Common Mistakes to Avoid When Rendering Cement on a Wall

Rendering cement refers to putting a layer of cement over brick, stone, or concrete; this is usually done so that the outside layer of cement provides a protective barrier against moisture but also so that the outside layer can be stamped, painted, or stained for a decorative look. Cement can be shaped and formed into any fashion and holds a paint or stain color very well, so a rendered wall can look like brick, slate, marble, granite, and a variety of other options without the same cost. If you're thinking of rendering a wall on your own, note a few common mistakes made by most homeowners so you can avoid those yourself.

1. Not preparing the surface properly

Lack of surface prep is a common problem for homeowners, as they are often eager to apply the render and get the job done. However, if there is dirt, dust, oil, mud, or any other debris on the walls, this will cause the render to slide away, so be sure the wall is cleaned and dried thoroughly before the job begins. If using on a surface that doesn't absorb very well such as metal or glass, you want to put on a dash coat. This is a mixture of cement and water that you actually flick onto the surface and then allow to dry for 24 hours; this dash coat will give the rendering something to adhere to after its application.

2. Not applying with enough force

Rendering is not like painting a wall; you need to apply some force in order to get the rendering mixture onto the wall and compact enough to stick and stay in place. Note that you're not simply spreading the rendering mixture as you would spread a concrete driveway, but should apply force with your trowel or other hand tool. Add enough layers so that the rendering is thick enough and then scrape off the excess with a flat edge.

3. Adding too much sealer

It's often a misconception that cement needs a thick coat of sealer to keep out moisture and to protect the paint or stain finish. In truth, too much sealer can look sloppy and make the cement seem too glossy and uneven, as well as downright fake. Apply a thin layer of sealer with the first coat and note the coverage; if it's sufficient, a second coat isn't necessary. Check the sealer every year for chips and leaks, but if it's still in good condition, avoid adding another coat unnecessarily.

For more information, contact a company like Reliable Restorations.