When the time comes to give the exterior of your home some care and attention, it can be difficult to know which treatments to choose. Wall upgrades will not only alter the way your home responds to the environmental factors it has to deal with but will also impact its appearance for the years and even decades to come. Which is why so many homeowners find themselves having to choose between roughcast, render painting or exterior wall refurbishment. Each has its own set of advantages and drawbacks, so it’s worth taking a closer look to see which would be the most suitable for your home.
Roughcast
This is a traditional wall coating made of lime, sand and gravel (although it is sometimes made using either cement or stone chippings). It is generally applied by hand to create a rough-textured finish that gives your home a more rustic feel. Although coarse and textured, it creates a firm and durable barrier against the elements so it is well suited to areas where the climate is more severe.
The finish is also breathable, as it allows moisture to escape, which means it will not trap any dampness in the structure of the building, which can cause damage over time. This breathability also makes it a great choice for older buildings which need a higher level of ventilation than more modern structures.
The drawbacks of roughcast rendering are that it can be hard to apply and maintain, requiring quite a lot of labour. The rough texture is well suited to rustic and older buildings but perhaps less suited to anyone wanting a cleaner or more modern feel.
Render Painting
This involves applying a cement-based mixture to the walls which can either be painted or textured to achieve a variety of finishes. It provides a strong protective barrier and also creates a crisp and appealing aesthetic. Its main appeal is that it is a very affordable choice, with a straightforward application process that can be finished in a broad choice of textures and colours. However, it is not quite as water resistant as some other exterior coatings and can be prone to cracking in areas of fluctuating temperatures.
Wall Refurbishment
Rather than applying any new coating to the walls, a wall refurbishment involves revitalising the existing wall surface by repairing any cracks or damage and then applying a new protective coating. These coatings are waterproof, flexible and thermally efficient and have been designed to withstand extremes of weather conditions. They are also breathable, so will allow moisture to escape and prevent damp build-up. However, perhaps the standout feature of wall refurbishment is the cost-effectiveness. This long-lasting protection can last up to 15 years, which is a great return on your investment, and they are also self-cleaning, which means less maintenance.
All of these advantages may give wall refurbishment the edge over both roughcast and render painting. To find out more about the process or to speak to a member of our team about the refurb process, contact us and arrange a free survey.
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