Rendering cost calculator
Our rendering cost calculator gives you a quick estimate for rendering your walls, based on the area you enter and the type of render you choose. The notes below explain how to measure accurately, what the figure does and does not cover, and how to use it when the quotes come in.
Work out your rendering cost
Measure the walls you want rendered, choose a render and see an estimated price range for materials and labour.
Area to render: 0 m²
Enter your measurements to see an estimate.
Estimate for materials and labour only, based on the per square metre prices published by Less.co.uk (checked October 2026). It does not include scaffolding, removing old render or repairs to the wall underneath. Checkatrade suggests budgeting around £875 a week for scaffolding on a two storey semi, and puts removing old render at £1,500 to £8,000.
How to measure your walls
You do not need to be exact, but a careful measurement makes the estimate far more useful. Treat each side of the house you want rendered as a separate wall, measure its width along the ground with a long tape or a laser measure, and estimate its height from the ground to the eaves. For a two-storey house, counting brick courses and multiplying by the height of one course is a reliable way to work out the height without a ladder.
Enter each wall's width and height in metres and the calculator multiplies them for you. If a wall has a pitched gable at the top, measure the triangle separately by multiplying its base by its height and halving the result, then add it as its own wall. If you already know the total area, perhaps from plans or a previous survey, you can enter it directly instead.
Taking off windows and doors
Windows, doors and garage openings are not rendered, so their area should come off the total. Measure the width and height of each opening, multiply them, and add the results together before entering the figure in the windows and doors box. On a typical house this can take a noticeable amount off the wall area, so it is worth doing rather than guessing.
Bear in mind that the reveals around each opening, the inside faces of the wall around the frame, still need rendering and beading. Plasterers allow for this in their pricing, which is one reason a quote may be based on a slightly larger area than your own measurement.
What the estimate includes
The calculator gives a range for materials and labour to apply the render you choose. It uses one set of published per square metre prices from Less.co.uk for every render type, so the options compare like for like, and our house rendering cost guide sets out those figures alongside other sources. If you are weighing up a thin-coat finish, our silicone rendering cost guide explains how it differs from traditional render.
What the estimate leaves out
Several costs that often appear on a real quote are not included, because they depend on the house rather than the wall area. Some of them can be significant, and a plasterer will only be able to price them after seeing the walls. The main ones are listed below.
- Scaffolding, which nearly every two-storey job needs and which is usually priced by the week.
- Removing old render, which can be a large job in its own right.
- Repairs to the wall underneath, such as replacing damaged bricks or treating damp.
- Beads and trims at corners, window reveals and the base of the wall.
- Pebbledash removal, if your house has it, which our pebbledash removal page explains.
- Painting, if you choose a render that needs it, and any building control or planning fees.
Our rendering cost guide includes the published figures for scaffolding and render removal, so you can add a sensible allowance for each to the calculator's range.
Using your estimate to compare quotes
The estimate is most useful as a check rather than a target. If every quote you receive is well above the calculator's range, look at what extras each one includes, as scaffolding and preparation usually explain the difference. If one quote is far below the others, ask what it leaves out before you accept it.
When the quotes arrive, check that each one is based on a similar wall area to your own measurement and names the same render system and finish. Look for clear lines for scaffolding, preparation, beads, sills and making good, and ask whether VAT is included. A quote that sets these out clearly is usually easier to compare and less likely to bring surprises once work starts.
When you are ready, you can fill in our short form or call 01273 115520 to get up to 3 free quotes from checked local plasterers in Sussex, with no obligation to go ahead.
Plastering services we cover
Frequently asked questions
How accurate is the rendering cost calculator?+
It gives a reasonable range for materials and labour, based on published UK prices, but it cannot see the condition of your walls. Preparation, scaffolding and access can change the final price considerably, so use it as a guide and rely on written quotes for a firm figure.
Should I include the reveals around windows in my measurements?+
You do not need to, as the calculator is designed around the main wall area. Just remember that reveals still need rendering, so a plasterer's measured area may come out slightly higher than yours.
Does the calculator include scaffolding?+
No. Scaffolding is priced separately and depends on the height of the house, access and how long the job takes. Our rendering cost guide gives published scaffolding figures you can add to your estimate.
Which render type should I choose in the calculator?+
Choose the render you are considering, or try several to see how the range changes. Lime is usually best for solid-walled period homes, while silicone and monocouche are through-coloured and do not need painting. A plasterer can advise which suits your walls.
Can I use the calculator for external wall insulation?+
No. External wall insulation is a full system of boards, base coat and render, and it costs considerably more than render alone. Our external wall insulation cost guide covers it separately.
Compare up to 3 free quotes
Tell us about the job and up to 3 checked local plasterers will be in touch with quotes. There is no charge and no obligation. Or call 01273 115520.