Hey everyone! 
I’ve been diving deep into the world of natural paints for my upcoming exterior renovation project. My goal is to find the most eco-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on durability or aesthetics. I’ve been experimenting with a few natural paint types, and lime wash has caught my attention. Its breathability and natural resistance to mold and mildew seem perfect for my old stone walls. I tried a small patch with LimeWorks.us lime wash, and the results were promising, but I’m curious about its long-term performance and how it compares to other natural options like clay or silicate paints.
Has anyone here used lime wash for their exterior walls? How did it hold up against the elements? I’m particularly interested in hearing about experiences with different brands or if you’ve mixed your own lime wash. Also, if you’ve tried other natural paints for exteriors, what was your experience like? Did you find any that offered better coverage or durability?
Let’s share our stories and tips! Whether it’s about application techniques, surface preparation, or environmental considerations, I’m all ears. Let’s help each other make more informed, sustainable choices for our homes. 
Hey EcoPainterJane! 
I’ve been using LimeWorks.us lime wash on my exterior walls for about two years now, and I must say, it’s been holding up remarkably well. The breathability aspect is a game-changer, especially for older homes like mine. I did notice that it fades a bit after a year, but a quick touch-up brings it back to life. Have you considered the color retention aspect in your research?
3 Likes
I’ve experimented with both lime wash and clay paint on my stone cottage. While lime wash is fantastic for breathability, I found that clay paint offered better coverage and a richer color palette. However, it’s a bit more challenging to apply. @EcoPainterJane, what’s your priority? Breathability or aesthetics?
2 Likes
@GreenThumb88 That’s great to hear about the durability! I haven’t delved deep into color retention yet, but it’s definitely on my list. Do you have any tips for the touch-up process? Also, did you apply any protective coating over the lime wash?
1 Like
@StoneCottageFan Thanks for sharing your experience! I’m leaning towards breathability since my main concern is preventing moisture damage. But I’m also curious about the application challenges with clay paint. Could you elaborate on that?
1 Like
I’ve been mixing my own lime wash using hydrated lime and water. It’s cost-effective and allows me to adjust the consistency for different surfaces. However, it requires a bit of trial and error to get it right. For those interested in DIY, I recommend starting with small batches. @EcoPainterJane, have you considered making your own lime wash?
4 Likes
@DIYQueen That sounds intriguing! I haven’t ventured into making my own lime wash yet, but I’m definitely interested. Do you have any resources or recipes you could share? Also, how does the durability of homemade lime wash compare to commercial products?
2 Likes
I’ve used silicate paint on my exterior walls, and it’s been fantastic. It’s not only eco-friendly but also offers excellent protection against weathering. The only downside is the limited color options. @EcoPainterJane, if you’re open to exploring beyond lime wash, silicate paint might be worth considering.
3 Likes
@NatureLover101 Silicate paint sounds interesting, especially the weathering protection. How does it fare in terms of breathability compared to lime wash? Also, could you recommend any brands?
1 Like
Hey! I’ve been using lime wash from a local supplier for my cottage’s exterior for about three years now. The fade is real, but like you said, a touch-up does wonders. I’ve found that applying a second coat after the first has fully cured helps with the longevity. Have you tried that with LimeWorks.us? Also, how do you handle the prep work? I find that’s where most of the effort goes.
2 Likes
I went with clay paint for my exterior walls last year, and honestly, I’m impressed. The color depth is amazing, and it’s held up pretty well against the rain and sun. I was worried about mold, but so far, so good. I think it’s worth considering if you’re looking for something a bit different. Plus, the application was a breeze compared to what I’ve heard about lime wash.
5 Likes
Interesting to hear about the fade with lime wash. I’ve been contemplating between lime wash and silicate paints for my project. Silicate paints seem to offer better durability and color retention from what I’ve read. Has anyone here made the switch or tried silicate paints? I’m curious about the environmental impact comparison as well.
5 Likes
I mixed my own lime wash for a small garden wall, and it was a fun project. The key was getting the lime putty consistency right. It’s been a year, and the wall looks great, but I did notice some areas where the wash didn’t adhere as well. Maybe it was the surface prep or the mix. For larger projects, though, I think I’d go with a pre-made product like LimeWorks.us for consistency. Anyone else tried DIY lime wash?
I’ve been using lime wash on my exterior walls for about three years now, and it’s held up surprisingly well against the weather. I live in a pretty rainy area, and the breathability really helps prevent moisture issues. That said, I did notice it fades a bit faster than I expected. I used a mix I made myself, following an old recipe, which was fun but a bit of a learning curve. If you’re after durability, maybe look into adding a natural sealant?
1 Like
Clay paint is my go-to for exteriors. The color depth is unmatched, and it feels more durable to me. I tried lime wash first but switched because I wanted more vibrant colors. Application is trickier, especially on uneven surfaces, but the effort is worth it for the finish. If you’re considering clay paint, make sure to prep your walls really well. It makes a huge difference.
2 Likes
I think it really depends on your climate and the look you’re going for. Lime wash is great for that soft, weathered look and works well in drier climates. But if you’re dealing with a lot of moisture or want something more vibrant, clay or silicate paints might be better. I’ve used silicate paint on my exterior, and it’s been incredibly durable, plus it’s eco-friendly. It’s worth considering if you’re looking for longevity.
4 Likes
Has anyone tried mixing lime wash with other natural pigments or materials to enhance its durability or color? I’m curious about experimenting but worried about messing up the balance. Also, how do you all deal with the prep work for these natural paints? It seems like a lot more effort than just slapping on some conventional paint, but I guess that’s part of the commitment to being eco-friendly.
3 Likes
Mixing your own lime wash sounds like a great way to really tailor it to your specific needs. I’ve been using LimeWorks.us for a while now, and while it’s a bit pricier, the consistency and quality are top-notch. Have you noticed any differences in durability between your homemade mix and commercial brands? Also, how do you handle color additives in your mix? I’ve been curious about adding natural pigments but worried it might affect the lime’s properties.
I tried the DIY route with lime wash last summer, and it was a bit of a learning curve. Getting the right consistency was tricky, and I ended up with a few patchy areas. I switched to a silicate paint for the rest of the project, and it was much easier to apply evenly. It’s also been holding up really well against the rain and sun. For anyone considering lime wash, I’d say it’s worth it if you’re patient and willing to experiment. But if you’re looking for something more straightforward, silicate paints are a solid alternative.
3 Likes