Silicone Render vs Lime Render
- Veramut
- Mar 31
- 5 min read
External Render Comparison
You’ve decided to render your home, because a fresh coat of render will completely transform the look of your property while protecting it from the elements. But you’ve started researching and probably realised that there are more than just traditional renders on the market, and not all renders are the same.
You have started digging and researching, and it turns out that silicone render keeps popping up as a modern, low-maintenance choice among the options. But then, there’s lime render, a more traditional option. And, here comes the question: which is right for your property?
Let’s break down the differences between silicone and lime render, so you can decide.
Silicone Render vs Lime Render. Article outline:
1. What is Silicone Render?
Silicone render is a modern, advanced rendering system that combines traditional rendering materials with silicone-based additives. At its core, silicone render is an elastomeric polymer-based material that incorporates silicone resins into a traditional mineral-based render mix (usually cement, lime, and aggregates).
Silicone itself is derived from silicon, a naturally occurring element found in sand (silica).
Through a chemical process called hydrolysis and polycondensation, silica is converted into polysiloxanes, the key component of silicone. The basic structure of silicone is made up of a siloxane backbone, a chain of alternating silicon and oxygen atoms. As this structure is highly stable and flexible, it provides resistance to water, UV degradation, and thermal expansion.
Silicone Additives in Silicone Render
The silicone used in render typically comes in the form of emulsified silicone resins or silane/siloxane compounds, which are added during the manufacturing process. These additives are chemically engineered to bond with the mineral particles, creating a hybrid material that combines cementitious binders' strength with silicone polymers' advanced properties.
2. What is Lime Render?
Lime render is a traditional rendering material made primarily from lime, sand, and water. The key chemical component in lime render is calcium hydroxide, which is produced by slaking quicklime with water. This simple yet effective material has been used for centuries, especially on older and historic buildings, due to its ability to flex with the building and allow moisture to escape.
The production of lime render involves a process known as the lime cycle, a chemical transformation that allows lime to harden over time while maintaining its breathable properties.
3. Silicone Render vs Lime Render. What’s the Difference?
3.1. Breathability.
Lime render allows moisture to escape easily.
Silicone render is breathable to an extent, but not as much as lime. It’s better suited to modern properties where extreme breathability isn’t as crucial.
Winner for breathability: lime render.
3.2. Durability & Cracking.
Silicone render is engineered to resist cracking, even as your home moves and settles.
Lime render is naturally flexible but still more prone to fine cracks over time, especially if improperly maintained.
Winner for durability: silicone render.
3.3. Water Resistance.
Silicone render is highly water-repellent, which helps protect your home from rain and moisture.
Lime render absorbs water but also releases it efficiently. This prevents trapped moisture but can lead to a damp appearance in very wet climates.
Winner for water resistance: silicone render.
3.4. Maintenance Needs.
Silicone render requires very little maintenance. Thanks to its self-cleaning properties, it means less scrubbing and no frequent repainting.
Lime render needs regular care, including lime washing and occasional repairs, especially in harsh weather.
Winner for low maintenance: silicone render.
3.5. Appearance & Finish.
Silicone render comes in various colours and textures and stays vibrant for years without fading.
Lime render offers a more natural finish.
Winner for modern aesthetics: silicone render.Winner for traditional charm: lime render.
4. Silicone Render vs Lime Render. Which One Should You Choose?
Deciding between silicone render and lime render depends mainly on the type of property you have, your maintenance preferences, and the environmental conditions your home faces. Both materials offer unique benefits, but each is better suited to specific situations.
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance, long-lasting finish, silicone render might be the ideal choice. It’s particularly well-suited for modern homes or properties in coastal areas where water resistance is essential. Thanks to its advanced formulation, silicone render repels water while still allowing some breathability, protecting your home from rain while preventing internal moisture issues.
Its self-cleaning properties mean that dirt and grime are washed away by rain, keeping your home’s exterior looking fresh with minimal upkeep.
Also, if you prefer a smooth, contemporary appearance, silicone render offers a wide range of colours and textures that stay vibrant for years without fading.
On the other hand, if you own a period property or a heritage building, lime render is often the better option. Older homes, especially those built before the 20th century, typically have solid walls that need to "breathe" to prevent moisture build-up. Lime render is highly breathable, allowing moisture to escape naturally, which helps protect the building from issues like rising damp and mould.
While it does require more maintenance and repairs, this effort can be worthwhile if you want to preserve the authentic character of your home. Lime render also has a softer, more organic appearance, which complements historic architecture beautifully.
If you're still unsure, a simple rule of thumb can guide you: newer homes typically benefit from silicone render because of its durability and ease of care, while older buildings, especially those constructed before the 1900s, are best served by lime render due to their need for natural moisture movement.
5. Silicone Render vs Lime Render. The Key Takeaways.
When it comes to silicone render vs lime render, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. it depends on your home’s age, structure, and how much maintenance you’re willing to take on. Silicone render is your best bet if you want a modern, hassle-free finish that will last for years.
But if you own a heritage property and wish to preserve its character while allowing it to breathe, lime render is the way to go.
Either way, choosing the right render can protect and enhance your home’s exterior for years.
1. Which render is better for insulation, silicone or lime?
Silicone render works better with External Wall Insulation (EWI) systems, as it is compatible with modern insulation boards and provides a protective, weather-resistant layer.
Lime render, while breathable, does not offer the same thermal performance and is usually applied to solid walls without additional insulation. If improving energy efficiency is your main goal, silicone render combined with EWI is the better choice.
2. How long does each type of render last?
With proper application and care, silicone render can last 20–30 years or more, thanks to its weather resistance, flexibility, and self-cleaning properties. Lime render, on the other hand, typically lasts 10–15 years but may need more frequent maintenance, such as limewashing or minor crack repairs. However, lime render is easier to repair and refresh without a complete replacement.
3. Which render is better for coastal areas?
Silicone render is ideal for coastal regions due to its water-repellent nature and resistance to harsh weather.
4. Is silicone render more expensive than lime render?
Generally, silicone render is more expensive upfront due to its advanced formulation and specialist application. However, its low maintenance and long lifespan can make it more cost-effective over time.
Lime render tends to be cheaper in terms of materials, but it requires regular upkeep, which adds to the long-term cost. Labour costs for both materials can vary depending on the job's complexity.
Let Veramut Help You Choose the Perfect Render for Your Home.
At Veramut, we understand that choosing the right render can feel overwhelming; that is why you don’t have to make the decision alone. Our experienced team is always here to offer expert advice tailored to your home and its unique requirements.
And remember, if you have questions, we are just a phone call away with the answers. Get in touch with us today for a FREE, no-obligation quote and personalised advice. Your home deserves the best, and at Veramut, we’re here to deliver it.
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