Whitewash vs. Limewash – What’s the Difference?

Are you looking for home painting services in Westminster CO? Look no further than American Painting Specialists. We provide top-quality painting services for your home’s interior and exterior. We understand that every home is unique and therefore requires a different approach when it comes to painting.

You might be curious about the differences between whitewash and limewash if you’re looking to refresh the brick on your fireplace or the exterior of your home or find the perfect paint color for a particular space.

Although the two terms occasionally interchanged, they do not mean the same thing. What distinguishes limewashing from whitewashing? Is one more suitable for your upcoming painting project than the other?

What is Whitewash?

This is a type of paint made from a mixture of chalk and water. It’s usually white but can also be tinted with colorants to produce other colors. It’s a fragile paint, so it doesn’t cover up imperfections on the surface it’s applied to very well.

Whitewashing is commonly used on wood and stone surfaces to brighten them or make them look more uniform. It’s also sometimes used on walls before painting to help pain adhere better.

Features of Whitewash

i. You can use whitewash inside your home on walls and ceilings and outside on siding, patios, and fences.

ii. You can apply whitewash to various surfaces, including wood, stone, and brick.

iii. You can easily apply whitewash with a brush, roller, or even sprayer.

iv. Whitewash dries relatively quickly, usually within an hour or two.

v. Whitewash is ideal for use on bare, unfinished wood; therefore, remove any finish before applying by sanding.

vi. To increase the lifespan of the whitewash, mix in some satin polyurethane or water-based matte sealant.

vii. If done correctly, whitewashing can endure up to 20 to 30 years with little maintenance.

Application

Whitewashing requires using water-based paint that has been diluted with water. Apply it in small layers with a large, soft paintbrush; it dulls the natural hues of brick, wood, and other surfaces, giving them an antique or aged appearance. The painter can also remove portions of the whitewash paint with a damp cloth, revealing raw brick or wood beneath the whitewash paint.

What Is Limewash?

Limewash is made from crushed and burned limestone, which is then mixed with water to make putty. After ageing, the putty is diluted with water to create a paint with a chalky texture and a mottled, matte appearance.

It is available in white, the natural color of limestone, as well as grey, brown, and taupe tones created by combining natural pigments with limestone.

Features of Limewash

i. Limewash is safe for both indoor and outdoor use, making it a versatile choice for your home.

ii. Its high pH level helps to protect surfaces from mold and mildew.

iii. It is resistant to odors, moisture, and insects, making it a durable choice for your home.

iv. Its chalky texture acts as a shield against the sun, wind, and rain.

v. If you are dissatisfied with the outcomes of your painting project, the limewash can be readily removed up to five days following application.

vi. Limestone is excellent for porous surfaces such as stone, brick, and plaster: The porous structure allows the limewash to permeate and adhere to the surface, resulting in a long-lasting finish.

vii. Limewash can be used on drywall if a mineral-based primer is used first. This will contribute to a more durable finish.

viii. Limewash is a long-lasting choice for your home when applied correctly. It may, however, necessitate touch-ups every five to seven years.

Application

Apply multiple thin layers of limewash with a masonry paintbrush, making feathery strokes; at least three coats are advised for the best results. It is a good idea to test colors because limewash becomes significantly lighter as it dries.

There is uncertainty because the paint is natural, with all its variations. In contrast to ordinary paints, which always match exactly with a paint sample from the store, limewash produces a variety of colors and textures.

Do You Want to Create a Weathered, Vintage Look?

You can also use German smear, often known as a mortar wash, to help you complete your painting endeavor. This technique involves applying white mortar on top of brick or another surface to create a rustic appearance.

Are there any painters near me? Do not hesitate to contact American Painting Specialists if you need residential painting services in Westminster CO. Your idea can be realized owing to our expertise, equipment, and use of the best paints available. Contact us today!