Frequently Asked Questions

WP will never expose the customer to any financial deficit. The small deposit is just to hold the slot, and a 30% invoice will be raised when all materials and scaffolding are in place and not before.

Fixtures and fittings will need to be removed and plumbing pipes and electrical cables extended if necessary to accommodate the new render/external wall insulation. We can carry out this work should you wish and will be added to your quote.

We can also provide scaffolding, welfare for our workers and protection for your property. This will be discussed with you at our initial visit and outlined in your quote.

Although speedy and a very visually rewarding home improvement, rendering is a messy process so protection is applied to the ground, window and door frames and adjacent wall finishes.

We will carry out a daily clean up to limit the impact on your daily life during the works. Following the completion of rendering works, our team will carry out a comprehensive removal of protection and final clear-up.

Yes, we are part of Trustmark which is the only government endorsed body for work carried out around the home. To be part of this, we have to follow strict rules and prove regularly that we are following the correct procedures and are competent at the work we carry out.

We are also part of the federation of master builders and have our own city and guilds qualified staff carrying out work.

Currently, the government have abolished VAT on insulated wall render so it’s a great time to take advantage of this saving. Other types of render will incur VAT at the prevailing rate.

Most domestic rendering projects take between one and three weeks depending on the size of the property, the condition of the existing walls, preparation required, weather conditions and the render system being installed. Larger projects, external wall insulation and insulated lime render systems may take longer because there are more stages involved.

Rendering is best carried out in dry, mild conditions. Spring, summer and early autumn are often ideal, but rendering can be completed at other times of the year if temperatures and weather conditions are suitable. We always follow manufacturer guidance to ensure the render cures correctly.

Yes, rendering can sometimes be carried out during winter, but it depends on the temperature, rain, frost and drying conditions. Some systems cannot be applied in very cold or wet weather. We will always advise honestly if conditions are not suitable, as applying render in poor weather can affect the finish and long-term performance.

Rendering can improve the appearance, weather protection and kerb appeal of a property. When combined with external wall insulation, it may also improve energy efficiency and EPC performance. While property values vary, a professionally installed render system can make a home more attractive to future buyers.

This depends on the type of render installed. Traditional sand and cement render usually needs time to fully cure before painting. Modern coloured render systems, such as silicone render and monocouche render, are available in a wide range of colours and often do not need painting at all.

Yes, cracked render can often be repaired, but the cause of the cracking needs to be checked first. Small surface cracks may be repaired locally, while larger or repeated cracking could indicate movement, poor adhesion, trapped moisture or failure of the existing render. In some cases, removal and replacement may be the better long-term solution.

A professionally installed render system can last for many years when the correct materials are used and the surface is properly prepared. Lifespan depends on the render type, exposure, property condition and maintenance. Silicone render, lime render, monocouche and external wall insulation systems all have different performance characteristics.

Our quotations may be accepted within 30 days unless stated otherwise. The quoted price normally applies to work commencing within six months of the quotation date. If work begins after that period, we may review the price and issue a revised quotation.

A £500 deposit is required to secure your booking unless your quotation states otherwise. The deposit is credited against the first payment due for the project. Your booking is not secured until the deposit has been received in cleared funds.

Unless a different schedule is stated in your quotation, 40% is payable when work commences, 40% at the agreed midpoint and the remaining 20% on completion.

We will discuss and agree any work outside the original quotation before carrying it out. Unless another rate is agreed in writing, additional labour is charged at £45 per person per hour, together with the cost of any additional materials, equipment, subcontractors and associated expenses. We will confirm the applicable VAT treatment before the additional work begins.

Yes, our external wall insulation installations come with a comprehensive, insurance-backed warranty covering both materials and workmanship for up to 25 years on specific External wall insulation types, please ask for more info.

As a TrustMark-approved company, we offer the added security of a QualityMark insurance-backed warranty, ensuring your investment is protected—even in the unlikely event that WP Rendering is no longer operating.

The cost of external wall insulation varies depending on your property size, the type of insulation system used, access requirements, and the chosen render finish. For an accurate and tailored estimate, we recommend getting in touch so we can assess your property and provide a detailed quote.

Yes – external wall insulation can significantly improve your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating. By reducing heat loss through solid walls, EWI improves thermal efficiency, helping to lower energy bills and potentially increase your property’s resale value.

Planning permission is generally not required for external wall insulation unless your home is listed, in a conservation area, or the proposed finish will dramatically alter the appearance of the property. If you’re unsure, we’re happy to advise and assist with any necessary applications.

Yes. External wall insulation helps reduce heat loss through external walls, which means your heating system does not have to work as hard to keep your home warm. It is especially effective on older solid wall properties. The exact savings depend on the property, insulation thickness, heating system and how the home is used.

External wall insulation helps create a more consistent internal temperature by reducing heat loss and cold wall surfaces. Many homeowners notice their home feels warmer, less draughty and more comfortable, especially during colder months. It can also help reduce cold spots on external walls.

External wall insulation can help with damp and mould caused by condensation by making internal wall surfaces warmer. However, it will not fix damp caused by leaking gutters, roof issues, failed pointing, rising damp or other structural problems. These issues should be inspected and resolved before insulation is installed.

In many cases, yes. Condensation often forms when warm indoor air meets cold wall surfaces. External wall insulation helps keep internal wall surfaces warmer, reducing the chance of condensation forming. Good ventilation is still important.

Sometimes, but the existing render must be inspected first. If it is solid, well bonded and suitable to carry the system, it may be possible. If the existing render is loose, cracked, hollow or failing, it will usually need to be removed before the external wall insulation system is installed.

Yes. Brickwork is one of the most common surfaces for external wall insulation. The brickwork must be sound, clean and suitable for the system. Any repairs, loose areas or damp issues should be dealt with before installation.

External wall insulation can improve kerb appeal, thermal performance and energy efficiency, which may make a property more attractive to buyers. It can also help improve EPC ratings in many cases. The exact impact on value depends on the property, location and quality of installation.

WP Rendering installs certified external wall insulation systems using approved materials and correct installation methods. Where applicable, systems can be supported with recognised warranties and guarantees, which helps provide confidence for homeowners, buyers and mortgage lenders.

In many cases, external wall insulation can qualify for 0% VAT as an energy-saving material, subject to current Government rules and eligibility. This can make EWI more cost-effective for homeowners. WP Rendering can explain this during the quotation process.

Silicone render is a modern, thin-coat finishing render that is highly flexible, water-repellent, and available in a wide range of colours and textures. It’s ideal for new builds and external wall insulation systems.

Silicone render is more durable, breathable, and resistant to algae and weathering than cement or monocouche render. It also maintains its colour longer and requires less maintenance.

Yes, if the substrate is stable and properly prepared, silicone render can be applied to older homes. For breathable systems, it can also be used over insulation boards on solid-wall properties.

Silicone render is water-repellent, which means it resists rain and moisture while still allowing walls to breathe — helping to protect the underlying structure.

Silicone render systems are known for their durability and can last 25–30 years with minimal maintenance. Their resistance to staining and fading makes them a popular long-term solution.

Silicone render is designed to be more flexible than traditional cement-based render, which helps reduce the risk of cracking. However, no render system is completely crack-proof. Correct preparation, reinforcement mesh and professional installation are essential for long-term performance.

Silicone render is often described as self-cleaning because it is water-repellent. Rainwater helps wash away dirt from the surface, keeping the finish cleaner for longer. It still may need occasional cleaning in shaded, exposed or high-pollution areas.

Silicone render is resistant to algae and organic growth because it absorbs very little water. However, algae can still appear in shaded areas, near trees or on elevations that receive little sunlight. Occasional cleaning can help keep the finish looking fresh.

Silicone render should not be cleaned with high pressure directly against the surface, as this can damage the finish. A soft wash, low-pressure clean or manufacturer-approved cleaning method is usually safer.

Drying times depend on the product, temperature, humidity and weather conditions. Silicone render generally needs dry, mild conditions to cure correctly. Rain, cold weather or high humidity can extend drying times.

High-quality silicone render is designed to be colour stable and resistant to UV fading. Over time, all external finishes can weather slightly, but silicone render generally holds its colour well when correctly installed and maintained.

Lime render is breathable and flexible, making it suitable for many older, solid wall, timber frame and heritage properties. It allows moisture vapour to escape naturally, helping reduce trapped moisture and protect the building fabric.

For older and traditional buildings, lime render is often more suitable than cement render because it is breathable and more sympathetic to the original construction. Cement render can trap moisture in solid walls, which may lead to damp, decay and long-term damage.

Lime render can help buildings manage moisture more naturally by allowing trapped moisture to escape through the wall. However, it is important to identify the cause of damp first. Leaks, failed gutters, ground levels and structural issues should be dealt with before rendering work begins.

Lime render can be finished in different ways depending on the system used. Breathable finishes such as limewash or mineral-based paints are often recommended. Non-breathable masonry paints should usually be avoided on traditional buildings.

Insulated lime render is a breathable wall insulation and render system designed for older, solid wall, timber frame and heritage properties. It improves thermal performance while allowing moisture vapour to move through the wall naturally. This makes it different from many modern non-breathable systems.

Yes. Insulated lime render systems are often suitable for listed buildings, heritage properties and older solid wall homes because they are breathable and compatible with traditional building materials. These systems can help improve thermal performance while allowing the building to breathe naturally and retain its original character.

Every listed building is different, so we always recommend assessing the property carefully and checking whether conservation or planning approval may be required before work begins.

Common insulation materials used in breathable lime render systems include wood fibre insulation boards, cork and mineral-based insulation products. These vapour-open materials allow moisture to escape naturally, helping to reduce the risk of trapped damp within the wall structure.

When combined with breathable lime renders, these systems can help improve thermal performance while maintaining vapour permeability, making them suitable for older and solid wall properties.

The process involves fixing breathable insulation boards to the exterior wall, applying a reinforcing mesh and basecoat, and finishing with a hand-applied lime render in your choice of finish and colour.

Insulated lime render helps improve the thermal performance of a property while allowing the walls to remain breathable. This makes it ideal for older and solid wall properties where trapped moisture can become a problem. It can help reduce heat loss, improve comfort levels, reduce condensation issues and maintain the character of traditional buildings.

Yes. Insulated lime render systems are designed to be breathable, allowing moisture vapour to escape naturally through the building fabric. This can help reduce trapped moisture, damp and condensation problems often associated with cement-based renders and non-breathable wall systems.

Insulated lime rendering is commonly used on older properties, solid wall homes, period properties, heritage buildings and some listed buildings. It is often recommended where breathability and sympathetic restoration are important.

Yes. Breathable insulated lime render systems can help reduce condensation by allowing moisture to escape naturally through the wall structure rather than becoming trapped inside the property. This can help improve moisture management within older and solid wall buildings.

Yes. Insulated lime render systems are particularly well suited to solid wall properties because they help improve insulation performance without trapping moisture within the walls.

In many cases, old cement render should be removed before applying a breathable insulated lime system. Cement render can trap moisture and prevent the wall from breathing properly. A proper assessment should always be carried out before installation.

Insulated lime render can be finished in a way that maintains or restores the original character of a property. Architectural details and traditional features can often be recreated to sympathetically match the building.

When installed correctly using high-quality materials, insulated lime render systems can provide long-term durability and performance. Proper maintenance and correct installation are important for longevity.

Yes. Insulated lime render can improve thermal performance by reducing heat loss through older walls while maintaining breathability. This makes it a strong option for properties where standard external wall insulation may not be suitable.

Many breathable lime systems use natural and sustainable materials such as lime and wood fibre insulation boards. These materials can offer a more environmentally conscious solution compared to some modern cement-based systems.

Insulated lime render systems can be finished with a range of breathable finishes and mineral or silicate paints in different colours and textures depending on the desired appearance of the property.

Unlike cement render, insulated lime render systems are breathable and flexible. Cement render can trap moisture and contribute to cracking or damp problems in older properties, whereas lime systems allow moisture to escape naturally.

Yes. Breathable lime systems can help protect older buildings by reducing trapped moisture within the wall structure while also improving thermal performance and weather protection.

The cost of insulated lime render can vary depending on the size of the property, condition of the existing walls, insulation requirements and the level of preparation needed. Because breathable lime systems are specialist applications, costs can differ from standard rendering systems. We recommend arranging a site visit so we can provide an accurate quotation based on your property and requirements.

External wall insulation usually uses insulation boards fixed to the outside of a property before being finished with render. Insulated lime render uses breathable insulating materials and lime-based finishes, making it more suitable for traditional buildings, timber frame properties and older solid wall homes where moisture management is important.

Lime render is recommended for many timber frame buildings because it allows moisture to escape from the wall structure. Timber needs to stay dry to remain healthy. Non-breathable materials can trap moisture and increase the risk of rot or decay.

Yes, cement render can damage timber frame buildings if it traps moisture within the wall. Timber frame properties usually need breathable materials that allow moisture vapour to escape. Lime render and breathable insulation systems are often more appropriate.

Signs may include damp patches, mould, peeling paint, condensation, musty smells, soft timber, cracking render or areas that stay wet for long periods. These problems can be caused by non-breathable materials trapping moisture in the wall.

Yes, breathable insulation can help improve warmth while allowing moisture to move naturally through the wall. This is especially important for timber frame buildings, where trapped moisture can cause serious long-term problems.

Often, yes. If a property is listed, external changes such as removing, replacing or altering render may require Listed Building Consent. Homeowners should check with their local conservation officer before starting work.

Yes, lime render is commonly used on Grade II listed and heritage buildings because it is breathable and sympathetic to traditional construction. The correct specification will depend on the property, existing materials and conservation requirements.

Yes. Lime render can be finished in a way that suits the age, style and character of the building. It can help protect the structure while maintaining a traditional appearance.

Some modern cement-based or non-breathable renders can trap moisture in historic walls. This may lead to damp, salt damage, timber decay or deterioration of the original materials. Breathable lime systems are often more suitable for heritage properties.

Internal wall insulation involves adding insulation to the inside of external walls to help improve thermal performance and reduce heat loss within a property.

Yes. Breathable internal wall insulation systems can be suitable for older and solid wall properties where moisture management and breathability are important.

Yes. Properly designed breathable internal wall insulation systems can help reduce cold surfaces and improve moisture management within the property.

Breathable internal wall insulation systems may use materials such as cork, wood fibre insulation boards and lime-based plasters or renders.

Internal wall insulation can slightly reduce internal room dimensions depending on the system used and insulation thickness required.

This depends on the property. External wall insulation is often preferred where possible, but internal wall insulation may be more suitable for properties where the external appearance needs to remain unchanged.

Yes. Internal wall insulation can help reduce heat loss through external walls and improve overall energy efficiency within the property.

Yes. Breathable systems help moisture escape naturally and can help reduce the risk of trapped damp within older properties.

Yes. Internal wall insulation can often be installed room by room, which helps reduce disruption and allows homeowners to phase the work over time. This is useful where external wall insulation is not suitable or where only certain rooms are affected by cold walls.

Usually not. Most internal wall insulation projects can be completed while you remain in the property, although the rooms being worked on will need to be cleared and access will be required.

Sockets, switches, pipework and radiators may need to be adjusted or moved forward to suit the new insulated wall build-up. This should be allowed for during planning and quotation.

Internal wall insulation can help reduce mould where the cause is condensation on cold wall surfaces. It works by making the internal wall warmer. However, ventilation, heating, leaks and humidity levels should also be considered.

It depends on the property. External wall insulation is often more complete because it wraps the outside of the building, but internal wall insulation can be useful where the outside appearance cannot be changed, such as on listed buildings, terraced homes or certain conservation areas.

Composite cladding provides a modern, low-maintenance external finish. It is resistant to rot, weathering and fading, and can be used to create feature areas on homes, extensions and renovation projects. It is a good option where customers want a contemporary appearance.

Yes. Composite cladding can often be combined with external wall insulation to create a modern finish while improving energy efficiency. It can be used on selected elevations or feature sections to add visual interest.

Composite cladding is very low maintenance compared with natural timber, but it is not completely maintenance free. It should be cleaned occasionally to remove dirt, dust and algae, especially in shaded or exposed areas.

Most rendered walls can be cleaned with water, a soft brush and gentle cleaning methods. Avoid aggressive pressure washing unless the render manufacturer confirms it is suitable. Regular light cleaning helps keep the finish looking fresh.

Modern render systems such as silicone render are low maintenance, but it is sensible to visually inspect the property once or twice a year. Check for impact damage, blocked gutters, algae growth, cracks or areas where water is running down the wall.

Yes. Localised render repairs are often possible, depending on the render system and extent of the damage. Colour and texture matching should be considered, especially with older finishes.

Some render systems can be repainted, but the correct paint must be used. Older and lime-rendered properties often need breathable mineral paint or limewash. Silicone and coloured renders may not need repainting for many years.

Building Regulations approval may be required depending on the type and extent of the work. This can include projects where more than 50% of an individual thermal element is renovated or where the work forms part of a major renovation affecting more than 25% of the external building envelope.

Requirements vary between projects, so you should check with your local authority building control department before work begins. We can help explain the process and, where required, assist with arranging suitable inspection and compliance services.

A Competent Person Scheme allows a registered installer to self-certify certain types of building work as compliant with the Building Regulations, without the customer having to make a separate building-control application for that work.

Only work that falls within the scope of the installer’s current scheme registration can be self-certified

Our Competent Person Scheme registration applies only to qualifying external wall insulation systems with a silicone render finish.

Your quotation will confirm whether your project is covered and whether self-certification is included. Render-only work and other systems or finishes may require a separate building-control application.

If your quotation confirms that the project will be self-certified under our Competent Person Scheme registration, we will arrange the relevant scheme notification and certification.

For work that is not covered by our registration, the customer is responsible for determining whether approval is required and for obtaining it before work begins.

Yes. We can help make the process easier and arrange access to independent professionals who may be able to undertake inspections and compliance work.

This service is subject to availability and may involve additional application, inspection or professional fees. Any applicable charges will be explained before arrangements are made.

If the work is eligible for self-certification and this is included in your quotation, the appropriate compliance certificate will be issued through the Competent Person Scheme following successful completion and registration of the work.

Where approval is obtained separately through building control, the relevant building control authority or appointed professional will be responsible for issuing any completion documentation.

Many rendering projects do not require planning permission, but permission may be needed if the work materially changes the appearance of the property or if the property is listed, situated in a conservation area or subject to other restrictions.

The customer is responsible for checking whether planning permission or another consent is required and for obtaining it before work begins. Your local planning authority can provide project-specific guidance.

No. Planning permission concerns how work affects the appearance, use and surrounding area of a property. Building Regulations cover matters such as energy efficiency, fire safety, structure and technical compliance.

A project may require one, both or neither, so each requirement should be checked separately.

WP Rendering can offer manufacturer warranties and, on qualifying systems, insurance-backed guarantees. The guarantee available depends on the render or insulation system installed. This will be explained clearly during the quotation process.

Selected systems can be supported by insurance-backed guarantees, giving homeowners added peace of mind. This is particularly important for external wall insulation and larger property improvement projects.

WP Rendering is TrustMark registered and installs approved external wall insulation systems in line with recognised standards. This helps ensure the work is carried out correctly and gives customers confidence in the quality of installation.

Yes. Many of the systems installed by WP Rendering are supported by manufacturer warranties when fitted correctly and in line with the specification. Warranty details vary depending on the system used.

External wall insulation may qualify for 0% VAT under current rules for energy-saving materials. This can reduce the overall cost for eligible homeowners. WP Rendering can confirm how VAT applies when preparing your quotation.

This is dependent on the type of paint used as the new render system will be relying on its bond to the substrate. In some circumstances External Wall Insulation can be a more cost-effective option than extensive preparation of previously rendered/painted substrates as there is currently no VAT. This can make it more economical than taking off existing paint and adding on 20% VAT.

WP rendering only render over paint as a last resort even though we would use all measures to make sure it works. Customers should always check with the render manufacturer they will see that all manufacturers do not like to apply render directly onto painted surfaces. It’s always a last resort and usually there are always better solutions to overcome this.

We offer an array of colours to chose from. We have a colour chart in which you can select a few colours and we will arrange samples of these colours to be delivered to you from the supplier to ensure you are happy with your choice. The finish will depend on the product chosen and will be discussed with you when you receive the quote.

K- Render is often misused by companies with little or no experience in rendering or by companies looking to offer a cheap ’solution’. For example, properties built pre-1920 are often built using lime mortar instead of the modern cement we use today and K-Render should never be used in this situation. If K-Render is used here it can crack and cause damp issues on the inside of the house as it prevents the house from breathing. Using K-render over painted surfaces is also not a suitable solution as it is too heavy, thus causing the paint below, and subsequently the K-Render, to fail.

K-Render and Monocouche are designed for use on new build 7 Newton blocks. They are both average in performance in these situations and are usually lower in price.

Our recommendation would be to upgrade your render to a silicone based product as this much more flexible and therefore 99.9% crack free and can be used on a wide range of properties. This is because the base coats come with fibres within them, and in conjunction with an embedded nylon mesh and a silicone resin, pre coloured, top coat it allows more movement. We can also tailor the system to be fully breathable should the building require this.

WP will only use the correct materials for the correct application and we can back this up with the manufacturers technical data, which we will be happy to share with you.