Lime mixes have good workability. The term lime is rather confusing, given that we can use it to refer to materials that are chemically different (yet related), as well as the citrus fruit! Lime is the answer to many architects’ search for building materials sympathetic to traditional construction. Only traditional lime plasters are low VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds). For evidence of the enduring properties of lime check out Rome’s Pantheon Temple whose lime concrete dome not only spans an impressive 43 metres but was built nearly 2,000 years ago! Lime has disinfectant qualities, especially when it’s used as limewash, but the same is also true for lime mortars, plasters and renders. 1. 1. Lime also heals itself – while movement in cement-bound buildings tends to result in cracks, the same movement in buildings where lime is used produces many fine cracks. So before we learn some facts and tips about how to use it, let’s go through some of the basics of lime to give you a better understanding. The white lime mixed with the white sand produces a warm, bright plaster that is both beautiful and durable. Lime not only absorbs potentially damaging carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, but the amount of energy required to produce it in the first place is less than is required for the production of cement and, as it can be produced on a small scale, there is less impact on the local area. Lime surfaces and materials can actually become stronger over time through the formation of calcite crystals that form in lime-rich environments,. Lime allows walls to breathe. No condensation – healthier for you and your home! When water penetrates these, it dissolves any ‘free’ lime it encounters, depositing it there as it evaporates. It is the base of many different exterior rendered finishes such as tadelakt and durable decorative finishes such as venetian plaster. Good workability greatly increases good workmanship, resulting in full joints with good bonding to the other materials. For instance, cured lime plaster is calcium carbonate, chemically speaking; limestone, in other words. Lime plaster takes a minimum of two to three weeks to cure otherwise. Lime plaster is well adopted traditional techniques that seem to be adopted since 7200BC /5000BC according to a record of archeological study. This produces a very mold-resistant plaster; Cement-based plaster is great for outdoor walls, and is made to endure weather conditions. www.lime-green.co.uk or www.warmshellinsulation.co.uk. Lime plaster allows the building to breathe which greatly reduces the risk of trapped moisture and damage to the building fabric. Designed to be breathable, flexible and sympathetic to traditional buildings, the plaster provides a permanent solution to damp and mould whilst improving insulation and reducing project times. That way, lime won’t come in contact with your skin through your clothing. Compared to regular stucco, these have 28 percent lower carbon dioxide emissions associated with production and contain 50-65 percent post-industrial recycled content. Hydraulic lime plaster is not as hard as cement plaster. The lime is sufficiently wetted in the water and then the mix is formed which is applied over the walls and ceilings. Lime gives off a double refraction of light through calcite crystals, combining luster with soft texture. 4. Given that lime is highly alkaline, working with it can severely burn skin. Lime has been an important component of mortars for over 2000 years. If your clothes get lime water or lime putty on them, change. Lime is sacrificial in its nature and designed to be softer than the fabric of the building providing the ultimate care and protection. In this way, lime seals and heals. The Use Of Lime Has Ecological Benefits It is also easy to repair lime plaster with a thin layer of plaster or limewash. Porous and open-textured materials such as lime plasters, help to stabilize the internal humidity of a building by absorbing and releasing moisture. This ‘workability’ helps greatly in ensuring that bonds are good, essential for good workmanship. I'm one of the main writers on the site; mostly dealing with environmental news and ways to live green. Porous and open textured materials such as lime plasters, help to stabilize the internal humidity of a building by absorbing and releasing moisture. It’s flexible, breathable, reduces condensation, is easy to work with, is affordable and, as a bonus, it’s beautiful too! 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