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It is entirely normal for rendered surfaces to become dirty, grimy, dull-looking and sometimes even damaged over time, due to their constant exposure to the elements and pollution. This damage is often a sign that rendered surfaces need to be refreshed.

But is it better to paint over the render or give it a thorough clean? Continue reading to learn more about painting over or cleaning rendered surfaces.

Painting Over Rendered Surfaces

Painting over tired-looking rendered surfaces may seem like the most effective solution; however, if there is damage to the render or fungi growth, it can also just be a short-term band-aid to a more serious issue. If you cover up any growth on the render, instead of cleaning and removing it, the cracks will start to appear through the paint. There is also a risk that the old, stained, and dirty paint will show through the newer coat of paint once the elements set in.

So, when should you paint over old or dirty render?

A Completely New Look

Some people may take the opportunity to give their render a whole new look, including a new colour, style or pattern. This facelift not only revitalises the appearance of your home, but also covers up any dirt or debris on the old render. Win-win!

Faded Renders

If the colour of your render has faded after being exposed to the elements, giving it a new coat of paint is an easy way to instantly transform your home from ‘blah’ looking to ‘wow.’

Surface Damage

If you notice damage to your render, it’s best to repair it as soon as possible (either by calling in the professionals or doing it yourself, if it is a minor fix). Oftentimes, these repairs may leave obvious or unsightly patches, which you will want to cover up with some paint.

Once the render has been repaired, it’s the perfect time to give your render a fresh coat (or two) of paint.

Extra Protection from the Elements

Some types of good-quality paint have added protective elements, such as weatherproofing properties. If you have an older home or live in an area with an extreme climate, it can be worthwhile to give your render a coat of weatherproof paint. This paint can help improve the lifespan of your render.

What Types of Render Can Be Painted Over?

It is important to remember that not all render types should be painted over. The renders that work best with paint include:

  • Cement-based renders
  • Acrylic-based renders
  • Lime-based renders

What Are the Benefits of Painting Over Render?

  • Appearance: Fresh new look.
  • Experiment: You can paint it with a new colour (experiment with other looks).
  • Say goodbye to old-looking render: It’s an effective way to cover up old-looking or stained render.
  • Extra protection: Some paints may offer additional protection from the elements.
  • Longer lifespan: Paints can increase the lifespan of the render.
  • Cost-effective: Cheaper than re-rendering a whole wall.
  • Easy: Easy to achieve as a DIY job (as long as you follow the manufacturer’s instructions).
  • Increases property value: A freshly painted and rendered home enhances the curbside appeal and property value.

Cleaning Render

Giving your render a thorough clean is the best way to remove any fungi growth, dirt, debris or stains. However, it will not completely refresh old or tired-looking render.

When should you clean your render?

Fungi Growth (Algae, Moss and Lichen)

Organic growth on your render is not only an eyesore, but can also cause structural damage over time if left untreated. Treat your render with biocides or fungicides to remove all traces of fungi growth and prevent further damage to the render.

Dirt and Debris

The elements and pollution can cause the render to become dirty and grimy over time, creating unsightly stains on the render.

Use a stiff-bristled brush, water, and a mild detergent (such as soft wash) to remove dirt and debris from the rendered surface. This will instantly improve the appearance of your render.

What Are the Benefits of Cleaning Your Render?

  • Cheaper than painting: Regular maintenance and cleaning of the render can be more affordable in the long run than painting the render (which will require new tools and regular touch-ups).
  • Eco-friendly: Cleaning the render is more eco-friendly than painting the render, especially when using eco-friendly and natural cleaning materials.
  • Increases the lifespan of render: Cleaning the render removes any growth that can cause structural damage, resulting in a longer lifespan for the render.
  • Healthier environment: The presence of mould and mildew can contribute to poorer air quality. Giving your render a good clean can remove any harmful growth.
  • Saves money: If you maintain your rendered surfaces regularly and keep them clean, you can address minor issues before they cause damage to the building’s structure, which can be expensive to repair.

What is the Better Option?

So, should you paint over your render or clean it? It depends on your home, the age and condition of the render, as well as your budget and time constraints.
For the best possible outcome, Sydney Cement Rendering recommends thoroughly cleaning your render and then repainting it. This will ensure that your rendered surfaces look refreshed and show no signs of dirt, debris, stains, or fungi growth.

For more information on painting over or cleaning your render and which option is the best one for you, please don’t hesitate to contact us, so we can help you make an informed decision.

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!