What is the Best Mix for Rendering?
We regularly get asked on our projects, what is the best mix for rendering? Truth is, it depends on the project in hand. But there is some thought process behind when we make our selection.
Rendering involves the application of a cement mixture to walls (external and internal) to create a textured or smooth surface. It is a very similar process to plastering. Not only does it have fire-rating and waterproof qualities, but it also holds some aesthetic appeal.
Benefits of silicone render It does depend on the project in hand, but our go too choice for rendering is a silicone coloured render. Silicone thin coat render, has a fine textured finish, and is ideal for most jobs we complete in Southport, merseyside.
A cement-based render system incorporating silicone, offers a number of advantages over traditional solutions. Here are the key reasons we select this modern option:
Silicone render is self-coloured. Probably the biggest attraction of our silicone render that we use is that the colour (there are 20 standard options) is embedded into the topcoat. So it doesn’t always need painting, and there’s no redecoration to do over its lifetime.
We also know from our 10+years experience it’s very flexible. Properly applied and cared for, K-Rend has a long life expectancy of 30+ years. One reason for this is silicone render is more flexible than traditional products, so it helps accommodates movement and resists cracking.
Another big advantage is, it’s very water repellent. The silicone imparts a hydrophobic quality, which means it’s highly water (and dirt) resistant. So much so, that this type of render offers an element of self cleaning. The only regular maintenance is a light pressure wash every few years or so.
There’s no doubt that silicone render is a premium product. Depending on the size of project, it might come in at a higher cost than that of a traditional finish. Your traditional lime finish is not used as much these days anyway. But the time it takes for us to apply this finish does allowed us to reduce the amount of skilled labour required for installation. Its dirt-resisting qualities will also keep a lid on long-term maintenance.
We feel it represents very good value for money over a longer period of time.
Creating the best mix for rendering
A simple rule for Moorcroft Plastering Southport, is never to make the rendering mix stronger than the material to be rendered.
The mistake many renderers make is to get their mix wrong. They often use plasticisers instead, which incorporates many bubbles into the mix.
The rendering process
The components of the render mix should be combined in a cement mixer to ensure that everything is correctly mixed. The mix should be applied in thin, smooth coats using a trowel. A finishing wash or topcoat may be applied lightly using a sponge, trowel, or brush to create an aesthetic finish.
A modern render which combines the advantages of the traditional and acrylic renders is the silicone-enhanced render. It is also super water-resistant, like the acrylic render, but unlike the latter, it is breathable. Thus, it is less likely to crack. The silicone-enhanced render typically has a lifespan of over 30 years. It comes in a wide array of colours, and with its features, it is increasingly becoming the go-to choice for rendering.
So there you have it, the basics of choosing a good rendering mix in your project.
Contact Moorcroft Plastering:
If you would like to contact a member of our friendly team, you can get in touch with us by using one of the following methods.
· You can contact us by telephone using the following number, 07858 120822
· You could contact our team using Email. Please send your questions/enquiry to us at info@moorcroftplastering.co.uk
· You can also contact us by filling in our contact form.