External Rendering Services in Exeter

Expert external wall rendering throughout Exeter and East Devon. Lime render, K-rend, monocouche, and silicone systems.

What Is External Rendering?

External rendering involves applying a protective and decorative coating to the outside walls of a building. It serves multiple purposes: weatherproofing, thermal insulation, and improving appearance. Modern renders come in various finishes and can dramatically transform the look of a property.

In the UK, we typically use one of four main render systems: traditional sand/cement, lime render (for older properties), K-rend or monocouche (through-coloured systems), and silicone render (self-cleaning finish).

When Do You Need External Rendering?

You might need external rendering if:

• Your existing render is cracked, blown (hollow when tapped), or falling away
• You're renovating a period property and need breathable lime render
• You want to improve the appearance of tired or dated brickwork
• You're adding external wall insulation and need a finishing coat
• Damp is penetrating through porous brickwork
• You're building an extension and want it to match the main house

Render Systems We Apply

Lime Render

Lime render is the traditional choice for older properties (pre-1919). It's breathable, allowing moisture to escape from solid walls, and flexible enough to move with the building. We use NHL (Natural Hydraulic Lime) in appropriate grades for Exeter's local building stock.

Best for: Listed buildings, period properties, solid wall construction

Cost: £40-55/m² + VAT

K-Rend and Monocouche

These are through-coloured polymer renders applied in one or two coats. The colour goes all the way through, so minor scratches don't show. They're long-lasting, low-maintenance, and available in dozens of colours and textures.

Best for: Modern properties, extensions, refurbishments

Cost: £50-70/m² + VAT

Silicone Render

Silicone render has a self-cleaning surface that repels water and dirt. It's particularly good in areas with pollution or heavy rainfall (relevant in Devon). The finish stays cleaner for longer and requires minimal maintenance.

Best for: Coastal areas, exposed locations, low-maintenance requirements

Cost: £55-75/m² + VAT

The External Rendering Process

Here's what happens when you book us for external rendering:

1. Free site survey: We assess the walls, measure the property, and recommend the best render system
2. Written quote: Detailed breakdown including scaffolding, materials, and labour
3. Scaffolding: We arrange safe access to all elevations
4. Preparation: Remove loose material, repair cracks, clean the substrate
5. Beading: Install drip beads at the bottom edge and corner beads where needed
6. Base coat: First coat applied and keyed for the next layer
7. Top coat: Final coat with chosen texture and colour
8. Curing: Protection from rain and frost during the curing period (3-7 days)
9. Clean-up: Scaffolding removed, all waste cleared

How Long Does External Rendering Last?

Lifespan depends on the render type and location:

• Lime render: 30-50 years if maintained correctly
• K-rend / monocouche: 25-35 years
• Silicone render: 25-30 years (stays cleaner throughout)

Regular inspection and minor repairs extend the life of any render system. We recommend checking annually for cracks and arranging repairs promptly to prevent water ingress.

External Wall Insulation (EWI)

We can also apply external wall insulation systems, where insulation boards are fixed to the wall before rendering. This is particularly effective for solid-wall properties in Exeter's Victorian and Edwardian housing stock.

EWI reduces heat loss, lowers energy bills, and qualifies for ECO4 funding in some cases. We can advise on eligibility and arrange the insulation layer before rendering.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to render a house?

A typical 3-bed semi-detached house in Exeter costs £4,500-7,500 + VAT to render, depending on the system chosen and the property's condition. This includes scaffolding, materials, and labour. Larger detached properties or those needing extensive repair work will cost more.

Do I need planning permission to render my house?

Usually not. Rendering is normally permitted development. However, if your property is listed or in a conservation area, you may need Listed Building Consent or planning permission. We can advise on this during the survey.

How long does external rendering take?

A typical 3-bed semi takes 5-10 working days depending on the weather and system used. Lime render takes longer to cure between coats than modern systems. We'll give you a realistic timeline in the quote.

Can you render over painted brickwork?

Sometimes. If the paint is sound and well-bonded, we can apply a base coat over it. If it's flaking or unstable, we'll need to strip it first. We assess this during the survey.