In short
- Most Burpham homes are post-war to 1980s cavity-walled brick and block.
- These houses suit silicone and monocouche, making a full modern makeover straightforward.
- Roof overhangs and sills should be checked, as rendering adds thickness to the walls.
- Burpham is not in a conservation area in most streets, so re-rendering is usually permitted development.
Burpham's houses
North-east of the town centre, Burpham grew mostly after 1945, with semis, terraces and detached houses along and off London Road and New Inn Lane, followed by estates in the 1960s to 1980s. These are typically cavity-walled brick and block with modest detailing. For owners who want a crisp, modern exterior, they are one of the easiest house types to render.
What to check before rendering brick
- Roof overhang: rendering adds 10 to 20 mm, more with insulation. Shallow eaves and verges may need extending.
- Window sills: sills need to project beyond the new face with a drip. Short sills can be extended with matching sill extensions.
- Damp-proof course: the render must stop above it on a base bead.
- Meter boxes, pipes and cables: these are refitted or extended through the render.
Colour on a street of brick houses
Rendering one house in a street of brick semis makes a bold change. Many owners choose soft off-whites or light greys that sit comfortably with neighbours. See choosing a render colour.
Planning
Guildford Borough Council currently handles planning here. Surrey's district and borough councils are being replaced by new unitary councils, so check which authority handles planning at the time you apply. Most of Burpham is outside conservation areas and the Surrey Hills, so rendering is generally permitted development, but check your address. Development allocated nearby at Gosden Hill will change the area over coming years.
Questions people ask
Will rendering a brick house need planning permission in Burpham?
Usually not, as most of Burpham is outside conservation areas and the Surrey Hills. Confirm with the council if unsure.
Can render go straight onto brick?
Yes, with preparation: cleaning, beads, a base coat with mesh and a primer. The brick must be sound and dry.