A parge coat is a thin layer of cement mortar troweled onto rough masonry, such as concrete block or brick. It is commonly applied to the exterior of foundation walls below grade to create a smooth surface for waterproofing membranes, or above grade to improve the appearance and weather resistance of a rough masonry wall.
Heard on the job
We need to apply a parge coat to the blockwork before we stick on the foundation waterproofing.
Also heard as
- parging
Do not mix it up with
- Render: Parging is usually a thin, utilitarian coat meant for sealing or prepping a surface, whereas render is a thicker, finished exterior coating.