For many families, the weatherboard home remains a symbol of tradition, comfort and style. But anyone who owns one knows the challenge that comes with keeping it looking fresh. Every few years, paint begins to peel, boards start to warp or rot, and the cycle of sanding, repairing and repainting starts all over again. It’s a costly and time-consuming burden, with estimates putting the expense of repainting a home every eight to ten years at around $20,000 a time. Stretch that over five decades, and you’re looking at nearly $100,000 spent just to maintain the exterior of your home.
A smarter alternative
Formplex, an Australian company that has specialised in uPVC vinyl cladding for more than 40 years, offers a way out of this cycle. Their solution preserves the charm of a traditional weatherboard while eliminating the endless maintenance.
“Once installed, our cladding can last up to 50 years,” explains Formplex’s Chrisafo Bardsley.
“It extends the life of the home and protects the original boards from further ageing.”
The result is a house that looks freshly painted year after year, without the constant need to climb ladders, sand or repaint.
Chrisafo describes it as “virtually maintenance free” — the only task required is a gentle wash once a year to remove dust and keep the exterior looking sharp.
Saving time, money and effort
For families used to factoring in repainting costs every decade, the long-term savings are striking.
While cladding requires an upfront investment, it quickly pays for itself and continues to save money as the years roll by.
The advantages go beyond finances. Melbourne’s climate is notorious for its extremes.
Formplex weatherboards are insulated, helping regulate the temperature inside the home, keeping it warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
Families notice the difference not only in comfort but also in their energy bills, with reduced need for heating and cooling.
Keeping the character
One concern many homeowners have is whether cladding will alter the character of their house, especially for traditional or heritage-style homes.
Chrisafo is quick to reassure them.
“Anywhere you can use a weatherboard, you can use a Formplex weatherboard,” Chrisafo says.
“We replicate the classic look, and with all the decorative trims you want, you can maintain the style and personality of your home. We’re simply taking care of the base.”
Formplex’s portfolio spans decades and includes everything from timeless family homes to modern townhouses and coastal holiday properties.
The cladding is particularly popular in seaside areas, where salty air can cause timber to deteriorate quickly.
“Our weatherboards age perfectly with ocean air,” Chrisafo explains.
“You can actually enjoy your holiday home instead of working on it.”
Fast installation, lasting peace of mind
The installation process itself is relatively quick, usually taking about a week to ten days.
Compared to the disruption of scaffolding, sanding and painting, it’s a smooth process that delivers an immediate transformation.
Homeowners also benefit from a 50-year guarantee, providing confidence that their investment will stand the test of time.
Perhaps the most convincing endorsement comes from the families who have already made the switch.
“We see lots of smiles in photos of clients standing proudly in front of their transformed homes,” Chrisafo says.
“Many of our older clients love that they’ll never have to climb ladders or paint again. Their homes are solid, comfortable and easy to maintain, allowing them to enjoy their retirement years without the stress of upkeep.”
Ready to transform your home?
For homeowners who love the look of weatherboards but dread the work and expense of maintaining them, Formplex provides a practical and stylish alternative.
It preserves the charm, cuts the cost, and ensures your home is ready to face Melbourne’s climate for decades to come.
To find out more about how Formplex can transform your home, visit formplex.com.au or call 1800 038 145 for a free consultation.
