Both a modern render system and a traditional render system bring different things to the table and are two very different systems. All modern render systems are self-coloured (meaning they do not require painting) and have many benefits. An example of a modern render system is a Silicone render system. This system has used modern...Read More

Brick effect render is a render that is made to look like brickwork and gives a wall a pleasant look. It is suitable for refurbishment projects where new brick can’t be used. Application The basecoat is the first coat to go on. It is mixed with water and applied to the wall where brick effect...Read More

It can only be applied in the summer The reason people have this misconception is because of the idea that the weather has to be warm in order to render a property. Despite what people think, rendering can be done all year round, however, there are still a few factors which will affect whether or...Read More

The mortar and joints around a coping stone are so important in order to preserve the render on a wall. The top surface of a wall is the most vulnerable point for water to enter a building. Over time, the joints and mortar around a coping stone wear and loosen due to years of weathering....Read More

The first coat (or the scratch coat) is mixed at 5-1. This means 3 sharp sand, 2 soft sand and 1 cement. This coat is applied between 5-6mm. The render is pressed firmly into the wall to ensure that every inch is covered. Once the first coat has been applied, it is then scratched by...Read More

There are several reasons that render can deteriorate, both naturally and by human activity. As a force of nature, weather is out of the control of all humans and this could be the first problem. The role of render is to protect the main walls of a property from the most extremes of weather; extreme...Read More

Cement particle boards or render boards are normally fitted on timber frame builds and then the rendering is normally carried out over the board. However there are a number of problems that could arise with cement particle boards if not fitted properly or if the incorrect render system is applied over it. Most render manufactures...Read More

The addition of cement to lime mortars is a widespread, almost traditional practice, but few consider why it is done or the consequences. There is also confusion over the substances and chemistry involved. Non hydraulic lime hardens by a slow process of carbonation, reacting with atmospheric carbon dioxide over a period of weeks. Hydraulic limes and...Read More

In many occasions we have been asked by clients to render over existing render, one of the obvious benefits of doing this would be that the cost of removing the existing render is eliminated. However there are a few things to consider before you choose to follow through with this option as making the wrong...Read More

REPAIRS As with all conservation work, it is most important to record the area to be conserved prior to commencement as well as during work. One of the first tasks may be to remove inappropriate materials and methods of repair and replace with the appropriate stucco/render. However, removal should only be carried out if this...Read More