Is silicone render worth it? And how come it’s so popular?

Jub Systems • Sep 28, 2022

Our JUB silicone render systems have been one of our bestselling solutions for the refurbishment, protection and maintenance of buildings. In this blog post, we’ll answer the most commonly asked question ‘Is silicone render any good?’ and how come it’s become one of the most common solutions renderers go for.

What is silicone render used for?

Silicone render comprises the final thin coat applied at the end of an installation of a render-only or external wall insulation system. It achieves a typically textured application and can be tinted in any colour the project requires. This allows for endless design and appearance combinations for any building.


The JUB silicone render comes in ready-to-apply 25kg tubs with no additives or water needed to be added. Once applied and dried, the facade surface will look exceptional and will be protected for years to come.


Benefits of silicone render


Silicone render comes with an impressive list of benefits, compared to some other alternative render topcoats:


  • Water repellency features: silicone renders offer superior water repellency and water vapour permeability, which makes them easy to clean and maintain. 
  • Exceptionally easy application: as they come in ready-mixed bags or tubs, silicone renders can be applied to a well-prepared facade surface in just a few hours.
  • Highly flexible: their flexibility allows a quick and smooth application with chances of the render cracking less likely.
  • Breathability: silicone renders are known to allow the building structure to breathe after the application, which alongside being water repellent, helps reduce the chances of damp being trapped.
  • Versatile: since they can be tinted in a variety of colours, silicone renders offer a highly versatile solution for any project. 

How long does silicone render last?


Generally speaking, silicone renders have proven over the years to be more durable than other traditional renders such as cement and sand render.


The JUB silicone render offers superior and long-lasting decorative protection of the façade surface. In particular, if applied to a high standard and maintained, our silicone renders have been expertly developed and tested to last 10 years. Factors such as the location of the building and the weather conditions will play a key role in the longevity of the render.


Is silicone render better than acrylic?

Unfortunately, the answer to this question isn’t as simple as yes or no. Neither of them is clearly better than the other, however, there are a few significant differences that can help you choose the one to use for your next project.


The main difference is between the performance features of each and the price point. Acrylic renders offer the decorative protection of a facade surface and are a reliable, durable solution for an insulation project. They come in a vast range of colours and is priced lower than silicone renders. This can be a huge benefit for projects that need to be completed on a lower budget.


Whereas silicone renders can come at a higher price point, however, their weather- and environment-resistant features are more notable. They are extremely breathable and offer better long-term resistance to infection with algae and mould than acrylic renders. Overall, silicone renders perform better in a few aspects when it comes to keeping the facade surface cleaner for longer, in turn, renovation painting won’t be required for a longer period of time compared to acrylic renders.

How do you apply silicone render?

Our JUB silicone renders are exceptionally easy to apply as they come ready-mixed and tinted. They can be applied manually - using a stainless steel smoothing trowel – or by spraying – in the thickness slightly above the diameter of the thickest grain. 


When applied by spraying, follow the instructions of the manufacturer of the mechanical equipment. Immediately after the application, smooth the surface with a solid plastic finishing trowel. 


Perform the smoothing by circular strokes until an evenly grained structure is achieved. Move the grains in the applied render finish coat as little as possible during smoothing to avoid material bulges in front of the trowel. In the end, push protruding lumps into the surface by smoothing the surface slightly using a clean stainless steel smoothing trowel. 


If you have any further questions regarding silicone render or in particular, our JUB silicone renders, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team at info@jub.org.uk.

Modern detached house in the UK with JUB EWI and external render installed.

Transforming Your Home Exterior: Benefits of External Wall Insulation

By Jub Systems • 01 Jul, 2024
In recent years, homeowners and builders have increasingly turned to external wall insulation (EWI) to enhance the energy efficiency and durability of solid-wall properties. Let's look at the many advantages of external home insulation.

JUB Colour Chart: A Deep Dive into Exterior House Render Colours

By Jub Systems • 17 Jan, 2024
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By Jub Systems • 30 Aug, 2023
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The Ultimate Guide to the Great British Insulation Scheme: Measures, Eligibility and How to Apply

By Jub Systems • 19 Jul, 2023
Introducing the Great British Insulation Scheme, previously known as ECO+, a government initiative aimed at helping households insulate their homes, improve energy efficiency and reduce energy bills. With the scheme already launched and set to run until March 2026, it's time to discover how this £1 billion programme can benefit households across the UK. In this blog post, we'll delve into the details of the scheme, its eligibility criteria and the range of energy-saving measures available. Benefits of the Great British Insulation Scheme The Great British Insulation Scheme aims to support approximately 300,000 households by providing financial assistance for home insulation. By participating in the scheme, households can save an estimated £300 to £400 per year on their energy bills. The focus is on helping those with the lowest incomes, while also extending support to households living in energy-inefficient homes with Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings of D or below, as well as those in lower Council Tax bands (A-D in England, A-E in Scotland and Wales). This inclusive approach ensures that more people, especially those struggling with high energy costs, can benefit from making their homes more energy efficient. The Aim of the Great British Insulation Scheme  The Great British Insulation Scheme has a clear goal: to deliver single insulation measures to two main groups of customers. The first group consists of low-income individuals who do not meet the minimum requirements for ECO4 assistance. The scheme aims to provide them with valuable insulation measures to improve their living conditions. The second group includes households based on council tax band and Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating, targeting a wider range of individuals who can benefit from energy-saving upgrades.

External Render Repair and Maintenance: Preserving Your JUB Render

By Jub Systems • 12 Jul, 2023
Welcome to our guide on external render repair and maintenance. Whether you have a JUB render and/or an external wall insulation system, proper maintenance is essential to ensure longevity and visual appeal. By following our step-by-step instructions, you can reduce the need for extensive render repairs in the future, saving you both time and money. Let's dive into the key steps for effective render repair and maintenance. Step 1: Thorough Cleaning and Primer Application Before starting any redecoration work, it's crucial to clean the external render thoroughly. Remove any visible dirt or dust from the surface, ensuring a clean and smooth base for the upcoming paint application. If necessary, treat the facade with JUB Fungi Wash to eliminate any fungal growth or contaminants. However, avoid using acid-based cleaners or solvents, as they can damage the external wall insulation system. To enhance the adhesion and durability of the new paint, we highly recommend applying an appropriate paint primer to the cleaned render. Step 2: Choosing the Correct Paint Choosing the correct paint is crucial for achieving a long-lasting and visually pleasing exterior finish. Take into account the type of render you have and consult our technical department at technical@jub.org.uk for guidance on the suitable paint product. Avoid using masonry paint that JUB Systems UK Limited hasn't advised to maintain warranties and prevent short-term maintenance cycles. Keep the original render's colour code on file for future reference to ensure accurate colour matching.

Why Silicone Render is the Best Choice for a Property’s Exterior: Benefits, Application & Aesthetics

By Jub Systems • 24 May, 2023
When it comes to a property's exterior, making a lasting impression with a beautiful and durable finish is key. That's where silicone render comes in. As a high-performance external render, it offers a multitude of benefits that make it the best choice for homeowners and renderers seeking long-lasting and visually appealing results. Benefits of Silicone Render: Why Choose It?  Silicone render stands out for its numerous advantages. Firstly, it provides exceptional weather resistance, making it perfect for even the harshest climates. It can endure heavy rain, extreme temperatures and strong winds without cracking or fading. This ensures that a property maintains its stunning appearance for years to come. Another significant benefit is its breathability. By allowing moisture to escape through the walls of a property, it prevents the build-up of dampness and condensation. This is especially crucial for older houses and buildings with potentially inadequate insulation. By opting for silicone render, you can improve a property's energy efficiency and reduce the risk of dampness and mould. Flexibility is also a key feature of silicone render, setting it apart from traditional render systems. While other renders can be brittle and prone to cracking, silicone render is designed to move naturally with the property's walls, minimising the likelihood of unsightly fissures over time.

ECO Flex: Providing Energy-Efficient Home Upgrades for Non-Benefit Eligible Households in the UK

By Jub Systems • 17 May, 2023
The ECO4 scheme has been helping eligible households in the UK to access free insulation and energy efficiency upgrades to reduce energy costs and support sustainable living. However, not all households that need support with improving their homes are receiving income-related benefits. That's why the UK government introduced the ECO Flex scheme. Under ECO Flex, local authorities are provided with more funding to identify residents who would benefit from home upgrades, even if they don't meet the standard eligibility criteria for ECO4. With ECO Flex, households don't have to be on benefits to qualify for funding. ECO Flex Eligibility The eligibility criteria for ECO Flex is quite comprehensive. To qualify, your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating must be between E-G if you rent or D-G if you own your home. If your property is not currently on the EPC register, we can help assess it for you. You must also have a combined household income of less than £31,000. Alternatively, if you meet the EPC criteria, you can qualify for ECO Flex if you meet the following: Your home is within a specific postcode identified by your local council. You receive a council tax rebate (single-person occupancy excluded). You are identified as vulnerable to living in a cold home: someone in the home is pregnant, disabled or elderly, you have children under 5, or someone in the home has a medical condition. Your child receives free school meals. Your home is identified as being in debt to your energy provider. Another way to qualify is if you are identified by your GP as vulnerable to the cold and on a low income.

ECO4 Government Scheme: Free Insulation and Energy Efficiency Upgrades for Eligible UK Households

By Jub Systems • 12 Apr, 2023
In an effort to reduce carbon emissions and increase properties’ EPC rating, the UK government has launched the ECO4 scheme, which aims to provide eligible households with free insulation and energy efficiency upgrades. Benefits of ECO4 The scheme is targeted at low-income households and those living in fuel poverty and is designed to help: Reduce Energy Bills: By providing eligible households with free insulation and energy efficiency upgrades, the scheme helps to reduce energy bills, making it easier for households to stay warm during the winter months. Improve Living Conditions: By installing insulation and energy efficiency measures, the scheme helps to make homes more comfortable, reduce noise levels and improve indoor air quality. Reduce Carbon Emissions: The scheme helps to reduce carbon emissions by promoting sustainable living and reducing energy consumption. This is an important step in creating a more sustainable future. Support Low-Income Households: The ECO4 scheme is designed to reduce the financial burden of heating and cooling a home and can improve the quality of life for those living in fuel poverty. 

Energy Company Obligation (ECO) Government Scheme: What Is It & Do You Qualify for Free Insulation?

By Jub Systems • 08 Feb, 2023
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) is a government scheme that offers grant funding to support energy-inefficient homes, which in turn aims to reduce fuel poverty and carbon emissions. In this blog article, we’ll take you through all the details you need to know about the ECO funding scheme, what are the differences between ECO4, ECO+ and ECO4 Flex and do you qualify for free insulation grants. ECO: A Brief Overview ECO was developed for energy suppliers to financially support households across the UK with the aim of boosting the property’s energy efficiency and EPC rating. There are three sets of insulation grants available under the Energy Company Obligation: ECO4, ECO+ and ECO4 Flex. Each grant has its specific eligibility criteria but all of them offer the main types of energy-efficiency measures. These include loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, solid wall insulation and boiler replacement or repair. Can I Get Free Insulation? To qualify for the ECO insulation grants, you need to be the homeowner or have a signed document from your landlord granting you permission to apply. Eligibility criteria for each of the three grants vary and will depend on several factors. Here are some of the factors that if you meet, you will most likely be eligible for the grant to insulate your home:  If you receive the Warm Home Discount in the 'core' group, get eligible benefits and fit the income requirements Live in social housing that has an EPC rating of E or lower (check your energy performance certificate, ask your landlord or social housing association or get in touch with an approved installer to find out ) You meet the criteria set by your Local Authority
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