Step 1: Prepare the Wall

• Before starting, make sure the wall surface is level and clear of loose material or obstructions.
• Ensure you have all the materials, fixings, and tools required.

Step 2: Install the Battens

• Saige supplies composite battens, but timber battens can be used.
• Batten Spacing: Install battens with a maximum of 500 mm between them.
• Fixing Holes: Pre-drill 300 mm centre holes with a 6 mm drill bit.
• Expansion Gaps: Leave a 5 mm expansion gap at both ends of all battens.
• Around Windows: Leave a 10 mm gap around window openings.
• Fixings: Fix with suitable exterior screws (not less than 4 mm diameter) which penetrate the wall to at least 50 mm depth.
• Horizontal Battens: On horizontal cladding installations, battens need to run full width across the elevation to provide a fixing point for the starter strip.
• Check each batten with a spirit level to ensure a flat, even framework. This will determine how straight and true your finished cladding will look.
• Tip: Where two cladding boards will join end to end, install double battens behind the joint to provide solid fixings and have a 5 mm expansion gap between boards.

Step 3: Install the Starter Strip

• Fix the starter strip along the bottom of the cladding section, ensuring it is level and plumb.
• Fix into the centre of each horizontal batten using 4 × 30 mm screws.
• This strip retains the first cladding board in position and establishes the line for the rest of the wall.

Step 4: Install the First Cladding Board

• Engage the tongue of the first board into the starter strip groove.
• Pre-drill the board (6 mm) and secure through the centre of every horizontal batten.
• Ensure the board is absolutely level before proceeding.

Step 5: Ongoing Board Installation

• Keep installing boards upwards (or sideways, as per orientation), joining the tongue and groove with every new board.
• Secure each board into the centre of the battens as previously.
• Don't forget to leave a 10 mm gap around windows for expansion.
• Step back from time to time to ensure your rows are straight and even.

Step 6: Cutting and Completing the Run

• A board will eventually need to be cut to complete the final section of a run.
• Cut the board to fit using a suitable saw.
• A starter board and a connecting board will be required to complete tidily.
• In some cases, it will not be possible to conceal the final screws—these can be fixed through the side starter board for a tidy finish.

Step 7: Fix Finishing Trims

• To give a tidy, professional look to your installation, fit Saige L-Shaped trims around openings and edges:
• Fit L-shaped trims around windows, mitring corners neatly and securing them in place with a suitable adhesive.
• Repeat the same trim on the top and bottom edges of the cladding.
• At an apex, the L-shaped trim provides a neat finish to the top boards.
• Where two trims meet, provide a 5 mm expansion gap.
• At external corners, there are several options. One option is to use a castellated corner trim in conjunction with a joining board to create a neat external angle.

Step 8: Final Inspection

• When all boards and trims are installed:
• Ensure straight lines, equal gaps, and secure fixings.
• Clear dust or debris from the boards.
• Ensure all expansion gaps and trims are in place and sealed appropriately.

Your New Look

That's it! With careful preparation and fitting, Saige composite cladding will provide the front of your property with a sleek, modern, and long-lasting finish that's easy to maintain.