External lime renders predominantly incorporate a hydraulic lime, with the exception to this being when a softer render consisting of a lime putty is used on a Cob/Clom building. External renders can be finished to achieve a multitude of effects, which can fulfill the requirements of both design and what is best for the building. The latter concept should take into consideration the buildings environment, such as its orientation, exposure, and altitude. Meaning a roughcast finish would be required to protect against heavy weathering, whereas a standard stucco finish will suffice on most buildings.

Internal lime plasters incorporate a lime putty with an appropriate aggregate as well as a reinforcing fibre such as horse hair. An exception to this rule is lime hemp plaster, whereby the aggregate is both the aggregate and reinforcing fibre. Lime hemp plaster is an excellent alternative to standard lime putty and aggregate. Hemp itself is essentially a straw-like material that is cut up to various sizes and therefore suitable for a range of applications, including a finishing plaster. The nature of the material makes it very strong as its fibres interlock when applied, making it a useful material for those rounded corners of window reveals, as well as for plastering onto reed or lath