How To Paint Over Limewash: Everything You Need To Know

Have you ever wondered “can you paint over limewash”?

Perhaps you’ve moved into an older home with limewashed walls or are restoring a historic building and are faced with the challenge of updating its appearance. The good news is that you can paint over limewash, but it requires a specific technique to ensure that the finish is long-lasting.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to paint over limewash, from understanding what limewash is to the best techniques for achieving a flawless finish. By the end, you’ll have a clear step-by-step process that will leave your walls looking fresh and modern while respecting the unique properties of limewash.

What is Limewash?

Limewash is an ancient form of paint made from limestone that has been crushed, burned, and mixed with water. It creates a chalky, breathable finish that allows walls to “breathe” by letting moisture escape. This quality makes it an excellent choice for older, heritage buildings, particularly those made from brick or stone, as it helps to prevent the build-up of moisture and damp.

Because of its natural, matte appearance, limewash paint is popular for heritage properties, rustic homes, and buildings that require a traditional finish. Limewash can also be pigmented to achieve different colours, though it typically has a soft, muted tone that blends well with natural materials. Its vapour-permeable properties, however, mean that you need to take extra care when painting over it.

Where is Limewash Typically Found?

Limewash is commonly found in older buildings, particularly in the UK and other parts of Europe. Examples of buildings where limewash is used include:

• Cottages: Many traditional British cottages feature limewash on the exterior or interior walls.
• Churches: The breathable qualities of limewash make it ideal for older churches and religious buildings.
• Castles: Historical landmarks, such as castles, often use limewash to protect their stonework.
• Farmhouses: Many rustic farmhouses, barns, and outbuildings are finished with limewash for its natural appeal.

Examples of limewashed buildings in the UK include Haddon Hall, a medieval manor house in Derbyshire, and some of the older structures in villages like Lacock in Wiltshire. These real-life examples illustrate how limewash has been integral to maintaining the beauty and structure of historical properties. If you are looking to paint over limewash in a listed building, be sure to check that you are complying with historic building regulations.

Limewash Paint Technique

Applying limewash paint is quite different from applying modern paints. Its watery consistency and the need for multiple thin layers mean that it requires patience and precision. Here’s a basic outline of the limewash paint technique:

Surface Preparation

Limewash requires a porous surface, like untreated brick or plaster, to adhere properly. The surface should be clean, free from dust, and slightly damp to allow the limewash to absorb.

Application

Limewash should be applied with a large brush in overlapping strokes to create an even, consistent finish. Thin coats are key, with several layers often needed to build up the desired opacity.

Drying Time

Limewash dries slowly, so it’s important to allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next one. Limewash also changes colour as it dries, often lightening significantly.

Maintenance

One of the benefits of limewash is that it ages beautifully and allows for easy touch-ups. If the limewash becomes dirty or damaged, refresh it with a new coat without stripping away the old paint.

However, painting over limewash with modern paints requires specific preparation steps to ensure the new paint adheres well and lasts long. Let’s dive into the process of painting over limewash.

How to Paint Over Limewash – With Zinsser

Painting over limewash requires careful preparation to ensure that the new paint bonds well with the surface. Due to the porous nature of limewash, modern paints may not adhere properly if the surface is not prepared correctly. Follow this four-step process to achieve a professional, long-lasting finish with Zinsser. Paint over limewash with a choice of 3,000+ colours!

Step 1: Surface Preparation

Before you begin, ensure the limewashed surface is clean and dry. Remove any loose or flaking limewash by scraping it away with a stiff-bristled brush. If there are any cracks or imperfections, fill them with an appropriate filler. It’s also important to check the moisture content of the walls, which should not exceed 18% before painting.

If there is any mould or organic growth on the walls, treat it with a suitable mould remover, like Zinsser Mould Killer & Remover. This will prevent any growth from affecting the new paint layer.

Step 2: Patch Priming and Bringing Forward

After preparing the surface, apply Zinsser Grade 1 as a patch primer, to any bare or filled areas. This step ensures a consistent base for the final coat of paint. Allow the primer to dry for at least two hours before moving on to the next step.

Step 3: Priming the Entire Surface

Once the patch-primed areas are dry, apply a full coat of primer to the entire limewashed surface. Zinsser Grade 1 is ideal because it’s designed specifically for use on challenging surfaces like limewash and distemper. Make sure the surface is evenly covered, and let the primer dry for at least two hours.

Step 4: Decoration

Now it’s time to decorate. Apply one or two coats of your chosen topcoat, again using Zinsser Grade 1 if you want a high-performance paint with a matt finish. The number of coats you’ll need will depend on the coverage you want and the colour you’ve chosen. Zinsser Grade 1 comes in over 3,000 colours, so you’ll have plenty of options to suit your design preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you paint over limewash with regular paint?

Yes, you can paint over limewash, but regular paints may not adhere well without proper preparation. A suitable primer is needed to create a stable base for the new paint. Following the right steps will ensure long-lasting results.

How to apply limewash paint?

Apply limewash paint in thin, even layers using a large brush. Dampen the surface beforehand, and apply multiple coats to build up the desired finish. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

Can you paint over limewash brick?

Yes, you can paint over limewash brick. Here are the essentials:

1. Clean Surface: Remove dust and loose particles.
2. Choose Paint: Use a water-based masonry paint; avoid oil-based.
3. Test First: Try a small area for compatibility.
4. Breathability: Ensure the paint allows moisture to escape.
5. Reapply if Needed: Deteriorating paint may require removing it and reapplying limewash.

Conclusion

Painting over limewash can seem daunting, but with the right preparation and products, it’s completely manageable. By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your new paint adheres well and remains durable for years to come. Whether you’re restoring a heritage building or simply updating your home’s interior, using the right techniques will give you a professional finish that respects the building’s original materials.

If you need further assistance with your limewash project, don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Our technical experts at Rawlins are always on hand to offer advice and support tailored to your needs.

Posted: 23rd October 2019 | Updated: 7th October 2024