Limewash - The Natural Paint
Limewash is made from limestone that has been crushed, burnt and then slaked with water to make lime putty. Once matured for several months, the lime putty is then thinned with water to make limewash.Limewash has a chalky, matt appearance, due to its complex crystalline matrix, and is naturally white in colour. However, we can offer a large range of colours that are made with both natural and manufactured pigments. The natural pigments are clay and silica, which are coloured with iron oxides in the earth. Although less intense in colour than manufactured pigments, they give a soft gentle hue which is very attractive. Manufactured pigments are produced mainly from iron oxides which mimic traditional earth pigments. The end result is the colour is stronger, more consistent and durable. We are able to supply a full colour chart on request.
The case for using limewash as opposed to modern paints is quite simple. Limewash works by sinking into the surface unlike modern barrier paints. It reduces the effects of condensation and enables the moisture within the walls to evaporate to the outside. When used externally, tallow or raw linseed oil is added to increase the water shedding properties of the limewash. Modern paints simply seal a structure which in older buildings can lead to dampness and condensation problems, ultimately increasing the risk of decay in the cob wall, as well as in the structural timbers and any stonework.
Another plus for limewash is that it has fire proofing qualities and because it's alkaline, is anti-bacterial and insecticidal hence bugs such as woodworm and death-watch beetle don't like it!
