Question 1

1. What’s the difference between rendering and plastering?

Accepted Answer

Rendering and plastering both involve applying a layer of wet material (plaster or render) to a substrate like brick or plasterboard, which hardens to form a protective coating. The big difference is that plastering is done on interior walls and ceilings, and rendering is done to exterior walls.

Plastering and rendering also use different materials. Plastering is usually done with gypsum plaster, while rendering is traditionally done with a concrete render mix (although types of render made of synthetic materials like silicone are becoming more popular).

Question 2

2. What is render?

Accepted Answer

Render is a protective layer that’s applied to exterior walls. It’s usually made up of cement, plastering sand, and water, although additional materials like lime or render accelerator are sometimes added too. Rendering a wall protects it from the weather, making it last longer, although it can also be used to make a wall look better.

Question 3

3. What is plaster?

Accepted Answer

When we talk about plaster, we’re usually talking about gypsum plaster. It’s most commonly used for plastering internal walls to create a smooth, even surface for decorating. Plaster is usually applied in a thinner coat than render.

Plaster and render supplies

Thistle Finishing plaster 7500g Bag

ProRend Colourtex Uniform Plaster 17kg - Peach

ProRend Colourtex Uniform Plaster 17kg - Willow

GoRend HBS Monocouche Render 25kg - Candy

GoRend HBS Monocouche Render 25kg - Fawn

GoRend HBS Monocouche Render 25kg - White