Roughcasting & Harling (Wet Dash)
Traditional Scottish wet dash roughcasting — a hard-wearing, weatherproof finish that lasts for years.
Roughcasting — known as wet dash or harling — is the traditional Scottish exterior finish, and for good reason. The textured surface sheds water, hides imperfections, and stands up brilliantly to our climate. It’s a finish that’s protected Scottish homes for generations.
We apply roughcast to whole houses and single elevations, building it up in proper coats over a sound base. The result is a tough, attractive, low-maintenance exterior that looks smart and keeps the weather out.
What's Included
Stripping of any defective existing roughcast
Full base-coating of the property
Fitting of new PVC beads for clean, straight edges
Application of the topcoat
Dolomite white (and other) roughcast chip finish
Whole-house or single-elevation work
Matching new downpipes and tie-in work where required
Our Process
Wall Inspection
We inspect the walls and the condition of any existing finish.
Detailed Quote
We quote for the work, including scaffolding and prep.
Preparation
Defective roughcast is stripped back to a sound surface.
Basecoating
The property is fully basecoated and PVC beads are fitted.
Topcoat & Dash
The topcoat is applied and the roughcast chip is dashed on for the final finish.
Site Clean
Site is cleaned down and all waste removed.
Materials & Systems We Use
RM Stonepack Basecoat
High-performance basecoat system engineered to deliver superior structural adhesion and long-term stability.
Protective PVC Beads
Impact-resistant bead elements installed to secure exceptionally crisp, completely straight edges and corners.
White Stonepack Topcoat
A premium, weather-resistant white finish layer formulated for lasting durability and external protection.
Dolomite Roughcast Chips
Striking Dolomite white roughcast chips, with a wide range of alternative aggregate chip colours available.
Why It Matters
Extremely hard-wearing and weather-resistant
Sheds rain and copes well with the Scottish climate
Hides minor wall imperfections
Low maintenance once applied
Transforms the look of a tired property
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How long does roughcast last?
A properly applied roughcast finish can last for decades. The hard, textured surface is very durable, which is exactly why it’s been the traditional Scottish choice for so long.
Q. Can I have a colour other than white?
Yes. The roughcast chip comes in a range of colours and blends. Dolomite white is a popular clean finish, but we can talk you through the options.
Q. Do you do single walls or only whole houses?
Both. We can roughcast a single elevation (for example, after an extension) or transform a whole property.
Q. Will I need scaffolding?
For most roughcasting work, yes — it’s needed for safe access and a consistent finish. It’s included in your quote.