Traditional Sand & Cement Rendering
Tough, Proven and Competitively Priced
Sand and cement render is one of the most tried-and-tested methods of protecting and finishing exterior walls. Strong, hard-wearing and suitable for almost any property, it remains a popular choice for solid wall homes, older properties and cost-conscious refurbishment projects.
Traditional sand and cement rendering involves applying one or more coats of a carefully mixed sand and cement mortar to the exterior wall surface. Once set and finished — smooth, textured, or prepared for painting – it provides a robust, weatherproof coat that protects the masonry beneath from rain, wind and frost.
Unlike modern silicone systems, sand and cement render is a denser, harder finish. This makes it highly impact-resistant and ideal for properties that experience knocks and abrasion at ground level, or where a heavier, more traditional appearance is desired.
It is also the most cost-effective rendering option and a practical choice for homeowners who intend to paint the exterior, want a matching finish on an older property, or are working to a budget without compromising on protection and durability.
Benefits of sand & cement render
Highly durable and impact-resistant
Cost-effective compared to silicone and EWI systems
Suits older, solid-wall and uneven properties
Can be finished smooth, textured or ready for painting
Excellent protection against driving rain and frost
Works well with lime-based mixes on historic properties
Long track record – used successfully for over a century
Our Sand & Cement Rendering Process
Preparation
We remove any loose, crumbling or contaminated render and repair cracks in the masonry. The wall is cleaned and a bonding agent applied where needed.
Scratch Coat
A first coat of sand and cement is applied and scored (scratched) across the surface while still wet. This creates a mechanical key for the next coat to bond to.
Top Coat Application
A second coat is applied to the required depth and worked to an even surface. We use carefully gauged mixes to minimise shrinkage cracking.
Finishing
The surface is floated, textured or prepared for masonry paint as required. Reveals, beads and sills are detailed for a clean, professional result.
Final Clean Down
Edges are sealed, masking removed and the property left clean and tidy.
Things to know about Cement Render
Sand and cement render is a rigid material and can develop hairline cracks over time as buildings naturally move with seasonal temperature changes. This is normal and does not necessarily indicate structural failure, but cracks should be monitored and repointed periodically.
For properties where cracking is a concern, or where a longer maintenance-free life is the priority, our Basecoat & Silicone system offers a more flexible, longer-lasting alternative.
Sand & Cement Rendering in Kent & South East London
We carry out traditional rendering across Kent including Maidstone, Medway, Tonbridge, Sevenoaks, Canterbury and Ashford, as well as South East London including Bromley, Bexley, Sidcup and Dartford.
Thinking about traditional render for your property?
If you're not sure whether sand and cement or a modern silicone system is right for your property, our team is happy to advise. Contact us for a free, no-obligation site visit and quote.