Debunking Limewash Myths

While surfing the internet we found information that discussed the drawbacks to using lime wash. Unfortunately, most of the list was incorrect. To make sure there is accurate information about limewash, we’ve updated it. 

Here are myths about lime wash, and Romabio answers, debunking them:

• Lime Wash Myth #1: There are a few drawbacks to lime wash. The paint can only be used on rough surfaces and may not be as durable as traditional paint.
  Romabio Response: Incorrect. Limewash paint can be used on smooth, semi-smooth or rough surfaces. Ease of application is the same as ‘regular’ paint. Choose the right product for the surface type and look you want to create whether you want a distressed finish for brick or stone, you’ll use Classico Limewash, or for a limewash effect on Interior drywall, you’ll use Velatura Mineralwash. 

• Lime Wash Myth #2: Because of its high pH level, lime wash paint acts as a fungicide.
  Romabio Response: Incorrect. Due to its high pH, microorganisms cannot survive on the lime washed surface, and due to the lime-based ingredients, lime wash is a naturally healthy finish, providing good indoor air quality.

• Lime Wash Myth #3: If your lime washed surface becomes dirty, add another coat rather than washing it.
  Romabio Response: For Interior/Exterior brick or stone with Classico Limewash applied, you can gently wipe off dirt or wash it with mild soap. If you remove any lime wash, you can always reapply, but the best way to protect it is to use our Top Coat for waterproofing and stain proofing with Mineral Shield. For Interior drywall, you’ll want to be careful when removing dirt as it is a natural paint so it is best to apply a wax or sealer if it is a high-traffic area. 

• Lime Wash Myth #4: For interior surfaces, add a binding agent. Lime wash is unsuitable for drywall, but can be used on wood, brick, concrete, and other porous surfaces.
  Romabio Response: Not true with Romabio limewash paints. We offer two products. One for Interior drywall, Velatura Mineralwash, where you do not need to add a binding agent and it is an easy-to-use, 2-step process with no primer needed. And, for Interior/Exterior brick, stone, and other masonry that can also be applied to wood (email us for details), we offer Classico Limewash. 

• Lime Wash Myth #5: Wear protective coverings when applying lime wash, as limestone is a corrosive material for the skin and eyes.
  Romabio Response: True, but it’s similar to other paints as you don’t want too much on your hands or in your eyes.  We recommend the use of eye protection, and gloves, when using any paint products.

• Lime Wash Myth #6: You may need to apply several thin coats to achieve the lime wash coat that you desire.
  Romabio Response: Not necessarily true. For Interior/Exterior brick or stone with Classico Limewash, you only need one coat before you distress it. For Interior drywall, you need two coats but no primer to create a sublte movement effect. 

More Information on Limewash

Limewash paint is a historical mineral finish used to achieve an antique whitewash aesthetic to exterior or interior stone, brick, stucco, and any other masonry surfaces that are porous. Limewash was used as a standard paint finish since the founding of the Roman Empire and was one of only two paint products available for exterior paint finishes in Europe up to WWII.

Authentic, Italian slaked lime products (cooked active lime stored in water for 2 years, thus becoming inactive lime) will carbonize with mineral surfaces and create a mineral bond that will continue to harden for decades. Romabio Classico Limewash, applied as an antique finish, will be affected by natural environmental weathering when exposed to the elements. The durability and longevity of every situation are unknown, but it is usually around 10-20 years before needing to be repainted. 

While there are various products on the market that claim to be lime washes, Romabio Classico Limewash is an authentic slaked lime finish that is formulated to be easy to apply and artistically distressed for Interior/Exterior absorbent brick or stone. For Interior drywall, Romabio formulated an authentic mineral wash paint, Velatura Mineralwash, to give you an easy-to-use product to create the limewash effect. Romabio products are natural, non-toxic, highly breathable, and permeable. Here are more resources. 

Helpful Tutorials & Videos 

How to Apply Interior Limewash

How to Apply Classico Limewash 

How to Choose a Limewash Paint Color for your Home 

4 Ways to Paint Outdated Stone 

Happy Painting!