Hey everyone! I’ve been diving deep into the world of natural paints for my upcoming home renovation project, and I’m seriously considering lime wash for the exterior. I love how it’s not only eco-friendly but also gives that beautiful, breathable finish that ages gracefully over time. I’ve previously used milk paint indoors with great success, but the exterior is a whole new ball game for me.
I’m curious about your experiences with lime wash. Specifically, I’ve been looking at brands like EcoLime and LimeWorks.us. Has anyone tried these? How do they hold up against different weather conditions? Also, I’ve read that lime wash works best on porous surfaces like brick and stone. My house is a mix of both, so I’m hopeful, but I’d love to hear if anyone has applied it to similar surfaces.
Lastly, I’m all about minimizing environmental impact. Lime wash seems like a winner in this regard, but I’m wondering about the sourcing of the lime and any other environmental considerations I should be aware of. Any insights or tips would be greatly appreciated!
So, what’s your take on lime wash for exteriors? Any brands you swear by or application tips you’ve learned the hard way? Let’s share our knowledge and help each other make more sustainable choices for our homes!
Hey @EcoPainter88, great topic! I’ve used EcoLime on my brick home and it’s been fantastic. The key is in the preparation. Make sure the surface is clean and free from any previous non-porous paints. Lime wash needs to breathe, so any barrier can cause issues. Also, applying it in cooler, shaded conditions helps prevent it from drying too quickly. It’s been two years, and it still looks amazing, even after some pretty harsh weather.
3 Likes
Thanks @GreenThumb99! That’s really helpful. I was worried about the weather resistance, so it’s great to hear it’s holding up well for you. Did you do multiple coats? And how did you find the coverage?
1 Like
@EcoPainter88, I did two coats, which seemed to be the sweet spot for coverage and durability. The first coat soaked in quite a bit, but the second one gave it that nice, even finish. Just make sure to let it dry thoroughly between coats. It’s a bit more work, but definitely worth it for the end result.
2 Likes
I’ve been curious about lime wash too, especially for its eco-friendly properties. Does anyone know how sustainable the sourcing of lime is? I’m trying to make choices that are not only good for my home but for the planet as well.
1 Like
@NatureLover23, great question! Lime is actually one of the more sustainable options out there. It’s a natural material that’s been used for centuries. The production process is relatively low-impact, especially compared to synthetic paints. Plus, it’s biodegradable and doesn’t release harmful VOCs. Just make sure to check the brand’s sourcing practices to ensure they’re as eco-conscious as possible.
4 Likes
I tried LimeWorks.us on my stone exterior last summer. The application was a bit tricky at first, but once I got the hang of it, it went smoothly. The finish is stunning, and it’s held up beautifully through rain and snow. My only tip would be to wear gloves and old clothes – lime wash can be quite messy!
3 Likes
@DIYQueen, thanks for the heads-up about the mess! I’ll make sure to suit up properly. How did you find the color consistency with LimeWorks.us? I’m aiming for a uniform look but love the idea of it aging naturally over time.
2 Likes
@EcoPainter88, the color was surprisingly consistent, but it does lighten as it dries, so keep that in mind. The aging process adds such a unique character to the finish. It’s like your home tells its own story over time. Definitely worth the effort!
3 Likes
I’ve been using lime wash for a few years now, and I can’t recommend it enough for its durability and aesthetic. I went with LimeWorks.us for my stone cottage, and it’s held up beautifully against rain and sun. The key, as mentioned, is prep work. I spent a good amount of time cleaning the surface and repairing any cracks. It’s a bit labor-intensive, but totally worth it for the results. Also, applying multiple thin coats is better than fewer thick ones. It dries more evenly and adheres better.
5 Likes
Just a heads-up for anyone considering lime wash, it’s not just about the application but also the maintenance. I used EcoLime on my brick exterior, and while it looks stunning, it does require some upkeep. Every couple of years, I touch up areas that get more wear and tear, like around the doors and windows. It’s not a huge deal, but something to keep in mind if you’re looking for a low-maintenance option. Also, make sure you’re okay with the color mellowing over time. It adds character, but it’s not for everyone.
1 Like
I’m all for sustainable choices, and lime wash definitely fits the bill. However, I think it’s important to consider the source of the lime. Not all lime is created equal, and some brands are more transparent about their sourcing than others. I did a bit of digging and found that LimeWorks.us uses high-quality, sustainably sourced lime, which was a big plus for me. Also, if you’re concerned about the environmental impact, look into the manufacturing process. Some methods are more eco-friendly than others. It’s a bit of extra work, but it’s worth it to make sure your choice aligns with your values.
4 Likes
I’ve used EcoLime on my brick home and it’s held up surprisingly well through some harsh winters. The key is proper surface prep. Make sure the surface is clean and free of any old paint or sealants. Lime wash needs to penetrate the surface to bond properly. As for sustainability, lime is a natural material, but the production process can be energy-intensive. It’s worth looking into how the company sources and processes their lime.
LimeWorks.us is another solid choice. I applied it to a stone wall in my garden, and it’s been over two years with no issues. It fades beautifully, giving that aged look without peeling or cracking. Regarding environmental impact, lime wash is more eco-friendly than many synthetic paints, but the carbon footprint of lime production is something to consider. Maybe look for companies that use renewable energy in their production process.
3 Likes
I haven’t used lime wash myself, but I’ve heard great things about its breathability, especially in older homes where moisture can be a problem. It’s interesting to think about the sustainability aspect. While lime itself is natural, the extraction and processing can have environmental impacts. It might be worth reaching out to the manufacturers directly to ask about their sustainability practices. Also, consider the longevity of lime wash; if it lasts longer than other paints, that could offset some of the initial environmental costs.
3 Likes
I’ve been using lime wash for a couple of years now, and I must say, it’s a game-changer for exteriors. The breathability aspect is something you can’t get with modern paints. I haven’t tried the brands you mentioned, but I went with a local supplier who sources lime sustainably. It’s held up pretty well against the elements, but I did notice it fades a bit faster in direct sunlight. Maybe something to consider if your house gets a lot of sun.
3 Likes
Lime wash is indeed eco-friendly, but don’t forget about the prep work. It’s crucial for a good finish. I spent a weekend just cleaning and prepping my walls before applying. Also, the color you choose can affect how it ages. I went for a natural white, and it’s developed a beautiful patina over time. Just a heads up, it’s not a one-and-done deal; you might need to touch up areas exposed to harsh weather.
3 Likes
I tried EcoLime on my brick exterior last spring. The application was straightforward, but it does require multiple coats for even coverage. The finish is matte and really enhances the texture of the brick. It’s been through a winter now, and I’m impressed with its durability. Just make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.
5 Likes
Lime wash is fantastic, but it’s not for everyone. If you’re looking for a uniform, modern look, this might not be the product for you. It’s all about embracing imperfections and the natural aging process. I love how it looks on my stone walls, giving them a timeless, weathered appearance. Just be prepared for a bit of maintenance to keep it looking its best.
1 Like
I’ve heard mixed reviews about lime wash in areas with heavy rainfall. Some say it washes away, while others claim it holds up fine. I’m in a drier climate, so I can’t speak from experience, but it’s something to research based on your location. Also, consider the pH of your walls before applying; lime wash is alkaline, and it might not adhere well to surfaces with a different pH.
5 Likes