Best blocks to use to allow easy rendering?

[itsdave]

Hi all,

I hope that you will be able to help me with a decision I have to make about what blocks to use for the construction of two large extensions to my home.

Our extensions will be cavity wall in block and render to match the existing house and a white rendered finish is a condition of our planning permission. I initially looked at Thermalite blocks due to the good insulating properties and they seem to be popular (for both inner and outer parts of the cavity wall), but have since read a lot of negative comments about how well they take a rendered finish on the outside and 'dot & dab' platerboard on the inside.

- What is the most convenient type of block to use to allow for a straight forward rendering process on the outside with the minimum amount of faffing about? I realise pretty much any blocks CAN be rendered, but I just want to make sure I don't use a block which adds any complexity.

- I could use different blocks on the inner and outer walls if this would make it any easier?

Thanks in advance for any replies!

All the best,

David.

 

[ImperialCompleteSolutions]

Dense concrete blocks 7n (Newton) are the best, minimum shrinkage !