Yes, our harsh Australian environment does hammer our external finishes but if exposed timber is coated with a good quality finish initially ( i recommend 4 coats minimum ) then an ongoing maintenance coat every couple of years, your timber can still look great many years down the track. People just need to understand if you want that beautiful natural timber look you have to put time in to maintain it.

@LesleyH I need to clad a small portion of the front of my house that is covered. Is Nuline a cost effective for a small portion given it's not exposed to sun and rain, is there something else that I could get away with? I thought of getting actual timber because maybe maintenance won't be such an issue. But I don't know how that compares cost-wise. Basically want the look of your's and original poster's photos. The windows on right will stay the same size, just fitted with more traditional style windows. And the windows on the left will be replaced with french doors. So there's not a lot to clad. Wonder if, having been through the decision process and actual install, you have any pointers?

check the Hardies range of cladding eg Panelclad looks similar but the challenge will be to match the stain so you may need to remove a section and ask a paint specialist for advice

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