When it comes to upgrading the exterior of your home, rendering is one of the most effective ways to improve appearance and protect your walls. Two of the most commonly used types of render are cement render and acrylic render. While they may seem similar on the surface, there are key differences in their composition, performance, and ideal use cases—especially in a climate like Sydney’s.
Choosing the Right Type of Render
Whether you’re renovating an older home or finishing a new build, choosing the right render can have a lasting impact on both the look and durability of your exterior walls. Acrylic and cement renders offer different benefits depending on the type of surface, environmental exposure, and budget. Understanding these differences will help you make a better-informed decision.
What Is Cement Render?
Cement render is a traditional rendering material made from a mix of sand, cement, and sometimes lime. It’s typically applied in multiple coats over masonry surfaces like brick or concrete. Cement render has been used for decades due to its affordability and ease of availability. Once applied, it can be finished smooth or textured depending on the desired look.
However, it’s a more rigid material and can be prone to cracking if not applied properly or if the underlying structure shifts over time.
See also: Enhancing Outdoor Living: Why WPC Composite Decking Is the Sustainable Future of Home Improvement
What Is Acrylic Render?
Acrylic render contains plastic-based polymers that improve its flexibility and adhesion. It can be purchased pre-mixed or in powder form and is applied in a similar way to traditional renders. The plastic component makes it more resilient against movement and weather-related damage, which is particularly important in variable climates.
Acrylic render is suitable for a wider range of surfaces, including painted walls, fibre cement sheeting, concrete blocks, and even some lightweight cladding systems.
Key Differences Between Acrylic and Cement Render
Although both types of render aim to protect and beautify walls, there are some clear differences that set them apart:
Flexibility and Crack Resistance
Cement render is more rigid, which makes it more susceptible to cracking—especially if the wall or foundation shifts or expands with temperature changes. Acrylic render, on the other hand, is flexible and able to withstand minor movement without cracking. This makes acrylic rendering Sydney homes a popular choice due to the city’s mix of hot days, coastal winds, and seasonal changes.
Surface Compatibility
Cement render works best on clean, unpainted masonry surfaces. It’s not ideal for use on painted brick or smoother, less porous materials. Acrylic render is much more adaptable—it bonds to painted surfaces, fibre cement sheets, and other challenging substrates with ease.
Drying Time and Application
Cement render has a slower drying and curing time, which can take several days or even weeks, depending on weather conditions. It also requires more controlled environments to cure properly. Acrylic render dries faster and can be applied in a wider range of conditions, including slightly damp or cooler weather, reducing project delays.
Appearance and Finish Options
Cement render is traditionally finished with a sponge or trowel for a smooth or slightly textured appearance. Acrylic render offers more versatility in finish, from smooth and polished to highly textured designer patterns. It also holds colour better and can be tinted or painted with a wider variety of coatings.
Durability and Lifespan
Cement render, when properly applied and maintained, can last 15–20 years. However, its rigidity means cracks are more likely to appear over time. Acrylic render can last upwards of 20–30 years with minimal maintenance due to its flexibility and strong adhesion, making it a smart long-term investment.
Cost and Value
Cement render is more budget-friendly upfront, which makes it appealing for large-scale projects or when working within strict budgets. Acrylic render is more expensive due to the materials and benefits it offers but often pays off in reduced maintenance and longer life span.
When Should You Use Each Render Type?
Cement render is a practical option for straightforward masonry walls where budget is a key factor and structural movement is minimal. Acrylic render is ideal for homes in coastal or high-movement areas, on substrates that aren’t traditional brickwork, or where a designer finish and added durability are required.
Last Thoughts
The decision between cement and acrylic render depends on your property’s needs, budget, and environmental exposure. While cement render is still widely used and cost-effective, acrylic render offers greater flexibility, adhesion, and longevity—qualities that make it especially valuable in Sydney’s varied climate.
If you’re unsure which option is right for your project, consulting a professional renderer can help ensure you get a high-quality, long-lasting result tailored to your home.
