How to Prepare Your Walls Prior to Rendering?

Preparing your walls prior to rendering is a crucial task that will determine the quality of the final product. From ensuring a secure base to applying primers, here’s how to get your walls ready for rendering.

Inspecting Your Walls and Substrates

The first step in preparing your walls before rendering is to conduct a thorough inspection. This can be done by using an LED torch or other lighting source, as this may help highlight any potential problems with the substrate. It is also important to check for dampness, mould growth, loose plaster, cracks and holes – all of which should be addressed prior to commencing the rendering process.

In some cases, particularly in older buildings where there are multiple layers of paint, it is advisable to have the walls inspected by a professional. In these cases, they may recommend a form of cleaning or sanding prior to rendering in order to ensure the best base for adhesion.

Removing Old Paint and Cleaning

Once you have conducted your inspection and identified any underlying issues with the substrate, you can then begin preparing your walls for rendering. This typically involves removing old paint from the wall using sandpaper or other abrasive tools.

It is important to note that this step should be done carefully and thoroughly as any residual debris could act as an obstruction during the later stages of preparation. After sanding down the surface, it is then necessary to wash off any dust and debris with a cloth or sponge.

It is also important to ensure that all edges are thoroughly sanded in order to reduce the chances of paint chipping off once it has been applied. Additionally, specialised fillers should be used to repair any cracks or holes that may have been identified during the inspection stage.

Applying Primer Coatings

The next step in preparing your walls for rendering is to apply a primer coating. This will help create a secure base for the render and can be achieved using either an acrylic-based or oil-based primer. An acrylic based primer is usually preferable as this will help improve adhesion between the substrate and the render. A second layer of primer may also be necessary in some cases.

It is important to note that the primer must be left for at least 24 hours before the render is applied. This allows for the best adhesion and ensures that the substrate will not be damaged during the process of applying the render.

Applying Mesh and Render Beads

The final step in preparing your walls prior to rendering involves applying a mesh or a render bead. The purpose of this step is to help improve bonding between the substrate and the render as well as providing additional support along any corners or edges. It is important to ensure that you use a product specifically designed for external rendering in order to ensure maximum durability and performance once completed.

Once this has been applied and any necessary repairs have been made, you can then begin the process of applying your render.

Conclusion

Preparing your walls prior to rendering is an essential step that will ensure a secure base for the render as well as helping to maximise the lifespan of your finished product. From conducting an inspection and cleaning down surfaces to applying primers and securing mesh or render beads, following these steps can help guarantee a successful result when it comes time to apply your render.