Render Systems

External Coloured Rendering Systems

We manufacturer a wide range of render systems, all suitable for different substrates. From BBA certified Insulated render systems, thin coat renders and monocouche finishes. All our systems and products are durable and of high quality. We offer a choice of textured finishes from acrylic, silicone and silicate. Our systems help protect all kinds of façades, whilst adding style and creativity. With over 7oo colours to choose from, you can pick the perfect coloured render for any project.

To Render or Paint, That is the Question

When sprucing up the exterior of your home you will no doubt arrive at the point where you need to decide whether painting or a coloured render is the best solution for you. Before you decide, read the information below.

Painting

Painting has long been the most popular way for homeowners to enhance the appearance of their home. By simply changing the colour of a home’s exterior it can take on an entirely new look and personality without having to engage in complex and expensive construction projects.

Paint is easy to apply and more affordable than new siding or some other options, including a coloured render. Paint these days is also far more durable than it was 20 or 30 years ago. And many types of house paint are also mould-resistant and have enhanced wearability baked right into the formulation.

And while painting the outside of a house is more labour intensive than most people realise it is still something that can be done relatively quickly by any reasonably talented do-it-yourselfer.

The Coloured Render

Coloured renders have been around for some time but it is only in recent years that advances in the formulation and production of coloured render systems have made it possible for the average homeowner to consider this type of exterior home enhancement.

The coloured render enables the homeowner to transform the look and feel of their home in a more comprehensive and, some believe, a more satisfying way than is possible with paint alone. In some respects, a coloured rendering system occupies a middle ground between a paint job and siding or another type of exterior cladding.

But perhaps the biggest benefit a coloured render has over paint alone is that the render colour is infused right into the rendering material. That means that even if the render material is chipped there is no loss in colour. Compare that to paint that can easily peel away creating a very unattractive look.

While a coloured render will cost more than paint the benefits, including colour-fastness and durability, make it the clear winner in any comparison between the two.

Insulated Renders

This type of external render is typically applied in areas where external wall insulation is wanting. It may be that the walls are deteriorating, or there are wall cavities that cannot be filled, the exterior needs updating as part of a renovation, or a greater than normal amount of insulation thickness is required.

Licata products used to perform this type of render are accredited by the BBA (British Board of Agrément). The installation of an insulated render is considered a specialist project with the work performed by approved contractors, who also issue any guarantees.

Thin Coat Renders

Thin coats are a thoroughly modern render finish that offer a wide range of colour choices and are crack resistant, breathable and surprisingly durable. When choosing thin coat renders you have your choice of silicone, acrylic or mineral.

Silicone thin coats are undoubtedly the most popular, perhaps because of silicone’s ability to repel dirt, resist staining and prevent algae from taking root. A silicone render is highly water-resistant and produces a clean modern look. Acrylic renders have a lot in common with silicone thin coats in that you have a lot of colour choices and acrylic is nearly as hydrophobic as silicone. While mineral renders set fast and are designed primarily for cold climates.

Monocouche Finishes

This is a cement-based external render that has the colour mixed right in. Monocouche rendering is comprised of a single coat and is typically applied over brick or blocks. The finish can be manipulated to produce an array of effects or simply scraped smooth to provide a clean, modern look. In addition, because it is through-coloured, you will not need to paint this type of finish. It is also highly water-resistant and will resist algae growth.

Plaster Renders

The Licata plaster rendering system is extremely versatile and can be applied to any standard substrate. Our plaster renders are available in a dizzying array of colours so no matter your aesthetic considerations you will find one to match. Our plaster renders dry fast and provide robust protection against mould, algae and other malicious microbes. A Licata plaster render is also quite light and will not put undue stress on your walls. In addition, they exhibit excellent adhesive ability, are highly breathable and will last for many years.

Benefits of an External Coloured Rendering System

One of the most important benefits of a through-coloured render is that you will never experience chipping and flaking of the colour as often happens with painted wood, stucco or concrete. This type of external render is easy to apply, enhances the kerb appeal of your home or business, is low maintenance and extremely durable.

But a coloured render is more than just attractive and easy to maintain. They are also weather-resistant, while at the same time being quite breathable, which is good for the overall health of the structure they are applied to. If you are looking for a fast, affordable way to boost the integrity and value of your property, think Licata coloured rendering systems.

The Right Choice for UK Home and Business Owners

Britain’s status as an island means it never receives the type of outrageous snowfall seen in other cities at a similar latitude, nor is it burdened with bone-chilling sub-zero temps. But that doesn’t mean that everything in the UK is dry warmth and sunshine. Quite the opposite. The environment of the British Isles is extremely damp and that can have an enervating effect on standard building materials.

Our high-quality render systems provide the barrier you need to protect your home or business from the onslaught of high humidity and all the secondary threats that come with it, including dangerous moulds, structural degradation, the need for constant repainting and more

Licata: When the Job Has to be Done Right

For more than 5 decades Licata Building Solutions have been providing leading-edge building materials to customers throughout the UK and Europe. All our materials are BBA and ETA certified and produced with the long-term in mind. Our various rendering products enable residential and commercial customers to greatly improve the kerb appeal of their home or business, to reduce their carbon footprint and to save money.

Contact Licata to Discuss Partnering on Your Project

For years we have had the honour of partnering with numerous contractors on a variety of high-profile projects. If you are in the planning stages of a major build or renovation get in touch with the team at Licata to discuss possibilities. To learn more or to arrange a consultation drop into one of our London area distribution depots, write to us at info@licataltd.co.uk, or give us a call on 020 8894 3372.

Quality Products you can trust

Licata Building Solutions is a leading Italian supplier of building materials, products and solutions for facades and interior surfaces. We have four depots and showrooms in the UK, all stocking our extensive product range.

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FAQs

1. How do I maintain my rendered exterior?

Maintaining render systems is simple with regular cleaning and inspection. Wash the exterior with a mild detergent to remove dirt, algae, and pollutants. For silicone and thin coat renders, this helps retain their colours and textures over time. If cracks appear, repairing the coat quickly prevents deeper issues.

Using high-quality materials like those from leading manufacturers ensures long-term durability. Some systems may require a fresh layer of paint after several years to maintain a crisp finish. Licata’s renders are designed to be durable, making maintenance minimal while ensuring your house remains protected.

2. Can render systems improve my home's energy efficiency?

Yes, applying render systems can enhance your house’s thermal performance. A coat of insulation combined with silicone or thin coat renders helps regulate indoor temperatures. This reduces heat loss in colder months while keeping interiors cooler in summer.

Licata’s systems offer a range of materials, including cork-based and breathable renders that help improve efficiency. With the right installation, they also provide resistant protection against weather, reducing energy costs and ensuring long-term savings.

3. Are render systems suitable for all climates?

Yes, modern render systems are designed to withstand various climates. Silicone and thin coat renders are flexible and resistant to moisture, making them ideal for damp environments. In colder regions, breathable systems help prevent trapped moisture, reducing the risk of cracking.

Licata offers renders in different textures and colours, ensuring a facade that is both weatherproof and aesthetically pleasing. Choosing the right material and installation method ensures the render system performs optimally in any climate.

4. How long does a render system last?

The lifespan of render systems depends on the quality of materials, installation, and environmental conditions. High-quality renders, such as those with silicone or thin coat finishes, can last for decades with minimal maintenance.

Regular cleaning and prompt repairs extend longevity, while occasional paint touch-ups keep the exterior fresh. Licata’s renders are designed for durable performance, ensuring your house remains protected and visually appealing for years.

5. Can I apply a new render over an existing one?

In many cases, a new coat can be applied over an existing render system, provided the substrates are stable. A fresh base coat improves adhesion and prevents cracking, ensuring the new coat bonds effectively.

Licata’s systems offer solutions for various substrates, including brickwork, masonry, and carrier board applications. Consulting professionals ensures a proper installation process, helping achieve a durable and long-lasting finish.

6. Do render systems require planning permission?

Most render systems do not require planning permission, but it depends on your location and the extent of the renovation. If applying a coat that significantly alters the building’s facade, local building regulations may require approval.

We recommend checking with your local authority to confirm requirements. In Conservation Areas or Listed Buildings, specific systems and decorative finishes may be necessary to meet regulations while maintaining the structure’s historical appearance.

7. What is the difference between monocouche and thin coat render?

Monocouche renders are a one coat system that provides a robust, low-maintenance finish. They are often suitable for concrete, masonry, and carrier board substrates, offering great durability and weather resistance.

Thin coat renders, on the other hand, are applied in multiple layers over a base coat. These systems are more flexible and come in a wider range of colours and textures. Licata provides both options to suit different construction and project needs.

8. Can I use render systems on both new and old buildings?

Yes, modern render systems can be used on both new and older buildings. For new builds, silicone and thin coat renders provide a contemporary, low-maintenance finish. Older buildings may require a base coat for added adhesion and stability before applying a fresh coat.

Licata’s systems are designed to be suitable for a variety of substrates, including brickwork, concrete, and masonry. Whether for a new construction or a house renovation, our renders provide a durable, weather-resistant solution.