The rise and rise of modern render

Render is becoming increasingly popular. Previously favoured when remodelling an existing home, render has now become a mainstream finish option for new builds.

Housebuilders, especially those involved in smaller plots where quality and finish can be paramount, are responding to the demand and choosing render over other more traditional brick finishes to create market appeal. 

Modern renders are available in a wide range of colours, offering immediate curb appeal – good for the initial sell – but the benefits are much longer term.

Modern renders have come a long way from the traditional, site-mixed renders that led to inconsistency in performance.

They are now manufactured in purpose-built, computer-controlled factories and regulated by a strict quality assurance system that accurately measures and controls the use of performance-enhancing additives such as polymers. These improve adhesion to the substrate, workability aids and waterproofers to help resist rain.

Some of the more advanced renders use silicone additives to provide a water repellent surface while still maintaining the vapour permeability of the external wall.

By allowing vapour to pass through the building, rather than sealing the surface, the external render avoids locking in any moisture. This limits damp build-up while preventing water penetration into the building through the wall and helping to improve the durability of the external façade.

It’s recognised that a dry wall has better insulation than a damp wall and, by keeping the building dry, render also provides new homes with improved insulation.

If the render is paired with an external insulation system, this can significantly increase the building’s energy efficiency rating, something new homeowners are increasingly demanding.

Dr Ross Savage, Research Manager at Kilwaughter Minerals Ltd comments “Correct render application is crucial in assuring the best performance and increasingly render is becoming widely recognised as requiring specialist skills.”

“By including various workability aids in the product, the manufacturer effectively assists the specialist applicators in providing the best quality finish.” 

The render choice should always be considered at the beginning of the design stage, with the amount of exposure, movement and construction requirements considered.

Advice on the correct application of products is readily available from render manufactures to avoid costly mistakes and ensure the quality of the finished project. 

Further information

Browse our Registered Details

Please Note: Every care was taken to ensure the information was correct at the time of publication. Any written guidance provided does not replace the user’s professional judgement. It is the responsibility of the dutyholder or person carrying out the work to ensure compliance with relevant building regulations or applicable technical standards.