Winter Preparation is Key
To ensure optimal performance during colder months, it’s crucial to store ecorend thin coat renders, primers and paints off the ground in a frost-free environment. When preparing work areas, especially for Silicone and Acrylic renders (wet mix), avoid setting out scaffolding and materials the night before application. Instead, pre-load and prep the site immediately before applying the products to protect them from harsh weather conditions. All ecorend bagged products, such as monocouche and base coats are designed to withstand outdoor storage year-round, unaffected by adverse weather conditions.
Managing Drying Challenges
Aesthetic issues can occur in finishes of all types due to different drying rates between areas in shade versus those in sun. For example, for powder products such as ecorend MR1 Monocouche One Coat Render, scaffolding can create shadow lines where the render dries more slowly. To avoid these inconsistencies, sheet the exterior to protect the surface from weather variations and manage the drying rate evenly. This will help prevent colour-related issues from occurring due to uneven exposure.
Extended Curing in Adverse Weather
Remember that cold, damp conditions will extend the drying and curing times for all products. For Render Only systems, it’s especially important to consider that substrates may have been exposed to harsh elements for extended periods. Northerly facing walls often retain moisture for weeks or even months due to limited sunlight, which can further delay curing.
Base Coats, Monocouche, and Mineral Thin Coat Render
These products rely on water for proper binder hydration and require temperatures above +5°C and humidity levels below 85%. During winter, water evaporates much more slowly from the render, and absorption into the substrate takes longer. Ensure substrates are not frozen and avoid applying material if frost is expected within 24 hours. For Monocouche renders, always maintain a minimum application temperature of +5°C.
Speeding Up the Process with QS1 Quick Set Accelerator
Silicone & Acrylic Thin Coat Render Systems
Silicone and Acrylic thin coat systems require application in temperatures above +5°C and humidity levels below 85%. This condition must be maintained for at least 48 hours after application to ensure proper curing. Ensure base and primer coats are fully cured before applying the topcoat, as slow drying can cause wash-off and setting delays. This issue is compounded by trapped moisture and lack of UV exposure during winter months.
SR365 Ultimate Silicone Thin Coat Render
Unlike standard thin coat and monocouche render systems, the European-patented BBA-certified Ultimate Silicone Thin Coat Render System is designed for exceptional versatility. With its precise application process, SR365 adapts to a wide temperature range from -5°C to +25°C. Formulated for durability, it excels in challenging conditions, withstanding humidity levels up to 99% and becoming rainproof within just 2 hours at temperatures above +5°C, ensuring reliable performance in all weather.
These guidelines offer general advice on how to successfully apply ecorend products during winter. For a full product specification or additional support, please reach out to our Technical Team. Proper preparation and careful attention to drying and curing conditions are key to ensuring your winter render projects are completed to the highest standard.
