Silicone and acrylic render systems

Silicone and acrylic external wall insulation systems combine high‑performance insulation with a coloured render finish. Both systems are installed over EPS or mineral wool insulation boards and provide a protective, weather‑resistant exterior suitable for UK homes. Silicone finishes offer maximum flexibility and breathability, while acrylic finishes provide strong adhesion and vibrant colour stability.

What Are Silicone and Acrylic External Wall Insulation Systems?

Silicone and acrylic render systems form the final protective layer of an external wall insulation build‑up. They are applied over a reinforced basecoat and provide long‑term weather protection, colour stability and a clean, modern appearance. Both finishes are certified by UK system manufacturers and designed to perform under real UK exposure conditions.

Silicone Render Systems

Key Advantages of Silicone Render

• Highly water‑repellent (hydrophobic)

• Breathable — suitable for older or solid‑wall homes

• Flexible and crack‑resistant

• UV‑stable with long‑term colour retention

• Low maintenance

• Performs well in high‑exposure areas with wind‑driven rain

• Wide range of colours and textures

When Silicone Is the Right Choice

• Solid‑wall homes

• Older properties requiring breathability

• High‑exposure locations

• Mixed‑substrate buildings

• Projects where long‑term durability is essential

Acrylic Render Systems

Key Advantages of Acrylic Render

• Strong adhesion to a wide range of substrates

• Impact‑resistant

• Cost‑effective

• Bright, stable colours

• Suitable for sheltered or low‑exposure areas

• Ideal for extensions, garages and modern blockwork

When Acrylic Is the Right Choice

• Budget‑sensitive projects

• Low‑exposure locations

• Modern substrates

• Situations where breathability is not a critical requirement

System Structure

Both silicone and acrylic external wall insulation systems follow the same installation structure:

• EPS or mineral wool insulation boards

• Mechanical fixings

• Reinforced basecoat with embedded mesh

• Primer

• Silicone or acrylic render finish

Compatible Insulation Types

EPS (Expanded Polystyrene)

Lightweight, cost‑effective and suitable for most domestic properties.

Mineral Wool

Non‑combustible and highly breathable — ideal for older buildings or higher‑risk locations.

Installed Using Certified Systems

We install silicone and acrylic EWI systems from SPS Envirowall, EWI Pro, Mapei and other recognised system manufacturers. These systems are certified for long‑term performance under UK exposure conditions.

Installed by Certified PAS 2030 Installers

All installation work is delivered by trained, certified installers and monitored through UKAS‑accredited certification schemes, ensuring correct system specification, detailing and on‑site installation. We maintain full compliance with PAS 2030, the core standard for energy‑efficiency retrofit.

Suitable Building Types

Silicone and acrylic external wall insulation systems are suitable for:

• Private houses

• Solid‑wall terraces

• Larger residential blocks

• Selected commercial properties

Frequently Asked Questions

Is silicone render better than acrylic render?

Silicone is more breathable, flexible and hydrophobic, making it suitable for older buildings and high‑exposure areas. Acrylic is more cost‑effective and suitable for sheltered locations.

Can silicone or acrylic render be applied over EPS and mineral wool?

Yes. Both finishes are compatible with EPS and mineral wool external wall insulation systems.

How long does silicone render last?

Silicone render offers long‑term durability and colour stability, typically outperforming acrylic in harsh weather conditions.

Is silicone render breathable?

Yes. Silicone render is highly breathable, making it suitable for solid‑wall and older properties.