Not many people in Quebec have heard of limewash paint, but it is growing in popularity. Perhaps you are thinking about applying it in your own home but would like to learn more to ensure you make the right decision. Here is everything you need to know regarding this product’s advantages and disadvantages.
To begin, you should understand that this paint, composed of quicklime, is a natural material employed worldwide since antiquity. It is made heating limestone blocks to a very high temperature and then grinding them and mixing the powder with water, natural pigments, and alum salt. The finish is more textured than conventional paint.
Noteworthy Advantages
Limewash paint offers several benefits that are worth mentioning:
- It can be used both on interior and exterior walls, no matter the room.
- It is a natural and healthy paint that does not release volatile organic compounds (VOC). So by opting for this sort of paint, you can avoid polluting your environment with nasty gases.
- Limewash paint likewise has antiseptic, antibacterial, disinfectant, and flame-retardant properties.
- It is resistant, pliable, and flexible. It should also be noted that it is extremely durable.
- It can be applied to all types of surfaces, even irregular ones like brick.
- Do you have moisture problems in your bathroom? Applying limewash paint will help you control it effectively.
- Its insulation factor is equally appealing.
- Just like with the other kinds of paint, it comes in a wide range of colours to suit your needs and tastes.
- If you eventually decided to strip this product and replace it with another, the process is easy and won’t damage the wall. Moreover, applying it is quite straightforward.
Slight Drawbacks
Using limewash paint doesn’t come with many downsides. A few should be mentioned, however.
- The main thing you should be aware of is that several coats are needed to obtain the desired colour. Why is this? Because limewash paint lightens as it dries. Applying a test patch on a small area of the wall is therefore recommended before covering the entire surface lest you end up disappointed with the final colour.
- It should likewise be noted that because this type of paint is porous it is far more vulnerable to dirt and grime. No other products should be used on limewash paint as this could cause it to flake off or turn lumpy.
- It has a high pH: while it is wet all contact with the skin and eyes must absolutely be avoided. Ventilate well during the application.
- It is temperature sensitive and so must be applied between 1 and 18 degrees Celsius. This is not a project to be carried out on frosty, blisteringly hot, windy or rainy days.
As you can see, limewash paint offers many advantages and is a wise choice when it comes to painting your residence’s interior and exterior walls. Are you looking for a natural alternative to conventional paint? You’ve found it! Ready, set, get painting!