Hey everyone! I’ve recently taken on the challenge of renovating my century-old home with a focus on sustainability and natural materials. One of the projects I’m most excited about is applying lime wash paint to the exterior. I chose LimeWorks.us for their eco-friendly lime wash, which is perfect for the breathable walls of my historic home. However, living in an area with harsh winters and humid summers, I’m a bit nervous about how the finish will hold up over time.
I’ve previously used Eco Paints for interior walls and was impressed with their durability and low VOC content, but exterior conditions are a whole different ball game. I’m curious if anyone has experience with maintaining lime wash finishes in extreme weather? Specifically, how often should I expect to reapply, and are there any particular sealing techniques or products that have worked well for you?
Also, I’m wondering about surface compatibility. My home has a mix of old brick and new plaster patches. Should I treat these surfaces differently before applying lime wash? Any tips on ensuring the lime wash adheres well and lasts longer despite the weather beating down on it?
Looking forward to hearing your experiences and advice! Let’s share our knowledge and help each other make more sustainable choices in our home projects.
Hey @EcoPainterJane, great choice going with lime wash for your historic home! I’ve been using LimeWorks.us products for a few years now on my own 1920s bungalow. For harsh weather conditions, I’ve found that applying a silicate-based sealer after the lime wash has fully cured can significantly enhance its durability. It’s breathable, so it won’t trap moisture, and it really helps the lime wash stand up to rain and snow. As for reapplication, I touch up every 2-3 years, but it really depends on the exposure and wear.
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I’m in a similar boat with a mix of old brick and new plaster. What I did was apply a lime primer to the new plaster patches to ensure better adhesion and uniformity with the old brick. It made a noticeable difference in how the lime wash applied and has held up over the past couple of years. Also, consider the direction your walls face; south-facing walls might need more frequent touch-ups due to sun exposure.
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@GreenThumbGary, thanks for the tip on the silicate-based sealer! I hadn’t considered that. Do you have a specific brand you recommend? Also, how many coats of sealer do you typically apply?
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@HistoricHomeHank, the lime primer sounds like a great idea. Did you notice any difference in how the lime wash aged on the primed vs. unprimed surfaces?
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Just a quick note on application timing - make sure to apply lime wash during mild weather. Extreme cold or heat can affect the curing process. I learned this the hard way with a patchy finish that needed redoing. Also, wearing protective gear is a must; lime is alkaline and can irritate skin.
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@EcoPainterJane, I’ve had good results with Prosoco’s Siloxane PD. Usually, one coat does the trick, but for areas with heavy exposure, a second coat can add extra protection. Just make sure the lime wash is completely dry before applying.
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@EcoPainterJane, yes, the primed areas have aged more uniformly. The unprimed patches showed some uneven fading after the first year, but nothing too drastic. It’s definitely worth the extra step for a more consistent look over time.
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Hey @EcoPainterJane, I’ve also been using lime wash on my home for a few years now. I live in a place with pretty extreme weather swings, and I’ve found that the key is in the preparation. Make sure those surfaces are as clean and dry as possible before you start. For the old brick and new plaster, I’d recommend a slightly different approach. The brick might need a bit more lime wash to get into all the nooks, and the plaster might need a primer to ensure even coverage. Just my two cents!
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I’m all about that silicate-based sealer too! It’s been a game-changer for my lime wash finishes. But I’d also add, don’t skimp on the quality of your lime wash. I’ve tried cheaper options, and they just don’t hold up the same way. It’s worth investing in a good product like LimeWorks.us, especially for harsh conditions. Also, consider the direction your house faces. The side that gets the most sun and weather might need more frequent touch-ups.
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Interesting points about surface prep and sealer. I haven’t tried a silicate-based sealer yet, but I’m intrigued. I’ve been using a natural oil-based sealer, and while it’s been okay, I’m always looking for ways to improve durability. Does the silicate sealer change the color or texture of the lime wash at all? I’m a bit worried about altering the aesthetic I’ve worked so hard to achieve.
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To answer your question about the silicate sealer, in my experience, it doesn’t change the color or texture significantly. It does give a slight sheen, but it’s very subtle and actually enhances the natural look of the lime wash. I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Also, regarding touch-ups, I’ve found that doing small touch-ups annually can prevent the need for a full reapplication every few years. It’s less work in the long run and keeps the finish looking fresh.
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I’m curious about the environmental impact of these sealers. I chose lime wash for its eco-friendly properties, and I want to make sure any additional products I use align with that. Does anyone know if silicate-based sealers are environmentally friendly? I’d hate to compromise on my sustainability goals just to extend the life of the lime wash.
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That’s a great question about the environmental impact. From what I understand, silicate-based sealers are quite eco-friendly. They’re made from natural minerals and don’t release harmful VOCs. Plus, because they extend the life of the lime wash, you’re actually reducing waste by not having to reapply as often. It’s a win-win for durability and sustainability. Maybe someone else has more detailed info on this?
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I’ve been using lime wash on my home for a few years now, and I can say that the key to longevity is in the preparation. For new plaster patches, I always recommend a lime-based primer. It really helps with adhesion and ensures a more uniform finish. As for the frequency of reapplication, it really depends on the exposure. My north-facing walls have held up remarkably well, needing touch-ups only every 3-4 years, while the south-facing ones need attention every 2 years.
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That’s interesting about the lime primer. I hadn’t thought about the direction of the walls affecting the lime wash. I live in a coastal area, so salt and humidity are my main concerns. I’ve found that adding a bit of linseed oil to the lime wash mix helps it repel water better. It’s not a perfect solution, but it does extend the life of the finish between reapplications.
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I agree with the preparation being crucial. I also think the quality of the lime wash plays a big part. I’ve tried a few brands, and the ones with higher lime content seem to last longer and look better over time. It’s worth investing in a good quality product, even if it’s a bit more expensive upfront. Also, applying it in thin layers helps it adhere better and dry more evenly.
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Has anyone tried using a breathable sealer over the lime wash? I’ve heard mixed reviews. Some say it helps protect against the elements without trapping moisture, while others argue it can affect the natural look of the lime wash. I’m considering it for my home but would love to hear from someone who’s actually tried it.
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I’ve been using lime wash on my cottage for a few years now, and the key is definitely in the preparation. Make sure your surfaces are clean and free from any old paint or debris. For the new plaster patches, a mist coat of lime wash diluted with water can help it adhere better. As for the weather, I agree with the timing tip. I usually aim for late spring or early fall when the weather is more predictable. And yes, protective gear is non-negotiable. Lime can be harsh on the skin.
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Interesting point about the application timing. I hadn’t considered that. I’ve been thinking about the sealing aspect though. Has anyone tried using a natural oil or wax as a sealant over lime wash? I’m curious if that could offer extra protection against the elements without compromising the breathability of the lime wash. Also, how do you guys deal with moss or algae growth on lime washed surfaces? It’s a bit of a battle here with the humidity.
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