In 2026, ECS will maintain a transparent approach to the future of the finishing trades. While the potential for Robots-as-a-Service (RaaS) in plastering and painting is significant, we are currently in the very early stages of exploration.
Our internal assessments have shown that most machines currently on the market are experimental prototypes rather than “job-site ready” solutions. They often struggle with the unique consistency of natural materials like cork and lime, making them more of a “proof of concept” than a reliable tool for professional contractors.
Why We Are Still Testing
Before ECS can confidently offer a RaaS rental fleet, the technology must overcome several hurdles that current “off-the-shelf” machines haven’t yet mastered:
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Material Compatibility: Natural lime and cork are highly sensitive. Many current pumps either clog or “crush” the cork granules, destroying the finish’s thermal and breathable properties.
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Complex Navigation: Most robots still require perfectly flat, debris-free floors to operate autonomously—a rarity on a real construction site.
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Surface Finesse: While machines can “spray,” the final troweling of a clay or lime finish still requires a level of human intuition that current robotic sensors haven’t quite replicated.
Why RaaS is Still the Goal
Despite the hardware’s “not-ready-yet” status, the construction industry is reaching a tipping point. ECS is committed to finding a solution because the economic landscape is shifting rapidly:
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Severe Staff Shortages: In 2026, the industry is struggling to attract new talent to the “wet trades.” With nearly 40% of the workforce nearing retirement, there are simply not enough hands to keep up with demand.
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Rising Labour Costs: As skilled plasterers become rarer, the cost of manual labour is increasing at a rate that threatens project margins.
ECS’s Commitment to “Real” Solutions
We are not interested in offering “gadgets” that fail on-site. Our exploration focuses on finding robust, industrial-grade systems that can be truly integrated into the workflow.
Looking Ahead
The shift toward automated service models is no longer a question of “if,” but “when.” ECS will continue to vet and stress-test new hardware as it emerges, ensuring that when we do launch our RaaS offering, it is a tool that truly works for the professional builder.