How is Rendering Done?
Cement, sand and lime are the main ingredients in render. The addition of lime gives the render a creamier texture and makes it more elastic and less prone to cracking after it dries. The sand used in rendering needs to be fine and free of impurities. Other ingredients used in rendering mixes include pigments, bonding agents and additives to slow the drying process.
Render is applied in thin, smooth coats using a trowel. Top coats may be applied with a trowel, a brush, a hessian bag or a sponge, depending on the desired surface texture.
Today, there are also more "high tech" ways to accomplish rendering. Acrylic pre-mixed rendering products have greater waterproofing properties and can be applied to surfaces standard render cannot adhere to. In addition, some renders can be applied with special spray equipment. Acrylic renders have the added advantage of setting within 24 hours, while traditional renders take up to 28 days to fully set.
Only an experienced renderer can achieve the smooth, uniform result that is the hallmark of a professionally rendered surface. Professional rendering usually more than pays for itself, too, since it can so dramatically improve the appearance of a home.
Cement, sand and lime are the main ingredients in render. The addition of lime gives the render a creamier texture and makes it more elastic and less prone to cracking after it dries. The sand used in rendering needs to be fine and free of impurities. Other ingredients used in rendering mixes include pigments, bonding agents and additives to slow the drying process.
Render is applied in thin, smooth coats using a trowel. Top coats may be applied with a trowel, a brush, a hessian bag or a sponge, depending on the desired surface texture.
Today, there are also more "high tech" ways to accomplish rendering. Acrylic pre-mixed rendering products have greater waterproofing properties and can be applied to surfaces standard render cannot adhere to. In addition, some renders can be applied with special spray equipment. Acrylic renders have the added advantage of setting within 24 hours, while traditional renders take up to 28 days to fully set.
Only an experienced renderer can achieve the smooth, uniform result that is the hallmark of a professionally rendered surface. Professional rendering usually more than pays for itself, too, since it can so dramatically improve the appearance of a home.
