Hey fellow eco-warriors! I recently embarked on a journey to repaint the exterior of my century-old home, and let me tell you, the quest for the perfect eco-friendly paint was both enlightening and a bit overwhelming. After much research and a couple of trials with other natural paints, I landed on lime wash, and I couldn’t be happier with my choice.
I started with a popular brand of milk paint, which was great for its non-toxic properties and ease of use, but it didn’t quite hold up to the harsh weather conditions we face here. That’s when I stumbled upon lime wash. Not only is it breathable, allowing moisture to escape and preventing mold, but it also has a unique, matte finish that adds character to my home’s exterior. The brand I chose, EcoLime, offers a range of natural pigments, and I went with a soft, earthy tone that complements the surrounding landscape beautifully.
Applying lime wash was a bit of a learning curve. It’s thinner than conventional paint, so it requires a specific technique to avoid streaks. But once I got the hang of it, the process was quite meditative. Plus, knowing that I’m using a product that’s not only environmentally friendly but also enhances the durability of my home’s exterior is incredibly satisfying.
I’m curious to hear from others who’ve ventured into the world of natural exterior paints. Have you tried lime wash? What brands and techniques worked best for you? And for those considering making the switch, what questions or concerns do you have? Let’s share our experiences and tips to help each other make more sustainable choices for our homes!
Great choice going with lime wash, @GreenThumbGary! I’ve been using EcoLime for a couple of years now on my cottage, and it’s held up beautifully against the coastal weather. The breathability aspect is a game-changer for preventing damp issues. Did you find the application process tricky at first?
@SunnyDaysSam, absolutely! The first couple of tries were a bit streaky, but I watched a few tutorials and got the hang of it. It’s all about the consistency and using the right brush. So rewarding once you get it right!
I’m considering lime wash for my new project but worried about the color fading over time. @GreenThumbGary, how has your color held up? Also, does EcoLime offer UV protection?
@EcoWarriorEmma, the color has faded slightly, but it’s given the house a lovely, weathered look that I actually prefer. As for UV protection, EcoLime does offer some level of protection, but it’s always a good idea to apply a natural sealant if you’re in a particularly sunny area.
Has anyone tried mixing their own lime wash? I’m all for DIY solutions and wondering if it’s feasible to make a batch at home. Also, any tips on sourcing natural pigments?
@DIYDan, I’ve experimented with making my own lime wash, and it’s definitely doable! The key is getting the lime putty consistency right. For pigments, I’ve had success with natural earth pigments from EarthHues. They have a great range of colors and are super eco-friendly.
I’m curious about the environmental impact of lime wash production. Does anyone know if EcoLime or similar brands use sustainable practices? Also, how does lime wash compare to other natural paints in terms of carbon footprint?
@NatureLoverNate, EcoLime prides itself on sustainable sourcing and low-impact production. Lime wash generally has a lower carbon footprint compared to synthetic paints because it’s made from natural limestone and water. It’s also fully biodegradable, which is a huge plus for the environment.
Hey @GreenThumbGary, I’ve been using lime wash from EcoLime for about two years now on my cottage. The color has faded a bit, but it’s more of a gentle weathering that adds to the charm, in my opinion. As for UV protection, EcoLime does mention their products have some level of UV resistance, but it’s not like conventional paints with chemical UV blockers. It’s a trade-off for going natural, but I think it’s worth it for the eco benefits.
I tried lime wash on a small shed first to see how it would hold up. After a year, the color has definitely lightened, especially on the sides that get the most sun. It’s not a drastic change, though, and I kind of like the weathered look it gives. EcoLime was my choice too, and while they don’t specifically market UV protection, the lime itself is pretty resilient. Just be ready for some maintenance if you’re after a consistent color over the years.
Mixing your own lime wash is definitely doable and can be a rewarding project. I’ve done it a couple of times, and the key is to use high-quality hydrated lime and clean water. For natural pigments, I’ve had success with earth pigments from local art supply stores. They usually have a good selection of colors derived from minerals and clays. Just remember, the pigment needs to be lime-stable, so it doesn’t react negatively with the lime. Start small to get the hang of the consistency and color mixing before committing to a large batch.
I’ve tried making lime wash at home, and while it’s a bit messy, it’s totally worth it. Sourcing natural pigments can be tricky, but I found a supplier online that specializes in natural and eco-friendly pigments for lime wash and plaster. They offer a wide range of colors, and the quality has been consistent. One tip I can share is to wear gloves and a mask when handling lime and pigments, as they can be irritating. Also, test your mix on a small area first to see how it dries and adheres. It’s a fun project that adds a personal touch to your home.
I’ve been using lime wash for a couple of years now, and I’m really happy with it. About EcoLime, I did some digging when I first started using their products. They seem pretty committed to sustainability, sourcing their lime locally to reduce transportation emissions and using renewable energy in their production process. As for the carbon footprint, lime wash generally has a lower impact compared to synthetic paints because it’s made from natural limestone and water, which are abundant and require less energy to process.
I tried lime wash on my garden wall last summer, and it’s holding up surprisingly well. I was worried about the durability at first, but it’s been through a lot of rain and sun without fading much. I didn’t go with EcoLime though, I used a smaller brand that’s local to my area. They claim to use only solar power in their production, which is a big plus for me. Comparing it to other natural paints, I think lime wash is a bit more labor-intensive to apply, but the environmental benefits make it worth the effort.
That’s interesting about EcoLime using renewable energy. I’ve been considering switching to lime wash for my house but was concerned about the environmental impact of production. I wonder how the carbon footprint of lime wash compares to that of clay paints or silicate paints, which are also marketed as eco-friendly options. Does anyone have experience with those and can share how they stack up against lime wash in terms of sustainability and durability?
I recently embarked on a journey to repaint the exterior of my century-old home, and let me tell you, the quest for the perfect eco-friendly paint was both enlightening and a bit overwhelming. After much research and a couple of trials with other natural paints, I landed on lime wash, and I couldn’t be happier with my choice.