Renders

Abstract

This chapter includes a brief history of coatings and mortars. Then, several classifications are presented, in terms of the main functional purpose, binder type and production site. Renders’ performance characteristics, in fresh and hardened state, are described, focusing on requirements, testing methods and standards. Design and construction recommendations are synthetized in terms of materials (binders, aggregates, admixtures and additions/fillers), design details/technical specifications for construction and also characteristics of each coat in the render systems for traditional and industrial renders. Finishing layers are also presented. The pathology and diagnosis of these coating systems are characterised in terms of the common anomalies and probable causes, diagnosis techniques (in laboratory and in situ). Maintenance and rehabilitation strategies are discussed for renders in current and ancient buildings. Finally, American and European standards with renders/plasters and cement-based products are synthetized.