When deciding on the render with enhanced parameters, we usually consider two types: silicate and silicone render. When facing such a choice, it’s worth finding out what features and properties each has. Because they differ not only in susceptibility to dirt or resistance to overgrowth but also vapor permeability and even available colors.
Silicate and silicone render: susceptibility to dirt
The first feature worth paying attention to is the susceptibility to dirt. Silicone render contains silicone and siloxane polymers, which gives it excellent hydrophobic properties – water-carrying dirt has a more challenging time penetrating the surface. In addition, the silicone thin coat render has self-cleaning properties so that any dirt that has settled on the facade is washed away with precipitation.
Silicate render does not have such properties, and due to its high water absorption, resistance to dirt is weaker.
Resistance to growth
Silicone renders, due to their properties that limit water penetration is very resistant to overgrowth.
Silicate render has a strong alkaline reaction, which makes the growth of microorganisms practically impossible.
Both silicone and silicate render has an additional protective factor in the form of encapsulated biocide, which gradually releases active substances that reduce the risk of microbiological contamination for many years.
Vapor permeability
Both plasters have excellent parameters for moisture removal from the thermal insulation layer.
Silicate render is perfect for mineral wool insulation systems.
Silicone render is ideal for use on both polystyrene foam and mineral wool.
Colors available
Both silicate and silicone render are colored, ready to use masses. The pattern book of the first one includes more than 150 colors. You can also prepare it in a different, custom-made color, which will provide freedom in shaping the aesthetics of the facade and other decorative surfaces.
On the other hand, silicate render is available in a limited color palette of light, pastel colors.
Costs and application conditions
Both should be applied in rainless weather. For silicone render, the air and substrate temperature should be between +5°C and +25°C. For silicate render from +10°C to +25°C. We should maintain weather conditions throughout the render drying period.
Due to its properties, silicone render is one of the more expensive plasters, while the cost of silicate render is the average value of plasters available on the market.
Suggested conditions of use
Both silicone and silicate render are suitable as finishing coats for new surfaces and renovation of old buildings.
Silicone render manchester is suitable for buildings in conditions of medium and high pollution, which occur, among others, near urban centers and along roads with heavy traffic.
Silicate render is suitable for use on buildings with low to medium pollution, such as suburban areas and areas with increased humidity, such as near water bodies and in forest areas.
