External render level - above solid floor??

[markwm]

When rendering an external wall. If the room within has a solid floor should the render be beaded off above the level of the solid floor to avoid damp striking up?

Or if using a suitable lime render can the render be dressed below the level of the internal solid floor.

We have been advised that render should be above the level of the solid kitchen floor. The problem is it's a good 2+ feet off external floor level.

 

[Andrew Bodenham]

Given that you have a vaulted cellar and the floor level is so far above external ground level I don't think you'd have any problem taking the render down beyond the internal floor level. Especially if you're using a lime render.
Obviously it needs to stop clear of ground level,and above any splash zone if it's a hard surface, otherwise you are inviting trouble.
A look at conditions in your cellar should give a fair indication of the permeability of the wall, and the effect of the local ground conditions, and could guide your decision.

 

[markwm]

Cellar is white washed and holds water when it rains.

 

[MdB]

It appears to me that you don't have a solid floor, you have a suspended floor. (OK, the floor is made of solid stone but it is suspended over the cellar)

Unless the cellar completely fills up with water, there is no danger of moisture moving through the wall to affect the outside render so you don't have a problem.