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Rendering And Plastering: See The Differences

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Side-by-side view showing a smooth plastered interior wall and tools used for exterior wall rendering, by Kromrych Builders.

Rendering And Plastering: See The Differences

Introduction

In the aspect of home improvement, there are two words that keep on rearing their heads in construction and in renovations; one term is rendering, and the other term is plastering. In as much as they are both methods that are adopted to enhance the look and feel of the walls that we have, they do not have a common purpose and particularly when the walls are being applied to the interior and exterior. Working as practitioners in Kromrych Builders, we already know how it is easy to get confused with these two terms, so without further ado, we shall discuss the differences between the two terms and offer some understanding as to when and why you need to apply either one of the terms.

What is Rendering?

Rendering is referred to as a process whereby coating of material, e.g. cement, acrylic, lime is added on the external walls of a structure. The primary goal of rendering is to prevent weathering of the structure besides making it more appealing. The rendering on the exterior also gives it a smooth surface which can be painted and look more polished and complete.

Types of Rendering Materials:

  • Cement Render: This one is common and traditional. It is a cement && sand and water mixture that is very durable.
  • Acrylic Render: This is a newer solution with polymers, which makes it a little more elastic and crack-free, coupled with better water resistance.
  • Lime Render: Lime render is also a breathable material, which is often utilized in the restoration of old buildings as the old buildings require elasticity and cover.

Advantages of Rendering:

  • Weather Resistance: Rendering gives safety to the building against rain, humidity, and change of temperature.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: It gives a clean, uniform finish on the outside walls of a building.
  • Durability: Rendered walls are durable when they are maintained properly; they can withstand the environment and with a long degree of wear and tear.

What is Plastering?

The plastering on the contrary is an interior surface technique. Plastering material is used layer by layer over the walls and the ceilings to form the smooth durable surface. It has also a very functional role that enhances thermal and acoustic insulation. Plastering may be emploied as a preparation of painting or wallpapering.

Plastering Materials Types:

  • Gypsum plaster: This is the most frequently applied kind of plaster and is smooth in nature with easy working abilities. It also dries fast and it is suited to interior walls.
  • Cement Plaster: Though cement plaster gets applied on both interior and exterior walls, it is mostly applied in places where more water resistance is needed.
  • Lime Plaster: Lime plaster, just like lime render, is a breathable material, flexibility, properties that explain its most preferred usage in older buildings.

Advantages of Plastering:

  • Smooth Finish: The plastering leaves a smooth surface that one can paint or wallpaper.
  • Thermal Insulation: It aids in insulation so as to make the rooms warmer during the winter seasons and much colder during the summer seasons.
  • Soundproofing: You can use plaster to repel noises in one room to another room or noise in the outside world.

Key Differences Between Rendering and Plastering

Feature

Rendering

Plastering

Location of Use

Exterior walls

Interior walls and ceilings

Materials Used

Cement, acrylic, lime (thicker)

Gypsum, cement, lime (finer)

Purpose

Protects from weather, enhances appearance

Smooth, paintable finish for interiors

Durability

Durable, weather-resistant

Less durable, indoor use only

Finish

Textured or smooth

Smooth, even surface

Exposure to Elements

Can withstand weather

Not suitable for outdoor exposure

Insulation

Limited insulation, weatherproofing

Improves indoor thermal and sound insulation

Application

Thicker layers, weather protection

Thinner layers, fine finish

What is Rendered Wall?

A rendered wall is a wall that has been covered with layer of rendering. This may be applied to both new buildings and older buildings to enhance the exterior grounds and shield it against the environment. Another way of improving the insulation of a property is the use of rendered walls which provides a second line of defence against moisture.

A rendered wall may be smooth finish achieved by using cement render or more ornate with textured effects achieved by a variety of rendering techniques. One of the factors that makes rendering a preferred option to improve the aesthetic and utility of a building is versatility of rendered walls.

What is a Render?

Talking about the render, people mean the material itself, which is used to cover the walls and establish the rendered effect. The verb render may indicate rendering, that is, the plaster or cement mixture, and also the actual act of applying the mixture to the surfaces.

The use of plaster or render are interchangeable words in most occasions, particularly in the case of decorative products. But as we have seen, rendering is usually related to external uses but plastering is restricted to interior walls and ceilings.

How Rendering and Plastering Work Together?

At certain situations rendering and plastering may also be combined to get the finest outcomes. E.g., an exterior wall may be rendered to be weatherproof and, probably, to look pretty, whereas inside walls of the same building are plastered to be smooth and ready to receive a coat of paint. These two processes make the building seamless in terms of appearance both internally and externally.

Customer Success Story: A Fresh Coat with Kromrych Builders

In our company Kromrych Builders, we have ended up serving a customer Mr. Davidson who required both plastering and rendering services to his new house. The weather had ravaged the outside part and the inside had to be smoothened and ready to paint. We deemed it appropriate that we use cement render in the exterior, and use a gypsum plaster in an endeavour to have a smooth, elegant look on the interior.

The transition was amazing. Mr. Davidson emphasized that he was thrilled with the beautifully rendered wall that greatly helped in increasing the curb appeal of his house and the plastering that took care of the interior and provided the perfect blank canvas for his personal decoration.

Conclusion

The process of rendering and plastering is different; hence, getting to know the difference can aid you in coming to the right decision for your building project. Although both methods result in the development of a smooth finished surface, rendering is applied on the exterior walls to prevent wear and tear from the weather conditions, and plastering is applied on the interior walls to attain a polished finish. Renovating your house or building a new house does not mean that you are done, as Kromrych Builders will be at your service by offering expert work regarding rendering and plastering requirements to fit your type of project.

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