If you’re thinking of changing the appearance of your external walls you have a few options — but not all of them perform the same way. Here’s a side-by-side look at the most common exterior wall finishes used in the UK — including Proteks, masonry paint, cladding, and roughcasting.
Masonry Paint
✅ Masonry Paint Pros
• Inexpensive and widely available
• Easy to apply for DIY or professional jobs
• Comes in a wide range of colours
❌ Masonry Paint Cons
• Typically lasts 3–5 years before it needs redoing
• Cracks, fades, and peels under weather stress
• Traps moisture, leading to damp and mould issues
• Requires regular maintenance and touch-ups
Cladding
✅ Cladding Pros
• Can improve insulation and energy efficiency
• Dramatically changes the look of a building
• Offers some impact resistance and protection from the elements
❌ Cladding Cons
• High installation costs
• Moisture can get trapped behind panels
• Can require specialist installers
• Often unsuitable for period properties or buildings in conservation areas
Roughcasting (Harling / Pebbledash)
✅ Roughcasting Pros
• Extremely durable and weather-resistant
• Hides imperfections in walls
• Traditional finish for many Scottish homes
• Adds a layer of insulation and impact resistance
❌ Roughcasting Cons
• Not breathable — can trap moisture underneath
• Prone to discolouration and staining over time
• Difficult to patch or repair seamlessly
• Rough, dated appearance may not suit modern tastes
• Once applied, it’s hard to remove or change the finish later
• Roughcasting is expensive
Proteks
✅ Proteks Pros
• 25+ years of weatherproof protection
• Breathable — prevents moisture build-up and damp
• Retains original wall texture and appearance
• Ideal for all wall types: brick, render, stone, etc.
• Cost-effective over time (no repainting or major upkeep)
• Designed specifically for the UK climate
❌ Proteks Cons
• Higher initial investment (though it pays off long-term)
• Professional application is required for best results. A DIY Proteks product is available at a much lower cost it’s not guaranteed by Proteks although it’s the same product used by Proteks installers.
The Verdict
Masonry paint is a quick fix, but not built to last.
Cladding can be modern but has major downsides, especially with trapped moisture.
Roughcasting is durable but outdated and not breathable.
Proteks offers long-term performance, breathability, and visual appeal — all in one solution.
If you’re looking for a modern, future-proof alternative to traditional finishes, Proteks is the clear winner.
