How Much Does Rendering Cost

External rendering is a vital wall-covering method that protects your property's exterior walls from the harsh elements while enhancing its appearance. There are various rendering styles to choose from, and professional plasterers can guide you in selecting the best option for your specific needs.

In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about external rendering:

How Much Does External Rendering Cost?

The cost of external rendering depends on several factors, including your home's size and the type of render you choose. Here's a rough estimate of the costs, including labor:

• 2-bed bungalow: £2,500 to £3,500 (4 to 6 days)
• 3-bed terraced house: £3,200 to £5,000 (6 to 9 days)
• 4-bed semi-detached house: £5,500 to £8,000 (10 to 14 days)

Please note that these estimates do not include scaffolding or painting and decorating costs.

How Much Does Rendering Cost in the UK?

Rendering your property can significantly enhance its aesthetics and potentially improve its value. However, the cost can vary depending on several factors. Here's a breakdown to give you a general idea:

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Additional Considerations:

• Surface Preparation: Uneven walls or existing render removal might incur additional costs.
• Accessibility: Difficult access points could increase labor costs.
• Location: Prices may vary slightly depending on your region in the UK.

Factors Affecting the Cost of External Rendering

Besides the home's size, several other factors can influence the rendering cost:

Choice of Render

Different render materials come at varying price points. For instance:

• Cement render: approximately £10 per square meter (most affordable)
• Lime render: around £20 per square meter (more breathable and eco-friendly)
• Acrylic and Polymer Renders: roughly £30 per square meter (flexible and durable)
• Pebbledash: costs about £30 per square meter (low-maintenance and textured)
• Monocouche Render: the most expensive at approximately £35 per square meter (provides decorative effects)

Painting and Decorating

Consider whether you'll need to paint the rendered walls. Painting can cost between £1,000 to £2,500, depending on your home's size and other factors.

Scaffolding

If your home requires rendering on upper storeys, you may need to invest in scaffolding. Costs can range from £500 to £1,300 per week, depending on the size and height of your property.

Skip Hire

If old render needs removal, you'll need a skip to dispose of the debris. Skip hire can range from £90 to £390 per week, depending on the skip size and location. In some cases, you might need to apply for a permit from the local council for skip placement.

Saving Money on External Rendering

Comparing quotes from multiple contractors is an excellent way to reduce costs. Additionally, consider these tips:

• Opt for a pre-colored or finished render to eliminate painting expenses.
• Determine how many coats of render you need, as multiple coats require more labor and increase costs.
• Research different render materials and finishes to find the most affordable and suitable option for your home.

Selecting the Best Render for Your Home

The best render for your house depends on various factors, including your location and proximity to the elements. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of popular render types:

• Cement Render: Affordable, durable, and improves energy efficiency. However, it's inflexible, which may lead to cracks and condensation issues.
• Lime Render: Breathable, eco-friendly, and self-heals cracks over time. However, it's more expensive and requires an experienced professional for application.
• Pre-colored or Finished Render: Quick to apply and available in various colors. But, bold colors might deter potential buyers, and it's generally more expensive.
• Pebbledash: Low-maintenance, hardwearing, and ideal for coastal properties. However, it can be challenging to remove, and its appearance may tire over time.

Steps Involved in Rendering a House

External rendering typically involves these stages:

1. Removing existing render (if required).
2. Applying flat/smooth render.
3. Sponge finish.

Finding and Hiring a Contractor

Finding the right renderer is crucial for a successful project. Seek recommendations from friends and family or research online. Obtain written quotes from several contractors and check their experience, references, and insurance before making a decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I Need Planning Permission to Render My House? Generally, no, unless you're in a conservation area or an area of outstanding beauty.
• How Soon Can I Paint the New Render on My House? It depends on the type of render. For acrylic or polymer, wait 3-5 days, lime 4-7 days, and cement, monocouche, or pebbledash 5-10 days. Pre-colored renders don't require additional painting time.
• How Long Does Render Last? Properly applied and maintained, render can last between 20-40 years.
• Is Render Difficult to Maintain? With proper application and masonry coating, render maintenance is straightforward.
• Is It Possible to Remove Pebbledash? Yes, but it may take more time and labor than smooth render surfaces.

Conclusion

External rendering is a fantastic investment in both protecting and beautifying your home. Understanding the different render types, costs, and maintenance considerations will help you make informed decisions and ensure your home remains stunning for years to come.

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