Sand & Cement rendering has been the go-to choice for rendering homes in Manchester for decades. It’s the material that coats many houses across the UK, but as trends evolve, so does the demand for more modern alternatives.
Sand & Cement is the most cost-effective rendering option available, but it also has the shortest lifespan and is prone to cracking, especially on timber frame structures or areas that experience movement.
Unlike other types of render, Sand & Cement requires painting once it has dried. For this reason, we often recommend opting for coloured render. While Sand & Cement may seem like a cheaper choice initially, when you factor in the cost of labour for painting and the overall lifespan, the total cost ends up being quite similar. Additionally, the process tends to take longer compared to coloured render options.
Benefits Of A Traditional Sand And Cement Render
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Highly Durable Once Set
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Flexible During Application: The relatively slow setting time allows for modifications and adjustments both during and after application.
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Versatile: It can set underwater, making it suitable for various types of masonry and weather conditions.
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Moisture-Resistant: Sand and cement render allows moisture to evaporate, preventing salt and frost from damaging the masonry.
How To Apply A Traditional Sand And Cement Render
The first coat of sand and cement render in Manchester is applied in one or more layers. It consists of a mixture of 1 part cement to 5 parts plastering sand and is applied to the substrate at a thickness of 9mm to 16mm. Once applied, this coat is left to set for 2 to 7 days, with the time varying depending on the season – shorter in summer and longer in winter.
The next layer is the middle coat, often called the “butter coat.” However, in practice, this coat is rarely used.
The final layer is the finishing coat, which consists of a mixture of 1 part cement to 3 parts sand. This coat is applied at a thickness of 3mm to 9mm to achieve a smooth and durable finish.
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