In short
- A three-bed semi usually takes one to two weeks on site.
- Large detached houses take two to four weeks; EWI projects longer.
- Curing time between coats sets the minimum pace.
- Rain, cold and wind can add days, especially outside late spring to early autumn.
Typical programmes
| Property | Typical time on site |
|---|---|
| Bungalow | 5–10 working days |
| Terraced house | 5–10 working days |
| Three-bed semi | 7–14 working days |
| Four-bed detached | 10–20 working days |
| Whole-house EWI | 15–30 working days |
A typical sequence
- Scaffold up.
- Preparation: removal, repairs, cleaning.
- Beads fixed.
- Base coat and mesh.
- Curing.
- Primer.
- Topcoat.
- Snagging, clean-up, scaffold down.
What causes delays
Weather is the main one. See best time of year to render. Unexpected substrate problems also add time.
Curing times between stages
Each layer of a system needs time before the next goes on. Typical guidance, which varies by product and weather:
| Stage | Typical wait before next stage |
|---|---|
| Base coat with mesh | Commonly several days, longer in cool, damp weather |
| Primer | Usually at least 12–24 hours |
| Monocouche scraping | Hours after application, once firm |
| Lime coats | Often a week or more between coats |
Rushing these waits is a common cause of cracking and poor adhesion.
Planning your project timeline
The time on site is only part of the story. Allow for:
- Enquiry to survey: a few days to a couple of weeks.
- Quotes and decision: one to three weeks.
- Planning permission, if needed: a householder application is normally decided within eight weeks.
- Contractor lead time: often several weeks in spring and summer.
- Building control notification, where Part L applies.
For a spring or summer project, starting enquiries in late winter is sensible.
Living with the work
Rendering is external, so daily life continues, but expect scaffold outside windows, some noise during hacking off, dust, and restricted access to paths and driveways. Keep windows closed during spraying and hacking. Agree with the contractor where materials, mixers and skips will sit.
Questions people ask
Can I stay in my house while it is rendered?
Yes. Rendering is external work.
Why does the render crew leave gaps between days?
Base coats need to cure before the next layer.
How long before I can clean or fix things to new render?
Follow the manufacturer's guidance; many systems need several weeks to cure fully before drilling or cleaning.