Whitewash vs. Limewash – What’s the Difference?

When homeowners think about updating or repainting projects, they often come across people talking about limewash and whitewash. The words are sometimes used to imply the same thing. However, whitewashing and limewashing are different home painting services. If you are wondering about their differences and which one is right for you, we will explain it and help you decide.

What Is Whitewashing?

Whitewashing involves water-based white paint. The paint is applied in thin layers, and painters typically use soft and large brushes. What is the purpose of whitewashing? It helps tone down wood, brick or other surfaces to give them a lighter or weathered appearance. If you have ever seen walls of brick that have patches of brick showing between areas of paint, that is another outcome painters can create with a special technique. Distressed or weathered surfaces are hot right now, and whitewashing may be one way for you to get the look you want.

These are some of the potential benefits of whitewashing:

• Helps smooth or coat rough surfaces.
• Dries faster than thicker paint.
• Can be used outdoors or indoors.
• May last for two or three decades if a professional applies it.
• A low-maintenance painting solution.

For wood surfaces, sanding is important. Whitewash should not be applied to wood with a finish on it. Professionals can also recommend a sealant to help increase the longevity of the whitewash finish.

What Is Limewash?

One key difference between limewash and whitewash is color. While whitewash always uses white paint, limewash can include different shades with the natural limestone hue. For example, it is often taupe, brown or gray with added colors. Another difference is that limewash includes processed limestone, which forms a putty when it mixes with water. It is aged before it is thinned, and the result is a chalky, matte appearance.

These are some of the potential benefits of limewashing:

• Can be used outdoors or indoors.
• Is hypoallergenic because of its high ph.
• Highly resistant to insects, fungus growth, odor and moisture.
• Can be removed easily within a few days of application.
• Helps protect exterior surfaces.

Limewash takes special steps and care to produce the correct mixture and ultimately the ideal outcome. When applied correctly, it should not peel, chip or flake. Unlike whitewashing’s multi-decade longevity, limewashing often requires maintenance touch-ups every five to seven years. It can be applied to drywall if the surface is primed with a mineral primer beforehand, and it is a great solution for plaster, brick or porous surfaces. Limewash is applied with masonry paintbrushes and includes multiple coats.

Since limewash tends to lighten in color as it dries, the color result may not always be an exact match like you would see with a paint swatch. However, experienced professionals ensure that the color is as close to what you prefer as possible.

Is Limewashing or Whitewashing Right for You?

If you are unsure about which option you prefer, our professionals can discuss your ideas with you. J. Canabe Painting has more than 15 years of experience in painting projects in the Madison NJ area. Whether you are looking for whitewashing or limewashing to put your home on the market or give it a makeover for your enjoyment, we can help. Our professional painting services show buyers you care about your property or give you the peace of mind that you have a lasting, satisfactory result you will enjoy for years. We are also familiar with a variety of methods or options like the German smear, which is a type of mortar wash. If you are ready to turn your whitewashing or limewashing ideas into reality, we are ready to help.

We will be happy to consult with you on your ideas, scheduling needs, paint colors and more. Our professional and friendly tradespeople finish jobs within your budget and on schedule. They have the right tools, experience and equipment to work efficiently. We are also fully licensed and insured. If you are looking for painters near me in Madison NJ, please call J. Canabe Painting for a free estimate on home painting services.