Types of Rendering: Cement, Acrylic, Monocouche, Lime & Silicon Explained

Introduction

Not all renders are created equal. From traditional cement render to modern acrylic and monocouche systems, the type of render you choose will determine how your home looks, performs, and ages over time.

Choosing the best render for external walls can be overwhelming, there are multiple options, each with unique benefits. 

In this article, we’ll break down the most popular types of rendering used in the UK, their benefits, and which one might be right for your property.

1. Cement Render

What It Is:

Cement rendering is the traditional choice, made from a mix of cement, sand, and lime. It’s applied in multiple coats, can be painted or left as-is, and can be finished smooth or textured.

Pros:

• Strong and durable

• Cost-effective compared to other options

• Versatile with different finishes

• Works well on brick and block walls.

Cons:

• Can be prone to cracking if not maintained

• Requires painting for colour (unless additives are used)

• Less flexible compared to modern renders

  
  

Best For: Homeowners looking for a budget-friendly, traditional render finish.

Render Finishes: Smooth, textured, or scraped

See our recent rendering projects.

2. Acrylic Render

What It Is:

Acrylic rendering is a modern alternative that uses acrylic resin, contains polymers for added elasticity, reducing cracks. It’s lightweight, flexible, and comes pre-mixed in a wide variety of colours eliminating the need for painting.

Pros:

• Highly flexible (resists cracking)

• Available in many colours (no painting needed)

• Quick to apply and dry

Cons:

• Less breathable than lime or cement render

• Not always the best option for older buildings

• More expensive than cement

  
  

Best For: Modern homes or extensions that need a smooth, coloured finish and flexibility.

Render Finishes: Fine, coarse, or patterned.

3. Monocouche Render

What It Is:

“Monocouche” means single coat in French, a pre-mixed colored render. Unlike traditional renders, monocouche is applied in just one thick coat, making it faster and more efficient. It’s popular for its efficiency and modern look.

Pros:

• Only requires one coat → quicker installation, time saving

• Pre-coloured (no painting needed)

• Durable and long-lasting, whether resistant

• Provides a modern, clean finish

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost than cement render

• Limited colour changes once applied

• Requires professional application

Best For: Homeowners who want a modern, low-maintenance solution with excellent durability.

Render Finishes: Smooth or lightly textured.

4. Lime Render

What It Is:

Lime render is one of the oldest types of rendering, a natural, eco-friendly option, ideal for older homes with solid walls. It allows moisture to escape, preventing dampness, and is made from natural lime & sand. It’s breathable, flexible, and perfect for period properties.

Pros:

• Excellent breathability (prevents trapped moisture)

• Eco-friendly and natural

• Flexible (less likely to crack)

• Sustainable and traditional

Cons:

• Requires skilled application\

• Higher cost compared to cement render

  
  

Best For: Traditional and listed properties where breathability is essential.

Render Finishes: Rough, rustic, or smooth.

5. Silicone Render 

What It Is: Silicone render is a modern, premium type of render designed for long-lasting protection and aesthetics. It contains silicone additives that make it highly water-repellent while still allowing the walls to breathe. This render is very low-maintenance, self-cleaning, and resistant to algae, dirt, and cracking—making it a popular choice for contemporary homes.

Pros:

• Highly water-resistant and weatherproof

• Self-cleaning properties (dirt washes away with rain)

• Excellent flexibility (resists cracking)

• Long lifespan and low maintenance

• Breathable despite being water-repellent

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Cons:

• More expensive than traditional renders

• Limited suitability for very old, solid-walled properties

  
  

Best For: Modern homes and renovations where durability, minimal upkeep, and a sleek finish are key.

Render Finishes: Smooth, textured, or coloured.

Choosing the Right Render for Your Home

The best render depends on your property type, budget, and the finish you want:

• Budget-friendly + traditional: Cement render

• Modern + colourful finish: Acrylic render

• Fast + low-maintenance: Monocouche render

• Eco-friendly + period homes: Lime render

  
  

At Sovereign Surfaces Plastering, we assess your walls and recommend the right render for your specific needs.

Which is the Best Render for External Walls?

Render Type	Best For	Durability	Cost
Cement	Budget-friendly projects	High	££
Acrylic	Modern homes, crack resistance	High	£££
Monocouche	Quick, low-maintenance finish	Very High	£££
Lime	Old buildings, breathability	Medium	£££
Silicon	Modern homes, low maintenance, water resistance	Very High	£££

Please note its just an estimate, rendering cost can be varied according to property lengths or situation. The best render for your home depends on your budget, climate, and desired finish. Cement is great for affordability, acrylic for flexibility, monocouche for convenience, and lime for breathability.

Need help choosing?  Consult a professional to find the perfect render for your property.

If you’re looking to protect and modernise your property in South London, Bromley, Dartford, or Kent, our team at Sovereign Surfaces Plastering is here to help.

Conclusion

Whether you want the timeless strength of cement, the flexibility of acrylic, the efficiency of monocouche, or the eco-friendliness of lime, there’s a render option to suit every home.

 Ready to transform your property with expert rendering services in Bromley, South London, Dartford, or Kent? 

Contact Sovereign Surfaces Plastering today for a free consultation and quote.

FAQs About Render Types

1. What’s the cheapest type of rendering?

Cement render is the most budget-friendly.

2. Which render is best for insulation?

Acrylic and monocouche provide better thermal performance.

3. Can I render my house myself?

Some DIY-friendly options exist, but a professional application ensures longevity.

4. Does rendering improve energy efficiency?

Yes, especially with insulated render systems.

5. How do I maintain rendered walls?

Clean periodically and check for cracks or damp patches.