A Step By Step Guide on Rendering Brick Walls
The process used in rendering is not always the same. It differs depending on the material being rendered. For instance, the process used in rendering blueboard in Sydney differs from that used in rendering brickwork.
Essentially there’re six steps involved in rendering brick walls including:
- Preparing the brick surface
- Mixing the render
- Applying the render
- Tidying the render
- Allowing the render to cure
- Painting the rendered surface
If your brick walls are looking outdated or worn, you can update them by applying a render material. Rendering is a great option for upgrading brick walls due to numerous benefits. For instance, it’s a more affordable and quicker fix than rebuilding the entire wall.
What Does Rendering Entail?
Rendering entails applying a render material on surfaces such as brick walls. The most commonly render material used today is cement. Cement render comprises a mixture of lime, sand, and cement.
The main reason for rendering a surface is to enhance its appearance and protect it against elements. The appearance of the render can be further enhanced using different tools or by painting it.
Making a Render Material
Traditional render material is made using a mixture of sand, cement, and lime in the ratio of 6:1:1 respectively.
The grade of sand used depends on the finish you want. If you want to apply multiple layers of render, use coarse sand for the underlying coating. Fine sand should be used for the topcoat. Lime assists in strengthening the render material and stops it from cracking upon drying. You can use any high-quality cement to make the mixture.
Alternatively, purchase a premade cement render from your local supplies store. Premade renders make the work easier since you don’t have to do any mixing. They cost about $15 – $25 for a 20 kg bag. The amount can cover about 2.5 sq. meters when applied in a layer of 5 mm thick. In most instances, you should apply the render in a layer of 5 to 10 mm thick.
Rendering Brick Walls
Here’re the steps involved in rendering brick walls.
Step 1: Preparing the brick surface
If you want to render a new brick wall, ensure you give it at least 7 days before rendering. That way, the mortar used in joining the bricks will have settled.
Take a broom or steel brush and clean the wall. In case the wall has old render or paint, remove it before proceeding. Take off mortar bits that may be sticking out of the cracks.
Wet the brick wall with the help of a brush or hose. Wetting it will assist the render material to stick in place.
Step 2: Mixing the render
In case you’re using premade render, follow the instructions on the packaging. Generally, a 20 kg bag should be mixed with 4 liters of water. Only use clean water for the mix. You can mix them in a clean wheelbarrow.
When mixing, start by adding water. Then add the rendering material slowly while mixing thoroughly. Ensure the mixture is stiff enough and lump-free. It shouldn’t fall off a trowel when well mixed. It should have a consistency close to that of toothpaste.
The render should be applied over the wall quickly as it tends to dry quickly. You may start seeing changes in its consistency within 30 minutes.
Step 3: Applying the render
First, apply the render material into the spaces between adjoining bricks. That way, you’ll create an even surface for rendering.
Next, start applying the render from the bottom. Use a trowel to apply the rendering material. Push the rendering material upward slowly and smoothly. Fill any holes on the wall with the render. However, you should only manipulate and touch the render lightly.
If you’re applying the render during a hot day, you can prevent it from drying quickly by spraying it lightly with clean water.
If you’ll want to apply a second coating, allow the first coating about 30 minutes to dry. Then scratch the rendered surface with a rake. Next, apply the second coating. Scratching the underlying coating will allow the topcoat to stick easily.
Step 4: Tidying the render
Upon applying the final coating, allow it to cure for some time. Next, apply your preferred finishing touches.
Next, take a clean straight edge. Use it to flatten or screen the render. To do this, hold the straight edge straight and push it carefully along the rendered surface from the top left side to the right.
Use a wooden float to smoothen the render. You can give the render a more unique look by adding swirls. Also, you can create a spotty effect with a sponge.
If you’re applying the render near vents or windows, be careful not to block them.
In case the surface you’ve rendered is under direct sunlight, shade it to protect it from drying and cracking.
Step 5: Allow the render to cure
Once you’ve given the render the kind of finish you want, give it time to cure.
Get a clean mist sprayer. Add some water and spray the wall every 24 hours. Spray it once daily for one week.
Step 6: Painting the rendered surface
Allow the rendered surface to cure for 14 days before applying water-based paint. If you want to apply oil-based paint, then allow the rendered surface to cure for 28 days.
FAQs on Rendering Brick Walls
What’s the cost of rendering a house made of brick?
In case you have the required equipment, you’ll only need to get the rendering material. A 20 kg bag of cement render covers about 2.5 sq. meters when applied in a layer of 5 mm thick. Premade renders cost about $15 – $25 for a 20 kg bag. Estimate the number of bags needed and the overall cost by measuring the surface you’ll cover and do the calculation. Learn more about the cost of a rendering project in Sydney.
What mix is used to make a render material?
Traditionally, sand, cement, and lime are mixed in the ratio of 6:1:1 respectively.
Is it advisable to render houses made of brick?
Rendering brick houses in Sydney is advantageous in several ways. For instance, it keeps the walls protected against elements. It also gives the property a new, attractive look.
It’s advisable to hire a professional rendering contractor for the best results or when dealing with a large rendering project.
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