One-Coat Monocouche System
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One-Coat Monocouche System

Monocouche Single Coat Application
Overview

What is monocouche render?

Monocouche render is a cement-based, through-coloured external render applied in a single coat, the name coming from the French for "single layer". Unlike traditional render systems that require a separate basecoat and topcoat, monocouche combines both in one product, applied directly to the prepared substrate and finished in a single operation.

Because the colour is integral to the render, running through the full depth of the material rather than sitting on the surface, a monocouche finish never needs painting and will not peel or fade like applied paint. It is typically scraped to a textured finish while still green, and is most commonly applied over brick or block masonry on both new build and renovation projects.

Benefits

Why choose a monocouche render system?

Single-Coat Application

Basecoat and finish in one product, applied in a single operation, so it is faster to apply than a two-coat render system.

Through-Coloured

The colour runs through the full depth of the render, so the finish never needs painting and will not peel or fade.

Low Maintenance

Durable and self-finished, a monocouche facade requires very little maintenance over its long service life.

Water Resistant

Highly weather resistant while remaining breathable, protecting the wall beneath from driving rain.

Algae & Mould Resistant

Resists algae, fungi and mould growth, keeping the facade clean and attractive over time.

Clean, Modern Finish

The scraped texture gives a consistent, contemporary appearance, with optional treatments and paint finishes available.

System Build-Up

Layer-by-layer system specification

The One-Coat Monocouche System uses LBS Monoscratch 300, Licata's factory-coloured through-colour render, applied in a single coat with fibreglass mesh embedded, directly to the prepared substrate. Because the colour runs throughout the full depth of the render, the finish is inherently durable and does not rely on a surface coating that can peel or fade.

Optional finishing treatments are available. Hidro Rep provides water-repellent surface protection, while Vitrea Quarzo acrylic paint can be applied for an alternative decorative finish.

One-Coat Monocouche System Build-Up
System Layers

Products

1
Layer 1: Monocouche Render
LBS Monoscratch 300
Factory-coloured through-colour monocouche render, applied in a single coat directly to the prepared substrate. The colour runs throughout the full depth of the render, eliminating reliance on a surface coating. Apply to the required thickness and embed fibreglass mesh reinforcement whilst still fresh. Scratch finish applied whilst still green.
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2
Layer 2: Reinforcement
Fibreglass Mesh
Alkali-resistant fibreglass reinforcement mesh, embedded into the fresh LBS Monoscratch 300 coat. Minimum 100mm laps at all joints. Apply additional diagonal mesh at all openings and corners to prevent cracking.
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Optional: Water-Repellent Treatment Optional
Hidro Rep
Water-repellent surface treatment, applied over the fully cured LBS Monoscratch 300 to provide additional weather protection. Penetrating rather than film-forming, it preserves the natural mineral appearance of the monocouche render whilst repelling liquid water.
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Optional: Decorative Paint Finish Optional
Vitrea Quarzo Acrylic Paint
Acrylic decorative paint, applied over the cured monocouche render as an alternative decorative finish where a painted appearance is preferred over the natural scratch-face texture.
Products in This System

Full system, supplied by Licata

LBS Monoscratch 300

LBS Monoscratch 300

Factory-coloured monocouche render. Single coat, through-colour, scratch finish.

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Fibreglass Mesh

Fibreglass Mesh

Alkali-resistant reinforcement mesh. Embedded into the monocouche coat.

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Hidro Rep

Hidro Rep

Optional water-repellent surface treatment. Penetrating, and preserves the natural render appearance.

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Vitrea Quarzo

Optional acrylic paint finish, applied over the cured monocouche render for a painted decorative appearance.

Common Questions

Monocouche render FAQs

What is monocouche render?
Monocouche render is a cement-based, through-coloured render applied in a single coat that combines basecoat and finish in one product. Applied directly to the prepared substrate and scraped to a textured finish, it gives the look of a rendered facade without the need for separate coats or painting.
Does monocouche render need painting?
No. Monocouche is through-coloured, with the colour running throughout the render during manufacture, so there is no need to paint once applied, and the colour will not chip, flake or fade the way external paint does. An optional acrylic paint finish is available where a painted appearance is preferred.
What substrates can monocouche be applied to?
Monocouche render is most commonly applied over brick or block masonry. The substrate must be sound, clean and properly prepared. Our technical team can advise on substrate preparation and suitability for your specific project.
How long does monocouche render last?
A correctly applied monocouche render finish is durable and low maintenance, typically lasting many years. Because it is through-coloured and weather resistant, it retains its appearance far longer than a painted finish.
Is monocouche render waterproof?
Monocouche render is highly water resistant while remaining breathable, allowing the wall to release moisture. An optional water-repellent treatment (Hidro Rep) can be applied over the cured render for additional weather protection.

Specify this render system

Contact our technical team for product quantities, NBS specification clauses and project-specific advice.

Contact Technical Team All Render Systems