Retrofitting housing stock will continue to remain high on the agenda with local authorities and developers under pressure to improve the energy efficiency and appearance of older social housing. Render systems, particularly when used with external wall insulation, offer a cost-effective and visually transformative solution. David Grace of K Rend explores the role of render in large-scale refurbishment schemes and how it can address both performance and placemaking in Britain’s ageing housing stock.

One of the most promising tools in the retrofit armoury is the use of modern render systems. These render finishes, especially when paired with external wall insulation (EWI), offer far more than surface-level aesthetics. They represent an opportunity to tackle the complex issues of a building’s thermal performance, long-term maintenance, and visual regeneration in one coordinated solution.

For many local authorities, the fabric-first approach lies at the heart of their retrofit strategies. Upgrading the building envelope is often the most cost-effective and least disruptive way to reduce carbon emissions and improve thermal comfort for residents. Render systems, when used in conjunction with EWI, play a critical role in this. Not only do they reduce heat loss and lower energy bills, but they also deliver long-term value by extending the lifespan of the façade and reducing the need for ongoing repairs.

Modern renders

Modern renders have evolved significantly from the simple sand and cement finishes of the past. Today’s renders are designed to offer flexibility, breathability, water repellency and resistance to biological growth. Silicone-based thin coat renders, for example, have become a popular choice in large-scale refurbishments due to their ability to resist staining and mould, as well as their ease of maintenance over time. Their through-coloured formulation means no repainting is required, and they are available in a wide variety of textures and shades to suit different design contexts. 

In multi-storey residential buildings, fire performance is a key consideration. With heightened awareness following changes to Building Regulations, many housing providers are now seeking render systems that contribute to a safer external envelope. Specifiers are increasingly drawn to solutions such as Silicone TC15 that achieve at least an A2-s1,d0 fire classification, which can be used in conjunction with mineral wool insulation on taller structures. These EWI systems, which can be supplied through our sister company K Systems, can offer peace of mind while helping to meet regulatory demands without compromising on design quality.

Aesthetics and placemaking

Render finishes also bring benefits beyond performance. They are a vital part of the placemaking toolkit, offering an opportunity to rejuvenate ageing estates, improve resident satisfaction and strengthen local identity. From replicating the historic tones of traditional materials or introducing modern colour schemes that can distinguish different buildings or phases, render systems play a huge part in the visual transformation of entire neighbourhoods.

Transformative retrofits

A high-rise coastal development in Eastbourne required a complete overhaul to both its appearance and performance. With the original façade system failing, Devonshire Mansions needed a solution that would reinforce its structural integrity and meet new fire safety standards. A cavity drainage EWI system finished in a durable silicone render was applied with detailed ashlar and quoin features to restore character. The result was not only a safer and more energy-efficient building but one that sees a rejuvenated seafront building complementing its coastal surroundings.

In Glasgow, the Cartcraigs high-rise presented another complex challenge. Working with architects and contractors, the design team developed a façade strategy that delivered on thermal performance, longevity and visual impact. The use of a mineral wool-based EWI system with a silicone thin coat render helped turn the building into a modern, efficient housing block while significantly improving its aesthetic and energy credentials. The transformation was recognised with an industry award, a testament to what well-executed render solutions can achieve in retrofit.

In Bristol, Corbett House highlights the growing focus on fire compliance in high-rise social housing. The local authority required an urgent intervention to address concerns about the existing façade system. A new solution was developed that incorporated non-combustible insulation and a combination of brick slip and render finishes tailored to different parts of the structure. This approach delivered a dual benefit by combining a safer building envelope that also refreshed the exterior appearance, improving the visual impact of the 14-storey residential tower within the local area.

These three residential buildings may have varying technical requirements and design contexts, but share a common thread. EWI systems with a render finish enabled tailored retrofit solutions that addressed safety, thermal performance and urban design. For housing providers looking to meet sustainability goals and regulatory requirements while also delivering improved homes and communities, render offers a powerful and versatile solution.

Retrofit must become the default in response to the Future Homes Standard 2025 and net zero targets which is why scalable and robust solutions such as external wall insulation with render finishes will play a pivotal role. They allow local authorities and housing associations to not only comply with regulations but to exceed them by enhancing lives, upgrading homes and renewing neighbourhoods in the process.

The journey to retrofitting excellence of UK housing stock does not lie in one product or system, but in the most appropriate specification and collaboration. By embracing render as a multifaceted solution and one that offers protection, performance and placemaking, Britain’s ageing homes can be made fit for the future.

For more information or for technical guidance, visit K Rend