We need to get the EPS upstand of our house covered before the paving can be done. It will have a gravel margin next to it & cedar cladding 150mm above for the majority of the perimeter, the exceptions being the thresholds of doors, which are level with ACO drains in front.  Our options seem to be cement board with thincoat render, powder coated aluminium or the composite panel as used by @worldwidewebs   What are the experiences of others? I imagine it is difficult to get a good rend