A full exterior job
The finish is only part of the quotation.
Roughcasting and rendering prices are heavily influenced by what must happen before the new finish goes on. Access, scaffolding, removal of failed material, substrate repairs, beads, base coats, reinforcement and the chosen finish can all move the price.
That is why a quote based only on “three-bedroom semi” can be misleading. The condition and accessible wall area matter.
When full replacement is worth considering
Widespread cracking, blown or hollow-sounding areas, repeated patch failure, water ingress concerns or a planned exterior refurbishment may justify looking at a complete elevation or whole property rather than another isolated repair.
The specialist should still inspect the substrate and explain what they believe is failing and why.
What should be clear in a roughcasting quote?
- Which elevations are included and how the wall area is measured.
- Scaffold/access arrangements.
- Whether the existing roughcast/render is being removed, prepared or overcoated.
- Repairs to the background/substrate and how unforeseen defects are handled.
- Mesh, base coat, beads and system components where relevant.
- The exact finish, colour and aggregate/system manufacturer where applicable.
- Waste, protection of windows/doors and final clean-down.
- Guarantee, programme and payment stages.
What can full roughcasting cost?
Published Scottish guidance shows a very wide spread. A full semi-detached house can sit in the several-thousand-pound range, while larger detached homes, extensive strip-back, difficult access or significant substrate repair can move well into five figures.