Hey fellow eco-warriors! 
I’ve recently taken on the challenge of restoring an old brick wall in my backyard, and I’m diving into the world of lime wash. I’ve heard it’s a fantastic, breathable option that’s been used for centuries, but I’m curious about your experiences. Have any of you used lime wash on old brick? I’m particularly interested in brands that have worked well for you and any tips on application. I’ve tried a couple of eco-friendly paints before, like milk paint on wood, but brick is a whole new ball game for me.
I’m leaning towards trying LimeWorks.us because of their focus on historical accuracy and sustainability. But I’m all ears if you’ve got other recommendations! Also, how did you find the coverage and durability? My wall gets a lot of weather exposure, so I’m a bit nervous about how it’ll hold up. And of course, I’m all about minimizing environmental impact, so any insights on the eco-credentials of the products you’ve used would be amazing.
Let’s share our stories and tips! What’s your go-to lime wash for brick, and why? Any application hacks or lessons learned the hard way? Looking forward to hearing your experiences and maybe even seeing some before-and-after pics if you’ve got them!
Hey @EcoPainterJane, I’ve used lime wash on my old brick walls and it’s been a game-changer! I went with LimeWorks.us as well, mainly because of their commitment to sustainability and historical accuracy. The coverage was excellent, and it’s held up surprisingly well against the weather. One tip I’d give is to make sure the brick is clean and slightly damp before application. It helps the lime wash adhere better. Good luck with your project!
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I’ve experimented with a few brands, but LimeWorks.us stands out for their eco-friendly approach. However, I found that the durability can vary based on the brick’s condition and the local climate. In areas with heavy rainfall, you might need to reapply every couple of years. But the breathability and aesthetic it provides are unmatched. Definitely worth the effort!
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Thanks @GreenThumb88! That’s really helpful to know about the dampness tip. I’ll definitely keep that in mind. Did you use any particular tools for application, or is a regular paintbrush sufficient?
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@EcoPainterJane, I used a masonry brush for the first coat to really work it into the brick, then a regular paintbrush for the second coat. It gave a nice, even finish. Just make sure to wear gloves, as lime wash can be a bit harsh on the skin!
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I tried lime wash on my garden wall last summer, and while I loved the natural look, I did notice some fading after a few months. I’m in a pretty sunny area, though. Has anyone else experienced this? Maybe I need to look into a more UV-resistant formula.
@NatureLover101, fading can be an issue in direct sunlight. Some brands offer additives to improve UV resistance, but it might slightly alter the natural finish. It’s a trade-off between durability and maintaining that authentic lime wash look.
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Just wanted to chime in and say how much I appreciate this thread! I’m planning to lime wash my brick fireplace and was a bit overwhelmed by all the options. Hearing about everyone’s experiences with LimeWorks.us and the application tips is super helpful. Can’t wait to get started!
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@DIYQueen, glad to hear you’re finding the thread useful! I’m in the same boat—feeling much more confident about tackling my brick wall now. Let us know how your fireplace project goes!
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I’ve also had a great experience with LimeWorks.us on my old brick walls. Their product really does live up to the hype for both durability and eco-friendliness. One thing I learned is that applying it in thin layers works best. It might take a bit more time, but the finish is so much smoother and it seems to last longer. Plus, the natural look it gives to the bricks is just unmatched. Definitely recommend giving it a go!
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Interesting to hear about LimeWorks.us. I went a different route and used a local brand that specializes in eco-friendly building materials. The coverage was decent, but I had to apply three coats to get the look I wanted. It’s been about a year, and it’s holding up pretty well, though I do notice some fading in the areas that get the most sun. Maybe next time I’ll give LimeWorks.us a try to see if it fares better against the elements.
I’m in the middle of deciding between lime wash and a silicate paint for my brick walls. I’ve heard silicate paints are also breathable and eco-friendly, plus they’re supposed to be super durable. Has anyone tried both and can compare? I’m leaning towards lime wash for the historical aspect, but durability is a big concern for me since my walls face the ocean and get a lot of salt spray.
I’ve been down the lime wash road too, and yeah, LimeWorks.us is pretty solid. But don’t sleep on Romabio. Their lime wash is also eco-friendly and has a nice finish. The key is really in the prep work. Make sure that brick is clean and maybe even damp before you start. It helps the lime wash adhere better. And yeah, reapplication is part of the deal, especially in harsh weather. But it’s all worth it for that authentic, aged look.
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Honestly, I tried lime wash on my old brick wall and it was a disaster. Maybe I did something wrong, but it just didn’t stick well and washed away after a few rains. I ended up going with a mineral-based paint instead. It’s not as breathable, but it’s held up much better against the elements. Just my two cents if you’re in a really wet area.
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I’m all about that lime wash life! Used it on my century-old home and it looks stunning. I went with a local brand that specializes in historical renovations, so maybe check out what’s available in your area. The trick is to apply it in thin layers and let it dry completely between coats. It’s a bit of a process, but the end result is so rewarding. Plus, it’s cool to think you’re using a technique that’s been around for ages.
Lime wash is great, but have you considered lime plaster? It’s a bit more work, but it gives you that same breathable, eco-friendly finish with a bit more durability. I used it on my exterior walls and it’s been holding up like a champ. Just something to think about if you’re looking for alternatives. Either way, good luck with your project!
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I’ve used lime wash from a few different brands, and honestly, the results can vary a lot. It’s not just about the brand, but also about the specific product line and the condition of your brick. I’d recommend getting samples if you can and testing them out on a small section of your wall. It’s a bit of extra work, but it can save you a lot of headaches in the long run. And don’t forget to seal it if you’re in a wet climate!
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For those worried about durability, have you looked into adding a stabilizer to your lime wash? I read about it in a restoration forum and gave it a try. It definitely helped with the longevity, especially in areas that get a lot of sun and rain. Just a thought for anyone looking to get the most out of their lime wash application. Also, anyone have tips on achieving different shades? I’m looking to get a slightly darker tone on my next project.
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I’ve used LimeWorks.us on my old brick wall last summer, and I must say, the results were stunning. The key is in the preparation. Make sure your bricks are clean and free from any loose material. I used a stiff brush and water, nothing too harsh. The application was a bit tricky at first, but once you get the hang of it, it’s quite satisfying. The coverage was good, but I did two coats for a more uniform look. It’s been holding up well against the weather, but I did seal it with a breathable sealer for extra protection. Definitely recommend giving it a try!
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I went with a different brand, EcoLime, for my project, and I was pleasantly surprised. The application was straightforward, and the coverage was excellent with just one coat. It’s been a year, and the color has faded a bit, but it adds to the charm, giving it that authentic aged look. I didn’t use any sealer, and it’s holding up fine, but my wall is somewhat sheltered from direct weather. If you’re looking for something a bit different, EcoLime is worth considering. Plus, their eco-credentials are solid, which was a big plus for me.
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