The Complete Guide to Silicone Render: Costs, Application & Maintenance

At HouseRenderPro, we pride ourselves on offering honest, expert advice based on real experience. In this article, our lead rendering expert George Edward shares everything you need to know about silicone render – from what it is, how to apply it, the real costs in the UK, and answers to every common question.

George has spent over 15 years in the field applying silicone renders across all types of properties. This article includes his hands-on knowledge, pro tips, and real-world insights to help you make the best decision for your home.

What is Silicone Render?

Silicone render is a high-performance exterior finish that's revolutionised UK home protection. As George explains: "Unlike old cement renders that trap moisture, silicone-based products contain resins that create a self-cleaning, breathable shield. During my work on Bristol period homes, I've seen how it prevents damp while surviving our brutal weather."

George's Pro Tip:"Always check the silicone content percentage - premium brands like K Rend contain 8-10% for maximum durability. Cheaper versions underperform in coastal areas."

Silicone Render Costs: 2024 UK Pricing

George's cost breakdown from recent projects:

Real Example:"A Cheltenham semi-detached required £9,200 total - saved the homeowner £1,400 by repairing existing insulation boards instead of replacing."

Silicone Render vs Competitors: George's Comparison

*(Tested across 200+ UK properties)*

Painting Tip:"Yes, you can paint it (use Johnstone's Stormshield), but why? Premium silicone renders like Baumit keep colour 15+ years"

Additional FAQs – Answered by George Edward

Is silicone rendering any good?

Yes, silicone rendering is considered one of the best rendering options in the UK. It’s breathable, flexible, self-cleaning, and lasts up to 30 years. Unlike traditional render, it resists cracking and doesn’t trap moisture.

George says: “If you want a long-term, low-maintenance finish that still looks modern years later — silicone render is absolutely worth it.”

Is silicone render expensive?

Silicone render is more expensive upfront than cement or acrylic options, usually costing £70–£90 per m². However, it saves money in the long run due to:

• Lower maintenance

• No repainting required

• Longer lifespan

What is silicone render?

Silicone render is a modern, coloured, breathable render made from silicone resin. It’s used as a top coat on external walls and offers excellent water repellence while allowing trapped moisture to escape. It’s ideal for both new builds and refurbishments.

Is silicone render the same as K Rend?

K Rend is a brand that makes various types of render — including silicone-based options. Not all K Rend products are silicone render. Be sure to choose K Rend Silicone Thin Coat or Silicone Scraped Texture for true silicone performance.

George's Tip: “Always check the product label — some ‘K Rend’ bags are monocouche, not silicone.”

Does silicone render cause damp?

No. In fact, silicone render helps prevent damp. It is:

• Water-repellent on the outside

• Breathable from the inside, allowing trapped moisture to escape
  This makes it ideal for damp-prone UK properties — especially old solid-wall homes.

What is the best render for a house in the UK?

Silicone render is often the top choice for modern UK homes due to:

• Long lifespan (25–30 years)

• Flexible, crack-resistant surface

• Hundreds of colours available

• Works well with external wall insulation (EWI)

Other popular options:

• Acrylic render (cheaper, but less breathable)

• Monocouche render (one-coat system)

• Traditional cement render (cost-effective but higher maintenance)

Step-by-Step Application: George's Field Guide

Having applied over 60,000m² of silicone render, George shares his foolproof method:

Step:1 Wall Preparation (Critical!)

• Power-wash surfaces & repair cracks with flexible filler
• *George's Trick: "Use a damp meter - anything over 15% moisture needs drying before rendering"*

Step:2 Primer Application

• Roll silicone-specific primer (e.g. Weber PR310)
• *"I've tested 12 primers - never use PVA glue! It peels in 2 winters"*

Step:3 Base Coat Technique

• Apply 6mm base coat with reinforcing mesh
• *"Angle your trowel 45° - this prevents air pockets behind mesh"*

Step:4 Top Coat Application

• Apply 1.5-3mm silicone render in 1m² sections
• "Work top-to-bottom in drizzle conditions - surprising but true! Light moisture improves workability"

Step:5 Texturing & Drying

• Create texture with sponge floats while wet
• *"Drying time myth busted: 48hrs touch-dry, but wait 4 weeks before touching! Early contact causes permanent dents"*

UK Brand Guide: George's Hands-On Reviews

1. K Rend Silicone (Premium):
   "My top choice for listed buildings. Their 'Heritage Range' hides uneven substrates. Worth the 20% premium."

2. Weber (All-rounder):
   "The Ford Focus of renders - reliable but uninspiring. Their Parrex system is idiot-proof for DIYers."

3. Johnstone's (Budget):
   "Only recommend for small garden walls. Fades faster, but their colour-matching app is handy."

4. Baumit (Eco Option):
   "German precision. Use when clients want carbon-neutral solutions. Requires perfect application though."

Colours Available in the UK

Top UK suppliers like Johnstone’s and K Rend offer a massive range of silicone render colours:

• Pure white silicone render

• Ivory and cream tones

• Modern greys

• Stone and sand shades

• Custom matches available

“White looks clean and timeless, but light grey is the current trend. It hides dirt well too.” – George

George's Final Thoughts

*"After fixing botched render jobs for a decade, I insist on three things: 1) Use premium silicone brands 2) Hire specialists with substrate experience 3) Never compromise on prep work. Silicone render is a 25-year investment - do it once, do it properly.*

Ready for flawless silicone render?Get George's team on your project - *"We'll personally assess your property and provide a 10-year craftsmanship guarantee."*