Silicone render Torggler EKOR 96 dotted 1.5mm white 25kg

Welcome to Top-coat Silicone Renders FAQ! Here you'll find answers to our most asked questions. Still can't find quite what you're looking for, or have something we should know? Use Q&As section or send us an email, we're happy to help!

• Q1: What is silicone render?

  A1: Silicone render is a ready-to-use, thin-coat decorative wall finish made with silicone resins. It is applied as the final topcoat in external wall insulation (EWI) systems or on prepared render basecoats. It provides excellent water repellency, flexibility, and long-term facade protection.

• Q2: What are the benefits of silicone render?

  A2: Key advantages include:

  - Highly water-repellent (hydrophobic)

  - Vapour permeable (breathable)

  - Crack-resistant and flexible

  - Self-cleaning effect (low dirt pick-up)

  - UV and weather resistant

  - Long lifespan (20–30+ years with maintenance)

  These properties make silicone render one of the most durable facade finishes available.

• Q3: Is silicone render waterproof?

  A3: Silicone render is water-repellent, not fully waterproof.
  It prevents rain penetration while still allowing trapped moisture within the wall to escape. This breathability helps prevent damp, mould, and structural damage.

• Q4: How long does silicone render last?

  A4: Typically 20–30 years or more, depending on:
  - Substrate preparation
  - Installation quality
  - Exposure to weather
  - Maintenance cycles
  Silicone renders outperform acrylic and mineral renders in longevity.

• Q5: Is silicone render better than monocouche render?

  A5: They serve different systems:
  Silicone render
  - Thin coat (1.5–3 mm)
  - Applied over basecoat + mesh
  - Used in EWI systems
  Monocouche render
  - Thick coat (10–20 mm)
  - One-coat cement-based system
  - Applied directly to masonry

  Silicone offers better flexibility and insulation compatibility.

• Q6: How many colours are available?

  A6: Silicone renders are available in hundreds of colours, including:
  - RAL palettes
  - NCS systems
  - Manufacturer colour charts
  At IBB wholesalers, we mix colors while you wait.
  You can choose from a selection of colors or check the price online.

Welcome to polystyrene insulation EPS boards FAQ! Here you'll find answers to our most asked questions. Still can't find quite what you're looking for, or have something we should know? Use Q&As section or send us an email, we're happy to help!

• Q1: What are EPS polystyrene boards used for in external wall insulation?

  A1: EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) boards are used as thermal insulation in External Wall Insulation (EWI) systems. They are mechanically fixed and adhesively bonded to external walls, then reinforced with basecoat, mesh, and decorative render to improve energy efficiency and façade appearance.

• Q2: Is EPS insulation good for external walls?

  A2: Yes — EPS is one of the most widely used façade insulation materials because it offers:
  - Excellent thermal performance
  - Lightweight handling
  - Cost efficiency
  - Easy cutting and installation
  - Compatibility with most render systems

• Q3: What thickness EPS boards are used for EWI?

  A3: Common thicknesses in the UK:
  - 50 mm – minimal upgrade
  - 70–90 mm – standard retrofit
  - 100 mm – popular energy upgrade
  - 150–200 mm – low-energy / passive targets
  Thickness depends on U-value requirements and building regulations.

• Q4: What is the thermal conductivity (Lambda) of EPS?

  A4: Typical EPS lambda values:
  - EPS 70: ~0.038 W/mK
  - EPS 80: ~0.036–0.038 W/mK
  - Graphite EPS: ~0.031–0.033 W/mK
  – IBB - Thermonium Plus has the highest Lambda 0.031 W/mK

• Q5: Is EPS insulation fire resistant?

  A5: Standard white EPS is Euroclass E (combustible).
  However:
  - It is always encapsulated within render systems.
  - Fire-retardant grades are used.
  - System fire ratings depend on the full EWI build-up.
  For high-rise buildings, mineral wool may be required.

• Q6: How long does EPS external wall insulation last?

  A6: Properly installed EPS EWI systems last 30–50 years+ with maintenance of the render finish.