Limewash Paint Application: General Questions
Essential tools, drying time and key considerations for limewash paint application
My walls are already painted with conventional paint, can I use Bauwerk Paint over them?
Yes, as long as the existing paint layer is in good condition, without flaking, and is clean from dirt, dust, grease, and soluble salts. All you need to do is prepare your wall to establish the right conditions for the limewash paint to absorb properly, ensuring an even and long-lasting finish. This typically means 2 coats of an undercoat-sealer/primer, and a coat of Bauwerk Prep Coat on interior walls, before painting. For more advice, check out our handy Prep Coat guide on the ‘How-To Limewash Guide’.
- Gloss or semi-gloss walls should be sandpapered.
- If there are different substrates (materials) in your wall, you may see a slight variation in the colour or ‘ghosting’. It is important to understand that Bauwerk Limewash and Prep Coat will not mask what is on your wall, it allows all the history and the materials of the wall to come through. For a uniform finish, we recommend sealing the wall with 2 coats of a water-based undercoat-sealer/primer, followed by 1 coat of Bauwerk Prep Coat on interior walls.
- You can also apply limewash to lining wallpaper, simply apply 1 coat of Bauwerk Prep Coat before limewashing.
Learn More about limewashing over other paint
Can I use Bauwerk Limewash in my bathroom?
Just like conventional paints, Bauwerk Limewash Paint can be used on the walls and ceilings of bathrooms, achieving beautiful results.
Our paint is not just suitable for high-humidity environments, it thrives in these demanding conditions. Bauwerk Limewash offers several benefits compared to other finishing products. With the absence of plastics and harmful chemicals, our limewash paint is non-film-forming, which means it doesn’t blister or peel, even in steamy environments. It is naturally anti-bacterial and will resist mould, and is also water resistant (although not waterproof).
Limewash paint is absorbent, allowing for the evaporation of moisture. This also means that it can absorb materials that leave a mark, such as toothpaste and soap. It is for this reason that we do not recommend limewashed surfaces in the shower area or directly adjacent to the bath. Splashbacks are recommended behind basin areas and splash zones to minimise marks.
While top-coat protective sealers prevent absorption, we don’t recommend them as they negate the breathable, environmentally friendly benefits of limewash. They also make repainting more difficult. Choosing areas to limewash depends on your lifestyle, usage, and maintenance preferences. Two approaches are common: opt for splashbacks like tiles in high-impact zones for easy cleaning, or embrace a casual, lived-in look with occasional touchups.
Can I use Bauwerk Limewash Paint in my kitchen?
Yes, Bauwerk Limewash Paint is used in kitchens all over the world. You can limewash all walls and ceilings, except where it may come in contact with fat/oil/grease (for instance, behind the stove) as this may discolour the paint.
Limewash paint is absorbent which means that it can absorb substances that leave a mark. We do not recommend the use of top-coat protective sealers over limewash as these products introduce more chemicals into the home and make repainting more difficult. Instead, you can use a sheet of glass behind the stove as an unobtrusive way of protecting that area, while still allowing for redecoration when needed. Alternatively, you can use a stone or tile splashback in splash zones or embrace a casual, lived-in look with occasional touchups.
How do you store limewash paint?
When storing leftover Bauwerk Limewash Paint, the paint should be stored in an airtight container in a frost-free location, at or above 5°C (41°F). keep out of reach of children.
Tip: Before storing leftover limewash paint, consider placing a layer of cling film over the surface before resealing the bucket lid. This helps preserve the paint.
After storage, your limewash paint may appear thicker than before. We don't recommend adjusting the consistency of Bauwerk Limewash Paint. If there's a film of water on top and the paint stirs easily, it should still be fine to use. If you're unsure, feel free to send us a picture for advice.
I am pregnant, is it safe to use limewash paint?
Yes, it is completely safe to use limewash while pregnant. Our paint is free from VOCs, biocides, formaldehyde, and harmful chemicals, so there are no dangerous fumes or off-gassing. This means you can paint without worrying about inhaling harmful substances, and even sleep in the room the same day. It’s also ideal for people with asthma or chemical sensitivities. Plus, the mineral base of limewash is naturally antibacterial, making it a great option for those with allergies.