Can I render over painted brickwork?

Yes. If the paint is well bound and not flaking, peeling, bubbling etc. The recommended key coat is Unitex Polymer Render as it is a render designed to adhere to difficult substrates such as strongly adhering paint. As always, ensure the surface is dry, clean and free of oils, dust, dirt etc before applying. Test with a sharp knife, using the “Cross-hatch Method” (see Unitex.)  If greater than 15% pull off and remove all loose and poorly adhering paint prior to coating.

Why use pre-coated sheets instead of raw polystyrene?

There are several reasons:

1) Immediate protection from the elements. Raw polystyrene, if left un-coated will surface degrade and reduce adhesion of base coat renders, causing possible delamination of renders.

2) The first coat of render applied to polystyrene panels is crucial.  This render must have superior adhesion and flexibility than standard renders for brickwork for instance. In the Unitex factory, EPS sheets are transformed into Unitex Base Board sheets by applying alkali resistant fibreglass mesh and a strongly adhering and flexible polymer modified cement coating with a consistent film build with a toothed profile. The special toothed profile makes it easy for the applicator to trowel on the base coat levelling render, (Uni-Dry Cote BBR 8.5 kg), at the recommended film build once the Unitex Base Board sheets have been fixed to the frame, ensuring that only  the most flexible render on the market with the greatest adhesion has been applied on your project.

3) Raw polystyrene sheets should not be coated whilst wet as this prevents renders from adhering to the surface. This can cause major delays during winter months. Unitex Baseboard is manufactured inside under controlled conditions.

4) System warranty’s for your peace of mind, Unitex Baseboard is a risk free proven surface.

5) Speed. Unitex Baseboard saves time as the first coat of render is already completed.

Is it warranted and how long will it last (is it maintenance free)?

Unitex has been manufacturing defect free EIFS products/systems for approximately 27 years defect free. Andrew Concannon, MD of Unitex states ‘because of this, we know Unitex EIFS systems are still ‘good as gold’ after 27 years. I know from my training in Europe 37 years ago that EIFS in Europe and America are now over 48 years in continual use for externally insulating and protecting building structures.’ The Unitex Speciality Render and Surface Applied Coating System when applied as per manual is maintenance free. However, for a decorative look, or for a fresh look (if so desired) it can be touched up (repainted) if required after 7-8 years.

Can I get insurance?

Accredited EIFS systems are a Worldwide Recognised Building method  and as such are insured in all user countries. As Unitex has a history of over 15 years of EIFS Accreditations and is currently Accredited our systems have never in that time faced any negative insurance issues. Non accredited systems may be refused.

What is the impact strength?

The coating thickness is to be at least 6mm above the fixing buttons and insulating sheet (IB Board) providing a SB impact strength of >20 joules.
The findings concluded by the CSIRO testing were submitted to the Building Regulations Advisory Committee (BRAC) as part of the evidence that the Unitex Base Board System is a viable building material able to withstand many different weather and man-made abuses.