It sounds like you’re having issues with inconsistent drying and curing, which is common when working with silicone-based renders, especially in varying conditions. Here are some things to consider: 1. Suction Control: Wetting the block before applying the scratch coat is the right move, but sometimes it’s not enough. The block may still absorb moisture unevenly. You might want to try using a stabilizing solution or bonding agent on the blocks before applying the render. This can help regulate suction more effectively than just water. 2. Mix Consistency: Double-check the mix consistency of the render in your machine. If the render is mixed too dry or too wet, it can lead to uneven application and drying. Make sure the render is coming out at the same consistency throughout the batch. 3. Application Speed: Machine-applied renders can sometimes go on too quickly. If you’re applying large areas before the previous sections have had time to start curing evenly, it can lead to some sections drying out faster than others. Try working in smaller areas and applying a more even thickness. 4. Weather Conditions: External factors like wind, direct sunlight, and temperature can really affect how render behaves. If the wall is in direct sunlight or exposed to wind, some areas will dry out much faster than others. Covering the wall with a tarp to provide shade or wind protection can help regulate drying time. 5. Floats and Sponge Timing: Timing is crucial when you start floating and sponging. If some parts of the render are setting faster than others, it might mean the render is not mixed properly or environmental factors are affecting different areas. Make sure you’re floating and sponging at the right stage of setting for the whole wall. If none of these methods work, you might want to reach out to Kilsaren’s technical support for specific advice, as they may have insights into their silicone-based products.
@@DanLee40 I'm using general purpose (GP) render from Kilsaren. We're doing a scratch coat on the block and then straight over for the finish coat with the same stuff. We're using a machine and screeding then using the spach to smooth it out. We then wait for it to pull in and do two floats and sponge. It's a nightmare to use and we aren't sure why. It dries out solid in places and is very wet in others. Have you used it and any advice? It's a silicone based render. We tried wetting the block today before we scratched and no help. 😅
@@neilrollason It’s essential to check that the scratch coat is firm but still breathable, meaning it should be set but not fully cured. A good rule of thumb is that it should not leave an imprint when gently pressed but should still feel slightly soft. Rushing the process increases the risk of cracks in the final coat, so it’s best to err on the side of caution.
It sounds like you’re having issues with inconsistent drying and curing, which is common when working with silicone-based renders, especially in varying conditions. Here are some things to consider:
1. Suction Control: Wetting the block before applying the scratch coat is the right move, but sometimes it’s not enough. The block may still absorb moisture unevenly. You might want to try using a stabilizing solution or bonding agent on the blocks before applying the render. This can help regulate suction more effectively than just water.
2. Mix Consistency: Double-check the mix consistency of the render in your machine. If the render is mixed too dry or too wet, it can lead to uneven application and drying. Make sure the render is coming out at the same consistency throughout the batch.
3. Application Speed: Machine-applied renders can sometimes go on too quickly. If you’re applying large areas before the previous sections have had time to start curing evenly, it can lead to some sections drying out faster than others. Try working in smaller areas and applying a more even thickness.
4. Weather Conditions: External factors like wind, direct sunlight, and temperature can really affect how render behaves. If the wall is in direct sunlight or exposed to wind, some areas will dry out much faster than others. Covering the wall with a tarp to provide shade or wind protection can help regulate drying time.
5. Floats and Sponge Timing: Timing is crucial when you start floating and sponging. If some parts of the render are setting faster than others, it might mean the render is not mixed properly or environmental factors are affecting different areas. Make sure you’re floating and sponging at the right stage of setting for the whole wall.
If none of these methods work, you might want to reach out to Kilsaren’s technical support for specific advice, as they may have insights into their silicone-based products.
Hi Dan,what lime product are you using? Is it an NHL with sand?
It’s EWI Lime Render 3.5NHL. Very user friendly.
@@DanLee40 cheers looks a nice job 👍
@@DanLee40 how long did you need to leave scratch coat before top/floating coat to avoid cracking?
@@DanLee40 I'm using general purpose (GP) render from Kilsaren. We're doing a scratch coat on the block and then straight over for the finish coat with the same stuff. We're using a machine and screeding then using the spach to smooth it out. We then wait for it to pull in and do two floats and sponge. It's a nightmare to use and we aren't sure why. It dries out solid in places and is very wet in others. Have you used it and any advice? It's a silicone based render. We tried wetting the block today before we scratched and no help. 😅
@@neilrollason It’s essential to check that the scratch coat is firm but still breathable, meaning it should be set but not fully cured. A good rule of thumb is that it should not leave an imprint when gently pressed but should still feel slightly soft. Rushing the process increases the risk of cracks in the final coat, so it’s best to err on the side of caution.