Plastering & Rendering

Sand and Cement rendering on 175 yr old house

Anonymous user 16/03/2024 - 2.49 PM

Hi a contractor has proposed that monocouche render isn't any good and will soon stain. He suggested that a sand and cement rendering is better. When I questioned about it suitability to an old damp-affected property the response was that there would be a mesh layer underneath. There would also be additives in the sand and cement (e.g. to prevent being affected by freezing). Property is a 175 yr old terraced house. Existing rendering is thoroughly cracked and needs removed and replacing. My concern is that the property already suffers from damp and has a lot of spalled brickwork. I've no idea if the brickwork under the render is good condition, I would hope it is as its the only elevation of the house that is covered/protected. My other concern is that cracking may reappear. Any thoughts? I hear that sand & cement render is to be avoided, especially in old and damp-affected homes but will this mesh negate the disadvantages of using sand & cement? thanks