Your house’s exterior is tired, chipped and a bit embarrassing. What was once glossy and dramatic now looks lap-worn and dated, and every time you pull into the driveway, those raggedy walls remind you it’s time to update. You’ve possibly investigated rendering as the solution, desiring an end result that appears clean and solid. But there’s one question you keep getting stuck on: How much does rendering cost in 2026? Prices are all over the place, and there’s a high chance that you will end up overpaying. This blog will explain the costs for rendering based on different material types so that you can plan with confidence and clarity.
The rendering brick wall cost will be different across materials. Some are all about freedom of movement and anti-crack performance, while others prioritise breathability and heritage appeal. Pricing of rendering Perth is determined by labour intensity, preparation work and durability. Picking the right render is essentially a trade between initial cost and long-term value.
Here’s an estimated breakdown of the rendering cost per square metre using different materials:
| Render Type | Cost Per SQM (2026) | Best For | Lifespan |
| Cement Render | $45–$65/sqm | Budget projects, modern homes | 20–30 years |
| Acrylic Render | $60–$85/sqm | Used in a majority of homes, low-maintenance | 25–35 years |
| Bagged Brick | $35–$50/sqm | Heritage look, existing brick | 15–25 years |
| Polymer Render | $70–$90/sqm | Premium finish, crack-resistant | 30–40 years |
| Lime Render | $50–$70/sqm | Heritage homes, breathable | 40–50+ years |
Cement has the cheapest rendering price. It has been a long-time favourite due to its ease of application and the neat look it gives. It has a crisp contemporary appearance that revives tired brickwork quickly and is a popular selection for budget projects.
But cement render is more brittle than modern options, so you may experience cracking as your building ages. With proper care, it can still serve you well for many years.
Resins are added to acrylic render for better flexibility and water resistance. This means it is a lot less likely to crack than cement render and is more suitable for fluctuating weather.
It balances performance and rendering cost so well that it is the best choice for many. Acrylic systems prove to hold their colour for long periods of time and almost never need re-painting.
Bagged brick render coats existing bricks, thinning out slightly over the original surface to give a softer textural rather than a perfectly smooth look. It lets the structure underneath show through slightly, retaining the building’s charm.
Most home builders perth usually choose this for renovation and character homes, where a full render may be too modern. Although it’s a cheap method, it weakens the render system in comparison to thicker systems.
Polymer render is a high-end product specifically designed to give super strength and flexibility. It excels in demanding conditions and considerably reduces the risk of cracking, even when used on large areas.
It is a highly durable, contemporary and smooth finish with a high sheen that is favoured by architects and premium home builders. The initial house rendering cost is outweighed by long-term savings.
Lime render is particularly good for traditional properties and homes with heritage features. It lets walls breathe. So, it is a boon in moisture management and preventing long-term problems.
This traditional material matures beautifully over time and can last for decades when applied correctly. Installation is labour-intensive and requires specialist skill, which contributes to its higher home rendering costs.
Below are real-life style examples to show how the per square metre cost of renderings translates into full project budgets.
One wall or feature wall (20–30sqm):
$45–$65/sqm × 20–30 sqm = $900–$1,950
$60–$85/sqm × 20–30 sqm = $1,200–$2,550
$70–$90/sqm × 20–30 sqm = $1,400–$2,700
Total cost with preparation and access: $1,800–$3,800
$45–$65/sqm × 40–60 sqm = $1,800–$3,900
$60–$85/sqm × 40–60 sqm = $2,400–$5,100
$70–$90/sqm × 40–60 sqm = $2,800–$5,400
Typical total range: $3,800–$8,500
Individual surfaces differ, but are mostly 50–80 sqm.
$45–$65/sqm × 50–80 sqm = $2,250–$5,200
$60–$85/sqm × 50–80 sqm = $3,000–$6,800
Typical total range: $3,200–$7,000
Rendering an entire home is the most cost-effective in terms of price per square metre, as labour and set-up charges are dispersed among more walls. So, how much does it cost to render a house? Below are estimated rates based on material rates and standard exterior surface areas.
Two-storey homes cost more due to height, scaffolding, and increased labour required by Perth bricklayers.
Cement render $45–$65/sqm = $9,000–$19,500
Acrylic render $60–$85/sqm = $12,000–$25,500
Polymer render $70–$90/sqm = $14,000–$27,000
The totals can climb higher for homes with balconies, alcoves or architectural detail. Complex access and premium finishes can drive costs to as much as $50,000.
$45–$65/sqm × 120–180 sqm = $5,400–$11,700
$60–$85/sqm × 120–180 sqm = $7,200–$15,300
$70–$90/sqm × 120–180 sqm = $8,400–$16,200
Most finished projects fall between $7,000 and $14,000. The exact price is determined by wall condition, preparation work and site access.
Choosing the right render is about more than just the price on a quote. It conditions how your home ages, the maintenance cycles that follow, and overall satisfaction with the end result. With short-term plans, a cheaper option may be appropriate. But the more you spend up front, the less likely you are to be hit with those cracking, painting and repair bills in years to come. The choice will come down to the age of your home and how long you want the surface to last. So, it’s useful to understand where different renderings work best.
Check out a comparison of the different render types based on various priorities:
| Priority | Best Choice | Cost | Why? |
| Budget | Cement render | $45 to $65/sqm | Cheap but functional |
| Value | Acrylic render | $60 to $85/sqm | Balance of cost and performance |
| Longevity | Polymer render | $70 to $90/sqm | Durable for a long time |
| Heritage | Lime render | $50 to $70/sqm | Breathable material |
Disclaimer: The prices mentioned in this guide are all approximations and should be used as guides only. Pricing will depend on the surface for rendering, wall condition, access to the wall, materials and other factors. For an exact number, an in-home visit and a written quote are always recommended.
Rendering services are something that should be seen as an asset, not just to make your property look good, but also to keep it protected in the long run. Though a huge range of prices exists, knowledge of the differences in materials makes planning so much easier. A simple cement finish will serve you as well as a high-end polymer system. The one you choose will largely depend on the balance between budget, value and long-term durability. This way, you move on confidently based on realistic pricing and examples from real life instead of whatever hypotheticals or vague estimates you might hear somewhere.