Can You Remove Render and Go Back to Brick?
Rendering is a common exterior finish used across the UK to protect brickwork and improve aesthetics. But what if you prefer the natural beauty of brick instead? Many homeowners ask the same question: can you remove render and go back to brick?
The short answer is yes, it’s often possible — but it’s not always straightforward. The process can be labour-intensive, messy, and costly if not done correctly. However, with proper preparation and professional techniques, you can safely strip off render and restore your brickwork underneath.
This article explores everything you need to know about render removal, including how it’s done, what it costs, what issues can arise, and how to ensure your exposed brick looks great and remains protected.
1. What Is Render and Why Is It Applied?
Render is a cement-based or polymer-based coating applied to the exterior walls of a building. It serves both practical and aesthetic purposes.
| Purpose | Description |
|---|---|
| Protection | Shields brickwork from wind, rain, frost, and pollution. |
| Insulation | Some modern renders include thermal properties. |
| Aesthetic improvement | Smooths uneven walls or hides damaged brickwork. |
| Weatherproofing | Prevents moisture penetration and damp. |
Render can be made from various materials, including:
- Traditional sand and cement
- Lime render
- Acrylic or silicone render
- Monocouche render (a pre-coloured, single-coat system)
While render has clear benefits, it also covers the natural texture and character of brickwork. Over time, it can also trap moisture or crack, leading some homeowners to want it removed.
2. Why Would You Want to Remove Render?
There are several reasons someone might want to go back to brick:
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Aesthetic preference | Exposed brick offers a classic, traditional look that’s very popular in the UK. |
| Render deterioration | Cracks, bulges, or flaking render can be unsightly and may trap moisture. |
| Historic restoration | Period properties are often more authentic when returned to their original brickwork. |
| Maintenance issues | Old render can hide underlying problems such as damp or crumbling mortar. |
| Cost over time | Repairing or repainting render can become expensive compared to maintaining brick. |
Exposing the original brickwork can add character and authenticity, especially on Victorian, Edwardian, or Georgian homes.
3. Can All Render Be Removed?
In most cases, yes, render can be removed. However, the ease and success depend on several factors:
| Factor | Influence on Removal |
|---|---|
| Type of render | Lime render is easier to remove than hard cement-based coatings. |
| Age of the render | Older render may be brittle and detach more easily. |
| Condition of the underlying brickwork | If bricks are weak or damaged, removal may expose defects. |
| Application thickness | Thicker render layers take more time and effort to remove. |
| Tools used for removal | Using inappropriate tools can damage the bricks beneath. |
4. What’s Underneath the Render?
The brickwork underneath might be in excellent condition — or it could be in poor shape. Since render often hides flaws, you may not know until you start removing it.
Possible conditions include:
- Clean, well-preserved bricks (best case)
- Discoloured or stained bricks
- Crumbling mortar joints
- Brick faces chipped during render application
- Residual adhesive or bonding agents
You should assume there will be some damage that needs repair. Soft red bricks, for example, can be particularly vulnerable to damage from the chisel or grinder used to remove render.
5. The Render Removal Process: Step by Step
Removing render requires care, patience, and the right tools. Below is a general step-by-step outline of how professionals typically approach it.
Step 1: Assessment
Before any work starts, the surface should be inspected to identify:
- Type and condition of render
- Condition of bricks and mortar
- Potential damp or structural issues
Step 2: Preparation
- Clear the surrounding area (windows, doors, garden, etc.).
- Erect scaffolding if necessary.
- Wear protective clothing, goggles, and masks.
Step 3: Initial Removal
- Use chisels, hammers, or render scrapers for softer renders.
- For tougher cement renders, mechanical tools such as SDS drills or grinders may be needed.
- Work carefully to avoid damaging the brick faces.
Step 4: Cleaning the Brickwork
- Remaining render residue is scrubbed or washed off.
- A mild acid wash or steam cleaning can help remove stubborn patches.
Step 5: Repointing
After render removal, joints between bricks may need repointing to replace missing or damaged mortar.
Step 6: Finishing and Sealing
- Clean the brickwork thoroughly.
- Optionally, apply a breathable water repellent to protect against moisture.
6. Tools and Equipment Commonly Used
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Chisel and hammer | Manual removal of render sections. |
| SDS drill with chisel bit | Faster removal for harder renders. |
| Angle grinder | Cutting and detailing near edges. |
| Wire brush or power washer | Cleaning residual material. |
| Dust mask and goggles | Essential for safety. |
7. Common Problems During Render Removal
While removing render, a few complications can arise:
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Brick face damage | Too much force or wrong tools. | Use gentler techniques, or repair damaged bricks. |
| Mortar erosion | Render bonded to mortar joints. | Repoint affected areas after removal. |
| Uneven brick colour | Weathering and trapped moisture under render. | Clean and treat with breathable sealer. |
| Hidden damp | Moisture trapped behind impermeable render. | Allow wall to dry fully before sealing. |
| Dust and debris | Inevitably created during process. | Use dust sheets, extraction tools, and masks. |
8. How Much Does Render Removal Cost in the UK?
Costs vary widely depending on the size of the property, accessibility, and render type. Below is a general cost breakdown for 2025 prices:
| Property Type | Approximate Area | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Small terrace (2-bed) | 60–80 m² | £1,800 – £3,000 |
| Semi-detached house | 100–150 m² | £3,500 – £5,500 |
| Detached house | 150–200 m² | £5,500 – £8,000+ |
| Garage or single wall | 15–30 m² | £400 – £900 |
Additional Costs to Consider
| Item | Description | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Scaffolding | Essential for safe access on higher walls. | £500 – £1,200 |
| Repointing | Replacing mortar after render removal. | £25 – £40 per m² |
| Brick cleaning | Acid wash, steam cleaning, or sandblasting. | £10 – £25 per m² |
| Waterproofing treatment | Breathable coating for protection. | £5 – £10 per m² |
In total, a full render removal and restoration could cost anywhere from £3,000 to £10,000 or more, depending on the scope of work.
9. Factors That Influence Cost
| Factor | Effect on Price |
|---|---|
| Render hardness | Harder renders take longer to remove. |
| Condition of brickwork | More repairs = higher costs. |
| Access difficulty | Roof height or tight spaces add expense. |
| Waste disposal | Old render debris must be properly removed. |
| Location | Labour rates differ regionally — London and the South East typically cost more. |
10. How Long Does It Take?
Render removal is labour-intensive. Timeframes vary:
| Building Type | Average Duration |
|---|---|
| Small terrace | 2–4 days |
| Semi-detached house | 4–7 days |
| Detached house | 7–10 days |
| Large or period property | 10–14+ days |
Additional time may be required for repointing, cleaning, and drying before any finishing touches are applied.
11. Is It Worth It to Go Back to Brick?
Whether render removal is worth it depends on your goals, budget, and property condition.
Advantages
- Improved aesthetics – natural brick is timeless and appealing.
- Reduced maintenance – no repainting required every few years.
- Breathable walls – especially important for older buildings.
- Potential property value increase – restored period features are highly desirable.
Disadvantages
- High initial cost – especially if repairs are extensive.
- Uncertain brick condition – might need extra restoration work.
- Labour and mess – process can be noisy and dusty.
- Ongoing care – exposed bricks may require periodic cleaning and sealing.
12. Alternatives to Full Render Removal
If the cost or risk of removing all render is too high, there are alternative approaches:
| Option | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Partial removal | Strip only damaged or visible areas. | Cheaper, faster. | Inconsistent appearance. |
| Re-rendering | Apply new breathable render. | Modern protection, smooth finish. | Still hides brick. |
| Cladding | Use timber or composite panels. | Modern look, low maintenance. | More expensive than render. |
| Paint removal | If wall is painted rather than rendered. | Reveals brick colour again. | May require chemical stripping. |
13. Tips for a Successful Render Removal Project
- Test a small area first – see what the brick condition is like before committing.
- Avoid aggressive sandblasting – it can damage soft brick.
- Use appropriate tools – never use hammer drills on historic bricks.
- Allow walls to dry naturally – especially after years of being sealed under render.
- Repoint with breathable mortar – lime-based mortars suit older buildings.
- Protect your surroundings – dust can spread easily.
- Dispose of waste correctly – old render can be heavy and contain cement.
14. Environmental Considerations
Render removal can generate significant waste, particularly cement-based debris. Whenever possible:
- Separate recyclable materials like clean rubble.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals that can harm nearby plants or soil.
- Consider reusing old scaffolding boards or protective sheeting.
- Choose eco-friendly cleaning methods, such as steam or low-pressure washing instead of strong acids.
Exposing the natural brick can actually reduce long-term environmental impact, since you’ll no longer need to repaint or re-render every decade.
15. Aftercare: Maintaining Your Exposed Brickwork
Once your brick is exposed, maintenance is crucial to preserve its condition and prevent damp ingress.
| Maintenance Task | Frequency | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Inspect mortar joints | Every 2–3 years | Spot cracks or crumbling early. |
| Clean brick surface | Every 3–5 years | Remove dirt, algae, and pollutants. |
| Reapply breathable sealant | Every 5–10 years | Protect against water while allowing ventilation. |
| Check guttering and downpipes | Annually | Prevent rainwater damage. |
Avoid using non-breathable paints or sealers, as they can trap moisture within the brickwork and cause spalling (flaking of the brick surface).
16. Case Example (Illustrative Scenario)
Example:
A semi-detached 1930s house in the Midlands had thick cement render covering soft red bricks. The owner wanted a rustic look.
| Step | Description | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Scaffolding erected and cement render carefully chipped off using SDS chisels. | Some brick face loss on upper section. |
| 2 | Residual render washed off with low-pressure steam. | Exposed colour variations in brick. |
| 3 | Mortar joints repointed with lime mortar. | Improved breathability. |
| 4 | Brick sealed with breathable silane-siloxane coating. | Long-term protection. |
| Total cost: | Approx. £4,800 (including scaffolding and repointing). | Clean, natural brick finish restored. |
This demonstrates the time and cost investment, but also the dramatic improvement in appearance when done properly.
17. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Will removing render damage my bricks?
Possibly — especially if the render is very hard or bonded strongly. Careful techniques and soft tools can minimise this risk.
Q2. Can I remove render myself?
DIY removal is possible for small sections, but professional help is recommended for full walls. Incorrect removal can permanently scar bricks.
Q3. What if the bricks look patchy after removal?
You can clean or tint the bricks, or reapply a light lime wash to even out the tones.
Q4. Do I need planning permission?
Usually not, but if your property is listed or in a conservation area, you may need approval before altering the façade.
Q5. How do I know if my render is cement or lime-based?
Lime render feels softer and may crumble when pressed, while cement render is harder, colder, and often shows cracking.
Q6. Can I insulate after removing render?
Yes. You could install internal wall insulation or use breathable external insulation boards if you later choose to re-render.
18. Comparing Rendered vs. Exposed Brick Finishes
| Feature | Rendered Finish | Exposed Brick |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Smooth, modern or uniform. | Natural, rustic, characterful. |
| Maintenance | Repainting every 5–10 years. | Occasional cleaning and sealing. |
| Breathability | Depends on render type (cement less breathable). | Naturally breathable. |
| Cost to maintain | £500–£1,000 every few years for repainting. | £100–£300 every few years for cleaning/sealing. |
| Durability | Can crack or trap damp if poorly maintained. | Long-lasting if properly repointed. |
19. Summary: The Pros and Cons of Returning to Brick
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Beautiful, natural aesthetic | High initial cost |
| Improved breathability | Labour-intensive process |
| Potential value boost | Risk of hidden damage |
| Lower long-term maintenance | Possible planning restrictions |
20. Final Thoughts
Yes, you can remove render and go back to brick — and the results can be stunning. Many UK homeowners successfully restore their properties this way, uncovering original details that were hidden for decades.
However, the process requires time, care, and investment. Before starting, it’s wise to:
- Inspect a small section first
- Budget realistically (typically £30–£50 per m²)
- Be prepared for minor brick repairs and repointing
The final look of natural brick can make your home stand out, breathe better, and regain its original charm — proving that sometimes, less really is more when it comes to wall finishes.
21. How Weather Conditions Affect Render Removal
Weather plays a crucial role in both the render removal process and the aftercare of exposed brickwork.
| Weather Condition | Impact on Work | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Rain or high humidity | Makes render softer and messier to remove; slows drying. | Avoid removal during wet spells; let walls dry before sealing. |
| Frost or freezing temperatures | Can damage exposed brick and wet mortar. | Schedule work between spring and early autumn. |
| Strong sunlight | Accelerates drying, which may cause cracks in fresh mortar. | Keep newly repointed areas shaded where possible. |
| Windy conditions | Increases dust spread and debris. | Use dust screens and protective sheeting. |
Render removal and repointing should ideally be done in mild, dry weather, typically between 10°C and 20°C, to ensure safe working conditions and proper material curing.
22. How to Tell if Your Walls Have Been Rendered Before
Sometimes homeowners are unaware that their property was once rendered, particularly if it has been painted or repointed since.
Here’s how to identify previous render use:
| Clue | What It Indicates |
|---|---|
| Uneven or rough brick surfaces | Bricks may have been chipped during render removal. |
| Fine scoring or tool marks | Indicates mechanical scraping from old render removal. |
| Residual render at edges or corners | Small patches often remain near window reveals. |
| Different coloured bricks | Render may have trapped moisture, altering colour shades. |
| Shallow mortar joints | Render may have filled in older, deeper pointing. |
Knowing whether your walls were rendered before helps you assess brick condition, porosity, and potential repair needs before starting new restoration work.
23. Can You Remove Pebble Dash or Roughcast?
Pebble dash and roughcast are both forms of render, but they contain stones or gravel embedded into the surface. This makes removal more complex than standard smooth render.
| Type | Description | Removal Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Pebble dash | Stones pressed onto wet render surface. | High – stones must be chipped off individually. |
| Roughcast | Render and stones mixed before application. | Moderate – slightly easier to loosen. |
Considerations:
- Higher cost: Removal can take twice as long as smooth render, often adding £10–£20 per m².
- Brick damage risk: Pebbles can gouge the brick face during removal.
- Noise and dust: Significantly greater during the process.
Despite the difficulty, many homeowners choose to remove pebble dash for aesthetic reasons, revealing beautiful original brickwork beneath decades of rough coating.
24. What to Do if the Brickwork Is Too Damaged to Expose
Occasionally, after render removal, homeowners discover that the underlying brickwork is beyond restoration — cracked, spalled, or heavily repaired. In such cases, you have several practical options.
| Option | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Re-rendering with lime | Apply a breathable lime render. | Protects old bricks, allows moisture escape. | Still hides natural brick. |
| Brick slips (faux brick) | Thin real-brick veneers applied to surface. | Natural look, easier to install. | Additional cost; not original brick. |
| Partial replacement | Replace only the most damaged bricks. | Preserves original materials. | Labour-intensive. |
| Cladding | Add timber or composite façade. | Modern, low-maintenance option. | Alters building character. |
If authenticity is the goal, consider selective brick replacement and gentle cleaning to retain as much original material as possible.
25. Long-Term Benefits of Exposing Brickwork
Once the render is gone, the benefits of natural brick go beyond appearance. Exposed brickwork contributes to energy performance, durability, and heritage value.
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Improved breathability | Allows trapped moisture to escape, reducing damp and mould. |
| Thermal stability | Brick naturally regulates temperature by absorbing and releasing heat. |
| Structural visibility | Any cracks or movement become visible early, allowing prompt repairs. |
| Increased property value | Buyers often favour original brick façades over rendered finishes. |
| Low ongoing costs | No repainting or render maintenance needed — only cleaning every few years. |
With proper care, exposed brick can last for centuries, showcasing the craftsmanship and materials of the building’s original construction.