Hey everyone! I’m in the middle of renovating my old farmhouse and I’ve decided to go all-in on eco-friendly materials, especially for the exterior walls. I’ve been experimenting with a few natural paint brands, like Earthborn and Auro, and I’m really impressed with their performance so far. However, I’m at a crossroads trying to figure out which option is the most cost-effective without compromising on quality or environmental impact.
I’ve used Earthborn’s Claypaint on a smaller project inside, and it was fantastic - great coverage and it felt good knowing it was free from harmful chemicals. But I’m wondering how it holds up outdoors. Has anyone tried it for exterior walls? Also, I’ve heard Auro’s natural paints are durable and have excellent UV resistance, which is crucial for my sun-drenched walls. But, they’re a bit pricier. Is the investment worth it in the long run?
I’m also curious about surface compatibility. My walls are a mix of old stone and some newer plastered areas. Do these natural paints adhere well to both? And, of course, I’m all ears for any other brand recommendations or application tips you might have. Let’s discuss our experiences and help each other make more informed, sustainable choices for our homes!
Hey @EcoPainter88, I’ve been using natural paints for a few years now, and I can share some insights. Earthborn’s Claypaint is indeed great for interiors, but for exteriors, you might want to consider their Weatherproof range. It’s specifically designed for outdoor use and has excellent durability against the elements. As for Auro, their prices are higher, but their UV resistance and longevity can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent repaints.
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I’ve used Auro’s natural paints on my south-facing walls, and I can vouch for their UV resistance. After two years, the color is as vibrant as the day I applied it. It’s an investment, but considering the durability and the environmental benefits, I think it’s worth it. Plus, their customer service is fantastic if you have any questions about application or compatibility.
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@GreenThumb99 Thanks for the tip about Earthborn’s Weatherproof range! I’ll definitely look into that. Do you have any experience with how it adheres to different surfaces, like old stone versus new plaster?
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@SunnyDaysAhead That’s impressive about Auro’s UV resistance! I’m curious, did you need to apply a primer before using their paint, or does it adhere well on its own?
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I’ve been experimenting with different natural paints for my cottage, and I found that mixing brands can sometimes offer the best of both worlds. For example, using Earthborn for the base and Auro for the topcoat. It might require a bit more research and testing, but it could be a cost-effective solution without compromising on quality.
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@NatureLover23 That’s an interesting approach! I hadn’t considered mixing brands. Do you have any tips on ensuring compatibility between different brands’ paints?
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Just a quick note on surface compatibility - I’ve found that with older stone walls, it’s crucial to ensure they’re clean and free from any loose material before applying any paint. A gentle wash and a brush down can make a big difference in how well the paint adheres.
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@RetroRenovator Thanks for the advice! I’ll make sure to give the walls a good clean before I start painting. Any recommendations on cleaning solutions that are eco-friendly?
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If cost is a major concern, don’t overlook the option of making your own natural paint. Limewash, for example, is relatively inexpensive and can be made at home with just a few ingredients. It’s been used for centuries and offers a unique, breathable finish that’s perfect for old buildings.
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@BudgetEco Making my own paint sounds intriguing! Do you have any resources or recipes you could share for making limewash?
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I’ve been down the eco-friendly paint route myself and found that while Earthborn’s Weatherproof range is solid, it’s worth considering the prep work your walls might need. Old stone can be tricky, and sometimes a primer or a specific type of undercoat is necessary to ensure the paint adheres properly and lasts longer. It might add to the initial cost but think of it as an investment in the paint’s longevity.
Auro’s paints are indeed on the pricier side, but from my experience, their durability is unmatched. I painted my south-facing wall with Auro’s exterior paint three years ago, and it still looks as vibrant as day one. The UV resistance is a game-changer, especially if your walls are sun-drenched like you mentioned. It might seem like a big spend now, but the reduced need for touch-ups and repaints can make it more cost-effective over time.
Don’t overlook the importance of color choice when it comes to natural paints. Lighter colors tend to reflect sunlight better, which can help with UV resistance and keep your walls cooler. This might indirectly affect the paint’s durability and how often you need to repaint. Also, some brands offer a wider range of eco-friendly colors than others, so if you’re set on a specific shade, that might influence your decision between Earthborn and Auro.
I’ve used Earthborn’s Claypaint on my exterior walls and it’s held up surprisingly well against the weather. The key is in the preparation, like you mentioned. I made sure to clean the walls thoroughly and used a primer designed for natural paints. It’s been a couple of years now and the color hasn’t faded much, which is impressive for a natural product.
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Auro’s paints are definitely on the pricier side, but from what I’ve seen, they do last longer. A friend of mine used it on their south-facing wall, which gets a lot of sun, and after three years, it still looks fresh. They mentioned that the UV resistance is top-notch. So, if you’re looking for longevity, it might be worth the extra cost.
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I think it’s also worth considering the environmental impact beyond just the paint itself. How far has it traveled to get to you? The carbon footprint of shipping can add up. I went with a local brand that uses natural ingredients and it’s worked out great. Plus, supporting local businesses is always a bonus.
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Surface compatibility is a big deal, especially with mixed materials like yours. I had a similar situation and found that using a breathable primer first made all the difference. It helped the paint adhere better to both the stone and plastered areas. Just something to keep in mind as you make your decision.
Don’t forget about the finish. Some natural paints have a matte finish that might not be everyone’s cup of tea, especially for exteriors. I prefer a slight sheen because it tends to hide imperfections better and is easier to clean. Just a thought if you’re still weighing your options.
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Making your own limewash sounds intriguing, but I’m a bit skeptical about the durability, especially on exterior walls exposed to harsh weather. Has anyone here tried it for a project similar to mine? I’d love to hear about your experiences, especially regarding longevity and maintenance.
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