Cladding in Ireland — Render, Brick, Timber, and Zinc, Compared by Cost and Planning

Cladding in Ireland: render (cement, lime, silicone, acrylic) at €80–€140/m², the cheapest and most common; brick at €140–€220/m², the most durable; timber (cladding boards) at €110–€180/m², repaint every 8–12 years; zinc standing-seam at €180–€300/m², the premium option, 60–100 year lifespan. Planning matters in rural areas: slate, brick, and timber are more likely to get planning consent than render alone. In sensitive rural locations (Rural Area Under Strong Urban Influence, areas of high landscape value), the planner may require a specific cladding. The architect picks, often with planning constraints. The visible cladding is the planner's view; the insulation is the BER assessor's view; both matter.

TL;DR

• Cladding in Ireland: render €80–€140/m², brick €140–€220/m², timber €110–€180/m², zinc €180–€300/m².

• Planning matters in rural areas: slate, brick, and timber are more likely to get planning consent than render alone.

• Render is the cheapest and most common. Brick is the most durable. Timber needs repainting every 8–12 years. Zinc standing-seam is the premium option.

When this matters most

You're at design stage and need to choose a cladding.

When this doesn't apply

The cladding is fixed.

Frequently asked questions

What is the cheapest cladding in Ireland?

Cement render on blockwork: €80–€140/m² installed. Brick is €140–€220/m². Timber is €110–€180/m². Zinc is €180–€300/m².

What is the most durable cladding in Ireland?

Brick. 80–100+ year lifespan with minimal maintenance. Render needs repainting every 15–25 years. Timber needs repainting every 8–12 years. Zinc standing-seam is 60–100 years.

What cladding gets planning consent in rural Ireland?

Slate, brick, and timber are most likely to get consent in rural areas. Render alone is acceptable in many areas but may be refused in sensitive landscapes. Check the county development plan.

Sources

Building Regulations 2023, TGD-L and TGD-A. https://www.gov.ie/