How to Successfully Apply Limewash

Lime is an extremely versatile building material, that has been used (in some form or other) on any building built before the 20^th Century. Despite the advances within the paint industry and the vast array of paints available to today’s consumers, there are still many occasions where limewash is the most appropriate and economic form of decoration for older buildings.

When we mention older buildings, we refer to those of solid wall construction, without a cavity and often no damp-proof course. This type of construction will always contain varying degrees of moisture and rely on the building fabric, including paints, to allow moisture to migrate freely and escape. Materials such as cement based mortars and renders, along with modern masonry and emulsion paints, serve to hold moisture captive within this type of building. If the moisture is allowed to accumulate, this can result in deterioration and failure within the building fabric as “moisture is the engine of decay”.

Research carried out at all levels has proven limewash to be one of (if not) the most permeable type of decorative finish available. Combine this with the fact that it has been used as a decorative finish for thousands of years throughout the world, there is no doubt that it is a tried and tested decorative medium. Interested in other breathable options? Read more about breathable paints.

Limewash, in its simplest form, is calcium hydroxide (slaked lime) suspended in water. After application, the water evaporates and atmospheric carbon dioxide combines with the wash to form calcium carbonate, this process is known as carbonation. During the carbonation process the limewash hardens, develops its colour and bonds to the substrate.

A successful application of limewash should form a thin sheet of limestone on the surface. Carbonation can be an extremely slow process and it is essential not to allow the limewash to dry too quickly. An application process of one coat per day must be followed.

It is also important that weather conditions are suitable. Limewash should not be applied in strong drying winds or under strong direct sunlight and certainly not if rain threatens. If works have to be carried out or continued under unfavourable conditions, adequate measures should be taken to protect the works. For example, under strong direct sunlight, the coat of wash should be misted with a sprayer.

Preparation

Limewash works best when applied to more porous substrates, such as lime plaster, clay brick, soft stone etc. While it may appear to adhere to impervious surfaces It’s unlikely that it will provide as durable a coating as the lack of suction will impair its overall effectiveness. Its use on timber, although practiced in the past, should be questioned today by the novice, not that we are advising against its use.

Surfaces should be clean and free from grease and vegetable matter, such as lichens etc. All loose and/or flaking material should be removed. Any organic growth should be treated in an appropriate manner, such as using a biocide (in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions), and all treated material prepared/removed prior to the application of limewash.

Limewash Application

It is important that a rule of one coat per day is followed, this allows each coat time to carbonate. Recoating to soon may result in the previous coat pulling away from the surface and can prevent sufficient carbonation.

Apply limewash using a large, long hair brush. Application should be vigorous, working the wash into the substrate, using horizontal, vertical and diagonal strokes.

Limewash has to be applied as a thin coat and evenly across the surface. Working in areas of 1^m2 work the limewash into the surface with a scouring action with the brush in a circular motion. Limewash should always be applied in a manner where a wet edge is maintained, this will help avoid scarring and lines from excess build-up of material.

If limewash is applied to thickly or heavy, this can result in crazing and cracking, should this occur and the results unacceptable, wash the surface with hot water and a stiff bristle brush (i.e. a churn brush).

Ready mixed limewash is supplied in plastic containers; upon opening the container mix the limewash thoroughly using appropriate tools. Mixers that can be attached to an electric drill are very useful , however a simple stick can also be effective. Browse our range of limewash.

Stir vigorously until the contents are one, this needs to be repeated every ten to fifteen minutes during application. As limewash is suspended in water, the lime will fall out of suspension to the bottom of the tub, so constant and continued stirring is important.  The last brushful should be as thin as the first. Splashes should not be left too long before wiping up.

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Health & Safety COSHH Assessment

Limewash is alkaline so every effort must be made to prevent any from getting into ones eyes, in the event of this happening rinse the eye(s) thoroughly for several minutes, should discomfort continue seek medical attention straight away.  It is advisable to keep a bottle of proprietary eyewash to hand for irrigation purposes.

The wearing of gloves along with other Personnel Protective Equipment is advised as limewash is alkaline and it can dry the skin along with more serious Dermatological affects. Looking to get started? Browse our range of PPE.

There are no risks from fumes, vapours or burning when heated.  By virtue of the way it should be applied lime washing can be a messy operation and the wearing of overalls or similar along with adequate protection of fittings is advised.