Creating a pebble dash finish involves preparing a specific render mix and applying it to a surface. Based on one described method, the process focuses on mixing the base coat components before application.
Preparing the Pebble Dash Mixture
The first crucial steps involve hydrating the lime and then combining the necessary ingredients to form the rendering mixture.
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Slaking the Lime:
- Mix the lime with water following the manufacturer's specific instructions.
- Allow this mixture to sit for 24 hours. This essential process, known as slaking or hydrating, prepares the lime for use in the mix.
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Combining Ingredients:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the slaked lime, sand, and cement.
- The recommended ratio is specific: 1 part slaked lime, 6 parts sand, and 1 part cement.
Applying the Finish
Once the mixture is prepared, the next step is the application to the wall surface.
- Applying the Mixture:
- Take the prepared lime, sand, and cement mixture.
- Pebble dash the mixture onto the wall with a trowel. This step applies the base render coat onto which aggregate is traditionally thrown, or in some methods, applies a mixture containing aggregate (often called roughcast or wet dash). The reference describes applying this specific mix using the term "pebble dash".
This process, as outlined in the reference, details the creation and application of the render base coat used for pebble dash finishes. For further details on pebble dash services and techniques, you can refer to resources like Render Hero - Pebble Dash Services.