But what happened next… even I didn’t see coming. It started with one panel on the back side of our office building. It faded just slightly. I ignored it. A few months later, the color on the rest of the cladding began to shift too. What used to be a sleek grey turned patchy and dull. I thought we’d need to replace everything.
The quotes came in and… they weren’t small. Then someone said, “Why not just respray it?” I had no idea that was even an option. What happened after that changed everything, not just how our building looked, but how much we saved.
Why It Matters More Than You Think
If you’re a property owner, landlord, or facilities manager, this is the decision that can affect your entire budget for the year. Cladding spraying isn’t just a surface-level fix; it’s a smart alternative that can refresh your building’s exterior without ripping it apart or spending a fortune.
This blog will show you the difference between spraying and full replacement, when each one makes sense, and which one is likely to save you more in the long run.
What Is Cladding Spraying?
Cladding spraying is the process of applying specialist coatings to the exterior panels of a building to restore color, improve protection, and extend the life of the material. It doesn’t involve removing or replacing the panels; instead, it gives them a new lease of life.
A professional contractor will clean the surface, mask surrounding areas, and spray the panels evenly using durable paints designed for harsh weather. It’s quicker, more affordable, and a lot less invasive than replacement.
When Full Replacement Is the Right Call
Of course, cladding spraying isn’t a fix-all solution. If your panels are physically damaged, cracked, warped, or rusted through, then no amount of paint will fix that. In those cases, you may need a full replacement.
Replacing cladding is more complex and involves removing old panels, disposing of them, and installing new materials. It may also require planning permission, scaffolding, and weeks of work. While necessary in some situations, it comes at a much higher cost and with more disruption.
Cladding Spraying vs Replacement: Cost Comparison
This is where the numbers speak for themselves.
Cladding spraying is significantly more affordable. On average, you’re looking at £25 to £35 per square meter for a professional spray job, depending on the size and complexity of the project.
On the other hand, full replacement can go upwards of £100 per square meter, not including installation, labor, or waste removal. For large buildings, the cost difference adds up quickly. That’s not even considering the hidden costs like business downtime, noise disruption, or temporary closures.
If your panels are still in good condition but just look dated or faded, spraying is hands-down the smarter choice.
Time, Disruption, and Downtime
One of the biggest advantages of cladding spraying is how fast it can be done. A professional crew can usually complete a job in just a few days, especially when using commercial spraying equipment and working section by section.
Full cladding replacement, however, can stretch over weeks. It may also require halting operations, moving tenants, or rerouting foot traffic around the site. That kind of disruption is not just frustrating; it can cost you real money in lost business or unhappy occupants.
Spraying and Sustainability
Looking back, I understand why spraying made sense, not just financially, but environmentally too.
When you spray, you reuse your existing materials. That means no additional waste going to landfill and no new panels being manufactured, transported, and installed. It’s a smaller carbon footprint and a smarter way to maintain your building without feeding into the cycle of waste and overproduction.
When Spraying Is the Better Option
Here are a few clear signs that cladding spraying is the best route:
- Your cladding is still structurally sound. There are no cracks, breaks, or deep rust, just visual wear.
- You want to change the color or refresh the finish. Spraying offers modern color choices and finishes without needing to replace the material.
- You’re working within a tight budget or timeline. Spraying delivers major impact quickly and at a fraction of the cost.
When Replacement Is Necessary
There are situations where full replacement is unavoidable. If your cladding is damaged, has come loose from the structure, or fails to meet current fire or building regulations, spraying won’t be enough. New panels are sometimes needed for safety or compliance.
This can also apply to very old materials or systems that are no longer supported. If you’re unsure, a professional inspection can tell you whether repair or replacement is truly needed.
Cladding Spraying Myths You Should Stop Believing
There are a few common misconceptions about cladding spraying that stop people from considering it. But here’s what no one tells you…
Myth 1: It doesn’t last long.
High-quality commercial spraying with proper surface prep can last 10 to 15 years, even in tough UK weather.
Myth 2: It’s just cosmetic.
Spraying not only changes the appearance but also adds a protective layer that shields the cladding from UV rays, corrosion, and moisture.
Myth 3: It looks patchy or uneven.
With the right team, equipment, and prep, a sprayed finish looks just as smooth and modern as new cladding, sometimes even better.
Why USP Coatings Is a Trusted Choice
Fast forward to today, and the difference is obvious. The building looks brand new, the clients notice, and the budget stayed intact.
USP Coatings has built a reputation in the UK for delivering high-quality cladding spraying services that last. Their team is experienced, honest, and careful with every step, from prep work to final finish. They’ve worked on everything from industrial sites to modern retail spaces and helped property owners save thousands while getting stunning results.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re upgrading an aging industrial unit, refreshing a tired office exterior, or preparing a rental property for new tenants, the choice between cladding spraying and replacement matters.
Spraying gives you a fast, affordable, and lasting solution, without ripping everything out. Replacement has its place, but it isn’t always necessary.
When in doubt, consult with a professional. And if your cladding still has life left in it, let spraying do the heavy lifting.
Get a Free Quote from USP Coatings
Still not sure which option is right for you? Contact USP Coatings today for a free consultation. They’ll assess your cladding, give honest advice, and help you choose the best route to restore your building’s exterior, without breaking the bank.