The outside of your home is the first thing people see. Well-maintained render doesn’t just enhance the aesthetics, it protects from the elements. That said, even the best render can show signs of wear and tear. Cracks, chips, and damage are not uncommon, especially with our unpredictable Lancashire weather. How exactly do you know when it’s time to repair or replace your render?
At Rendplas LTD, we believe in old-school craftsmanship with modern precision. We’re here to give you straightforward, no-nonsense advice on how to handle damaged or cracked render. Whether it’s a small crack or a large section that’s fallen off, we’ll guide you on the best course of action to keep your property safe, protected, and looking its best.
What is Rendering?
Rendering is the process of applying a thin layer of cement or other materials to the outside of a building to protect and enhance the wall. It’s a common choice for homes across the UK because it’s durable, weather-resistant, and provides an attractive finish. It also helps insulate the building, reducing energy costs in the long run.
However, even though render is a tough, long-lasting material, it can still be vulnerable to damage. Cracks, chips, and even whole sections falling off can occur due to weather, wear, or simply the passage of time.
Common Causes of Cracked or Damaged Render
Before Lancashire rendering dive into whether you should repair or replace your render, let’s take a look at some of the reasons rendering can become damaged in the first place.
- Weathering
The UK weather, particularly in places like Lancashire, can be harsh. Extreme temperatures, rain, and frost can cause render to crack and degrade over time. Freezing temperatures cause water to expand inside the cracks, which can worsen the damage. - Poor Application
If your render wasn’t applied properly in the first place, or if corners were cut during installation, you may see damage much sooner than expected. This is often the case with older homes where render was applied decades ago, and the materials or techniques used weren’t up to modern standards. - Movement of the Building
Natural movement in the building structure due to settling can cause stress on the render. Small cracks or large gaps might appear as the building settles into place. - Impact Damage
Sometimes render gets damaged due to physical impact, such as something heavy hitting the wall or a change in structure (like adding a window or door). These types of impacts can cause chunks of render to break off. - Moisture Trapping
If the render is applied without proper ventilation behind it or there are issues with drainage around your property, moisture can become trapped in the wall. This causes the render to bubble, crack, or lift, making it prone to damage.
Repairing Damaged Render
In many cases, a damaged render can be repaired without needing to replace it entirely. If the damage is minimal and localized, such as small cracks or chips, a repair can restore the integrity and appearance of the render.
When to Repair:
- Small Cracks or Chips
Minor cracks or chips in the render are usually nothing to worry about. If the cracks are hairline or small (less than 5mm wide), you can often repair them with a patching compound. The process involves cleaning the crack, applying a filler, and smoothing it out to match the rest of the surface. - Superficial Damage
If the damage is just a minor scrape or gouge that hasn’t compromised the render’s overall structural integrity, then a repair might be all that’s needed. - No Moisture Damage Behind the Render
If there is no significant moisture behind the render and no sign of structural issues, you can often repair the external layer without needing to investigate further.
Repairs are a relatively quick and affordable solution. However, be aware that if the damage is more extensive or caused by deeper issues (such as damp or poor installation), repairs may not be enough to fully restore the wall’s integrity.
When to Replace Your Render
In some cases, a full replacement may be necessary, especially if the damage is widespread, deep, or has been caused by serious underlying issues. While repairs can be effective in some instances, replacing the render entirely can give your property a fresh start and ensure long-lasting protection.
When to Replace:
- Large Cracks or Crumbling Render
If the damage is widespread or large-scale, such as deep cracks or sections of render falling off, it may be beyond repair. Once the render has started to crumble, it loses its protective qualities, and it’s better to replace it to prevent further deterioration. - Water Damage or Moisture Trapping
If there’s significant moisture trapped behind the render or there are signs of dampness inside the building (like peeling wallpaper or mould), this is a sign that the render needs to be replaced. No amount of patching will fix the underlying moisture problem, and continuing to patch it will lead to long-term issues. - Structural Issues
If the building is shifting or settling, it could put strain on the render, causing cracks and further damage. If this is the case, you’ll need to assess the structural integrity of the building before simply replacing the render. If the structure is unstable, replacing the render will only be a temporary fix. - Poor-Quality Render
If your property has old render that was applied poorly or is made from substandard materials, it may be time for a complete replacement. Poorly applied render can fail quickly, and replacement with modern materials and techniques will improve both the durability and the appearance of your property.
Repair or Replace?
At Rendplas LTD, we believe in giving you a clear, honest assessment of your render’s condition. In some cases, repairs are a simple and cost-effective solution. In others, replacing the render entirely will give you peace of mind and long-term protection.
If you’re unsure whether to repair or replace your render, it’s always best to consult with a professional. We’re happy to assess your property and recommend the most effective and economical solution for you.
For expert advice, a no-nonsense approach, and reliable service, visit us at www.rendplas-ltd.com or give us a call at 07367640891.