There are many different reasons why people decide they want to renovate or extend their current living situation. You may simply want to update the look and feel of your space or improve areas like the kitchen or bathroom for re-sell value. Renovations can aid in making a space feel larger, or mean you can use the space more effectively. If you’re wanting to physically add more space to your home, you may be considering a home extension – adding another whole storey, an extra room or even a granny flat.
Whether you opt for an extension/addition or renovation, there are multiple pros and cons for both. Your decision also depends on your budget, desired time taken to complete the project, and most importantly, what you want to get out of it – adding more space, reconfiguring, updating the look – whatever it may be, here are the pros and cons for extensions and renovations.
Ground floor extensions are typically more affordable than adding another floor or excavating basement space.
Adds more space.
It can change the way the natural light flows into rooms, potentially energy saving.
An extension is cheaper than buying a new home. It saves the hassle of selling your previous home, hiring a real estate agent, paying off the mortgage and starting to pay off another mortgage on the new home.
Adding an extension upwards rather than outwards preserves your backyard and garden.
Cons
Tends to be more expensive than renovations.
Home extensions can be more expensive if your house resides on a slope.
Generally, extending your home upwards is more expensive than extending outwards.
When deciding on how to renovate, you”ll need to consider what your end goal is / Source: Mo Mo Concepts
Renovations: the pros and cons
Pros
It can increase the value of your home.
Typically cheaper than extensions and additions.
Less than half the expense will go towards materials – around one-third of the final cost will go towards materials.
Cons
Smaller renovations can end up more expensive per square metre than larger renos as many overhead costs are at a fixed cost e.g. getting a DA from your council.
Fees, levies, permits, taxes and GST accounts for around 20% of the overall cost of the reno.
If you’re planning to put your house on the market after the renovation, going overboard with expensive fittings such as high end taps, door handles and tiles can end up doing more harm than good. It’s likely that potential buyers won’t necessarily have the same preferences as you and won’t be prepared to pay extra for it.
Wrap up
Evaluating the pros and cons of your possible options may aid you in the process of choice. However, it’s likely that you already have an idea of what you’d like to alter regarding your home, and it’s more useful to be informed on what to expect based on your personal preferences and constraints – whether it’s your budget, land size or anything else. The process of building and renovating is a complicated process that can prove difficult to comprehend fully. If you’re still feeling lost, connect with a builder or renovations expert to obtain a quote for your desired project.
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, seek help from flooring businesses to have it 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.
Once you’ve made the decision, it can be an exciting adventure but also a daunting one. You’ll need to figure out many things, like your renovation budget and timeline. But there are also some big things you may not have considered yet.
Learning 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.
Always check with local authorities about required permits—even minor renovations may need approval. Skipping permits can lead to hefty fines or, worse, forced demolition.
Depending on your project, you may need a planning permit, a building permit, or both. An accredited building surveyor can clarify the requirements, and your local building board can confirm if registration is necessary.
Keep in mind that larger budgets may mean stricter regulations. Also, ensure you or your builder have proper insurance coverage.
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
An analysis of the site
1. Pay first, build second
When applying for permits, you’ll often need to pay various fees, including:
Building permit fee – Based on your project’s cost and complexity.
Government levies or taxes – Varies by location.
Local filing fees – Required for processing.
Damage bond – May apply to cover potential property damage.
Additional permits may also be necessary for projects on flood-prone land, easements, or near property boundaries. Your drafter or architect can help determine specific requirements.
Once permits are approved and fees paid, you can start construction knowing everything complies with local regulations.
2. Create a vision
If you’re investing time and money in a renovation, make sure the result aligns with your vision. Unless you’re renovating to sell or make it a standout real estate listing, prioritise designs that bring you joy.
For example, if you don’t love granite countertops, skip them—there are plenty of alternatives. Avoid feeling pressured by contractors by having a clear plan and sticking to your priorities. Whether you want a full remodel or a simple refresh, your renovation should reflect your needs.
To clarify your vision, consider:
What do you want to achieve with this renovation?
What factors should you consider?
How do you want your home to look after the renovation?
3. Prepare for anything
Renovation mishaps aren’t just reality TV drama—they happen. While you can set timelines with professionals, delays from equipment issues or shipping setbacks are common. Minimise surprises by scheduling a thorough inspection before work begins.
Hiring reputable professionals also helps prevent problems. Seek recommendations, check reviews, and verify credentials, including their Better Business Bureau status.
You can avoid delays by understanding local regulations and permits. Every city has different codes, so ensure compliance to keep your project on track—no surprise wall removals included.
Not all flooring is created equal, so consider more than just looks. Some materials require more upkeep, while homes with kids or pets may need extra durability. Consult a flooring expert to find the best fit for your lifestyle.
A professional can measure your space, assess the subfloor, and flag potential issues. The climate also matters—some floors don’t hold up well in extreme temperatures or humidity.
Flooring is just one example. Discuss all material choices with your contractor, from specialty bathroom drywall to how hard water might affect fixtures. Remember: a great design should also stand the test of time.
5. Be mindful of the details
Your contractor should guide you through the process but don’t hesitate to ask questions. Double-check measurements to avoid ordering fixtures that don’t fit or running out of materials mid-project.
Think beyond construction—how will you use the space once it’s finished? Stay focused on each stage to keep your timeline on track.
A renovation checklist can help, including materials, budget, tradespeople, inspections, permits, and design details. Customise it to your needs and update as you go to stay organised and avoid overspending.
Create a mood board to effectively communicate your vision with contractors / Source: Archisoul Architects
6. Anticipate the mess
Dust spreads everywhere during renovations, no matter how well you seal off the area. Don’t forget to pack away delicate items, like antique rugs, to protect them from dirt and debris.
Covering carpets and furniture and using zippered plastic to section off rooms are also recommended. While air purifiers help, dust will still settle, so cover vents and expect some cleanup.
After the work is done, dry dusting is the safest way to clean without damaging surfaces or affecting air quality. Consider hiring a professional cleaner so you won’t have to do everything alone.
7. Know your power tools
Starting a home renovation can feel overwhelming, but the right power tools make it more efficient, especially for DIY projects,
Essential tools for beginners include a cordless drill for drilling and driving screws, a circular saw for straight cuts, and a jigsaw for curves and intricate shapes. Reliable brands in Australia include DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee, Certa, Ozito, Dynalink, Ryobi, and Mitre.
Investing in these tools from reputable brands will help you confidently tackle your renovation.
Contact local builders
Should I do a renovation course?
DIY and home decorating can be fun, especially if you’re fixing a property to use or sell. While TV makeover shows make it look easy, proper education and preparation are key. You can learn some basics online or from books, but a course offers the best way to gain the necessary skills and knowledge.
Choosing a course
Choose a course that aligns with your goals. If you plan to handle most of the work, a building course may be more beneficial than a renovation course, which focuses on hiring the right people.
A renovation course covers key topics like selecting properties, sourcing materials, and maximising profit when selling. It also teaches you how to negotiate with builders and tradespeople. Logistics like planning, budgeting, and scheduling are essential, as well as understanding permits, licenses, and taxes.
If you need to brush up on renovation skills, find a course that matches your needs and interests. The time and money spent now will save you more in the long run.
Consider factors like the teacher’s experience (ideally someone with extensive knowledge, perhaps even an author) and the course’s aims. Some courses offer certification, which is helpful if you plan to go professional, but it’s secondary for more personal projects.
Whether your renovation project is big or small, a course or workshop can provide valuable skills and insights that will benefit you both now and in the future.
Start home renovation journey today!
With these tips in mind, you can turn your renovation dreams into reality. Stay focused, stick to your budget, and design a space you love—then sit back and enjoy the transformation, even if the journey gets tough.
Most importantly, have fun! You’re building the home you’ve always imagined. Capture every moment with photos to celebrate the progress along the way.
Planning and preparedness are key to a successful renovation, and now you have the tools and knowledge to make it happen.
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.
