A low-profile cladding system that can be readily applied to doors, windows, fixed light openings, or curtain walls where thermal performance is important. The cladding system utilizes a cladding member in combination with an L-shaped bracket to attach and secure the cladding member to a frame or sash. The cladding member is held to the frame or sash by tension or pressure between opposite ends of the cladding member. This tension is created by the L-shaped bracket in combination with the cladding ends as the L-shaped bracket engages one cladding member end and is pivoted into an indentation, or recess, in the frame or sash. The other cladding member end engages a groove along the side of the frame or sash opposite to the indentation.