In the construction industry, we all know the pressure to keep costs down. Whether you're running a small plastering team or managing a full-scale rendering crew, the lure of a so-called “bargain” can be tempting—especially when you're eyeing up new machinery. But when it comes to construction equipment, the cheapest option upfront is rarely the most cost-effective in the long run.
In this article, we’ll dig into the true cost of construction equipment, explore how much construction machinery really costs, and why investing in quality construction equipment pays off over time.
When asking, “How much does construction equipment cost?” the easy answer is: it depends. The price tag of a screed pump, plastering machine, or forced action mixer might seem competitive but that figure rarely tells the whole story.
Here’s what often goes unmentioned:
Maintenance costs
Downtime due to breakdowns
Lower performance output
Shorter working lifespan
A cheaper machine might save you a few thousand pounds at checkout, but if it breaks down on-site or needs constant repairs, you're losing far more in lost time and wages than you ever saved.
Let’s say you've picked up a budget rendering machine online or through a clearance deal and it works—for now. But on week two, the motor fails or the flow rate isn’t consistent, and you’re stuck mid-job.
Every hour your team stands idle waiting for repairs is:
Time lost
Money spent on labour with no output
Frustration for your clients
Quality construction equipment doesn’t just get the job done—it keeps your team moving. At CES Hire, we’ve seen first-hand how well-maintained machines can mean the difference between a seamless project and a costly delay.
When you invest in trusted equipment—whether hired or bought—you’re not just paying for metal and motors. You're paying for:
Technical support
Access to parts
Expert servicing
With cheaper imports or unbranded machines, you might struggle to find someone who can fix it or even identify the fault. That’s why our customers rely on us and not just for machines, but for our ongoing service support that keeps them running project after project. We offer full after support at the other end of the phone.
High-quality machines hold their value. A screed pump or plastering machine from a recognised brand with a known service history will command a much better resale price if you ever choose to upgrade or sell.
In contrast, lower-end options are harder to shift and may be worthless once they've run their course. So even if the initial construction equipment cost is higher, the total cost of ownership is often much lower in the long run.
If buying machinery outright isn't feasible, consider hiring. Hiring gives you:
Access to quality machines without the capital outlay
Flexible options tailored to project duration
Up-to-date models with servicing included
You only pay for what you use, and you avoid all the headaches of ownership—especially when dealing with seasonal work or fluctuating project loads.
At CES Hire, our customers often tell us that hiring has been a game-changer for budgeting and efficiency—especially when paired with expert advice and fast delivery.
Clients don’t care if your equipment was a bargain, they care about results and the time it takes to complete the task. A delayed screed pour or uneven plaster finish reflects badly on you, not your equipment supplier.
Choosing reliable machinery from a trusted hire partner shows professionalism. It ensures you can focus on the job, not on patching up issues caused by low-grade tools. That's where we come in at CES Hire!
In construction, quality matters. While a lower price might feel like a win, the true cost of a bargain becomes clear once breakdowns, poor performance, and service issues arise.
If you’re wondering how much construction equipment really costs, the better question is: How much is it costing you to get it wrong?
At CES Hire, we’re here to make sure you get it right, with expert guidance, reliable machines, and a service that backs you from start to finish.
👉 Browse Our Machines and discover how quality, flexibility, and support can transform your next project.