Cladding on a surface may refer two main functions; one is to improve surface dependent properties like resistance to wear under abrasion, erosion and corrosion, and the other is to enhance the bulk dependent properties like hardness, strength, etc. that is known as hard facing. Clad components are expected to have capabilities of serving its specific function in a hostile environment for a sufficiently long time economically. For this, there is increasing demand of clad components in various industries like chemical, naval, mining, agriculture, power generation, etc. On the other hand, tool manufacturers use cladding techniques more and more in producing tools like rollers, dies, jaws, etc. which should possess high hardness and large compressive strength. Cladding through welding is one popular and versatile method. In this paper, various methods, especially, different welding techniques, used for depositing a layer to cover a surface, and in particular, cladding, are discussed mentioning their applications. Various characteristics of clad components are reviewed with reference to parametric optimization, microstructure and corrosion resistance properties.