Limewash - Application - Application of Limewash

Preparation

• Thoroughly stir limewash before application. It is a ‘suspension’ and all the heavy particles settle to the bottom. Remember to stir it up again every 30 minutes to prevent it settling in the bucket.
• Protect surfaces and surrounding areas with plastic sheeting - as limewash is a thin solution that requires applying vigorously, there is a tendency for it to get on the floor etc. Although it can be washed off stone or paving, it is easier to protect areas first!
• Protect your eyes and skin, this is one of the easiest times to get lime in your eye as it is in a liquid form, wear goggles, gloves and cover your skin.
• Keep eyewash close to hand.

Preparing the surface

• Make good any stone or brickwork where required by re-pointing or dubbing out
• Thoroughly clean and dampen the surface before applying the limewash to ensure moisture isn’t sucked out too rapidly. A limewash will carbonate whilst it is moist. If it dries out before it has carbonated, it will fail and turn to dust.

Application of limewash

• Use as thin as possible. If a limewash is put on too thick, it will crack and crumble. Apply in thin layers at about the consistency of single cream.
• Apply vigorously. It is best to use a relatively stiff brush and use a slight pushing action. This will compress it slightly and ensure that crevices are filled. Longhaired brushes should be used, we find that dust-pan brushes work well if proper limewashing brushes are not available.
• Apply at least three thin coats, allowing at least 12 hours for each coat to carbonate. Gently mist between coats with a garden sprayer.

Protection

• Protect external limewashes in dry and windy weather or in direct sunlight with damp hessian or plastic sheeting to prevent rapid drying. In less extreme conditions, gentle spraying may be necessary.
• Avoid limewashing during inclement weather conditions. New limewash is susceptible to damage from frost and heavy rain in the first day or so.
• Don’t panic. When a limewash is first applied, it is quite translucent. Within a few hours it will become opaque.
• Durability - limewashes will need further coats over the years but a well-applied limewash onto a well-prepared substrate can last many years.
• Gentle misting may be required up to 4 times a day for approx. 3 days after the application of the final coat of limewash depending on atmospheric conditions. This is essential to avoid dusting of the limewash, and to make the finish as durable as possible.