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Silicone render is a type of render that consists of silicone resins, pigments, fillers and aggregates. It is considered a ‘thin coat’ render, meaning it is usually applied over a base coat.

Silicone render is a popular render choice due to its elegant appearance, weather resistance and durability. However, like other renders, some maintenance is required to keep it looking beautiful and modern.

What is Silicone Render?

Silicone render is often used as an exterior render. It is composed of a mixture of silicone resins, fillers, aggregates, and pigments. Its composition results in a breathable, water and weather-resistant and flexible render, which is why it is a popular choice for home exteriors.

Although silicone render is more expensive than other render types and often requires a professional to apply it, it is also highly customisable. People can choose from a wide range of colours and textures (from matte to glossy), and it can be applied to multiple surfaces, such as brick and concrete. With so many customisable looks, silicone render can easily transform your home from ‘blah’ to ‘wow!’

Like other renders that are constantly exposed to the elements, silicone render requires regular cleaning and maintenance to retain its elegant appearance.

Methods to Clean Silicone Render

Pressure Or Jet Washing

Pressure or jet washing is one of the most popular methods for cleaning silicone render. Because silicone render is non-porous, it can be more difficult to remove dirt and grime stains from the surface. A pressure cleaner is perfect for removing tough stains as it utilises a high-pressure spray (1000 to 3000 psi) that dislodges stains. Pressure washing typically doesn’t require the use of additional chemical cleaning solutions, making it a safer and more environmentally friendly option.

Pros of Pressure Washing

  • Fast
  • Removes stubborn stains
  • No chemicals required

Cons of Pressure Washing

  • It can damage the render if not used properly
  • Most people need proper training before using a pressure washer
  • You may have to call in a professional to use the pressure washer (spending money to clean the render)

Soft Washing

Soft washing is easier to carry out than pressure washing. It typically requires a low-pressure sprayer or even a hose running at low pressure. It is more gentle on rendered surfaces, and you can use a mild detergent or fungicide if needed.

Pros of Soft Washing

  • Gentle on rendered surfaces
  • Effectively removes mould and algae growth
  • It helps to preserve the colour and vibrancy of rendered surfaces

Cons of Soft Washing

  • It can be more time-consuming than pressure washing
  • It may not be effective on all rendered surfaces
  • The chemicals used can be harmful to the surrounding environment

Cleaning with a Soft or Stiff-Bristled Brush

Using a soft or stiff-bristled brush with water and a cleaning solution is another effective way to clean silicone render. It is exceptionally well-suited for delicate or harder-to-reach areas.

Pros of Brush Cleaning

  • Safe cleaning method for rendered surfaces
  • Easier to reach tight spots or corners
  • You have more control over the areas you’re cleaning (can target heavily stained areas more)

Cons of Brush Cleaning

  • More labour-intensive than other cleaning methods
  • It may not be effective at removing stubborn stains
  • Requires the proper cleaning solution to be effective

Removing Stains from Silicone Render

As it is constantly exposed to the weather and pollution, it is common to find stains on rendered surfaces. Fortunately, these stains are relatively easy to remove if they are addressed promptly.

Some of the most common stains to be found on silicone render include:

Rust

Rust stains on render are usually caused by the corrosion of metal fixtures located near the render or on the surface.

If caught in time, using a soft or stiff-bristled brush, water, and a cleaning solution should be enough to remove rust stains. However, if it has been left on the wall for a while and has spread, you may need a chemical cleaning solution that targets rust or need the help of professionals.

Mould, Mildew and Algae

If you see black or green stains on rendered surfaces, this is likely due to mould, mildew, or algae growth and is more commonly found in shaded, dark, and cool areas.

Using a mixture of bleach and water should be sufficient to remove these stains. However, extra care must be taken when using bleach on rendered surfaces, as it can be quite harsh and damage the render.

Another safer cleaning method is to use a specially formulated cleaning solution that targets fungal growth (biocides or fungicides).

Restore the Look of Silicone Render

If you have had silicone render for years and notice it looking dull, you can restore its appearance by polishing it. This revitalises its colour and vibrancy and may also result in less cleaning being required.

Using a silicone render polish or a sealer (wax-based) can breathe new life into your silicone render.

Be aware that polishing your silicone render can alter the texture or finish of the wall, and that not all polishes are suitable for silicone renders.

Consult a professional and ensure that you first test the polish on a small area of the silicone render before applying it to the entire wall.

Important Tips for Maintaining and Cleaning Silicone Render

Here are some important tips for maintaining and cleaning silicone render:

  • Prevent stain buildup: Regularly give your walls a quick rinse with the hose to prevent dirt and stains from building up and becoming deeply embedded into the rendered surface.This will make cleaning the silicone render easier in the future.
  • Protect the surrounding area: Before cleaning the render, it is important to protect the surrounding environment by placing plastic drop sheets on the driveway and over surrounding plants. Also, cover the windows and doors.
  • Protect yourself: Wear safety glasses, coveralls and gloves before cleaning the silicone render.
  • Inspect: Give your silicone render a once-over every now and then so you can inspect the surface for any damage. Identifying any cracks or holes before they become larger and cause structural damage is crucial.
  • Ask a professional: If you’re unsure about the best way to clean your silicone render or whether a specific cleaning solution is the right one to use, always consult a professional to avoid damaging your wall.

For more information on maintaining and cleaning silicone render, 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!