Hey everyone! I’ve been diving deep into the world of natural paints for my latest home renovation project, and I’ve fallen in love with the idea of using lime wash for its breathability and eco-friendly properties. However, I’ve hit a bit of a snag. My walls are currently coated with oil-based paint, and I’m wondering if lime wash can be applied directly over it or if I need to do some prep work first.
I’ve previously used Earthborn Claypaint in another room and was thrilled with the results, especially how it didn’t emit any nasty fumes. But lime wash is a whole new ball game for me. I’ve read that it’s best applied on porous surfaces, which makes me question its compatibility with my oil-painted walls. Has anyone here tried applying lime wash over oil-based paint? What was your experience like?
Also, I’m curious about the environmental impact of lime wash compared to other natural paints. I’ve heard it’s pretty sustainable, but I’d love to hear your thoughts or any tips you might have for a first-timer. Looking forward to your advice and experiences!
Hey @EcoPainterJane, great question! From my experience, lime wash prefers porous surfaces to adhere properly. Oil-based paints create a non-porous barrier, so applying lime wash directly over it might not give you the best results. I’d recommend lightly sanding the walls to create a more porous surface or using a primer designed for this purpose. Also, lime wash is indeed eco-friendly, as it’s made from natural limestone and water, making it a sustainable choice. Good luck with your project!
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I’ve tried applying lime wash over oil-based paint, and it was a bit of a challenge. The key is preparation. I sanded the walls thoroughly and then applied a coat of EcoPrimer to ensure the lime wash had something to grip onto. It worked out well in the end, but it was definitely more work than applying it to bare plaster. On the plus side, the breathability of lime wash is fantastic, and it gives a unique, matte finish that’s hard to achieve with other paints.
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Thanks, @GreenThumb88! I was afraid sanding might be necessary. Do you have any recommendations for a primer that works well with lime wash? I want to make sure I get this right the first time.
@DIYQueen, how many coats of lime wash did you end up applying after using the EcoPrimer? I’m considering a similar project and want to gauge the amount of product I’ll need.
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Just a quick tip for anyone considering lime wash: it’s not just about the application but also the maintenance. Lime wash can fade over time, especially in areas exposed to direct sunlight. But the good news is, it’s easy to touch up, and each new layer adds to the depth and character of the finish. It’s a living finish that evolves, which I think is pretty cool!
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@EcoPainterJane, I’ve had good results with Natural Primer from EcoPaints. It’s specifically designed for use with lime-based finishes and helps ensure a good bond. Just make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best outcome.
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@NatureLover101, I applied two coats of lime wash, but it really depends on the look you’re going for. Some people prefer the subtlety of a single coat, while others like the more pronounced effect of multiple coats. Just remember, lime wash dries lighter than it appears when wet, so keep that in mind when deciding.
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I’ve actually tried applying lime wash over oil-based paint before, and it was a bit of a disaster. The lime wash just didn’t stick properly and started peeling off after a few days. I ended up having to strip the oil paint off completely, which was a huge pain. So yeah, definitely prep your walls first if you’re going this route.
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That’s interesting because I had a different experience. I used a specific primer made for this kind of situation, and the lime wash went on beautifully over my oil-based painted walls. It’s been over a year, and it still looks great. Maybe the key is in the prep work and the products you use.
I’m all for using natural paints, but have you considered the durability of lime wash? I’ve heard it can be a bit high maintenance, requiring reapplication every few years. Just something to think about if you’re looking for a long-term solution.
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Speaking of eco-friendly options, has anyone tried using milk paint? I’ve been curious about it for a while now. It’s supposed to be another natural alternative, but I’m not sure how it compares to lime wash in terms of application and durability.
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I’ve been down that road too, and honestly, it’s a bit of a gamble. The prep work is crucial, like you mentioned. I didn’t use EcoPrimer but went with a different bonding agent, and it was hit or miss in some spots. The finish is indeed unique, but I found that it required a couple of extra coats to get an even look. Have you considered using a test patch first to see how it adheres? It might save you some headache down the line.
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Jumping in here, I think the environmental aspect of lime wash is often overlooked. It’s not just about the application but also about how it ages. Over time, lime wash can actually help walls breathe better, reducing moisture issues. That said, the prep work for oil-based paint is a pain, but it’s worth it for the benefits. I’m curious, though, has anyone tried mixing lime wash with other natural pigments for color? I’ve heard it’s possible but haven’t seen it in action.
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I’ve actually tried applying lime wash over oil-based paint before, and it didn’t go as smoothly as I hoped. The main issue was adhesion; the lime wash just didn’t stick well to the slick surface of the oil paint. I ended up having to sand the walls lightly to create a bit of texture for the lime wash to grip onto. It was a bit of extra work, but the end result was worth it. Just something to keep in mind if you decide to go ahead with it.
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That’s a great point about the maintenance of lime wash. I’ve noticed that in my home, the areas that get a lot of sun do fade faster, but like you said, touching it up is easy and adds to the charm. I think the evolving finish is part of what makes lime wash so unique. As for the environmental impact, from what I’ve read, lime wash is one of the most sustainable options out there. It’s made from natural materials and doesn’t release harmful chemicals into the air. Plus, it’s breathable, which is great for the walls and the indoor air quality.
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