What is lime plaster?

Lime plaster is a plaster or building material. We have used it during our house renovation on the walls; hence, I have a good knowledge of it. It is made from a mix of lime, sand, and water and offers a breathable and flexible finish. Coming back to your query: what does lime plaster look like, let me tell you that it can be a natural, earthy colour (like off-white or light beige)

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What is Lime Plaster Used for?

During my home renovation, I found that lime plaster or putty is used for multiple purposes. For example, it is used to achieve 

• Perfect Wall Finishes: Lime plaster is used mainly for creating smooth and durable surfaces on interior and exterior walls.

• Renovation Works: Lime plaster is ideal for renovating old buildings. This plaster’s small particles can create a solid bond with the natural gaps in stone and concrete walls. 

• Moisture Control: This plaster helps to manage humidity and makes it ideal to control dampness in areas like basements.

• Natural Insulation: Lime plaster adds a breathable layer, which helps to insulate a house.

• Eco-Friendly Choice: If you care about sustainability, lime plaster is an excellent, environmentally-friendly option to go with.

You must have understood by now what is lime putty used for. 

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A type of mortar used to cover the internal wall and ceiling surface before painting to give a more finished, smooth look is what is lime plaster known as. Plaster was in vogue 140 years back. 

What is lime plaster made of?

The lime plaster is made up of limestone. Chalk, seashells are made up of calcium carbonate. This calcium carbonate is burnt to produce quicklime and this is how lime plaster is made.

Lime plaster can be of two types:

1. Non-hydraulic lime- This type of lime plaster is made up of pure limestone and we can use it for putty. 

2. Hydraulic lime- This type of lime plaster is made up of limestone and natural impurities. Hydraulic lime comes in powder form and sets up after coming in contact with water.

3. Venetian Plaster- Another type of lime plaster made up of clay and lime.

Advantages of lime plaster:

1. Lime plaster is durable and relatively flexible.

2. Helps in moisture diffusion and evaporation.

3. Doesn't get dissolved in water like clay or gypsum plaster.

4. Helps to prevent fungus or moulds from appearing on walls.

5. Lime plasters are less brittle and less prone to breakages.

Disadvantages of Lime plaster:

1. Hydraulic lime plaster is not as effective as cement plaster.

2. After the lime plaster dies the pH levels drop to 8.6.

3. Non-hydraulic lime plaster takes a long time to dry.

I hope you now understand what is lime plaster and what it is made up of.

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