Black Composite Cladding

Why architects love black composite cladding

From minimalist urban homes to commercial hospitality projects, black composite cladding has become a go-to exterior finish in Australia. By combining recycled wood fibres and high-performance polymers, composite boards achieve the rich charcoal tone designers want without the fading, cupping and regular re-oiling associated with stained timber. The result is a sharp, contemporary façade that stays true-to-colour for decades, whether you install it as black vertical composite cladding slats or a seamless horizontal weatherboard profile.

Performance advantages

• Low maintenance: No sanding, painting or oiling – simply wash down annually.
• UV stability: Pigments are baked through the board, resisting Australia’s harsh sun.
• Weather & pest resistance: Composite won’t rot, warp or attract termites the way timber can.
• Fire compliance: Many products are tested to AS 1530.3 or AS 3837 to meet the National Construction Code (NCC).

Design options at a glance

ArchiPro suppliers offer a broad mix of textures and profiles:

• Slatted boards: Create linear shadow lines for a Scandinavian look – perfect for black slatted composite cladding.
• Wide shiplap planks: Emphasise horizontality on residential façades.
• V-groove panels: Ideal for crisp, modern retail or hospitality fit-outs.
• Perforated screens: Combine ventilation with a bold monochrome statement.

Matching accessories

Finish the job with colour-coordinated corner trims, starter clips and ventilated cavity battens. Because composites arrive pre-finished, installers can achieve a uniform ‘midnight black composite cladding’ façade without needing on-site painting.

Cost guide & budgeting

The purchase price for black composite wall cladding generally sits between $120–$240 per m² supplied, depending on board thickness, fire rating and warranty length. Allow another $60–$110 per m² for professional installation. While upfront costs are higher than softwood weatherboards, lifetime maintenance savings often outweigh the difference within five years.

Installation & compliance

Composite boards fix to timber or light-gauge steel battens using concealed clips for a clean finish. When specifying product for Class 2-9 buildings, confirm the manufacturer’s fire-test data and check that the supplied product carries an NCC compliant Deemed-to-Satisfy report. Always leave recommended expansion gaps and use black-coloured fasteners for exposed fixings.

Maintenance & lifespan

Unlike painted timber, composite black cladding retains its deep hue without peeling. A simple hose-down or soft-bristle brush removes dust and coastal salt. Expect 25–50-year residential warranties covering fade, stain and structural integrity.

Other facade materials to compare

If you are still considering alternatives, explore our full Cladding & Facades collection or jump straight to:

• Timber cladding
• Metal cladding
• Masonry and stone
• Fibre cement cladding
• Pre-cladding
• Render plaster systems
• Concrete cladding
• Flashing penetrations
• Bricks
• uPVC cladding
• Eaves and soffits
• Glazed facade systems
• Facade screens
• Exterior decorative mouldings
• Green facades
• Weatherboard cladding
• Timber shingles

Next steps

Ready to specify composite black cladding on your next project? Use ArchiPro’s filters to narrow by board width, fire rating and warranty, then request samples or connect directly with suppliers for project pricing.