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Render and plaster might seem very similar to people who aren’t involved in the construction or renovation industries. Both are used to cover surfaces. However, they do have their differences.

One of the main differences is that render is commonly used on the exterior of a building. In contrast, plaster is used on the interior walls.

Continue reading to learn more about the differences between render and plaster.

What is Render?

Render is a coating that is mainly used on exterior walls (although it can sometimes be used on interior walls as well). It is made up of a mixture of cement, sand, and water, providing an extra layer of insulation and protection against the elements.

Render comes in various types, including:

  • Cement render (the most traditional and common type of render)
  • Acrylic renders (acrylic polymers added into the mixture)
  • Silicone renders (silicone polymers added to the render mixture)
  • Lime render (made from a mix of lime, sand and water)
  • Monocouche render (a pre-coloured render)
  • Pebbledash (a course render that is made up of cement and small rocks and stones)
  • Roughcast (a lime cement mortar that is mixed with tiny stones)

What is Plaster?

Plaster is specifically designed for interior walls and surfaces. While the mixtures for cement renders and plaster are very similar, less cement is used in plaster, and the sand used is less coarse.

Plaster is used for decorative purposes, improving insulation, and repairing damaged walls.

The different types of plaster include:

  • Cement plaster (very similar in composition to cement render, but less cement and coarse sand are used)
  • Gypsum plaster (also commonly known as the ‘plaster of Paris)’. Consists of water and the mineral gypsum)
  • Mud plaster (a mixture of sand, clay and water)
  • Waterproof plaster (a combination of cement and waterproof/water-resistant compounds)
  • Stucco plaster (made from a mixture of lime, sand, cement, and sometimes other additives like acrylic. Mainly used as a decorative finish)

The Similarities Between Render and Plaster

The main similarities between render and plaster are:

  • The basic composition of both render and plaster are very similar. They both consist of cement, sand and water. However, the mixtures are slightly different.
  • Both render and plaster are used on surfaces and walls.
  • Both are construction methods.
  • Both render and plaster can be coloured.

The Differences Between Render and Plaster

The main differences between render and plaster include:

  • Render is mainly used on exterior walls, while plaster is primarily used on interior surfaces.
  • The render mixtures use coarser sand and more cement than plaster to protect exterior walls better. In contrast, plaster uses less coarse sand and cement to give interior walls a smoother finish.
  • Both render and plaster are used to cover up rough walls and uneven surfaces.
  • Render is applied in a thicker layer, while plaster is used in a thinner coat.
  • Render can have smooth or textured finishes, while plaster mostly has a smooth finish.
  • Render adds extra insulation and protection to outside surfaces, while plaster prepares interior walls for paint or wallpaper.
  • Render is more durable than plaster.
  • Render needs more maintenance than plaster, as it is outdoors and exposed to the elements.

When Should You Use Render?

You should use render when:

  • When the exterior of your home needs a fresh look
  • To add colour or textured finishes to the exterior of your home
  • To make exterior walls more durable by adding extra layers of insulation and protection against the elements
  • To increase the value of a property
  • To increase a home’s curbside appeal
  • To cover up any damage or imperfections on the exterior surface of your home

When Should You Use Plaster?

You should use plaster when:

  • You want a smooth finish on your interior walls
  • You want to prepare interior surfaces to be painted or to have wallpaper applied
  • To improve the aesthetics of your interior walls
  • You want your interior walls to be more durable

Before beginning any DIY renovation project, knowing the differences between render and plaster is essential so you’re using suitable materials and techniques in your home.

If you still have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact Sydney Cement Rendering! We take pride in being Sydney’s trusted rendering experts and providing our customers with the highest quality rendering services. Contact us at 0402 704 984 or visit our website: https://sydneycementrendering.com/ to find out more about what we offer!