Lime wash

Table of contents

What is lime wash

Lime wash is a natural paint made from slaked lime (calcium hydroxide) and water. This ancient technique has been used for centuries to protect and beautify buildings. It creates a soft, matte finish that enhances the natural beauty of surfaces, giving walls a unique, textured appearance.

How to Apply Lime Wash

Applying lime wash is a straightforward process, but it requires some patience and technique to achieve the desired effect. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Surface Preparation

Ensure the surface is clean, dry, and free of any loose material.
Lime wash adheres best to porous surfaces like brick, stone, or plaster. If you’re applying it to a non-porous surface, you may need to prime it with a bonding agent.

2. Mixing the Lime Wash

Combine slaked lime with water in a ratio of about 1 part lime to 3 parts of water. Add fevicol (10% of lime) to it. Stir thoroughly until you achieve a milk-like consistency.

3. Applying the First Coat

Use a large brush to apply the first coat in a crisscross or random pattern. This creates a natural, uneven texture that is characteristic of lime wash.
Allow the first coat to dry completely. Depending on the weather, this can take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours.

4. Pigmentation (adding colours to lime wash)

If adding colour, mix pigments into the lime wash, ensuring they are fully dissolved and evenly distributed. Adding red oxide here.

5. Applying Additional Coats

Apply at least two coats of lime wash for the best results. Each coat will add depth and texture to the finish.
For a more pronounced effect, you can vary the dilution of the lime wash between coats.

6. Finishing Touches

Once the final coat is dry, you can burnish the surface with a soft cloth to enhance the sheen or leave it as is for a more matte look.

Benefits of lime wash

Breathability: Lime wash is highly breathable, allowing moisture to escape from walls. This create healthier environment for humans to live in.
Eco-Friendly: Made from natural materials, lime wash is free of harmful chemicals and VOCs (volatile organic compounds). It’s a sustainable option that’s gentle on the environment.
Antimicrobial Properties: Lime wash has natural antibacterial properties, making it resistant to mold and mildew.
Aesthetic Appeal: The soft, mottled appearance of lime wash gives walls a textured, natural look that ages beautifully over time. It’s perfect for achieving a rustic or historical feel.
Durability: Unlike modern paints that sit on the surface, lime wash penetrates the material, becoming part of the wall. This makes it incredibly durable and long-lasting.
Versatility: Lime wash paint offers versatility in terms of its application and appearance. It can be applied to various surfaces such as plaster, brick, stone, and even wood.

Lime Wash vs. Traditional Paint

While both lime wash and traditional paint can be used to refresh wall surfaces, they offer very different finishes and benefits:

Finish: Lime wash provides a soft, matte, and slightly textured finish, while traditional paint tends to be smooth and glossy.
Durability: Lime wash is more durable in the long run as it becomes part of the wall, whereas traditional paint may peel or chip over time.
Maintenance: Lime wash requires less maintenance and ages gracefully, while traditional paint may need frequent touch-ups.
Application: Lime wash requires more skill and patience to apply, while traditional paint is more straightforward.

Lime wash is a timeless and versatile option to add character and durability to the walls. Whether restoring an old building or simply want a unique finish for modern home, lime wash offers a natural, eco-friendly, and aesthetically pleasing solution. With its breathable properties and ability to create stunning, textured surfaces, lime wash is a perfect choice for those who value both tradition and style.

Check out detailed video of preparation and application of lime wash.