In the realm of construction and architectural design, achieving a flawless and lasting finish on exterior walls is an art that blends practicality with aesthetics. One key element is the seamless integration of rendering beads, which not only provide clean lines and sharp edges but also contribute to the overall resilience of the structure. Among the innovative solutions available in the market, ProBead rendering beads stand out as a versatile and effective option for enhancing the durability and visual appeal of rendered facades.
In this guide, SAS Render Systems shed light on the step-by-step process of using render beads. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an enthusiastic DIY homeowner, this comprehensive guide will navigate you through how to use render beads to their full potential. From understanding the essential materials required to achieving a professional-grade finish, we’ll explore the right way to use render beads.
Step 1: Preparation
- Ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials: ProBead render beads, render, plastering tools, and safety equipment.
Step 2: Surface Preparation
- Make sure the surface where you’ll apply the render and render bead is clean, dry, and debris-free.
- Use suitable cutting tools, such as tin snips, to measure and cut the ProBead render bead to the desired length.
Step 3: Applying the Render Basecoat:
- Start by applying a thin layer of render (basecoat) or blobs of render to the wall where you want to apply the beading using a trowel. This base coat provides a smooth and even surface for the rendering beads to adhere to.
- Use a hawk and trowel to spread the render, ensuring an even thickness.
Step 4: Attaching Render Beads:
- Press the ProBead Rendering Beads into the wet render at the desired locations.
- Ease them into reveals surrounding windows, doors, and other openings; for corner beads, apply gentle pressure to external corners and lightly tap to ensure a level alignment. A spirit level can help you maintain a level surface.
- Ensure beads are securely embedded in the render and are aligned properly.
Step 4: Applying Render
- Once the render beads are in place, you can proceed with applying the render to the surrounding areas.
- Apply the render evenly and firmly into the beading’s edges, ensuring it covers the edge of the render bead and extends beyond it. This helps to create a smooth and consistent finish and eliminates any potential air pockets.
Step 5: Smoothing and Finishing
- Use plastering tools to smooth and shape the render, ensuring it adheres well to the render bead and the surrounding surface.
- Pay extra attention to creating crisp edges and clean lines using the render bead as a guide.
Step 6: Cleaning
- While the render is still workable, remove any excess material from the surface of the render bead to ensure a clean edge. The render should align flush with the exposed edges of the beads for a clean and tidy finish.
- Clean any smudges or excess render from the render bead’s surface.
Step 7: Drying and Curing
- Allow the render to dry and cure according to specification recommendations. This usually takes some time, so be patient.
Step 8: Inspection
- Inspect the finished work to ensure the render beads are securely in place and the render has dried evenly. Make any final adjustments if needed.
Step 9: Finishing Touches
Once the render is fully cured, you can proceed with any additional finishes, such as a ProRend Colourtex finish.
ProBead render beads, designed to streamline the creation of sharp corners, neat edges, and consistent reveals, are more than just accessories – they are the cornerstone of precision in rendering.
Feel free to chat with the SAS Technical Team at 01647 24620 about recommendations for specific render beads you should be using, as different products may have slight variations in application methods and requirements.
Market-leading ProBead PVC beads are available in 18 standard colours and 34 colours perfectly coordinating with GoRend and ProRend renders and systems. Durable and high quality with a 25-year guarantee, ProBead will always give you the perfect edge.
Eager to witness the quality first-hand?
Get your hands on coloured bead samples free of charge here.