Handle9:

 

nickb800:

 

Regardless of cladding, I'd suggest that using a cavity system (and ideally eaves too) is a good step to make the house less prone to defective workmanship in installing the cladding. 

 

 

Isn't it pretty much impossible to build without a cavity now?

 

Not at all, it's determined by the 'E2 risk matrix' - if your typical 'state house' with 450mm eaves was built today, it would perfectly fine to have direct fix cladding. Eaves, parapets, height, wind zone, cladding junctions, etc all factor in to determine whether a cavity is required.

I think cavity+eaves is a good idea, but even direct fix claddings have come a long way since the 50s/60s - now installed with head flashings, wall wrap, etc which make it lower risk than before