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Rendering Clay Lump Walls
Del 09/07/2026 - 7.55 AM
Looking at buying a cottage that's been recently extended. The original walls are Clay Lump & been rendered with sand & cement. The surveyor said it's not uncommon however would highly recommend lime based. The property also has a few other bad finishing points throughout. However I cannot get past the rendering in my head! Should I walk away & spoil the wife's dream?
Are you a tradesperson and able to answer this question?
2 Answers
ADR Property Maintenance
Rating: 5 out of 5
Depends really on how much you want to spend putting things right if you have a bottomless Pitt or can get it for a good price then it would be worth while,
Good luck Alex
Answered27 June 2026
0
Prides Plastering
Rating: 5 out of 5
Cement will trap moisture within the cob/clay eventually leading to rot in the timbers or erosion of the cob.
Use a non hydraulic lime putty which will allow it naturally dry out properly.
NHL and cement are also far to strong for cob which can lead to list of other problems.
Not powdered NHL, non-hydraulic putty(fatty lime) make sure you specify that if you have anyone give you quotes.
It would be a labour of love and removing the existing render may be opening a can of worms for you.
Answered9 July 2026
0