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Paint render & pebbledash.
Masonry paint or weather-coating — pressure-washed, sealed and 2-coated for 10–15 years of protection.
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Costs, timelines, pitfalls and the right questions to ask before any decorator starts on render & Pebbledash Painting.
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Top tips
Hiring a decorator, without the regret.
Four moves that separate a smooth job from a nightmare.
Painting over algae
Living organisms continue growing under paint. Always biocide-treat first.
Render trapped moisture
Painting damp render bubbles within months. Allow drying time.
Cheap paint on render
Vinyl emulsion peels on cement render. Always use proper masonry paint.
Pebbledash inadequate coverage
Textured surface needs 2.5x the paint of smooth render. Don't undercoat.
Costs & timeline
Know what it costs. Know when it ends.
Indicative UK ranges and what affects price.
Cost range
By job type
Inc. VAT · 2026
Source: NMT quotes
Source: NMT quotes
Masonry paint per litreDulux Weathershield, Sandtex
£15–£40
Render coating per litreK-Rend, Wethertex
£20–£50
Terraced render painting2 storeys
£1k–£2.5k
Semi-detached render painting2 storeys
£1.5k–£4k
Detached render painting2 storeys
£2.5k–£6.5k
Scaffold hire per week2 weeks typical
£400–£1.2k
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Quote spread is typically ± 18% — always get 3 quotes.
At a glance
Infographic · VideoThe Decorator briefing.
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Video guide
Decorator explained
Painted render or pebbledash transforms a tired exterior in a single weekend's work. Modern masonry paints last 10–15 years; render coatings (K-Rend, Weathertex) last 15–25. Expect to pay £1,200–£5,500 for UK render painting on a typical semi-detached house.
What Does the Work Involve?
Render is pressure-washed to remove dirt, algae and any loose material. Biocide treatment kills mould and algae. Cracks in render are filled with flexible masonry filler. Stabilising solution applied to any chalky or powdery areas. Two coats of masonry paint applied — first coat thinned 10–20% with water for absorption, second coat at full strength. Pebbledash needs more paint per m² than smooth render (textured surface) and brush-and-roller application requires patience.
Typical Costs
| Item | Low (£) | High (£) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Masonry paint per litre | 15 | 40 | Dulux Weathershield, Sandtex |
| Render coating per litre | 20 | 50 | K-Rend, Wethertex |
| Terraced render painting | 1,000 | 2,500 | 2 storeys |
| Semi-detached render painting | 1,500 | 4,000 | 2 storeys |
| Detached render painting | 2,500 | 6,500 | 2 storeys |
| Pebbledash repaint (extra +20%) | +£300 | +£1,300 | vs smooth render |
| Scaffold hire per week | 400 | 1,200 | 2 weeks typical |
How Long Does It Take?
Terraced: 4–6 days. Semi-detached: 5–8 days. Detached: 7–12 days. Plus weather delays.
DIY or Professional?
Ground-floor render is DIY-able. Anything above first floor needs scaffolding — professional only. Working at height has strict regulations.
Choosing the Right Tradesperson
A painter and decorator with exterior experience, or a render coating specialist. Ask about prep — quality jobs spend 60% on prep. Confirm scaffold cost separately. Insist on biocide treatment if any algae visible.
UK Regulations
Working at Height for paid trades. Listed buildings: colour and material restrictions. Conservation areas may restrict colour palette.
Common Problems
- Painting over algae: Living organisms continue growing under paint. Always biocide-treat first.
- Render trapped moisture: Painting damp render bubbles within months. Allow drying time.
- Cheap paint on render: Vinyl emulsion peels on cement render. Always use proper masonry paint.
- Pebbledash inadequate coverage: Textured surface needs 2.5x the paint of smooth render. Don't undercoat.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does render paint last?
Quality masonry paint with proper prep: 10–15 years. Render coating: 15–25 years. Cheap or rushed: 3–5 years.
Can I paint pebbledash?
Yes — but requires more paint per m². Spray application is more efficient than brush. Use proper masonry paint.
Best masonry paint?
Sandtex 365 Trade, Dulux Weathershield, Crown Trade Sandtex Highbuild. For breathable solid-wall properties: Beeck Mineral Paint.
Will paint cover pebbledash texture?
Texture remains underneath paint. To get smooth: render over the pebbledash first (£40–£70 per m²) then paint.
What's a render coating?
Thick (1–3mm) acrylic-modified coating — K-Rend, Wethertex, Sto. Lasts 15–25 years vs 10–15 for masonry paint. 2–3x the cost.
Can I change colour completely?
Yes — but light over dark needs 3 coats. Dark over light needs 2. Pre-test on a sample area for true colour.
This guide was written with AI assistance and is intended for general information only. Prices are estimates based on UK averages and may vary by region. Always get at least three quotes and consult a qualified professional before starting any work.
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