What Are the Different Types of Rendering Options Available for Homes?
The process of rendering includes applying a water-based or oil-based paint to a wall. Rendering not only adds visual interest to your home with a fresh, new look, but it also adds protection from the elements. The practice of rendering homes has been around for a long time, beginning with mud houses, which date back centuries.
Here are the different types of home rendering that can be found today:
Cement Rendering
Cement rendering is created by mixing together cement, water, sand and lime or clay. It is the most popular rendering option for homes as it is affordable, comes in various finishes and colours and can be used on exterior or interior surfaces.
Pros
- Most affordable rendering option
- Comes in a variety of different colours and finishes
- Makes your walls more aesthetically pleasing
- Protects the exterior of your home from the elements
- Can be used on a number of different surfaces
Cons
- It has to be maintained
- Not as weather resistant as some other rendering options
- Basic finish
- Prone to cracking
- Can be labour-intensive to apply
Lime Rendering
Lime render is made up of lime and sand and is another classic rendering option. It is a lightweight render that is breathable and can be applied to exterior brick, stone, rubble and cement board walls. It results in an attractive traditional finish which is why this render is especially suited for older, period homes and restoration projects.
Pros
- Breathable
- Eco-friendly
- Results in a beautiful, traditional finish
- Low-maintenance
- Durable and weather resistant
Cons
- A more expensive render
- It takes longer to apply and requires a lime wash coat to finish
Acrylic Rendering
Acrylic rendering is similar to cement rendering but acrylic is added to the render mixture. The added acrylic makes the render more water-resistant and flexible than a cement render. Acrylic rendering is versatile and can be used on both outdoor and indoor surfaces and is available in different colours and textures. It is not the most durable rendering option but it does require less maintenance thanks to its water resistance.
Pros
- Water-resistant
- Flexible
- Versatile
- Available in more finishes, colours and textures
- Affordable
Cons
- Not breathable
- Not very eco-friendly
- Not as durable as some other rendering options
Silicone Rendering
Also known as a thin coat render or a ‘self-cleaning’ option. A waterproof and limestone-based render that is widely used on exterior walls in Australia thanks to its durability and smooth finish. Considered easy to apply compared to other renders. Available in different colours and textures and is low maintenance.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Low maintenance
- Breathable
- Lots of colour options
- Easy to apply
- Durable
Cons
- Is expensive
- Not eco-friendly
Monocouche Rendering
A one-coat cement-based coloured render that is both water-resistant and breathable. Lightweight and durable, it can last up to 10 years. Available in different colours and finishes. It offers protection against the elements due to its thickness.
Pros
- Water-resistant
- Breathable
- A good choice of finishes and colours
- Protection against the elements
- Results in a fresh, crisp look
- It doesn’t require any extra painting
- Durable
- Acts as thermal insulation
Cons
- More expensive than other rendering options
- Not crack resistant
Polymer Rendering
Polymer rendering is waterproof and is used mainly on exterior walls in Australia. It is easy to apply as the polymer rendering mixture comes already mixed. It bonds to all surfaces extremely well, so it is especially suited to walls that have more exposure to moisture such as bathrooms or laundries.
Pros
- Water-resistant
- Bonds better to walls
- Lightweight
- Weatherproof
- Reduces building wear and tear
- Easy to apply
Cons
- A more expensive rendering option
- Can crack easily
Stucco Rendering
Stucco rendering is usually used in Australia on fibre-cement and cement board. There is no need for any extra mixing as it comes pre-mixed with a powder that is added to water.
Pros
- Easy to apply
- Already pre-mixed
Cons
- More expensive than other renderings
- Limited range of finishes
Davco Rendering
A high-quality render option that is waterproof. It is easy to apply and comes in a wide range of colour options. It is based on the slurry method, which includes brushing one or two coats of the render for a smooth and strong finish. Davco rendering can last for up to 50 years and is ideal for surfaces that are exposed to rain and wind.
Pros
- High-quality finish
- Waterproof
- Easy to apply
- Available in a wide range of colours
- Durable
- Adds insulation
Cons
- More expensive rendering option
- More materials required
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!