre, with both material and labour hours incorporated into the total price. The Keralit price per m² is often higher because this brand is known for durability and extensive warranties. For smaller projects, the hourly rate of the professional may weigh more heavily in the final price.
All mentioned prices include 21% VAT and labour, unless explicitly stated otherwise.
Cladding costs per material type
The price of cladding varies greatly per material. Kalei is the cheapest option at €30 per square metre, while stone strips are the most expensive at €150 per square metre. The Keralit price falls in the upper middle segment, comparable to wooden versions. Below you can see what different materials cost.
| Type of cladding | Costs per m² |
|---|---|
| Kalei | €30 |
| PVC | €40 |
| Thermowood | €40 |
| Sidings | €60 |
| Wood | €65 |
| Crepi | €80 |
| Stone strips | €150 |
Price-determining factors for plastic cladding
The total price for plastic cladding is determined by various factors. By understanding these influences, you can better estimate what to look out for when requesting a quote.
Surface area of the facade
The larger the area to be clad, the higher the total price. More square metres mean more material and more labour time. For larger projects, the price per square metre may drop slightly due to economies of scale in purchasing.
Quality and wall thickness of the material
Panels with a greater wall thickness are sturdier and last longer but cost more. Thicker panels offer better insulation and are resistant to harsher weather. UV resistance and colour retention also vary by quality level.
Chosen profile and finish
Different profiles such as chamfered, shiplap, or flat panels each have their own price range. A special imitation look such as wood grain or aluminium look requires refined production methods and increases the price compared to standard colours.
Production method: extruded or injected
Extruded plastic has a homogeneous structure and is more wear-resistant, which increases the price. Injected plastic is cheaper to produce but can be less durable. This difference explains the spread in prices within the same product line.
Complexity of the facade
Facades with many corners, protruding parts, or window frames require more customisation and precision. The professional must cut panels to size more often and make connections perfect, which takes extra time. Difficult to reach facades increase the labour hours.
Insulation work
If you have insulation installed behind the cladding, costs increase significantly. Insulation material and the extra labour hours for installation impact the final price but do result in energy savings.
Location and accessibility
In large cities, the hourly rates of professionals are often higher than in rural areas. Accessibility also plays a role: if the workplace is difficult to access or if scaffolding is required, costs rise.
Planning and urgency
Urgent tasks are always more expensive than planned work. The professional has to adjust their schedule and reschedule other assignments. Work at weekends costs more due to weekend rates.
Building permit and regulations
In some municipalities or for listed buildings, a building permit is required. Application costs and any architectural drawings increase the total investment. Check this beforehand with your municipality.
Condition of the surface
If the existing facade first needs to be repaired or prepared, this costs extra time and material. Rotting wooden parts, cracking, or moisture damage must first be resolved before the cladding can be mounted.
Disposal of old material
When replacing old cladding, the waste must be disposed of. Skip hire and disposal costs are added to the price for new cladding. Discuss beforehand with the professional whether disposal is included in the quote.
Preparation and efficiency
Good preparation helps to keep costs down. Ensure the workplace is clear and accessible and that any obstacles are removed. The faster the professional can work, the fewer labour hours you pay for.
Timing of maintenance
Do not delay work. Addressing small problems such as loose panels or cracking early is more cost-effective than repairing major damage. Preventive maintenance saves money in the long run.
Additional costs and surcharges
Extra costs depend on the situation. At Zoofy, you do not pay call-out charges.
- For urgent tasks, a surcharge often applies because the professional must adjust their planning
- Work during the weekend is more expensive than during the week
- Removing and disposing of old cladding brings additional costs
- Repairing damaged surfaces or woodwork under the old cladding can be additional work
- Placing scaffolding at higher facades increases the total price
- Extra insulation material, if desired, is calculated separately
- Any permit costs from the municipality are the responsibility of the client
How does the professional work when installing plastic cladding?
The job proceeds in five logical steps, from inspection to finishing.
- Preparation and inspection: The professional inspects the facade for damage, cleans the surface, and assesses whether repairs are needed to the underlying masonry or woodwork. This prevents problems later on.
- Fixing the supporting structure: A batten system or supporting structure is applied to which the plastic panels are mounted. Insulation material may be placed between the battens for better energy efficiency.
- Cutting panels to size: The plastic panels are cut to size with special tools, taking into account windows, doors, and other obstacles.
- Mounting the cladding: The panels are fixed to the battens using the correct fastening methods, visible or invisible. The installer ensures straight lines and even joints.
- Finishing: Corners, edges, and connections at window frames are carefully finished with corner profiles and sealant. The lead time varies from a few days to a week, depending on the size. Ensure the workplace is accessible and obstacles like plants are removed.
How can you save on plastic cladding?
- Choose standard colours: Special imitation looks and striking colours increase the price, while neutral standard variants are more affordable and last just as long.
- Combine with insulation: If you want to install insulation anyway, do it at the same time as the cladding. The professional opens up the facade anyway, which saves labour hours.
- Plan outside the peak season: In quieter periods, professionals are available sooner and prices may be lower than in busy months.
- Do not work with urgency: Work planned during the week is always more economical than urgent jobs or weekend work, for which surcharges apply.
- Prepare the workplace: Remove obstacles yourself and ensure the facade is easily accessible so the professional can start immediately without extra preparation time.
- Maintain regularly: Clean the cladding annually with water and a mild detergent to prevent discolouration and extend its lifespan.
- Book through Zoofy: You get a fixed rate in advance, with no call-out charges and no surprises. You only pay after the job is completed.
Common problems with plastic cladding
Discolouration due to UV damage
Prolonged exposure to sunlight causes irreversible discolouration that can no longer be fixed by cleaning. This mainly happens with older panels without UV protection. Variants with better UV resistance are more expensive but prevent premature ageing.
Cracks due to weather influences
Extreme weather such as frost and heat causes panels to expand and contract, which can cause cracks. This weakens the structure and allows moisture to penetrate the underlying construction.
Loose panels
Insufficient fastening or natural expansion of the material causes panels to come loose. This increases the risk of water damage and raises repair costs for walls and insulation.
Find the best professional for plastic cladding
- Experience with plastic cladding: Choose a professional with demonstrable knowledge of different mounting systems and specific materials such as Keralit, so the investment pays off through correct installation.
- References and previous work: Ask for photos of previous projects and experiences of other customers to assess the quality of their work.
- Warranties on material and labour: Manufacturer warranties on material typically run from 10 to 25 years, while labour warranties usually amount to 2 to 5 years.
- No call-out charges: At Zoofy, you never pay extra for the professional's arrival, keeping costs predictable.
- Fixed price in advance: You know exactly what you pay without surprises afterwards, including material and labour.
- Book quickly without the hassle of quotes: Arrange a professional immediately without waiting weeks for different quotes.
- Payment via QR code after completion: You only pay once the job is fully completed and you are satisfied.
- Reliable, verified professionals: All affiliated professionals are screened for quality and experience with facade cladding.
Frequently asked questions about plastic cladding
What does plastic cladding cost per m²?
Plastic cladding costs on average between €75 and €125 per square metre including installation. Purchasing material alone costs €15 to €100 per square metre, depending on the quality. The Keralit price is in the higher segment due to superior durability.
What does Keralit cost per m² including installation?
For Keralit cladding including installation, you pay an average of €100 to €125 per square metre. The material alone costs between €65 and €100 per square metre. The price is higher because the brand is known for quality and long warranties.
How long does plastic cladding last?
Plastic cladding lasts on average 25 to 40 years with good maintenance. The lifespan depends on the quality of the panels and the degree of exposure to sun and weather. Annual cleaning significantly extends the lifespan.
What are the disadvantages of plastic cladding?
Cheaper variants can discolour due to UV radiation and extreme heat can cause deformations. Mould growth can also occur with poor ventilation behind the panels. Choose high-quality panels with UV protection to prevent these problems.
Is plastic cladding resistant to extreme weather conditions?
Yes, plastic is resistant to rain, frost, and UV radiation. Extreme heat can cause deformations in cheaper variants. Quality brands like Keralit offer better weather resistance through thicker material and special coatings.
Can I install plastic cladding myself?
Self-installation is possible if you have experience with DIY, but for the best result and warranty, a professional is advised. Incorrect installation can lead to moisture problems and a shorter lifespan.
Do I need a permit for facade cladding?
In most cases no, but for listed buildings or in certain municipalities, a planning permit may be required. Inquire about this beforehand with your municipality to avoid surprises.
Can plastic cladding be painted?
Yes, with special plastic paint you can adjust the colour, although this requires periodic maintenance. Paint adheres less well to plastic than to wood, so ensure good preparation and use suitable products.
Can I combine cladding with extra insulation?
Yes, insulation material is often placed behind the cladding during installation, which yields energy savings. This increases the total investment but significantly lowers your energy costs in the long run.
How quickly can a professional start via Zoofy?
Through Zoofy, you can often book a professional within a few days, depending on availability in your region. You get a fixed price in advance and pay only after completion via QR code, with no call-out charges.
Book a professional for plastic cladding
Ready to have plastic cladding installed? At Zoofy, you can book a professional directly, without quotes and without call-out charges. You will see exactly what it costs beforehand, and Zoofy pairs you with a reliable, verified professional. You only pay when the work is finished.