Render protects your walls from the weather and sets the look of the whole house. Most homes end up with one of three types. Here is how they compare.
Silicone render
Silicone render is a thin coat render with silicone added. The colour runs right through it, so it does not need painting. The silicone makes it water repellent, which helps it shed rain and resist dirt and algae, and it stays slightly flexible, which helps it cope with small movements. It usually goes over a base coat, often with mesh, and is finished with a fine texture. It is a popular choice for new builds, extensions and refurbishments where you want a clean, modern finish with little upkeep.
Monocouche render
Monocouche means single layer. It is a through coloured, cement based render applied in one thicker coat and then scraped back to an even texture. It does not need painting and is quick to apply. It suits new blockwork and many modern homes, though it is less flexible than silicone and can show dirt over time.
Sand and cement render
The traditional render on many British houses. It is usually applied in two coats and then painted with masonry paint once it has cured. It is hard wearing and economical, but the paint will need renewing every so often. On older solid walled houses, a breathable lime render can be a better choice, because hard cement render can trap moisture in the wall.
Which should you choose?
- Low upkeep, modern look: silicone render.
- Through coloured, textured finish on new blockwork: monocouche.
- Traditional painted finish, or matching existing render: sand and cement.
- Older solid walls: ask about lime based systems.
Things to check first
Render needs a sound, clean wall and the right weather to cure, so it is not applied in frost or heavy rain. Listed buildings and homes in conservation areas can need permission to change their outside appearance, so check with your council if that applies to you.
Talk to us
{business} applies silicone, monocouche and sand and cement render across {areas}. See rendering, or call {phone} for a same day quote.
