Limewash paint is a beautiful, natural finish that adds depth, texture, and a rustic “old-world” feel to surfaces. It’s often used to paint brick on the exterior of homes or on fireplaces, but a common question is, can you use limewash on interior walls? The answer is – yes (with a few caveats). Whether you’re looking to enhance a modern space or add rustic charm to your home, limewashing is a great option that can be done on interior walls. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the process of applying limewash to interior walls, the average cost, and the benefits and potential drawbacks of using limewash paint on the interior of your home.
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What is Limewash Paint?
Limewash is a mineral-based paint made from crushed limestone and water. It is an eco-friendly technique that penetrates surfaces (rather than sitting on top of them like regular paint). This is what gives surfaces that unique, rustic, distressed look. Over time, it develops a soft, weathered look, which is great for those who want to bring out the natural aesthetic and texture of their walls. Plus, it’s super breathable, durable, and long-lasting – every homeowner’s dream!
It’s a common misconception that limewash paint is hard to apply, but it’s actually very simple and goes on just like regular paint. This is great for DIY homeowners that want to up the charm in their home with a limewash finish.
Can You Use Limewash on Interior Walls?
Limewash isn’t just for exterior surfaces – it works beautifully on interior walls as well, giving them a rich, natural finish. Limewash works especially well on porous surfaces, which is why you’ll often see it used on brick. However, it can be used on other interior surfaces. One caveat is that it’s not recommended to use limewash on metal or wood surfaces.
Does Limewash Work on Drywall?
Limewash does work on drywall and plaster surfaces and can really enhance the depth and character of the walls. Just make sure you properly prepare the surface first using a high-quality, mineral-based primer. This will ensure adhesion and even coverage when you go in with your limewash product.
How Much Does Limewash Cost for Interior Walls?
As with any paint project, the cost of lime washing your interior walls depends on the size of the space, the number of coats required to achieve your desired look, and the brand of limewash paint you use. We highly recommend Romabio limewash paint, which on average costs between $50-$80 per gallon. A mineral-based primer adds another $40-$60 per gallon. A gallon of limewash can really go a long way, so DIYing your interior limewashing can be a money-saver if you’re up for the challenge.
What are the Disadvantages of Limewash Paint?
Limewashing has many advantages (especially when it comes to looks), but there are a few drawbacks to consider as well.
- Limited Color Options: Limewash paint is available in select natural, earthy tones. If you’re going for a specific color, it may require custom mixing, and you may not be able to achieve the exact color you have in mind with this type of paint.
- Requires Multiple Coats: Since limewash is thinner than traditional paint, at least two coats are usually needed to achieve full coverage and an even finish.
- Select Surfaces: Limewash works best on porous surfaces like brick or stucco and interior surfaces such as drywall and plaster (with the use of a great primer). Wood and metal surfaces are not well suited for limewash paint.
How to Limewash Interior Walls
Step 1: Prep Your Walls
Prepping your walls for painting is always one of the most important steps when lime washing interior walls. Clean the walls thoroughly to remove any dust, dirt, grease, or grime.
Step 2: Prime The Surface
If you’re applying limewash to drywall, use a high-quality mineral-based primer and allow it to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Step 3: Cut in Edges
Use a high-quality brush to cut in along the edges, corners, and trim. Work outward in smooth strokes and blend the edges as you go.
Step 4: Apply the First Coat
Using a large limewash brush, apply the limewash from the center to the outside in cloud-like shapes. Blend them together well, avoiding harsh lines, as these will be noticeable if you have to fix them later after it dries.
Step 5: Let the First Coat Dry
Limewash paint goes on lighter and thinner than regular paint, so you’ll need another coat. Let the first coat dry completely before going in with your second coat.
Step 6: Apply the Second Coat
Apply the second coat using the same cloud-like blending technique. Avoid brush marks or areas of thinner coverage, as they’ll be noticeable after it dries.
Step 7: Let the Second Coat Dry
Once the second coat is dry, step back and admire your new limewash interior! If necessary, touch up any areas for a more uniform finish. Just be careful to blend well so it doesn’t look uneven.
Ready to Limewash Interior Walls?
If you’re ready to bring more character, charm, and uniqueness into your home’s interior, limewashing may be a great option (depending on the texture of your walls). With some patience, the right products and tools, and lots of blending, you can achieve a stunning limewash finish to enjoy for years to come.
Want to hire a pro to help bring this sophisticated look to the finish line? We’d be happy to help you choose the best products and apply them using our tried-and-true techniques.
Visit our contact page to book a free estimate with our team!
