What is the Best Cleaning Method for Different Rendered Surfaces?

Exterior rendered surfaces are constantly exposed to the elements, making them susceptible to damage over time, including cracks, staining, discolouration, mould and fungi growth, and damp spots.

For the best possible rendering results, it is essential to maintain your surfaces regularly and keep them clean, ensuring they remain in optimal condition for as long as possible.

Why is It Important to Clean Your Render?

Regular cleaning and maintenance of your rendered surfaces ensures that the render stays in good condition for as long as possible, which means you get the most out of the time and money you put into the project.

It also ensures that the value and appearance of your property remain high, which is especially important if you plan to sell your home sometime in the future.

Perhaps the most important thing is that regular maintenance of rendered surfaces can lower the risk of mould and fungi growth and prevent any structural damage to your home, which may result in costly repairs and could possibly pose a risk to you and your family.

How Do You Know Your Rendered Surface Needs Cleaning?

Some common signs that your rendered surfaces need cleaning include:

• Stains
• Discolouration of the surface
• Grime or dirt
• Damp spots
• Mould or mildew
• Algae or moss growth
• Rust stains
• Flaking render
• Dull-looking or faded render

The Main Cleaning Techniques

The primary cleaning methods for rendered surfaces include:

• Soft washing: Also known as low-pressure washing. It requires a pressure or jet washer with low-pressure water, bleach or a mild detergent. It is mainly used to remove algae, moss or mould growth. Low-pressure and gentle on surfaces.
• Pressure washing: Also known as jet washing. It uses high-pressure water to remove stains, but extra care is needed to ensure that the render is not damaged during the cleaning process.
• Steam cleaning: A combination of water, high heat, and steam is used to remove grime and stains. Once again, extra care is needed when using this cleaning method, as not all render types can withstand the heat.
• Hand cleaning: Use a stiff-bristled broom, or a soft brush, a hose, soap and water, or a gentle detergent to gently scrape or wipe away any debris from the wall.

What Are the Best Cleaning Methods for Different Types of Render?

The best cleaning methods for each type of render vary depending on the type of render, its condition, and the available cleaning methods. To ensure you’re not damaging your render, it’s best to get a professional’s opinion before cleaning the render.

Cement Render

The most traditional type of render, which is made up of cement, sand and water.

The best way to clean cement render is to use a soft wash (low-pressure) using a gentle or mild detergent, which prevents the surface from becoming damaged. A brush and a mild detergent can also be used for smaller areas.

Acrylic Render

Acrylic render consists of sand, water, and cement, with the addition of acrylic, which makes it stronger and more flexible.

The best cleaning method for acrylic render is a low-pressure or soft wash with a detergent and stiff-bristled brush to scrape away any debris.

Silicone Render

Silicone render is made of a silicone-based polymer, making it water-resistant and breathable.

The best cleaning method for silicone render is a very low-pressure jet wash (on the fan setting) or hand washing with a soft sponge or brush. As it is naturally water-resistant (hydrophobic), silicone render isn’t at high risk for organic growth like moss, algae or fungi.

Lime Render

Lime render is a mix of sand, water and lime. It is one of the oldest rendering types and building materials in the world and is incredibly breathable.

The most effective cleaning method for lime render is a soft wash or low-pressure wash, using a low-pressure jet washer and a mild detergent.

Tyrolean Render

Tyrolean render is a cement-based render that is mixed with sand, silicone or a polymer to give it a weathered or pebbled appearance and texture.

The best cleaning method for Tyrolean render is soft-washing or a low-pressure wash to prevent the texture from becoming damaged.

Monocouche Render

Monocouche render is a cement-based render with additives that enhance its flexibility and breathability.

The most effective cleaning method for monocouche render is steam cleaning, which utilises high heat and water. A high-temperature steam wash can cause damage to windows and doors, so extra care must be taken when using it.

Concrete Render

Concrete render is a mix of cement, sand and lime. Concrete render is less popular than cement render, although it is durable and weather-resistant.

As it is strong and durable, the best cleaning method for concrete render is a pressure wash or jet wash. A steam clean is also an effective cleaning technique for use on concrete render.

Coloured/Painted Render

For coloured rendering, it is best to take a gentle approach, no matter the type of render. The last thing you want is for the colour to start fading or becoming damaged if you use the wrong cleaning technique.

The best cleaning method for coloured or painted render is a soft wash to prevent any damage.

Render Cleaning Tips

Some handy render cleaning tips to remember include:

• Ask a professional: Before embarking on a render cleaning routine, double-check with a professional to see what cleaning method is suitable for your render type and the condition of your wall.
• Protective clothing: Always wear protective clothing, including gloves, closed shoes and safety glasses, before cleaning a rendered surface.
• Weather: Try to clean your render when the weather is mild, not too hot or too cold.
• Close the windows and doors: Don’t forget to close all the windows and doors to avoid flooding your home!
• Jet washer: Before using a jet washer on a rendered surface, practice using it on grass or cement to ensure you know how to use the different settings and can control it properly.
• Clean the entire wall: Even if only a small portion of the rendered surface is covered in dirt or organic growth, it is still recommended that you wash the whole wall just to be safe and prevent any organic growth or damage from spreading to the rest of the surface.
• Use the right detergent or cleaning solution: Eco-friendly and mild detergents and cleaning solutions are the safest to use, as more potent chemicals can damage the wall. However, if you’re unsure, it’s best to consult a professional and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Protect the surrounding environment: Place drop sheets over the driveway and surrounding grass and plants to protect them from the cleaning detergents or soap.
• Regular cleaning routine: Maintaining a regular cleaning routine (every 6 months) will help ensure the render remains in good condition and reduces the risk of organic growth or cracks forming in the render. Preventing any issues before they occur will save you money and time in the future.

If you plan on cleaning your rendered surfaces but aren’t too sure about where to begin or the best cleaning supplies to use for your render type, reach out to Sydney Cement Rendering at 0402 704 984 or visit our website: https://sydneycementrendering.com/. We take pride in consistently providing our customers with the highest-quality rendering services and advice.