Hi all, it's now 2020! I'm at render stage and would love it to be white but the renderer I spoke with this morning said to think long and hard about 'white! as it gets dirty very easily especially taking into account the recent dust-storm, not to mention the ash and smoke from the ongoing bushfires. I would like to know: how your respective white renders are coming along in regards to appearance, staining and maintenance; and what type of render and render finish do you have? I am looking at a sandy Rokcote acrylic render. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated!!

Plaster damage like yours is most often caused by insufficient or damaged / bridges damp proof course around the perimeter of the external walls.Damp is wicking up the walls. The damp proof course can be a slate layer placed between the lower brick courses in older homes , or more common ( and better ) , a strip of thick black plastic placed between the lower brick courses to stop the damp from entering the wall. The damp mortar is is raked out and the plastic inserted a section at a time , and the brick joint is re - pointed with fresh new mortar. No simple/quick fix I`m afraid.

I think you will get more bang for your street appeal Reno buck from refreshing garage door, and awnings, and some landscaping: perhaps even a timber pergola style entry way to add some visual interest. Pressure cleaning roof, paving as well will give it all a lift. You can always change you mind and render later. But I think with these changes, the lovely white windows and charm can shine through more, without the expense and upkeep involved in rendering.

Looks like a half day's work to me, so a few hundred dollars including materials. Where are you located?