Limewash vs. Whitewash: Brick House Exteriors

Brick houses have a durable, timeless look that requires very little maintenance. However, homeowners may want to refresh the look of their brick exteriors by giving them a coat of limewash or whitewash. These residential exterior painting services can transform a traditional brick façade into a fresh, updated look that adds rustic charm or modern flair. While limewashing and whitewashing are similar processes, there are key differences that set them apart and influence the final result.

Limewashing a Brick House

Limewashing is a traditional finishing technique for brick houses. Limewash is a type of paint that is made from slaked lime, water, and natural pigments, and it gives the brick surface a soft, chalky appearance. It can be applied thickly for an opaque finish, or it can be made into a thinner application, allowing the brick surface to show through. Limewashing is a classic technique that homeowners of brick houses turn to for a beautiful, vintage look that lasts a long time. Many homeowners prefer limewash because of its eco-friendly qualities and its ability to fight bacteria and mold.

Pros of Limewashing a Brick Exterior

• Environmentally-friendly. Limewash is a mineral-based paint that is free of artificial solvents and other harmful chemicals.
• Beautiful finish. The resulting finish can add texture to the brick surface and give the exterior a soft, matte appearance.
• Simple process. Making and mixing limewash is simple enough for the average DIY homeowner.
• Suitable for old homes. Old brick buildings are perfect for the limewash application.
• Antibacterial. The highly acidic nature of the limewash formula helps prevent bacteria and fungus from growing on it.
• Breathable surface. The limewash allows moisture to pass through, helping prevent mold.
• Excellent longevity. Limewash soaks into the brick surface, lasting a long time without chipping or peeling.
• Fades naturally. When it does erode, the limewash fades naturally. Many homeowners like the effect of aging limewash.

Cons of Limewashing a Brick Exterior

• Not good for painted brick. Limewash does not work well when applied over painted brick surfaces because it is meant to soak into the brick surface.
• Difficult to maintain consistency. It can be challenging to create multiple batches of limewash that are the same consistency. Making large batches is best.
• Needs multiple coats. If you're going for a solid, opaque color, you may need to apply several coats of limewash.
• Slow-drying. Limewash may take a while to dry completely.
• Dries lighter than it first appears. It's important to know that limewash will dry a lighter color than it looks like when it is wet.
• Can be more costly than whitewash. The slaked lime in the formula can drive the cost up a bit.

Whitewashing a Brick House

Whitewash is a type of paint that leaves a translucent finish on brick surfaces, allowing the texture of the bricks to show through. Like limewashing, whitewashing brick houses is a traditional process that has been used throughout the ages. These days, whitewash is usually made of water, latex paint, and pigment. The whitewash formula sits on top of the brick surface, creating a smooth finish. Although white is the usual color, any shade of paint can be used in the formula, which allows for more creative options.

Pros of Whitewashing a Brick Exterior

• DIY-friendly. Mixing up a batch of whitewash is easy because all it involves is diluting latex paint with water.
• Good for painted bricks. Because it stays on the surface of the bricks, it can be easily applied over paint.
• Low-maintenance and long-lasting. Whitewash typically lasts longer than regular paint.
• Smooth finish. The finish of whitewash is smooth and can cover the entire surface with a translucent coat.
• Oodles of color options. Whitewash doesn't have to be white! Dilute any color paint with water for a shade of your choice.
• Inexpensive option. The paint used in whitewash is generally less expensive than the lime used in limewash.

Cons of Whitewashing a Brick Exterior

• Permanent results. Once a surface is whitewashed, it is very difficult to remove if you change your mind.
• Can trap moisture. Whitewash is not a breathable formula, and it could trap moisture in the brick surface.
• Difficult to get a uniform coat. Maintaining a uniform coverage throughout the surface of the bricks could take several coats.
• Can crack over time. Natural freeze-thaw cycles can cause the whitewash to peel and crack.

What Are the Key Differences between Limewash and Whitewash?

The main difference between limewash and whitewash is in the formula itself. Limewash is more eco-friendly, consisting of all-natural ingredients, while whitewash contains watered-down latex paint. Eco-conscious homeowners may choose limewash because of its environmental qualities and because it naturally fights mold and bacteria.

In terms of finish, limewash soaks into the brick surface, leaving a chalky, matte finish. It can be either translucent or opaque, depending on the desired effect and number of coats. Whitewash stays on the surface of the brick exterior, creating a smooth finish that can look brighter than limewash. Whitewash is translucent, allowing the bricks to show through. The whitewashing process also allows for more colors than limewash.

Both limewash and whitewash have good longevity on brick surfaces, but there are differences in the way they age. Limewash can erode over time, but it does not chip or peel. Whitewash, which is made of paint, can chip and peel, especially when subjected to many freezes and thaws throughout the years.

Want to Learn More?

The experts at Ace Hardware Painting Services can further explain the pros and cons of limewashing and whitewashing. If you have a brick home, and you are considering ways to spruce up the exterior, talk to us first! We can help you understand what effects can be achieved with each process and how you can get the look you desire. We are happy to talk about the costs of the project and materials, and a potential timeframe for our services.