Render vs. Veneer
Rendering is an exterior design option that has been around for hundreds of years. Its multiple functionality and aesthetic benefits make it easy to see why it has endured throughout history, and why it’s so popular.
However, it isn’t the only exterior design option available. The lesser-known brick veneer also offers a great design option for exterior surfaces. Both render and veneer are also versatile enough to be used on interior surfaces. However, they are more commonly used on exterior surfaces.
Continue reading to learn more about the differences between render and veneer as a design option for the exterior of your home.
What is Veneer?
Brick veneer utilises a timber or steel frame as the interior support structure, which has an exterior brick cladding layer. Although it may be hard to distinguish between a traditional solid brick wall and brick veneer, the main difference is that veneer doesn’t provide proper structural support. The main support comes from the steel or timber frame.
Veneer is also available in wooden and stone designs, although brick remains the most popular option.
What is the Difference Between Render and Veneer?
Although both render and veneer are used to decorate the exterior of a building, when it comes to their materials, application, and purpose is where they differ.
Here are the main differences between render and veneer:
Materials
Render is available in various forms (cement, acrylic, silicone, etc.), but the general ingredient makeup remains the same and typically consists of sand, water, and cement. Render is a wet material.
On the other hand, veneer consists of thin sheets of brick, wood or stone, and is a dry material.
Application
The render is mixed with water until it forms a paste-like consistency and is then applied in thin layers using a trowel and float.
The veneer is cut into thin sheets and then glued or mechanically placed onto the exterior surface.
Purpose
Render is primarily used as a design option and to refresh the exterior of a building, covering up any damage or imperfections. However, it also features multiple functional properties, such as providing water and weather resistance, adding extra insulation, making a building more breathable and durable, and protecting it from potential structural damage, including cracks or water damage.
Veneer is mainly loved for its aesthetic properties and its affordability. Its thin sheets are designed to imitate the appearance of a more costly building material, without the full cost or labour involved.
The Benefits of Render
There are many aesthetic and functional benefits of render. These include:
Appearance
There is no denying that a fresh coat of render instantly transforms a building from ‘blah’ to ‘wow.’ It gives buildings a smooth, elegant appearance and also covers up any water damage or building imperfections.
Increased Curbside Appeal and Property Value
If you’re ever thinking of selling your home in the near future, render can be a great choice to increase its curbside appeal and property value.
Water Resistance
Certain render types, such as silicone or acrylic renders, offer water-resistant properties thanks to the silicone or acrylic additives added to the render mixture. This water resistance is especially important for homes in areas with higher humidity and rainfall.
Added Insulation
Render offers an extra layer of insulation to homes, helping you save money on your energy bills during hotter or colder days.
Flexibility
Some renders, in particular, silicone render and acrylic render, are more flexible and can withstand a building’s natural movement over time without cracking or becoming damaged. This flexibility protects the integrity of the structure.
Breathability
Breathable renders, such as lime render, allow moisture to pass through a structure rather than building up. This breathability reduces the risk of water damage to a structure and also prevents the growth of fungus (mould, mildew, etc.), all while providing a healthy living environment.
Versatility
Rendes come available in different colours, patterns and textures to suit all design preferences. Render can also be used on interior surfaces.
The Benefits of Veneer
The benefits of veneer include:
Affordability
Veneers are used to imitate the look of materials like stone, wood or brick but without the expensive price tag. They are a more cost-effective way to decorate the exterior of your home.
Aesthetic Appeal
Veneer borrows the aesthetic appeal of expensive materials, such as brick, wood, and stone, to make homes stand out and create interesting, eye-catching home designs.
Easy to Apply
Applying the veneer is cheaper and faster than actually applying brick, wood or stone to a home. The overall labour costs make it an attractive exterior design choice.
Reduced Waste
Veneers only mimic specific materials, meaning that there is reduced waste of materials like wood, brick and stone.
Easy Maintenance
Veneer is easy to clean and maintain, requiring less effort to keep it looking clean and new.
Added Insulation
Brick veneer, in particular, allows for an extra layer of insulation to be added to the building, as there is a space between the brick veneer and the structure.
Interesting Designs and Patterns
Wood veneer allows for the creation of interesting designs and patterns, such as parquetry (floor mosaics created using pieces of wooden veneer) and marquetry (designs or patterns that are made using wooden veneer pieces).
Can Be Used Both Outdoors and Indoors
Veneer can be used in a variety of ways, both indoors (for decorative, furniture, and feature walls) and outdoors (for exterior walls and surfaces).
For more information on the differences between render and veneer, and to decide which design option is best for your home, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
At Sydney Cement Rendering, we take pride in being Sydney’s trusted rendering experts. We provide 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!