Tips for Perfecting Your Rendering Project

Sometimes, all it takes is one little thing to throw your whole rendering project off track. These factors can include the weather, wall preparation, the right tools, and the render mixture.

If you are planning to carry out the rendering job yourself, you can minimise the risk of it going wrong by doing your research, asking for advice, and preparing well in advance.

Continue reading to learn some valuable tips to make your rendering project a success.

Doing Your Research

There are many render types out there, all with their own pros and cons. Here are some things to consider before deciding on a render type:​

• Climate: Do you live in a drier climate or in a coastal area?

If you live in a coastal area, you will need to look for a render that has high water resistance. While warmer and drier climates will require a render that is more flexible and crack-resistant.

• Home design: Is your home an older historic home or a contemporary design?

Older homes work best with a render like lime, as it is highly breathable, helping prevent moisture and structural damage. While more modern builds work best with newer render types, such as silicone and acrylic render, which can withstand a building’s natural movement. 

Modern renders are also available in pre-coloured mixtures, making them ideal for eye-catching home designs.

• Budget: How much are you planning to spend on the render? 

Some render types, such as lime, silicone, and acrylic renders, are more expensive than traditional cement render.

• Timeline: Are you in a rush to complete the rendering project? Or can you take your time?

Certain render types take longer to cure and dry, which is an essential step in the rendering process that determines the final appearance of the render.

Cement and lime renders can take up to 28 days to cure and dry, while acrylic renders cure and dry within a week. Silicone renders are the fastest of all and can be dried and cured within 48 hours (although it can take up to 10 days for its water-repellent properties to fully develop).

• Functional properties: What functional properties are you looking for? 

Some render types are more effective than others at withstanding the elements and structural damage, as well as providing insulation.

Cement renders are strong and durable, but don’t withstand a building’s natural movement as well. While acrylic renders are crack-resistant but less breathable than silicone renders, which are also incredibly water-resistant and possess self-cleaning properties.​

The Pros and Cons of Different Render Types 

Preparation

​Preparation is key!​

Do You Have the Right Tools and Equipment On Hand?

​Here are the tools and equipment you’ll need for a successful rendering job:​

Tools​

• Stiff brushes or brooms: Stiff-bristled brush or broom (for cleaning and preparing the wall)
• Detergent or soap: A gentle detergent or soap (to remove stains, dirt or debris)
• Hose or pressure washer: Use a hose or a pressure washer (for more stubborn stains) to wash away debris and stains.
• Mixing tools: Include a mixing bucket and a drill or electric mixer to thoroughly mix the render mixture, making it easier to apply.
• Hawk: Used to hold and transfer the render to the trowel.
• Trowels: Allow the render to be applied neatly and smoothly. Different types available, depending on your requirements.
• Floats: Floats are another tool that smooths out the render and also helps to remove any imperfections (fills in holes).
• Spray bottle: Keep a spray bottle on hand to wet the render, so it doesn’t dry out too fast.
• Texturing tools: Various tools, such as trowels, combs, and brushes, are available to create textures on rendered surfaces.
• Cleaning supplies: It’s always a smart idea to keep them on hand in case of a spill or accident.

Protective Equipment

It’s always important to protect yourself and the surrounding area when carrying out a DIY project. Here is some essential protective equipment you should have on hand:

• Safety glasses or goggles
• Gloves
• Protective overalls or clothing
• Closed shoes
• Dust mask
• Window covers (to protect your windows)
• Drop sheets (to protect surrounding areas)

Mixing Your Render

​How you mix your render can make all the difference.

Using the Right Sand-to-Cement Ratio

We recommend using the standard 4:1 ratio (four parts sand to one part cement) for a strong, durable finish, while a 5:1 ratio (five parts sand to one part cement) can create a more flexible render.​

The Type of Sand Used​

You might not think so, but the type of sand you use is also important. We recommend the use of sharp sand (silica sand) or a clean and washed plastering sand. These sand types provide strength and durability and lower the risk of cracks.

​Avoid using soft building sand, which is more prone to cracking.​

Consistency​

Make sure the mixture is thick and creamy, like porridge. Don’t make the mixture too wet or too dry, as it will affect the final result.

Use the Proper Mixing Technique​

If you are rendering a large surface or multiple walls, we recommend using an electric mixer to get a uniform consistency.​

Follow the Manufacturer’s instructions​

Make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure the best final result. Remember that the experts know best.​

Keep an Eye on the Weather​

Rendering during hot or cold and wet weather is not a good idea, as it affects the drying and curing process of the render.​

Make sure you keep a close eye on the weather forecast and plan to render during dry and mild weather (above 10 degrees but below 25 degrees).​

If it starts to rain while you are rendering (weather can be unpredictable at the best of times), make sure you cover the walls with tarps or plastic sheeting to shelter them as much as possible.​

Allow for Adequate Drying and Curing Times​

Find out how long it takes for your render type to dry and cure. Don’t rush the process because you will ruin the final outcome.​

Call the Experts​

If you have any questions or concerns, or if you notice that the rendering process is not going as well as you planned, give Sydney Cement Rendering a call! Getting an expert’s help will save you money and time.​

At Sydney Cement Rendering, we take pride in being Sydney’s trusted rendering experts, 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!