I used the pewter blend - 80% of the house is covered with nickel blend and the balance is plain knapped plaster - i intend to powerwash when necessary - it actually matches well with the pewter. We used coins on the edges and along the plinths. TIP use something round each window be it similar coinc or a red brick if not a gap will be left after the windows are installed and its not at all straight forward in sealing it. the hallmark briicks vary in size making a straight window fit IMPOSSIBLE.