Size: 300m2

Product: Through coloured NHL 3.5 lime render, sponged finish.

Client: Private landlord

The Background: This row of 5 Victorian solid wall terraced houses was undergoing complete refurbishment. Having originally been constructed with brick, a sand and cement render was applied during the 1980's. The cement render had numerous cracks, blown areas and defects. During the refurbishment one of the gable ends was completely rebuilt using breeze blocks, incorporating a cavity wall construction. Several of the external walls were showing signs of damp on the interior surfaces and the plaster had become damaged which needed to be replaced too.

The Problem: The property owner wished to refurbish the exterior facade using suitable materials and techniques which would be sympathetic to the building and allow the walls to breathe. As the building consisted of a brick Pre-1920's solid wall construction and modern breeze block cavity construction, a material would have to be used to render the building which would be compatible with both construction types. In addition to this, the owner wanted a long term solution which would not need regular maintenance or decorating.

The Solution: We conducted a site survey and discussed various options with the property owner, from retaining the existing cement render and applying a treatment to it, all the way through to complete removal and re-rendering with various options. After a process of consultation with the property owner, a conclusion was reached that the existing cement render would be removed and a new NHL 3.5 through coloured Lime render would be applied in white. We were able to finish the solid wall and cavity wall constructions with the same type of lime render, enabling a seamless finish to be applied. This was achieved by applying different base coats which were suitable to the substrate they were being applied to. As part of this project, we replaced the existing soil stacks and performed structural stitching work to cracks within the original brickwork. Expansion joints were placed on the junction between the solid wall and cavity wall construction. PVC bull nosed corner beads were used to create sharp arrises on the windows and door reveals. Bellcast beads were placed at the DPC level to create a break in the render to prevent rising damp. The underside of the DPC was rendered in a stronger NHL 5 which was dyed dark grey to complement the window cills and key stones.

The Benefits: The building has a traditional appearance in keeping with its credentials, the lime render allows subtle movement within the structure and moisture to vent without causing damage to the fabric of the building or introducing damp issues. The through coloured lime render finish benefits from very minimal maintenance, not requiring painting or decorating for many decades. Should the property owner wish to change the colour, lime wash and natural mineral paints can be applied at any point in the future. The property owner also has the added piece of mind of a 15 year guarantee in the unlikely event of any problems occurring.

For further information on Avant Coatings Ltd bespoke surveying, specifying and installation service please contact us at enquiries@avantcoatings.co.uk or call 0800 500 3146

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