Whenever we talk about render solutions, we always say that they are low maintenance. But low maintenance doesn’t mean no maintenance. Over time the render on the outside of your property can become tired, discoloured or even crack. If it does, then you could find your home beginning to lose that curb appeal which is so important especially when it’s time to sell.
But how do you maintain render? And what do you do if you don’t have the right equipment to keep it looking great? The answer’s simple. You give J & H Lynch a call.
What Issues Can Render Develop?
There are a variety of different problems that can occur with render over time, including:
Discolouration
Render, especially if it is of an older variety, can discolour in time. This may come about as a result of water penetration or UV damage. Discoloured render can be painted or re-covered.
Debonding
Render can debond (or shell) from the underlying substrate (wall surfaces). This often happens as a result of water damage, poor preparation of walls, or improper installation. Debonded render will need to be removed and replaced. Often it is desirable to have the entire render replaced so the property has a uniform look.
Cracking
Render can crack over time. This not only looks ugly but reduces weatherproofing. Cracking can occur for many reasons including improper installation, water penetration, or movement in the underlying substrate. If a crack is not repaired it can allow water to penetrate behind the render and may lead to wall damage or render debonding. Cracks can generally be filled and coloured to match the surrounding render by our experts.
Erosion
Surface erosion is a rare occurrence with render but can happen from time to time. Erosion is generally the result of poor quality or improperly prepared render solution that can literally wash away in the rain. Eroding render generally needs to be removed before new (better quality and correctly mixed) render can be applied.
Inadequate Sealant or Flashing at Critical Junctions
This is one of the most common external render issues we see. Once render is applied it is vital that junction details like windows and door frames are sealed with a high-quality mastic. If this is not done, water will potentially leak behind the render and can lead to issues with debonding and water penetration through walls.
Chemical Damage
Things like pollution, excessive salt in the air (think seaside), or high sulphate presence in the underlying brickwork can damage render over time. This may present itself in many, including cracking, bulging or debonding in the render. The source of the chemicals will dictate the course of action for repair but generally removal of damaged render, treatment of the underlying brickwork, and then reapplication of a chemical resistant render is required.
For a comprehensive guide to the different types of render issues you may come across, head over to buildingdefectanalysis.co.uk.
What Do I Do If I have Render Damage?
The answer to that question is simple – give J & H Lynch a call. Our specialists have years of experience providing rendering solutions and pride themselves on the quality of service they provide.
If the render on your home needs attention, give us a call or leave us a message on our contact us page.
