LIME

Limestone is created by time and pressure pressing the bones and shells of ancient marine life into stone. Lime finishes are made by baking these stones or shells until they form a paste when combined with water.

Once the paste is applied and exposed to open air, it begins drawing carbon from the air into its body and converting back into limestone... this is a very simplified explanation of the lime cycle, which is an unbelievably magical process.

Essentially when we apply lime finishes, we are creating a stone. The quality of lime finishes depends on selecting high-quality aggregates and lime and having the knowledge of the lime process required to ensure the proper return from putty to limestone.

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Lime finishes are currently having a renaissance as people look for beautiful, healthy, and ecological finishes that are comparable to conventional cement finishes in terms of durability. What sets lime apart from cement (aside from being way more beautiful) is that it re-absorb carbon from the air as it cures.

As we look for ways to limit carbon pollution that contributes to climate change, selecting lime materials over cement materials is a great option. The global production of cement is currently the third highest contributor to carbon pollution.

Additionally, lime finishes are vapor permeable over their lifetime, taking in excess moisture from the air and releasing it when indoor air is too dry. Lime is also highly mold and bacteria resistant due to its highly basic pH.

 

Mano de Barro offers high quality lime stuccos and paints in a variety of colors and finish styles.