Render versus sprayed cork
Color range
Render offers a wide choice with more than 400 colors, while sprayed cork is available in 26 different colors.
Discover the render colors here - Discover the sprayed cork colors here
Cleaning
Sprayed cork is easier to clean than render and can be cleaned with a pressure washer.
Application method
Render is applied to the façade with a trowel, while sprayed cork is sprayed onto the façade in several layers.
Sprayed cork can be applied directly to the substrate, following the relief of the surface, for example on an existing brick façade.
If you choose render, a leveling layer is always required first. This plaster evens out the substrate using leveling layers, reinforcing mesh and the right profiles around corners and windows.
It is also possible to apply sprayed cork as a finish after leveling. In this way you get a smooth look, but with the positive properties of sprayed cork as a finish.
Protection
Sprayed cork offers extra protection thanks to the elasticity and impact resistance of the material.
Render is also a strong material on its own, but compared to sprayed cork it is slightly more fragile. Render grains are harder, while sprayed cork grains are somewhat more flexible.
Cost
Although both have a similar appearance, sprayed cork is generally more expensive. This is due to the higher material cost and the more labor-intensive process.
In addition, sprayed cork has extra positive properties, which is why many customers choose a sprayed cork finish.
Appearance
The appearance is quite similar when both are applied on a smooth substrate. The difference can be seen below in the close-up photos.
What is crepi?
Render is a popular façade finish known for its sleek and modern appearance. The material is applied to the façade by hand and is available in different textures, such as smooth, fine-grained or coarse. Besides its aesthetic advantages, render also offers functional benefits: it is waterproof, dirt-repellent and can be combined with external wall insulation. Thanks to its wide color palette of more than 400 shades, there is always an option that suits your home. Render does require some more maintenance to prevent dirt build-up, but with proper care it lasts for many years.
What is sprayed cork?
Sprayed cork is an innovative façade finish made from natural cork, a renewable and ecological material. It is sprayed onto the façade in several layers and forms an elastic protective layer that prevents cracking. In addition to its durability, sprayed cork provides a small degree of thermal and acoustic insulation, increasing the comfort in your home. The material is waterproof but vapor-permeable, which means it allows indoor moisture to escape. With its 26 carefully selected colors, sprayed cork offers a natural and unique finish. It is also low-maintenance, as it can be safely cleaned with a pressure washer.
Advantages of spray cork
- Flexible and elastic – does not crack
- Thermally insulating
- Waterproof and vapor-permeable
- Low maintenance – can be cleaned with high pressure
- Ecologically produced
Limewash rendering (kaleien) versus spray cork
Limewash rendering (kalei) and spray cork are both popular techniques for finishing façades, but each offers its own unique properties and appearance. While limewash has a traditional and artisanal look, spray cork provides a more modern approach with added functionalities. Choosing the right technique depends on your preferences, the style of your home, and the specific requirements of your façade. Below, we compare these two methods in more detail so you can make a well-informed decision.
Limewash rendering (kalei)
Both limewash rendering (kalei) and spray cork (applied directly) give the façade a similar appearance, which makes the comparison between the two logical. Kalei is a traditional technique that has been used for many years. A paste-like substance is applied to the façade, which creates a leveling effect by partially filling the joints.
Spray cork
Spray cork, on the other hand, is applied directly onto the façade. The layer that is applied is thinner, which allows spray cork to follow the irregularities of the wall and highlight the natural character of the surface.
Spray cork also offers some additional advantages compared to limewash. The material is more elastic and adapts more easily to the surface. In addition, the cork granules in spray cork provide a small insulating value.
Which colours can I choose?
Crepi
With more than 400 colours available, crepi offers something to suit every taste.
Spray cork
Although the colour range is more limited (26 shades), we can always assist you in making the right choice. If you are hesitating between two tones, we are happy to send you some photos to give you an idea of the final result. All available colours for spray cork are priced the same, so you can choose freely without unexpected costs.
Conclusion
With this comparison, we hope to have given you a clear overview of the possibilities. Whether you choose crepi, spray cork, or limewash, each material has its own unique properties and benefits. Don’t hesitate to contact us for tailored advice or for more information about the available colours and techniques.
