It might seem as if rendering a wall is hard, but if you follow our eight simple steps, you can do it yourself. This handbook dissembles how to render a wall into simple steps to guide you. Do you wonder, “How do I cement render a wall?” or simply, “How do you paint a wall?”, this will help.

Preparing to Render a Wall

Preparing is key before you begin mixing cement. This consists of preparing your supplies and prepping the wall.

Tools and Materials

Materials you’ll need to render a wall:

• Cement
• Sand
• Water
• Mixing tub or wheelbarrow
• Shovel
• Hawk
• Trowel
• Float
• Spirit level
• Rolling scaffolding or ladder (if necessary)
• Dust sheets or tarps
• PPE: gloves, safety glasses, dust mask

Preparing the Wall Surface

1. Clean the wall: Take off any dust, old paint and debris. A wire brush can help. In terms of painting over a painted wall, the best idea is to remove the paint, or use a PVA bonding agent.
2. Rectify damage: Fill any cracks or holes with a filler. Let it dry completely.
3. Do an undercoat (optional): If the wall is extremely smooth, an undercoat gives the render something to hold on to. Score horizontal lines into the scratch coat while it is still wet. This provides something for the next layer to hold onto.
4. Wet the wall: Gently moisten the wall with water. (It helps the render stick better and prevents it from drying out too fast.)

Mixing the Render

The right formula is key to good wall rendering. Too much water and it will be weak; not enough and it will be hard to handle.

Cement to Sand Ratio

For cement render, the standard mix is 1 part cement and 4 parts sand. For the scratch coat, a lot of tradesmen also like to bump the cement up in the mix to a 1:3 ratio. But do follow the directions on the bag of your cement.

Mixing the Render

1. Mixing in batches: Mix the cement and the sand in your mixing tub or wheelbarrow. Stir them thoroughly with a shovel until the color is uniform.
2. Water addition: Slowly add water while mixing. The objective is to obtain a paste-like, thick consistency. Just be careful not to pour all the water at once.
3. Test the thickness: The mix should stick to your trowel and not run off; there should be no drips. It should spread easily and be workable.

Applying the Render

Now for the fun part: applying the render to the wall. It takes practice, so don’t feel bad if you don’t get it perfect on your first shot.

Step 2: First Coat (Scratch Coat)

1. Load your hawk: Scoop some render onto your hawk (a flat, hand-held board) with your trowel.
2. Work on the wall: Hold the hawk up near the wall and move the trowel up with a smooth motion to apply the render. Apply even pressure.
3. Spread: Aim for an even thickness of about 6-10mm. It’s fine if it’s not perfectly smooth for now. The idea is to provide a solid foundation for the next coat.
4. Scratch the surface: Before the scratch coat dries, use a nail float to roughen the surface up. This will form a key for the next coat. This step is crucial for a wall.
5. Cure the scratch coat: Let the scratch coat cure. This usually takes 24-48 hours, depending on the weather. Keep it wet by spritzing with some water.

Second Application (Finish Coat)

1. Prepare the scratch coat: Wet the scratch coat lightly with water before applying the second coat.
2. Spread the top coat: Complete the above steps to spread the top coat. Apply a layer of approximately 6-10 mm thickness.
3. Float the surface: When the topcoat has firmed up (after an hour or two), use a plastic or wood float to smooth the surface. Buff away any rough spots in circular movements until your piece has a uniform texture.
4. Clean your tools: Trim your tools as much as you can by keeping them moist with a little bit of water to avoid the render hardening on them.

Finishing the Rendered Wall

And last but not least, you need to cure the render. This enables it to gain strength and prevents cracks. With 30 years experience, Australian Rendering Company understands curing is crucial to lasting finishes. They service all of Melbourne, including cement rendering – which definitely takes some expertise to get the curing spot on. For professional rendering services or any other related queries, they are available at 0466 943 872 and also through the email id contact@australianrenderingcompany.com.au.

Curing the Render

1. Keep it wet: Over the next five to seven days, mist the rendered wall two to three times a day with water. This prevents the render from drying too fast.
2. Prevent the sun and wind from drying the render: If it is hot or windy outside, use plastic sheeting to protect the render from drying too quick.

Additional Tips

• First, practice on a small area to become familiar with materials and techniques.
• Break down your work into sections, otherwise the render can dry out before you get the chance to float it.
• Check that the rendered surface is plumb with a spirit level.
• Even if you just want to know more, consider calling a professional renderer to explain the process.

Rendering walls can enhance the appearance and structural performance of buildings. Learning how to render internal or external walls lets you upgrade and protect the value of your property.

The wall can be quite a challenge to DIY.

The final part, rendering, requires practice but is manageable for the enthusiast. Begin with a small project, use the best materials you can afford, and take your time.

What is rendering a wall?

Wall rendering is the process of adhering a mixture of cement and sand to the walls, to achieve a smooth or textured surface. It adds beauty and protects the wall from the elements.

How long would it take a renderer to do a wall?

The duration depends on the size, condition, and your skill level of the wall. A small wall could be done over the course of a weekend, but a bigger project would probably span a few days.

What is the cost of plastering walls?

Price varies depending on the area, type of render, and labor costs. Receiving quotes from local experts is the best way to calculate this cost. For those who want to render walls yourself, it’s cheaper as you’re only paying for materials.

Is there any reason why I shouldn’t plaster over painted walls?

Yes, but surface prep is essential. Paint is better off to be removed. Failing to do that, apply a PVA bonding agent to increase adhesion. Adhere to product directions.

What is the ideal mix ratio when you want to know how to cement render a wall?

A typical good ratio is 1 part cement and 4 parts sand. But make sure to always do as your cement bag tells you.

How do you look after rendered walls?

When not in use, you can lightly clean it with a brush and water to avoid accumulation of dust. Make repairs to any cracks quickly to minimize water damage. Your surface can also last longer if you seal it.