Rendering vs No Rendering: Which Is Better for UK Homes? | HouseRenderPro

Rendering vs Bare Brick: The Great UK Debate

In Britain's damp climate, rendering isn't just cosmetic - it's a weatherproofing decision. But is it right for your home? As UK specialists since 2010, we reveal the truth:

"70% of UK homes benefit from rendering – but 5% should avoid it. The rest need professional assessment."
– George Edward, Founder

When Rendering is a GOOD Idea (For Most UK Homes)

Climate Protection

UK weather attacks bare bricks:

• Rain: 156 wet days/year → penetrating damp

• Freeze-thaw cycles: Crack mortar & spall bricks

• Salt winds (coastal): Erode masonry

Rendering solution:

• Silicone render = waterproof shield

• Pebble dash = wind/rain defence

Energy Efficiency Boost

*Saves £190–£340/year on heating* (Energy Saving Trust)

Value & Saleability

• Rendered homes: Sell 3 weeks faster (Rightmove)

• Value boost: 5–10% (especially pebble dash in Scotland, silicone in cities)

Repair & Modernisation

Covers:

• Crumbling pebbledash

• Ugly concrete extensions

• Cracked render (via our repair service)

When Rendering is a BAD Idea (Rare Cases)

Rising Damp Present

Rendering over damp:

• Traps moisture inside walls

• Causes blistering & mould

• Always fix damp first!

Solid Stone Walls (Pre-1919)

Traditional materials:

• Need to "breathe"

• Cement renders trap moisture → stone decay

• Solution: Lime-based renders only

Conservation Areas

• May require planning permission

• Wrong materials/colours = fines

• We handle listed building consents

Rendering vs No Rendering: UK Comparison

Which Homes Need Rendering? (UK-Specific)

Rendering Recommended:

• Post-1950s brick homes (perfect for silicone render)

• Coastal properties (pebble dash resists salt/wind)

• Terraces with gable ends (protects exposed walls)

• Homes with cracked render (repair service essential)

Avoid Rendering:

• Thatched cottages (moisture conflict)

• Grade II listed stone buildings (without consent)

• Homes with active rising damp

How to Render CORRECTLY (Avoid Disaster)

1. Professional Survey
   We check for:

   • Damp (using Protimeter)

   • Wall movement

   • Material compatibility

2. Choose Breathable Renders

   • Modern homes: Silicone

   • Period properties: Lime-based

   • Coastal: Pebble dash

3. Proper Preparation

   • Clean walls (remove algae/loose material)

   • Apply base coat (key for adhesion)

4. Professional Installation

   • Avoid DIY (we've fixed 80+ botched jobs in 2024)

"They advised against rendering our stone cottage – honesty that saved us £7k in potential damage."
– The Hughes Family, Snowdonia

Case Study: Liverpool 1930s Semi

Problem:

• North-facing wall → black mould

• £480/year heating bills

• "Ugly" concrete extension

Solution:

• Pebble dash render (main house)

• Silicone render (extension)

Results:

• Mould gone in 3 months

• Bills reduced by 22%

• Valued £18k higher

Why UK Homeowners Trust HouseRenderPro

• BSI-certified installers

• Free damp/structural surveys

• 10-year transferable guarantee

• 0% finance options

Get Your Rendering Assessment →