Render Systems

Explore EWI Pro render systems for external walls. Our thin coat and monocouche solutions are designed for UK weather, offering highly breathable, hydrophobic, and durable finishes that enhance your home’s exterior while supporting thermal performance in external wall insulation applications.

EWI render systems for external wall insulation

Our render systems are suitable for various substrates and building materials, including brickwork and concrete. Each system is designed as a complete build-up—from primers and base coat with mesh to the tinted, through coloured finish—so installation is practical, consistent, and long-lasting.

What are render systems?

A render system is a coordinated set of materials applied to exterior walls: primer, base coat, mesh reinforcement, beads, and a decorative render. When applied correctly, the system provides a flexible, water resistant surface that helps reduce cracking, sheds rain, and resists mould and algae growth.

Render-only systems vs full external wall insulation systems

Render-only systems refresh facades and protect existing substrates. Full external wall insulation systems add insulation boards beneath the finish to improve energy efficiency and reduce the property’s carbon footprint. The right choice depends on your project, substrate, and performance goals.

Types of render systems

For exterior walls, most projects choose between thin coat (silicone / acrylic / mineral), monocouche, or traditional multi-coat sand-and-cement with paint. We specialise in thin coat and monocouche systems for performance, appearance, and speed.

• Thin coat render systems – highly breathable, flexible, and available in a wide range of textures and colours.
• Silicone render systems – hydrophobic and dirt-shedding for maximum durability in harsh weather.
• Acrylic renders – a practical option where value and strong colour hold are priorities.
• Monocouche renders – single-layer, through coloured material applied in two passes to achieve one coat.

Thin coat render systems

Thin coat systems pair a polymer-modified base coat and mesh with a silicone render, acrylic render, or mineral finish. They are designed for flexible performance across UK conditions and suit both render-only and EWI builds.

Silicone render and its advantages

Silicone finishes are hydrophobic and highly breathable, helping rain bead and run off while allowing moisture to escape from the wall. These systems are durable, frost-resistant, and available in many grain sizes, textures, and colours, making them ideal for most UK facades.

Components of an EWI render system

Each build-up includes primers, base coat and mesh reinforcement, beads, and the chosen finish. This coordinated approach is designed to suit the substrate and ensure durability.

Grain sizes and texture finishes

Choose grain sizes from 1.0–3.0 mm for fine to textured looks, or a scratched monocouche for a crisp, through coloured finish. Texture choice is a design matter as well as a performance consideration—coarser grains can disguise minor substrate movement marks.

Render colour and finishes

All finishes are factory tinted to the perfect colour for your project. Popular colours for your home’s exterior include White, Ivory, Bone, Silver, and Smoke. Order samples to check appearance on real surfaces before application.

Can you paint EWI render?

Yes—use compatible breathable coatings such as silicone paint on approved systems. Always follow product guidance to maintain breathability and long-term durability.

Performance and cost

Render-only improves appearance and weather resistance; EWI adds insulation to reduce heat loss and can lower running costs over time. Upfront cost varies with materials, area, and details, but EWI often offers better whole-house value due to improved thermal performance.

Is EWI cheaper than internal insulation?

Internal insulation is usually cheaper at purchase, but EWI avoids the loss of interior space, reduces cold bridges, and keeps facades protected in one application. The best choice depends on your substrate, budget, and target performance—our team can help you compare options for your property.

Why choose EWI Store render systems?

EWI Pro systems are designed for UK conditions, offering flexible, durable, and water-resistant finishes that suit a wide range of substrates. We provide clear specifications, fast delivery across the UK, and technical support from enquiry to installation.

Shop high-performance EWI render systems online

Explore the full range, check stock and pricing (ex VAT and inc VAT), and add items to your basket. If you need help matching render colour, grain size, or system type to your project, contact our team for technical support.