The lower cost and quicker build time of timber frame construction has seen an upsurge in this type of new build and we are getting a lot of enquiries concerning the outside render finish and how best to insulate the walls.

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The problem with rendering the outside leaf of a timber frame construction is the amount of thermal movement the structure has compared to a brick or block construction. On traditional cement based renders and pebbledash the extra movement can cause the render to open up and crack due to the rigidity of the cement element.

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Whilst incorporating expansion joints into the walls can help it does not really provide a long term solution and can affect the aesthetics of the property as well. What is needed is a material that has enough elasticity to absorb the extra movement without cracking.

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The latest acrylic, resin and silicate renders are all designed to avoid cracking and are flexible enough to handle a timber frame’s requirements regarding movement. For the traditionalist  a natural hydraulic lime render will also allow for movement and keep the walls dry and breathable.

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The only difference being that when selecting the insulation material the caustic nature of lime render calls for a wood fibre insulation slab rather than the mineral wool or phenolic that the anti-crack renders can be used on.

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If you require more information then please call us now on 08456 345866

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