The Use of Limewash

Limewashes are thin dilutions of non-hydraulic lime, water, and alkali-fast powder pigments. Exterior grade limewashes have additional binders – casein, tallow or linseed oil – to improve performance and durability. Pure limewash is normally reserved for internal use. Casein limewash is an exterior grade which is also used internally as it is less likely to rub off, and Tallow limewash is an exterior grade rarely used internally. These are traditional permeable paints/coatings for use on porous building materials – lime plaster, lime render, limestone and soft brick. Limewash can be applied to new lime plaster and render before it has fully carbonated as the permeable limewash permits the carbonation of the plaster beneath to continue.
Limewash, due to the thin consistency, can be ‘messy’ to apply and protections must be provided. Special care must be taken if oak is present as it is permanently stained by lime. Limewashing ceilings is particularly hazardous, and soft distemper is often preferred for the decoration of ceilings. Indeed, distempers are often used in preference to limewash for internal decoration of walls and ceilings.

Limewash can only be applied to previously painted surfaces if the existing paint is limewash, and should not be applied to previously distemper or emulsion painted surfaces.

PREPARATION

Limewashes require a surface that is firm, clean, and porous. Remove all loose material and dirt and previously limewashed surfaces should be thoroughly soft-brushed and washed with a wet sponge to remove dust, dirt and all loose chalky material that is removed readily.

Any algae or mould must be treated with an algaecide or fungicide and thoroughly washed off with clean water. Do not use proprietary fungicides containing water repellents. Make good and fill with a compatible (lime-based) filler.

Limewashes must be applied to damp surfaces. Lime plaster and render, porous stone and brick must be thoroughly moistened with a mist spray prior to application.

APPLICATION

Ensure limewash is within shelf-life period. Do not use in extremes of heat and cold. Protective clothing and goggles must be worn. Limewash must be thoroughly mixed, preferably with a mechanical whisk, to ensure even distribution of pigments and ingredients immediately before and during use as it readily settles out.

Externally, adequate protections from sun, wind, rain and frost must be provided, and surfaces must be damp. Porous pre-wetted surfaces often need additional mist-spraying during application to ensure that the limewash does not dry too quickly.

Apply the limewash to the damp surface using a brush, not a roller, working it into any cracks. It is applied in thin coats – limewash appears transparent on application and care must be taken to avoid thick build-up, which will craze on drying out and may obscure detail.

Normally, 3 coats are required, occasionally more. Each coat must be protected from drying too quickly by regular mist-spraying, and a reasonable time (normally at least 24 hours) allowed between coats. It is normal to mist-spray the previous coat prior to the application of the next coat.

RJ 3.01 Pure Limewash, RJ 3.03 Tallow Limewash
RJ 3.02 Casein Limewash, RJ 4.01 Soft Distemper

Disclaimer. The information provided in this advice sheet and all technical advice is for guidance and is given in good faith but without warranty, since the site conditions and care and skill of application are beyond our control. We can accept no liability for the performance of our products, beyond the value of the material supplied. This does not affect your statutory rights.