Applying render to a timber frame property can be a tricky process. There are several factors that you should consider when navigating this. With timber frames, breathability is very important - so your choice of render should reflect this.
In this blog, we will explore some of the ways you can go about applying render to timber frames. We will look at the various properties of timber frames, and how EWI and render systems relate to this.
Timber frame properties and EWI
Timber-frame properties are constructed using heavy-weight timbers. These are used to form the building shape. These are then fitted together to create joints. This building method is most prominent in cold climates.
A bonus of timber construction is that as long as trees are planted in place of the used ones, timber construction can be an environmentally friendly option. So, if you pair this with an EWI system, you can count yourself as doing your bit towards the environment!
Timber frame structures are built to be tightly sealed against water and moisture and are built as part of a dry construction process. Once weather-tight, the timber needs to dry out before the walls are further constructed.
Insulation is necessary for timber-frame properties as they heat up and cool down quickly and aren’t naturally energy efficient. These days, timber frame houses are constructed with wall boards backed with aluminium foil. However, this is a difficult process if you live in an older property. Insulation is also vital to these buildings because dampness and mould can be detrimental to their structural integrity.
External wall insulation is perfect for timber frame houses. This is because cavity wall insulation is an immediate no-go zone when it comes to timber frames.
EWI and render for a timber frame property
When externally insulating a timber frame property, the EWI system that you choose should ideally consist of the most breathable materials. For example, the Wood Fibre insulation with our Silicone Render system.
Wood Fibre is a great option for timber frame properties because it is made from waste timber shavings. It is highly breathable and vapour-permeable. This means water vapour can escape through the material (which avoids excessive build-up of moisture in the frames). Timber is slow burning and Wood Fibre insulation chars rather than burning away. This smothers the flames and slows down the spread of fire.
We recommend that during installation you use the ProGuard Protection. This will add an extra layer of fire protection and vapour permeability.
Your choice of render on timber frame properties is especially important. For example, you might want to avoid acrylic and coloured renders, because these are the least breathable. Breathability is something that simply cannot be sacrificed when it comes to a timber frame property.
Fortunately, technology has greatly improved the breathability of renders. In this instance, we recommend the use of Silicone render. This is a high-tech, thin-coat render with vapour permeability and breathability. Silicone render is also perfect for timber frame properties. It helps resist organic growth such as algae and mould - further protecting your timber frames!
We recommend that with timber frame properties, you use our EWI-225 Premium Adhesive because again it is breathable, high strength, water-resistant and has high elasticity.
How to apply render to a timber frame property?
So how is this all applied to the timber frame? Well, ideally with a Wood Fibre EWI system: the Housewrap will be stapled onto the OSB board, then Wood Fibre will be laid over the top using stainless steel wood screws to secure it. After this, the Premium Adhesive is used as a basecoat on top of the Wood Fibre, and then finally primed and finished with a Silicone render.
Looking to compare all of the insulation options for your property? Our complete guide to our range of insulation materials is one click away.
Will EWI on a timber frame property take away from its appearance?
Many people think that if they install EWI on their property then it will take away from the unique characteristics of the property. This simply isn’t the case as unique elements of your property can be recreated using materials which mimic the previous look of the property.
For example, on timber frame properties you may have exposed beams. This can be recreated using our wood panels which are made using a wood effect render, created with a silicone mold and then painted the equivalent colour. Brick patterns can also be recreated using our brick slips. These come in a variety of different shades. You can also recreate pebbledash using the EWI-065 OCDC(although not many people are that keen on it - check out our blog on how to replace pebbledash with coloured render!).
If you are a timber frame homeowner and EWI is of interest to you, get in touch with us here at EWI Store. We can put you in touch with a local installer and can give you an estimated quote for materials. We are always happy to offer technical advice!