So, you want to give your home a makeover and don’t know where to begin. There are tons of paint options on the market, and it can be confusing knowing the differences between them. Is there a difference between whitewash or limewash? Are they good for indoor or outdoor use? Are there painters near me that can help with the project?

Before spending your hard-earned money on a paint job, it is important to that there are differences between the two techniques and how they are applied.

Let Chrave Davis Painting in Ramsey MN take you through everything you need to know about whitewash and limewash, including application techniques and the differences in appearance, so you can get your home looking bright and new.

What Is Whitewash?

Whitewash is a type of water-based paint that is mixed water and can be applied to many surfaces including wood or brick. It is applied in thin layers using a soft brush and creates a unique weathered and vintage look compared to many modern paints.

When applying whitewash, painters will often times take a damp cloth and wipe away areas of paint to expose portions of the brick or wood to enhance its natural look. This gives it a unique vintage and rustic aesthetic.

Another feature of whitewash is that it is always white, as opposed to limewash, which can come in a variety of colors.

Features of whitewash:

• Good for indoor and outdoor use
• Easy application
• Dies fast
• Coats over rough surfaces
• Can last longer when a satin polyurethane or water-based matte sealant is applied
• It can last 20-30 years if applied properly

What Is Limewash?

One of the key features of limewash is that it is made from limestone that has been crushed, burned, and combined with water to make a putty. The putty mixture is then aged and mixed with water to create a paint that has a matte look with a chalky texture.

One of the most common colors of limewash is white, which is the natural hue of the limestone. It can also come in other colors such as brown, taupe, and gray. The different colors are achieved by adding pigments to the limewash mixture.

When applying limewash, residential painting services will use a masonry brush to create feathered strokes on the surface being painted and will apply several coats to the area. If using colored limewash, it is a good idea to test an area because it will become thinner as it dries.

Since limewash is a natural type of paint, there is a level of uncertainty when using it. Unlike most other paints that will match up perfectly when applying them, limewash will have a very unique and weathered look to it.

Features of limewash:

• Good for both indoor and outdoor use
• It is hypoallergenic due to its high pH level
• Odor, fungal, and moisture resistant
• Can protect against outdoor elements
• Easily removable for up to 5 days after application
• Ideal for porous surfaces
• Suitable for use on drywall
• Can last for years without peeling or flaking, but may need touchups every 5-7 years

It should be mentioned that there is another technique for you to consider, and that is German smear. German smear, also known as mortar wash, involves smearing white mortar on top of brick and other surfaces. This gives it a rustic looking finish and can be a great way to achieve a vintage look.

The Verdict

No matter which of these methods you choose, make sure to consult with professional and trusted home painting services to ensure top-quality, lasting results.

Chrave Davis Painting in Ramsey MN has the experience, tools, and quality products to give your home a paint job that will last for many years to come. Give us a call today at (612) 405-8002 or request a free estimate online. We can answer any and all questions you have about paint colors, scheduling, and more!