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Render is an effective and affordable way to renovate or transform the look of your home. However, render is not suitable for all surfaces and materials, and some types of render may be better suited for specific materials than others.

One of the common questions asked is if it is possible to render over wood and timber materials.

The quick answer is ‘yes’, it is possible. However, it is not an easy process, and great care must be taken during the rendering process.

Continue reading to learn more about applying render to wood and timber surfaces.

Wood and Timber

In Australia, ‘timber’ is simply wood that has been processed mainly for construction uses. In contrast, ‘wood’ is the raw material that has been collected from trees like sticks, branches and prunings.

Timber Frame Homes

Timber frame homes are the most common timber buildings that are rendered. They are a mix of durable building materials and techniques, along with old-fashioned charm. In Australia, timber frame homes are typically constructed using seasoned and dry timber, such as Radiata Pine.

They are usually constructed using a technique known as platform framing, which involves attaching planks of timber (studs) to other pieces of timber that span the tops and bottoms (wall plates).

Plywood or stand board are attached to the outside of the timber planks (studs), and struts are placed diagonally between the studs to provide stability.

The timber planks are then raised into position on the foundations, where the ceiling, roof, floors and walls are completed.

Things to Consider When Rendering Over Timber or Wood

Timber and wood are breathable materials, meaning that they move over time and react to humidity and temperature changes. This movement means that the render can either crack or even fall off.

This movement of the structure is why it’s crucial to properly prepare the wood or timber before applying the render and also to use the correct render.

Tips for Rendering Over Wood Or Timber

Here are some important tips to remember before applying render to wood or timber for the best possible outcome:

  • Prepare the surface: Preparation is key. Clean the timber or wood using a stiff-bristled brush. Apply a wood treatment to the wood to preserve the wood and prevent insect infestation and wood rot.Treat the wood or timber with a waterproof or breathable membrane on the surface before covering it with wire mesh so the render has something to bond to.
  • Apply the render: Apply the render in thin layers, giving each layer time to dry before applying the next one.
  • Do a little at a time: Rather than rendering large areas at a time, render little by little so the render has time to dry and set properly, and so the result is neater and more uniform.
  • Use the right tools: Using the right, high-quality tools like trowels and floats will always result in a better result.
  • Follow instructions: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best possible results.
  • Call the professionals: If you don’t feel confident rendering over wood or timber surfaces, your best bet is to call the professionals like Sydney Cement Rendering.Although it will be more expensive than a DIY job, you can be assured that the job will be of the highest quality and last a long time without the need for touch ups or repairs.

What is the Best Render to Use On Timber and Wood?

The best render types to use on timber or wood include:

Silicone Render

Silicone render is renowned for its breathability and water resistance, making it the ideal choice for timber frame homes. This feature helps prevent fungal growth, such as mould and reduces the risk of water damage.

Acrylic Render

Acrylic render is known for its strength and flexibility and also offers water-resistant properties. An acrylic render is especially suitable for timber surfaces when a wire mesh is used to hold the render in place.

Lime Render

Lime render has been used for centuries and is the popular render option for historic buildings due to its flexibility and breathability. When it comes to wood and timber surfaces, it allows any moisture present to escape the surface.

Renders That Are Not Suitable

Cement Render

Although cement render is the most commonly used type of render, it is not recommended to use on timber or wood materials, as cement render is not flexible and will most likely crack when the timber or wood moves. Cement render is much better suited to brick or stone surfaces.

Common Issues

Some of the common issues that may arise when rendering timber or wood surfaces include:

Wood Rot

Any wood material is prone to rotting, even if it has been treated or covered with a waterproof or breathable membrane. Once water penetrates the wood surfaces enough times, it can lead to rot and structural damage.

Condensation

Interstitial condensation can form inside the timber structure when there is not enough insulation or if the insulation is placed in the wrong position. Condensation can also lead to moisture damage.

Not Enough Ventilation

A ventilation system should be inserted between the timber structure and the render, which helps to control the moisture levels of the timber.

If you want to know more about rendering over wood or timber materials, give us a call! 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!