Lime Plastering
What we do
Internal and external lime plastering restoration – from Grade I listed buildings to private residences. We work with you as a close partner and supplier. We are well-versed with projects where original drawings are scarce or damaged and will ensure your project results in a superior finish. All while protecting your project’s period features.
How we do it
Your Project Manager will use our expert team of skilled in-house plasterers. We then work with you to suggest efficient and effective solutions. Customers return to us because we can be trusted, we communicate well and create a great finish.
How we work and where
Conducting an complimentary site assessment survey; we then understand project: objectives, challenges and then offer realistic solutions. Read about our work lime plaster and render work on Grade II listed building, St Paul’s Place, Bedford.
Please contact us to discuss your requirements and how we can assist.
Technique Talk
How to apply lime render and plaster – Mike Wye Associates
What is lime plaster?
It’s composed of lime (usually non-hydraulic), hair (though not always) water and sand. Should be applied above 5c and each coat takes between 1-3 days to dry depending on temperature. It dry’s (non-hydraulic) by absorbing carbon dioxide from the air, in the presence of moisture. Yet, will take weeks and up to a year to harden.
Why use it?
To stabilize the internal humidity of a building by absorbing and releasing moisture (it’s breathable). When set its extremely hard and its durability ensures it last thousands of years. Non absorption of water means it can resist the elements and can be used externally. The lime plaster manufacturing process creates less embodied carbon than cement and it reabsorbs carbon dioxide. Therefore its use is proving popular with modern buildings, particularly low-carbon or Passiv Haus builds.
Where found?
Lime plaster and render is typically used in historic (from mid-17th century to mid-Victorian) buildings.
Bit of trivia:
Lime plaster is within the chambers of the pyramids, which date back to around 2000 B.C. These are still hard and intact.
Further reading
See our blog post on top ten Lime plastering tips.