Pebble Dash Frequently Asked Questions

Below are few of the most frequently asked questions we get asked about our pebble dashing services.

How long will pebbledash last?

Pebbledash is a type of exterior wall finish made of small stones or pebbles. It has been used on homes and other buildings for centuries, but how long does it actually last?

Properly installed and maintained pebbledash can last anywhere from 20 to 40 years. However, there are a number of factors that can affect its lifespan, such as the quality of the materials used, the weather conditions in your area, and how well the pebbledash is cared for.

If you live in an area with harsh winters, for example, your pebbledash may not last as long as it would in a milder climate. And if you don’t regularly clean and seal your pebbledash, it will start to degrade much sooner than it should.

Is pebbledash waterproof?

While pebbledash is not waterproof, it is a good choice for areas that experience high rainfall. The gravel helps to deflect water away from the wall, and the mortar provides a barrier against moisture.

Is it a good idea to paint pebble dash?

There are several reasons why painting pebble dash may not be a good idea. First, the texture of the pebbles can make it difficult to get an even coat of paint. Second, the small size of the pebbles makes them susceptible to chipping and flaking when hit with a high-pressure stream of water from a hose or power washer. Finally, the porous nature of the mortar or plaster base can cause paint to peel or blister over time.

How much does pebble dashing cost?

Pebble dashing is a popular choice for both new construction and renovation projects because it is relatively inexpensive and easy to apply. Pebble dash can be applied over brick, concrete, or stucco.

The cost of pebble dash cover will vary depending on the size of your building and the amount of material you need. Generally, you can expect to pay between £50 and £100 per square metre for the materials and labour.

How much does it cost to remove pebble dashing?

The cost of removing pebble dashing will depend on the size of the home and the amount of pebble dashing that needs to be removed. Below are some guide prices to give you a rough idea of the cost of removing pebble dash:

House Size	Remove pebble dashing & re-render	Remove pebble dashing, restore & repoint brickwork	Time
2 bed terraced house	£2k - £3.5k	£3k - £4k	5 - 7 days
3 bed terraced house	£3.8k - £5k	£4.5k - £6.5k	7 - 10 days
3 bed semi detached house	£4.2k - £5.5k	£6.8k - £8.5k	10 - 14 days
4 bed detached house	£6k - £7.5k	Starting £10k	14 - 21 days

Can pebble dash be cleaned?

Over time, the pebbles can become stained and discolored. While it may be tempting to pressure wash the pebbles, this can actually damage the render and cause the pebbles to fall off. The best way to clean pebble dash is with a soft brush and soapy water. If you have stubborn stains, you can try using a diluted bleach solution. Be sure to rinse off any cleaner thoroughly to avoid damaging the render.

What causes pebble dash to crack?

There are a few different reasons why pebble dash may start to crack. One common reason is simply age; as the coating gets older it can become brittle and more susceptible to cracking. Another reason is poor quality materials or installation; if the original coat was not applied properly or if inferior materials were used, it is more likely to fail over time. Finally, movement in the underlying wall can also cause cracks in the pebbledash coating.

How thick should pebble dash be?

The thickness of the pebbledash should be around 10-15mm.

However, some people prefer to have a thicker layer of pebbledash, which can be up to 20mm thick. This will provide more protection for the underlying wall and can also help to insulate the property.