One of the most frequent questions we are asked at Rapid Rendering, is whether clients should opt for acrylic render or cement render?
But wait – what if you are not even exactly sure what rendering is? Simply put, render is a paste-like substance used on interior and exterior walls.
Render is on the rise, transforming the look of homes across Australia. So let’s get into it, acrylic render vs cement render.
In this article you will find:
- Acrylic Render
- Acrylic Render Pros and Cons
- Cement Render
- Cement Render Pros and Cons
- Acrylic or Cement Render?
- Advice for attempting a rendering job
Acrylic Render
What is it?
Well, it is essentially render with acrylic – a form of plastic – added to the mixture. It is a very thick substance that is blended with aggregate (sand) and is typically combined with bag/site mix cement render.
What is it suitable for?
Acrylic render works both inside and outside your home! You can add acrylic render to brick walls, over existing render, over painted walls/ceilings, concrete blocks, cement and more.
What are the options?
You can choose from a range of acrylic rendering colours to fit your individual style and needs. There is also a variety of finishes to choose from. If you would like more detail about acrylic rendering, check out our blog – Acrylic Rendering.
Acrylic Render Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely durable
- Water resistant
- Fast drying
- Range of colours and textures available
- Two days to cure and dry
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive
- Less breathable
- Requires extra care during application
Cement Render
What is it?
Cement rendering, combines cement, sand, water and clay or lime. The thickness of cement render can vary, based on the amount of render that needs to be used to completely create a smooth, straight finish on the wall.
What is it suitable for?
The primary purpose of cement render is to smooth rough surfaces and as such it is suitable for brick, concrete blocks, stone blocks and even painted walls. Also suitable for inside or outside your home.
What are the options?
Typically cement rendering is also readily available in different colours, textures and finishes to align with your needs.
Cement Render Pros and Cons
Pros
- Much more affordable compared to acrylic render
- Can serve as a base coat for acrylic render
Cons
- Limited range of substrates (choose from brick or block)
- Must be mixed on site (ratio may be inaccurate)
- Can crack over time
- Loose material (may be at risk of contamination)
Acrylic or Cement Render?
While the finish of both acrylic and cement rendering is selfsame, the application process and material properties vary significantly. Which, as mentioned, affects not only the price but also the longevity of the area being rendered and the final outcome.
Due to its cheaper cost, cement render is more commonly used for most rendering projects. However, at Rapid Rendering we have noticed a steady increase in acrylic render’s popularity. Likely due to its long lifespan, ability to be applied to most surfaces and previously mentioned benefits.
Bearing this in mind, we recommend Acrylic Render as the premium rendering choice across most home improvement projects. It comes with an assurance of quality, quick recovery time and aesthetic appeal.
With that being said, for smaller and more simple jobs cement rendering can still suffice. More affordable in nature and still provides a respectable render.
Advice for attempting a rendering job
Rapid Rendering always recommends the following, when attempting a rendering job yourself. Firstly, you should ensure you undertake the rendering job in fine weather as rain or wind may affect the application and finish of your render. Secondly, keep your top coat a little damp for at least three days so the render cures properly and avoids cracking.
Prior to painting your render, you should always apply a sealer AND a bonding agent to assist the paint in sticking to the render. Finally, check whether you need to apply another coat, the bottom layer should be scuffed up and kept moist prior to the final top coat.
Acrylic and Cement Render FAQs
Which is cheaper, Acrylic or Cement render?
Cement render is cheaper than acrylic render. See Pros and Cons above for further detail.
When should you avoid rendering?
The only time to avoid rendering is during the rainy season, which surprise surprise is typically close to Summer time! The experts at Rapid Rendering will forecast whether your requested time period will be suitable, considering likeliness of rain or fog and ensuring your render has the suitable conditions to dry perfectly.
If you enjoyed this blog you may also like:
Three of the biggest rendering myths busted
How to render a wall – a complete guide
What are the best rendering products
What surfaces can be rendered?