External Rendering for Homes and Commercial Buildings

Choosing the right render

The right system depends on the background, the age of the building and the look you want. Modern blockwork suits silicone or monocouche systems with a through-coloured finish that does not need painting. Solid brick and stone buildings built before around 1920 generally need a breathable lime render so moisture can escape rather than being trapped behind a hard cement coat.

We also apply traditional sand and cement renders for painting, and base coats with mesh reinforcement where walls are prone to movement or where different backgrounds meet.

Preparation and detailing

Render lasts when the details are right. We fix stop beads, bell-cast beads above damp-proof courses, corner beads and movement joints as required, and form neat returns at windows and doors. Existing failed render is hacked off and the background repaired before new render goes on.

Rendering is weather-dependent, so we programme external work to avoid frost, heavy rain and strong direct sun during application and curing.

Planning and permissions

Rendering a house is often permitted development, but not in conservation areas, on listed buildings or where planning conditions restrict it. Please check with your local planning authority before committing; we are happy to provide product details for any application.

Benefits

• Improves weather resistance and protects masonry
• Refreshes the appearance of tired or mismatched brickwork
• Through-coloured systems with low maintenance
• Breathable lime options for older properties
• Neat, straight edges, reveals and bead lines

Suitable property and project types

• New-build houses and apartment blocks
• Rear and side extensions
• Whole-house exterior refurbishments
• Period properties (lime render)
• Commercial and mixed-use buildings
• Garden walls and outbuildings