Facade rendering: compare quotes and prices

New render, a finishing coat or repairs?

On a bare wall, work starts with the existing masonry or concrete. On an already rendered façade, a new finish may suffice if the existing layers are suitable. Repairing individual damaged areas is a different job again. Describe the result you want; the contractor can determine the appropriate build-up after inspection.

Inspect the substrate before covering it

A contractor assesses factors including strength, adhesion, absorption and existing coatings. Paint that appears firmly attached does not prove that every underlying layer is sound. Have the quote identify which areas will remain, be prepared or be removed.

On older buildings, potential hazardous materials need assessment before dust-producing work. Historic stone walls and old lime render require a compatible solution. The hardest new render is not automatically the most suitable.

Consider cracks, damp and plinths separately

Cracks can originate in the render or in deeper building elements. A reinforced overcoat is therefore not a universal remedy. Mention recurring damage or visible changes; the contractor needs to establish the cause and repair method.

Damp patches or white deposits often require more than a new visible layer. Splashing water and proximity to the ground add demands at the plinth. Render work and any necessary waterproofing should be identifiable separately in the quotation, so the job addresses more than appearances.

Approve the texture and colour on a sample

Fine, coarse and decorative finishes look different across a whole wall than in a small picture. Agree on a sample area showing the intended texture and colour. Also establish whether painting forms part of the proposed system or is an additional job.

A local repair may remain visible. Ask whether finishing covers only the repaired spot or a complete continuous elevation. This affects both cost and appearance. Materials and finishes on an insulated façade must suit its existing system.

Describe the façade area

The relevant measurement is the wall area requiring work, not the home's floor area. An elevation 9 metres wide and 6 metres high initially gives 54 m². A triangular gable with a 9-metre base and 2-metre height adds 9 m². Openings, reveals and the plinth can then be assessed more precisely in the measurement survey.

A reasonable estimate is enough for the enquiry. For local repairs, state the affected area. The highest working point and obstacles such as a conservatory, slope or narrow passage help the contractor assess access and scaffolding.

What determines the price of external rendering?

A price for a finishing coat alone is not comparable to a complete new build-up. A price per bag of material says little about the finished façade either. Removal, preparation, layers, junction details and access all matter. Small repairs can cost more per square metre because setup and travel still take time.

Published prices do not define these services consistently. We therefore do not turn them into an apparent Swiss average. Instead, request the same items for the same area and compare the total with VAT clearly stated.

• Preparation. Protection, assessment, removal of loose layers, disposal and repairs.
• Render system. Specified layers, areas, profiles, reveals, plinth and final treatment.
• Site costs. Scaffolding and hire period, protective measures, transport and final cleaning.
• Unexpected work. How additional defects, time-based charges and your approval of extras will be handled.

From enquiry to a clear agreement

1. Describe the scope. New render, renewal or repairs; provide area, height and visible damage.
2. Have the existing façade checked. Inspect layers and junctions at the site visit and agree on any investigations.
3. Specify the work. Confirm the sample, scope, price and rules for additional work in writing.
4. Agree on timing. Allow work and intervals between coats to suit the system and weather. Working days do not equal the complete site duration.

What to check at handover

Compare the finished surface with the agreed sample and scope. Look at junctions around windows, the plinth and other components together. Have the products used, outstanding matters and care instructions documented.

Colour, grain size and layer details are useful for future repairs. Keep these with the quotation so any later changes can be assessed for compatibility with the existing render.