Went for the K-Rend myself - the plasterers just finished it about two weeks ago... very happy with the finish and colour...
You'll get a lot of information in the other posts but here is some information for you:
- we used the following
http://www.k-rend.co.uk/
- this company in based up North but all suppliers in Ireland should stock it
- colour select is always a big discussion. Most hardware stores who stock the K-rend will have samples to help you here
- Before application we insisted on a sand/cement scratchcoat. Gives and better base apparently
- The render is then applied. The plasterers then come bak the next day and 'rough it up' with a special trowel. One coat is all that is needed
- The weather needs to be dry rain can cause patching as previously stated in this post
Cost
- this is not the cheapest solution, but I didn't fancy painting the house every couple of years
- we were able to haggle a bit over the price with our suppliers. Managed to get a price of 10.75 a bag.
Downside
- the only downside I can see at the moment is that we ordered too much of the stuff...!!! Because we went for a non standard colour, we are having trouble getting the suppliers to take it back :-(