The kitchen, as they say, is truly the ‘heart of the home’. We spend a great deal of time in our kitchens, so it’s important they reflect our lifestyle, accommodate our needs and complement the rest of our home’s decor.
Deciding to makeover your kitchen is an exciting project that can improve the overall look and feel of your home, its functionality and liveability whilst increasing its value. However it can also be incredibly challenging if you haven’t adequately prepared and thought it through. Avoid costly mistakes with some careful planning and consideration.
When dreaming up your perfect kitchen, there are a few important considerations before you get started / Source: Henry & Co Interiors
Before you get started, here’s some of the things to consider for your kitchen renovation.
What are your goals?
The best place to start is to think about what you want to achieve from your renovation. Sometimes it’s not just that your kitchen has become outdated and doesn’t look the way you want it to – there could be something that has always annoyed you, like the pantry is too small or there isn’t enough storage space. Do you want more natural light? Do you want it to be environmentally friendly? Do you need more preparation space?
Set clear objectives at the beginning of your project so that you don’t get to the end and still have nowhere to put the pots and pans. Write a list of what you don’t like about your current kitchen and what you’d want in your new one.
Budget
Kitchen renovations can be expensive. Set a realistic preliminary budget that you’re comfortable with, as your budget will determine the scale of your make over. It’s also a good idea to have a contingency allocation if something goes wrong. Decide what’s absolutely essential, what you’re willing to compromise on and what can be added in down the track.
Once you’ve established your budget, you can better determine how extensive the renovation will be, which will then dictate which professionals you will need to hire. If a complete renovation isn’t an option, there are plenty of things you can change to refresh and add value.
Changing the lighting, appliances and bench tops are some of the things that can easily be done on a budget that will make a big difference. Be sure to make the most of your money and add value.
Find inspiration
It’s easy to jump in and pick something out of a magazine without thinking through the design as a whole. You don’t want your kitchen to quickly date so do your homework and find classic, timeless designs that will complement the rest of your home.
Light, bright kitchens usually work best and you can always add colour and design elements with accessories that can easily be changed or updated.
Create a collection of inspiring images, get samples and actually see the products where possible instead of just looking online. Try out some visual rendering technology if you can, it will give you a better idea of what your finished product will look like.
The size and location of your space is a major factor in determining your kitchen’s layout. There are various options available, ranging from a U-shaped kitchen, an L shaped kitchen, and a galley style. Depending on the style you select, you also need to consider islands, peninsulas, and even a breakfast bar, if it suits your needs and space available.
Alongside these considerations, functionality is hugely important. Think about what’s important for you and your family and ensure there is a considered flow in the design. You don’t want to have the dishwasher a walk away from the sink, or nowhere to put anything next to your cooktop.
If your family routine is that the kids do their homework while you make dinner, make sure there’s enough space for them to do so. Role-playing the preparation and cooking process with your design in mind can help, and it will quickly become apparent if something isn’t right.
Every square centimetre needs to work hard and be carefully planned. Some things to think about:
The height of the appliances
Width of walkways – don’t make them too narrow once doors are open
Location of power outlets
Adequate bench space for preparation
Adequate storage space
A place to sit and eat
Integration with other rooms in the house
Orientation of sunlight
Your view from the workspace
Work with what you’ve got
Before you let loose with a sledgehammer, think about what can remain in place. Leaving existing cabinetry and changing out the drawer and cupboard fronts can be a big money saver, and won’t necessarily affect the look or design of the kitchen. When moving key components, like the location of appliances or sinks, realise that this means a larger budget for moving plumbing and electrical components.
There are a raft of incredible products out there that can transform almost anything, from stained sinks to tired laminate benchtops. Don’t discount what a lick of paint can do either. Be smart with your money and it will stretch much further.
Spend your money wisely
It’s sometimes tempting to opt for cheaper labour, fixtures and fittings to keep costs down, but often the end result can be compromised. Be wise with your budget and spend money on quality where you can. Look at spending money on a few, key feature items or focal points for maximum impact.
Don’t forget the details
As they say, the devil is in the detail. You don’t want your beautiful new kitchen to be spoilt by the hideous tapware you chose in a hurry. Things like taps, power point covers, light switches and handles can make a big difference to the overall look of your kitchen and should be carefully considered.
Appliances
Think about what’s most important to you, and what you’d like to splurge on. Appliance dimensions and positioning can affect the overall design and layout so do your homework and get the most bang for your buck. Decide whether you’d like to have appliances hidden within cabinetry or out on display, and plan accordingly.
You shouldn’t wait until the end to purchase your appliances. The spaces in your kitchen need to be allotted to accommodate the appliances you plan to install. Choose appliances that fit your needs but also help you keep your budget in line.
Be organised and have a schedule of works if you’re managing the project yourself to make sure trades are completed in the correct order. Doing so will avoid costly mistakes and save you time and money.
Do you need plans and council approval?
Depending on the extent of your renovation, you may need to have plans drawn up or gain local council approval. Most councils allow for minor changes that don’t alter the structure or services such as plumbing, drainage and electrical, however it is always best to check what your local government’s policies are, or your builder will be able to advise you if you have one.
There are a lot of big and small housing projects that can make a significant impact on how a home feels. One of those projects that are commonly tackled is getting new floors. When you start thinking about getting new floors for your house, there are a lot of decisions to make. Do you want tile or hardwood? Should you pick Berber or plush carpeting?
Once you’ve figured out what kind of floor you want there are more decisions to be made like, who is going to install the floor and how long will it take? If you need a guide for some of the steps to take when you’re planning to remodel your floors keep reading.
Don’t be overwhelmed by everything that needs to be done. Taking each step at a time is all you need to do to prepare yourself and your home for the new flooring that is going to take your house to a new level.
1. Get prepared
When you’re ready to jump into getting a new floor, the first thing you will need to do is have your floored measured. You can do this yourself for a rough estimate while you shop for the floor treatments you prefer, but it is important to have a professional come out to your home and measure before an order is placed. You don’t want to be stuck without enough carpet or tile!
Once all your supplies are in stock, go ahead and schedule an installation date. Before your installers come, have a plan to move furniture out of the way so they can quickly get your new floor put in. If you are having multiple rooms of flooring put in, you may have to move your furniture in stages.
It may seem like a lot of work to move all your furniture but rearranging it around your home is easier than renting a storage unit. You can check if your installers are able to move your furniture but be aware that may be an extra fee if you opt not to do it yourself.
You will also want to make sure you have a clear path ready for the installers to bring in all the materials. If you’ve blocked off your entryway with your couch and coffee table, they won’t be able to easily maneuver their way in with a huge roll of carpet. You may also need to take fragile items off your walls since the hammering may disrupt them or cause them to fall.
Another thing to plan before your installation process begins is, having a waste removal plan. It may be that your installers will take your old carpeting and carpet pad, but it is certainly good to have an expectation of what will happen. If you are responsible for hiring a skip bin, be sure to schedule it’s delivery early, so you don’t stall the installation timeline.
2. Seal off and protect
If you are having a hardwood floor installed, sealing off rooms that aren’t getting flooring is especially important. Any flooring project is going to kick up some dust and debris, but the process for hardwood flooring can be very messy, especially when sanding is necessary which it often is.
You will want to try to keep the dust in your home to a minimum if possible, and the best ways to do that are to seal rooms off completely. If you will need to access rooms during the flooring process, then the next best thing is to use zippered plastic seals, so that rooms can be closed off as much as possible.
It is important to remove doors that go between areas where new flooring will go. Keep track of all the hinge pieces in labelled bags so the doors will reinstall easily and you won’t find a hinge pin has gone missing. Storing the doors out of the way will help prevent them from being damaged.
Don’t forget to seal air vents as well, especially since the dust can damage your HVAC system. Dust also be transported around your home and cause respiratory issues. If you need to run the air conditioning or heat during your installation, use fibreglass sheets to help keep the dust at bay while still allowing airflow.
You may want to get an air purifier to help cut down on the dust in the air and help you breathe better while you get a new floor. Be sure to protect the floors that will not be remodelled, so they aren’t damaged by heavy equipment and your installer’s boots. Old carpeting, thick towels or plastic pads are great options to keep your other floors looking great.
3. Check your subfloor
You may not give much thought to your subfloor, the plywood surface that your new floor will rest on, but you should. If your subfloor is rotten or has cracks or dips, it should be replaced or fixed so that your floor looks it’s very best. The subfloor can also be the cause for those squeaks you hear, so this is a great time to update it if needed!
Since your subfloor is the foundation of your new floor, you want it to be at it’s best. Have your flooring experts include a new subfloor in your estimate so all the work can be done at once. Another option involves replacing them yourselves before the installation. You want your subfloor to be stable and even for the best installation possible.
If when your old flooring is removed there are excess nails or staples in the subfloor a professional installer will have a plan in place and know what to do to remove them so that your new floor will look great on even, and good quality subfloor.
Create a flat and even subfloor for your new flooring. / Source: The Trady Lady
4. Get the floor installed
Laying carpet is an entirely different process than installing a hardwood floor. The next step is to make sure the floor installation is correct. Hiring a professional to put your new floor in place is the best indicator that you’re on the right track to a great new floor. Still, even professionals can make mistakes, so be sure to look over their work before they leave.
Installing carpeting can go quickly; in many cases, it will be a one day process that is completed in a matter of hours. Hardwood floors can take up to a week to be completed depending on the size of the area you are putting the wooden floor in. Hardwood floors have specific aftercare instructions that should be followed.
Once your hardwood floors are in place, you can walk on them in about 6 hours with socks on. It is best to wait at least 24 hours before walking on new hardwood floors with shoes on and waiting a minimum of 48 hours before you move your furniture back into place. These rules may seem inconvenient but follow them if you want your investment to last without damage.
With proper care and maintenance, a good hardwood floor’s finish should last a minimum of 10 years. They can last potentially longer by giving the floor time before you begin walking through consistently.
A hardwood timber floor can transform the look of your home / Source: Absolute
5. Finishing touches
Baseboards:
If you were going to get new baseboards or paint to follow up on your new floor, now is the time to do it. It is always better to put baseboards on after the flooring so the baseboards won’t suffer any damage from flooring installation.
Mouldings and floor trims:
Mouldings and trims have the ability to give your flooring materials an ideal fit around the edges. They’re available in various kinds.
If you’re planning to cover a gap between your walls and skirting board, you can use quarter-round moulding. End-cap moulding or square-nose moulding is a decorative edging strip used around your metal door tracking and around your walls. It connects two flooring materials that are not of the same type. It’s also used as alternate option to quarter-round moulding.
If any trim or threshold pieces need to be placed, this is when that will happen as well. There may be some cleanup to do, but once you’ve waited the allotted time, you can move your furniture back into place and enjoy your new floor.
Coatings (sealants, oils and lacquers):
To prevent dirt and spills from ruining your wooden floor, you may want to apply a coat of lacquer or oil. With so many choices, choosing the right floor coating can be overwhelming unless you know a bit about its chemical makeup.
For example, solvent-borne, polyurethane-based coatings are great for resisting scratches and wear and tear, but these finishes will yellow with time. Oil-modified urethane coatings have a mineral base and will make your floor look beautiful, but they have to be reapplied every few years. Water-borne polyurethanes have an advantage because they’re non-toxic, and they never yellow. They’re also durable and fast-drying, which makes them a superb option for your floor. Epoxy-based coatings have strong chemical compounds that bond together to create an extremely hard, durable finish. If you live with children or elderly family members and you’re worried about safety, you can also opt for an anti-slip coating, which improves floor traction and makes falls less likely to occur. Acrylic and coloured sealant work best on laminate or timber flooring.
Conclusion
Getting a new floor can be easy when you follow these five steps. Work with your professional flooring experts to get the best possible experience and the floor you’ve always wanted. Whether you pick tile, carpet or another flooring option your experience may vary but these steps are necessary to work for anyone and any flooring project.
So you’ve decided to renovate your house. Maybe you’ve just purchased a “fixer-upper”, or perhaps you’ve been spending the last few years dreaming up your ideal home.
It can be an exciting adventure once you’ve made the decision, but also a daunting one. Whether you’re tackling one room, looking to purchase a kit home, or transforming an entire abode, you are going to have the home you’ve always wanted. There are many things you need to figure out, like your budget and timeline. But there are some big things you may not have considered yet.
Taking some time to learn about the renovation process can help you in the long run, so you don’t run into any big surprises. Armed with the knowledge of these tips can help make any renovation process run smoother and cause you less stress along the way.
If you’re going to spend the time and money to get the home you’ve always wanted, then make sure you’ll be happy with the final product. Unless you are renovating to sell your home and making it a standout real estate listing, you should choose elements and designs that bring you joy.
For instance, if you don’t actually love the look of granite countertops, then you shouldn’t spend the time and money installing them. There are many kinds of counters to choose from, as you’ll discover as you begin making choices.
Avoid feeling rushed or pressured by contractors by having a vision of your renovations before starting the build, and stick to your guns. If you only want to update your bathroom, that’s okay. You’re the boss of the project so choose what’s important to you!
If you just want a cosmetic upgrade to your home that’s also fine, not all renovations include tearing down walls and changing the floorplan of your home. Having a general idea of what you like and dislike, including a mood board, will give you a better chance of ultimately loving the results of your home renovation.
Try creating your wish list using the below questions:
What do you want to achieve from your proposed renovation?
What are the considerations of achieving your renovation?
How do you want your home to look at the end of the renovation?
2. Prepare for anything
As you are about to begin the renovation process, it can be important to realize that the timeline or your budget might have to be flexible. In fact, you can pretty much count on it. While certain renovation shows are notorious for dramatizing those unexpected mishaps, those things do actually happen during renovations. It isn’t uncommon to hit an unexpected snag, so being prepared for it will lessen the impact.
While you can have specific timelines laid out with your professionals, even ones with generous leeway can fall prey to equipment problems or shipping delays. These uncertainties cannot be completely avoided, but you can get ahead of the game by having a complete inspection and try to identify any red flags before the work begins.
Hiring reputable professionals can help cut down on potential problems, so choose your renovation team carefully. Get recommendations from your friends and neighbours, read online reviews, and don’t be afraid to check their references and their Better Business Bureau status.
You can also avoid delays by making sure you understand what regulations or permits your project requires. Every city and state code is different, but following the laws in your area will ensure your renovation will go as smoothly as possible, with no load-bearing walls coming down without a plan in place.
3. What kind of flooring do you need?
It may surprise you to learn that not all floors are created equal, and that there are many different kinds of flooring to choose from. While you can certainly have an idea in mind of what kind of floors will look great in your home, you may want to talk to your contractor about what variety may be in your best option.
Some floors require more upkeep than others, so make a flooring decision that will work with your lifestyle. If you have small children or large dogs, you will also want to figure in the potential wear and tear to your floors and choose a more durable option from the range of flooring. Ask a flooring expert for their recommendations on what will work best for you!
Having a professional measure your floor, and evaluate your subfloor and flag any potential issues is worth the time and effort. Other considerations such as your area’s climate may also factor into your choice as some floors don’t work well in extreme temperatures or humidity.
Flooring is just one example, it’s also worth discussing with your contractor about all the materials and paint choices. Should you consider specialty drywall contractors to work in the bathroom? Will the hard water in your area leave your sink stained or hazy? Making sure you are happy with a design is one concern, but making sure it stands the test of time is equally important.
4. It’s all in the detail
Hopefully, your contractor will be able to walk you through what needs to be ordered to complete your project. Feel free to ask as many questions as necessary to make sure that you’re getting all the right things. You don’t want to order a toilet that doesn’t fit in your space, or not enough tile for your backsplash.
It isn’t a bad idea to think about the big picture, and how you are going to use the room when it’s completed. Don’t get so carried about the important earlier steps that could derail your timeline. It’s great to be excited about the finished product but remember to stay focused on the different stages of the project and the role you play in its completion.
It might be useful to create a renovation checklist that oversees the entire process before the actual renovation begins. Create a comprehensive checklist that includes sections for materials, budgets, tradespeople, inspections, council requirements and the design of your home renovation. Tailor your checklist to suit your renovation needs and add to the list as you go. Keep a copy of your checklist to avoid overspending and preventing forgetfulness.
Create a mood board to effectively communicate your vision with contractors / Source: Archisoul Architects
5. Be prepared for mess
No matter how well you think you’ve taped off the area under construction, remember the rule of thumb that dust will be everywhere. As you prepare for your renovation, it’s a good idea to pack away any items that would be destroyed by excess dirt.This means your antique area rug should disappear for a while to avoid complete ruin.
Try to cover all carpets, as your feet can track dust whenever you pass through, and it can be a real pain to clean. Sealing off rooms with zippered plastic can help keep down the dust, but nothing is foolproof. Be sure to cover air vents and try to keep the dust contained. Cover up as much furniture as possible during the remodel.
Getting an air purifier can help keep the dust manageable during the renovation process. You will still probably have to clean and remove the dust from your home when it is complete. Dry dusting is the safest way to clean and make sure the particles don’t damage your walls or your lungs. If you want to avoid getting your hands dirty, hiring a professional cleaner when the work is complete is a safe bet for you to start enjoying your house renovations quicker.
6. Before construction begins
Check with your local authorities to see if building permits are needed for your building project. They may be necessary even if the project is minor renovations. This is important because if a building permit is required and construction begins without it, you could face heavy fines at best. At worst, you could be required to demolish any work that was completed without a permit.
You may need either a planning permit, building permit or both. An accredited building surveyor can walk you through the requirements. You can also check with the local building board or department to see if you need to register your project. The requirements may increase as the project’s budge goes up. Make sure you and/or your builder has the correct proof of insurance for the project.
A building permit application may need to include:
Professionally-drawn plans;
A copy of your land title or deed;
A copy of your planning permit;
Building specs, or specifications; and
An analysis of the site.
7. Pay first, build second
While filing for your permits, you will oftentimes need to pay certain fees. Typically these fees are required when submitting building permits. Again, your building surveyor can help you navigate the fees. The possible fees you will need to pay include:
A building permit fee. This will be in proportion to the total cost of the building project. The fee also varies depending on the project’s complexity.
A government levy or tax on the building permit.
Local filing fees.
You may also need to pay a bond against possible damage.
Some special issues may require you to obtain additional permits. Your drafter or architect can help advise you. Some issues that may require special permits include building on land prone to flooding, on an easement or close to surrounding homeowners’ property.
Once all the necessary pre-building procedures and permits have been filed and the fees are paid, you will be able to begin construction confident that everything is in order not only on your construction site but in the local government offices as well.
8. Tools
Power tools
Sharpening tools
Hand tools
Cutting tools
Toolboxes
Should I do a renovation course?
Lots of people enjoy a spot of DIY or home decorating and dream of fixing up a property, either for their own use or for re-sale. TV home make-over shows often make this look easy and fun, and it can be if you’re properly educated and prepared. You can teach yourself some things from a book or the internet, but the best way to get the know-how you really need is by taking a course.
What you’ll learn
There are different courses available, naturally, so you’ll want to choose one that suits your needs the best. If you’re intending to do a lot of the work yourself, a building course might be more valuable than a renovation course, which generally teaches you the best way to go about hiring other people for the job.
You’ll learn things like how to find the ideal property for renovation, how to source materials and how to sell the finished property for the highest profit. In addition, you’ll learn important skills in negotiating with builders and other tradespeople who you’ll need for your team. Another essential part of a renovation course is learning the logistics, such as planning, budgeting and scheduling. A good course should also have information about the administrative side of things, including planning permission, licenses and taxes.
Choosing a course
If you think that you could do with learning or brushing up on some of core elements of renovating, look at the available courses in your area and choose one that suits your specific needs and interests as closely as possible. Any time and money spent now on the course will save you so much more in the long term. There are some other things to consider when choosing the course, such as the teacher, the aims and the qualification you’ll receive. The teacher is perhaps the most important of these factors, and should ideally be someone with a lot of experience, perhaps even someone who has written a book on the subject.
The aims of the course detail what exactly you should be able to do when you’re finished, what skills you’ll pick up, etc. Some courses will offer a certification, which can be nice to have, but is really a secondary consideration unless you’re thinking of turning professional. So, if you’re thinking of doing some renovation work, no matter the size of the project, don’t rule out taking a course or some kind of workshop. The skills and insider knowledge you’ll pick up will help considerably in both the short and long term.
Power tools to consider
Starting a home renovation project can be overwhelming, but having the right power tools can make the process smoother and more efficient. When it comes to starter power tools for a house renovation, there are a few essential items to consider. A cordless drill is a must-have for drilling holes and driving screws, while a circular saw is perfect for cutting straight lines and angles. A jigsaw is also important for cutting curves and intricate shapes. Popular brands in Australia include DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee, Certa, Ozito, Dynalink, Ryobi, and Mitre, all of which offer quality power tools that are durable and reliable. By investing in these starter power tools and choosing reputable brands, you can feel confident in tackling your next home renovation project.
Sharpening tools to consider
Sharpening your tools is an essential step to maintaining their cutting-edge and prolonging their lifespan, and of course, efficient renovation jobs. When it comes to choosing the right tool sharpener, you want to be sure that it can handle the specific types of tools you own. The Bunnings drill sharpener is a great choice for anyone with a collection of dull drill bits that need sharpening, while the Ozito multifunction sharpener can tackle a variety of tools, including knives, scissors, and chisels. With the right sharpener, you can rejuvenate your tools and get them back to functioning like new again.
Hand tools
Hand tools have been a staple of construction work for generations, and while power tools have certainly increased in popularity, there is still something inherently satisfying and reliable about using a good old-fashioned hand tool. Innovative designs have brought new features to the market, like the Renovator Better Grip tool, which has proven to be a game-changer for those working on DIY projects. Additionally, the Auspex crimping tool has made wire crimping faster and more efficient. These two tools are just a small example of how even seemingly simple hand tools can provide improved performance and convenience. Whether you’re a professional tradesperson or a weekend warrior, investing in reliable hand tools is a must.
Cutting tools
When it comes to home renovation, having the right cutting tools is essential. Choosing the right tool can make all the difference when it comes to completing your project quickly and efficiently. Here are some of the best cutting tools for home renovation:
1. Ozito Jigsaw – This lightweight jigsaw offers an efficient and reliable way to cut wood, metal, plastic and even ceramic tiles! It features a high-speed orbital action that results in clean cuts even on thick materials. Plus, its dust extraction port helps keep your work area clean while you renovate your home.
2. GMC Chainsaw – This powerful chainsaw is designed for comfort and efficiency with ergonomic handle grips and anti-vibration technology that lets you finish projects faster with less fatigue or strain on your back or arms making it perfect for use in DIY renovations. It also boasts a quick-stop chain brake for added safety during operation!
3. Bosch PKS 1500 – With this highly efficient circular saw you’ll get perfectly straight cuts every time – ideal if you’re replacing floorboards or working with laminates during renovations! The PKS 1500 works at up to 5500 rpm and has an adjustable depth stop so you can be sure of precise results each time!
4. Aldi 4 Stroke Chainsaw – This powerful yet easy-to-use chainsaw is perfect for pruning or trimming branches that may have grown close to walls or outside window frames during renovations as well as larger jobs such as cutting firewood by providing longer run times due to its low vibration four-stroke engine design that reduces fuel consumption and emissions too!
No matter what sort of home renovation tasks you have planned, these tools will help make them easier so you can finish quicker and enjoy your beautiful new space sooner rather than later!
Tools boxes for starters
When it comes to carrying and organizing tools, having the right equipment can make all the difference. Two popular options for storing and transporting tools are toolboxes and tool bags. A toolbox like the Geelong Toolbox is a classic choice, providing a sturdy metal casing and ample compartments for different types of tools.
On the other hand, a tool bag like the Tusker Tool Bag offers a more flexible and portable solution, allowing you to easily pack up and take your tools on the go. Both options have their advantages and drawbacks, making it important to consider your specific needs and preferences before making a decision.
Wrap up
Once you’ve considered these elements of your renovation project, you can take your new knowledge and apply it to creating the home you’ve been dreaming of. Stay on track, on budget, and with a design you love to enjoy your renovation process – or at least the result. Don’t forget to have fun, you’re building your dream home after all – and remember to document the process with plenty of photos to remind yourself of the progress you’ve made.
The key to a great renovation is preparedness and a plan, and now you have more information to make that happen.
FAQs
When should you triple grips?
Triple grips, also known as three-pronged grips, are a type of tool used in various industries for secure fastening or gripping of objects. These grips feature three toothed edges that firmly hold onto the object being gripped, ensuring that it does not slip or move. They are commonly used in the electrical, automotive, and construction industries, among others.
When to use a v grip in shade cloth installations?
A V grip is one of the most important components when it comes to installing shade cloth. It is typically used around the edge of a tensioned fabric or netting system and provides superior strength and stability by creating a secure connection between two pieces of material. It helps ensure that it will remain securely fastened, even under high winds or other extreme weather conditions.
Knowing the difference between plaster vs. render is essential for anyone tackling a construction or renovation project. Failing to grasp this distinction can lead to suboptimal outcomes, wasted time, and unnecessary expenses. This article aims to clarify render vs. plaster techniques, their applications, and when to use each one, helping you make informed decisions for your next project.
What is plastering and when should you get plastering help?
Plastering is used for interior walls. Source: Shutterstock
Plastering is the process of applying a smooth, durable finish to interior walls and ceilings. It involves spreading a mixture of lime, cement, sand, and water onto surfaces to create a seamless, flat finish. Plaster is commonly used for:
Smoothing rough interior walls
Repairing damaged drywall
Creating decorative finishes
Improving sound insulation
Common types of plaster include gypsum, lime, and cement plaster. Each type has specific properties suited to different applications and environmental conditions.
Plastering typically costs $20 to $90 per square metre, depending on the type of plastering work. More complex or ornamental plastering can cost up to $85 or more. Many plasterers also offer daily rates at around $240 or higher or hourly rates at $50 or more. Plastering costs can vary based on factors like job complexity, location, and the plasterer’s experience, so it’s advisable to obtain multiple quotes for accurate pricing.
What is rendering and when should you get rendering help?
Rendering is used for external walls. Source: Shutterstock
Rendering is the application of a cement-based rendering mixture to external walls to create a protective and decorative finish. It provides a durable, weather-resistant surface that can enhance a building’s appearance and improve its structural integrity. Render is typically used for:
Weatherproofing exterior walls
Improving thermal insulation
Enhancing curb appeal
Protecting brickwork or masonry
There are various types of render, including traditional cement render, lime, and modern acrylic or polymer-modified renders. Each type offers different benefits in terms of durability, flexibility, and aesthetic options.
Since rendering is more expensive than plastering, it’s recommended that you use the services of a qualified plasterer to complete rendering work for your home. It takes a skilled hand to achieve professional results.
Plaster vs. render: Which one applies to your needs?
If you’re wondering whether it’s better to use plaster vs. cement render for filling walls, here’s a breakdown of each.
Call your local handyman to get your interior or exterior walls fixed. | Source: iStock
Material mixture and composition
Plaster typically consists of gypsum, lime, or cement mixed with water. This composition results in a softer, more porous material suitable for interior use. It contains less cement than render since it merely coats the interior walls and ceilings of buildings to prep them for painting or wallpapering.
Render, on the other hand, is made from cement, lime, sand, and water, creating a harder, more weather-resistant mixture ideal for exterior applications. Depending on the render, some key ingredients give it its definition; for example, lime gypsum gives the coating a creamy appearance, while finer sand can create a smooth finish.
Plaster composition allows for a smoother finish and better sound insulation, while the render’s robust mixture provides superior weather protection and durability against the elements. The material choice affects not only the appearance but also the lifespan and maintenance requirements of the entire surface.
Application techniques
Plastering typically involves three layers: a base coat, a second coat, and a finish coat. Each layer is applied with trowels and allowed to dry before the next is added. The process requires skill to achieve a perfectly smooth surface.
Plaster must be set and completely dry before painting the walls. A freshly plastered wall can take at least a week and up to a month to dry. You can tell when the plaster is completely dry when there are no dark patches visible, and the coating is light and even.
On the other hand, rendering usually involves applying one or two coats to exterior walls using a trowel or spray equipment. A workman may then finish it with different tools depending on the homeowner’s desired appearance—either a smooth, flat finish or with a texture or pattern. Also, some modern renders can be applied in a single coat, saving time and man-hours.
Durability and maintenance
Get your damaged walls repaired by a skilled handyman. | Source: iStock
Plaster, being an interior finish, is less at risk of harsh conditions, but it can still be prone to cracking due to building movement or moisture issues. Regular painting and prompt repair of any cracks or chips can extend its lifespan.
Meanwhile, the render is exposed to the elements. While it’s certainly more durable, it requires proper maintenance to prevent issues like cracking or water ingress. Regular cleaning, repainting every 5 to 10 years, and addressing any cracks promptly can ensure that the render remains effective and attractive for decades.
Plaster is primarily used for internal walls and ceilings, providing a smooth, even surface that’s ideal for painting or decorative finishes. It’s excellent for creating intricate mouldings and ornamental features.
Render is used to coat external walls, both for protection and decoration. It shields the underlying structure from weather damage, improves thermal insulation, and can significantly enhance a building’s superficial appeal. Render is particularly useful for covering imperfections in brickwork or concrete surfaces or mending exterior walls’ cosmetic defects.
Sustainability and environmental impact
Both plaster and render have environmental implications. Traditional plaster and render mixes can generate significant waste and have a high carbon footprint due to cement production. However, the industry is moving towards more sustainable practices.
Eco-friendly alternatives like clay plasters and lime renders are gaining popularity. These materials have lower embodied energy, are often locally sourced, and can be recycled. Some innovative products incorporate recycled materials or industrial by-products, reducing waste and environmental impact.
Proper application techniques can minimise waste, and some companies now offer recycling services for leftover materials. Additionally, well-maintained plaster and render can contribute to a building’s energy efficiency, potentially offsetting its initial environmental cost over time.
Beyond the surface: rendering vs. plastering
Understanding the difference between render and plaster is crucial for any home improvement or building project. Both techniques serve unique purposes, with plaster enhancing interiors and render protecting exteriors.
For the best results, consult a qualified plasterer or renderer who can assess your specific needs and provide expert advice tailored to your project. With the right application, you’ll achieve a stunning and durable finish that stands the test of time.
Ready to give your walls a refresh? Post a job on Oneflare and connect with top-rated plasterers or renderers near you.
FAQs on plastering vs rendering
Do plasterers do rendering?
Not all plasterers do rendering. Plastering and rendering are distinct trades, though some professionals are skilled in both. Plasterers primarily focus on interior work, applying plaster to walls and ceilings. Renderers specialise in exterior finishes, applying cement-based mixtures to outside walls.
If you need rendering done, it’s best to look for a skilled professional in that specific field. Always check their experience and qualifications for the specific job you need.
Is solid plastering the same as rendering?
Solid or hard plaster vs. render are similar techniques, but they’re not the same.
Solid plastering refers to the application of plaster directly onto brick, concrete, or stone surfaces, usually for interior walls. Rendering, on the other hand, is specifically the application of a cement-based mixture to exterior walls. Both techniques create a smooth surface, but rendering is designed to withstand outdoor elements and often has a coarser texture than solid plastering.
Can you plaster over a rendered wall?
It’s generally not recommended to plaster directly over a rendered wall. Render is designed for exterior use and has properties different from interior plaster.
If you’re looking to smooth out a rendered interior wall, it’s better to apply a skim coat of plaster rather than a full plastering job. For exterior walls, if you want to change from render to plaster, you’d need to remove the render first.
Always consult a professional before attempting to plaster over render, as improper application can lead to adhesion problems and a poor finish.
