The exterior of your home is the first thing people see and the material you choose to finish those walls can make all the difference. Over the last decade, silicone render has rapidly become one of the most talked-about and trusted render systems in the UK and across Europe. Loved for its flexibility, colour range, and weather resistance, it offers a premium finish that stands the test of time.
Whether you’re renovating an older property or finishing a new build, this guide explains why silicone render is worth considering and what makes it outperform traditional alternatives.
Contents
What Exactly Is Silicone Render?
Silicone render is a modern, polymer-enhanced render designed to provide a flexible, breathable, and water-repellent finish. It’s most commonly applied as a thin-coat system, typically between 1.5mm and 3mm, resulting in a sleek and contemporary appearance.
Unlike older render types, silicone render contains additives that help it resist dirt, stains, and cracks making it a smart long-term investment for homeowners.
The Key Benefits of Silicone Render
1. Superior Durability
Silicone render is engineered to last. Its flexibility allows it to cope with natural building movement without cracking. This is especially beneficial for older homes or buildings in areas with fluctuating temperature conditions.
2. Self-Cleaning Properties
One of the biggest attractions of silicone render is its ability to stay clean with minimal maintenance. Many systems include “self-cleaning” technology, meaning dirt is less likely to stick and rainfall naturally washes the surface.
3. Breathable Yet Waterproof
It may sound contradictory, but silicone render manages to be both breathable and highly water-resistant. Moisture from inside the home can escape, while rainwater cannot penetrate the surface reducing the risk of damp and mould.
4. Endless Colour Options
Whether you prefer sharp whites, earthy tones, or bold contemporary shades, silicone render is available in hundreds of colours. Best of all, the colour doesn’t fade easily, even in intense sunlight.
5. Low Maintenance and Long-Term Savings
Because it doesn’t crack or require regular repainting, silicone render can save homeowners money in the long run. A quick wash is usually all that’s needed to keep it looking fresh.
Where Can Silicone Render Be Used?
Silicone render is incredibly versatile and can be applied to:
- External wall insulation (EWI) systems
- Masonry and brickwork
- Blockwork
- Concrete
- Existing render (if properly prepared)
- New builds or refurbished properties
Its adaptability makes it a popular choice for architects designing modern homes as well as homeowners looking to modernise dated exteriors.
How the Silicone Render Process Works
Although application may vary depending on the system, the process usually includes:
- Surface preparation – Cleaning, repairing, or priming the substrate
- Basecoat application – Provides a smooth and stable foundation
- Reinforcement mesh – Adds strength and reduces the risk of cracking
- Primer coat – Ensures strong adhesion
- Silicone render coat – Applied and textured for the desired finish
Professional installation is strongly recommended to ensure the system performs at its best.
Silicone Render vs Acrylic Render
| Feature | Silicone Render | Acrylic Render |
| Water Resistance | Excellent | Good |
| Breathability | High | Moderate |
| Crack Resistance | High | High |
| Colour Stability | Superior | Very good |
| Maintenance | Very low | Moderate |
Acrylic render is often cheaper upfront, but silicone render offers longer-lasting performance and better self-cleaning abilities making it the preferred choice for premium projects.
How Much Does Silicone Render Cost?
On average, you can expect:
- £60–£100 per m² for supply and installation
- Slightly lower costs if applied without external insulation
- Additional costs for higher-end finishes or complex properties
While it’s more expensive than basic render systems, the longevity and reduced maintenance needs often make it more cost-effective over time.
Silicone render is more than just a trend it’s a reliable, high-performance solution for anyone seeking a beautiful, durable, and low-maintenance exterior finish. Its blend of flexibility, breathability, and water resistance makes it one of the most advanced render systems available today.
