Render and wall coatings protect buildings. They come in various forms, from traditional cement-based renders to advanced polymer-modified and silicone-based coatings.
All types of rendering offer unique properties. The choice of render can impact a building's durability, energy efficiency and overall appearance.
What Are the Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Renders?
When selecting a render, you should think about the below.
- Climate and weather exposure: Choose a render that can withstand local weather conditions, from heavy rain to extreme heat
- Substrate compatibility: Ensure the render adheres well to the underlying material, whether it's brick, concrete, or another surface
- Application and drying time: Consider how quickly and easily the render can be applied, especially for time-sensitive projects
- Required finish: Determine whether you need a smooth, textured, or specialised finish to meet aesthetic and functional requirements
- Colour stability and UV resistance: Opt for renders that maintain their colour over time, especially in areas with high sun exposure
- Breathability and thermal properties: Select renders that allow moisture to escape while providing insulated render benefits if needed
- Environmental impact: Choose eco-friendly options if sustainability is a priority for your project
How Do I Prepare Concrete Surfaces for Render Adhesion?
Proper surface preparation is essential for rendering adhesion. Follow these steps.
- Clean the surface thoroughly, removing dirt, dust, and loose particles
- Repair any cracks or damages in the concrete
- Apply a suitable bonding agent or primer to improve adhesion
- Ensure the surface is dry before applying the render
- Address any dampness issues before rendering
- Test the surface absorbency and adjust your render mix
What is the Best Render Mix for External Walls?
The best render mix depends on the specific project requirements. For external rendering, a popular choice is a cement render mix with a ratio of 1 part cement to 4-5 parts sand. Adding lime can improve workability and flexibility.
For enhanced wall render performance, consider using a pre-mixed monocouche render or polymer-modified render.
Where Can I Learn Top Pro Tips on How to Render a House?
For advice on house rendering, we've put together an in-depth ‘Top Pro Tips on How to Render a House’. It covers the following.
- How to Choose the Best Render Mix for Advanced Projects
- What is Rendering Using Advanced Techniques?
- Expert Methods on How to Render for Smooth Finishes
- 8 Top Pro Tips on How to Repair Render Cracks
What Are the Benefits of Using Monocouche Renders?
Monocouche renders, a type of one coat render, offer several benefits.
- Faster application, reducing costs and project timelines
- Consistent colour throughout, minimising visible repairs
- Enhanced flexibility, preventing the risk of cracking
- Can be applied in a single pass up to 15mm thick
- Often more durable than traditional multi-coat systems
- Available in a wide range of colours and finishes
- Generally needs less maintenance than traditional renders
How Does Silicone Render Compare to Traditional Cement Render in Terms of Water Resistance?
Silicone render offers better water resistance compared to traditional cement render. Its hydrophobic properties allow water to bead off easily, reducing absorption. The material's flexibility helps prevent cracking, maintaining long-term water resistance.
Traditional cement render is more porous. It can absorb moisture, potentially leading to dampness or frost damage. However, it can be improved with water-resistant additives.
Silicone render maintains breathability while preventing water ingress, making it ideal for areas with high rainfall. For external rendering in challenging climates, silicone render often provides better protection and durability than traditional options.