Mineral Paint & Limewash
Ultra-Premium, Cradle to Cradle certified mineral paints made from natural, earthen materials in small batches by craftsmen in Charlotte, NC.
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Ultra-Premium, Cradle to Cradle certified mineral paints made from natural, earthen materials in small batches by craftsmen in Charlotte, NC.
Our traditional slaked-lime paint is expertly designed to penetrate masonry while allowing the surface to breathe. Over time, the unique chalky finish develops a beautifully aged, classic appearance that adds character and charm to your home.
European Limewash is purely mineral, made from the finest slaked lime, mineral oxide pigments, and no harsh chemicals. It carbonizes onto masonry surfaces of brick, mortar, stone, stucco, and some concrete surfaces.
For generations, artisans across the Mediterranean have celebrated slaked lime paints for their enchanting, fresco-inspired appearance, showcasing rich earthy hues of sienna, umber, ocher, and pristine white. These lime frescoes grace numerous heritage sites and Limewash is the perfect choice for enhancing these exquisite murals.
In regions of Europe where the elements can be harsh, Limewash gains durability through a unique blend of quartz, sand granules, and fillers, offering bulk and a captivating sandy texture. This mix is applied much like a plaster layer, ensuring it stands up to the forces of wind, rain, and snow. The enhanced thickness of the Limewash/Slurry combination fills in mortar joints, harmonizing the overall texture and providing a refined finish.
Commonly known as “Kalei” in the Netherlands and Belgium, this technique represents an innovative hybrid of lime paint and plaster. Application is straightforward—simply use a large masonry brush to apply two layers directly onto damp, clean, and absorbent masonry surfaces. The result? A beautifully textured, “striped” effect that revitalizes aged and weathered masonry.
Highly durable and breathable, the matte flat finish is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, as the lime binder effectively penetrates the masonry, strengthening old mortar and brick. Achieve this captivating and lasting finish on any masonry surface today, embracing the timeless beauty and functionality of Lime Slurry. Your surfaces will thank you!
With Keim Limewash it is easy to transform your brick, stone or stucco to a beautiful and unique Old World appearance. Limewash is the “original” masonry finish and has been used for centuries across Europe. Limewash is uniquely formulated to create antiqued wash-off or broken color effects. Whitewashed brick has a charming aged look and feel. You control just how much of your brick to expose. Limewash is removable for the first few days with a garden hose and spray nozzle so you can experiment to find just-the-right look.
Apply Limewash fully in two coats for a beautiful, chalky finish that is completely natural with a matte flat finish. This finish will rapidly patina with age for an even softer and washed appearance. Best of all, Limewash never has a sheen and won’t glare, even in the harshest sunlight.
Engineered by Keim in Germany, Limewash utilizes the finest Dolomitic lime that is pit aged for a minimum of 3 years for maximum quality and durability and meets European production and performance standards. It is a little-to-no maintenance finish for decades, giving an authentic patina as it ages.
Limewash naturally calcifies to the brick, stone or stucco and becomes a stone-like part of the surface. It is extremely vapor permeable allowing moisture that enters your home’s walls to freely escape without damaging the limewash finish. It will not bubble or peel from moisture and develops a beautiful color depth and tone as it ages. As weather continues to age Limewash, it develops more character.
Repainting or touch-up is also easy with Limewash as it does not develop a “film” or skin like ordinary paints. And multi-toned or color wash finishes are easy to achieve for beautiful frescos on stucco, old or new.
Limewash is concentrated and must be thinned with water before use. You will need and extra bucket in which to thin and mix your Limewash. This process allows you to mix Limewash to your desired consistency. When thinning remember it is easier to add more water later to make it thinner—so start with less water and add more water as needed.
Recommended Thinning amounts:
For full coverage: Dilute up to 50% with water
For wash-like coverage: Dilute up to 100% with water
Diluted 50% with water:
Quart 85—105 square feet (makes 1.5 quarts)
Gallon 225—300 square feet (makes 1.5 gallons)
5 Gallon 1125—1500 square feet (makes 7.5 gallons)
NOTE: Previously painted surfaces must be primed with Mineral Bonding Primer
Surfaces you paint must be porous and able to absorb water. To test your surface, wet with water and allow the water to penetrate. A porous surface will absorb the water and darken. If the water beads up and runs off, there is a water repellent treatment present and you should not proceed.
You will need an extra bucket, painter’s tape, drop cloths, paint brush, stir stick, paint tray and liner, ladder if necessary, dampened cloth to clean up spatters, latex gloves and eye protection. Paint may be applied by brush, roller or spray equipment. See technical data for specifics of application equipment recommendations. Clean up splatters and spills immediately as dried paint is almost impossible to remove from masonry, concrete, glass and metal surfaces.
Previously painted surfaces should be clean and free of loose or peeling paint, dirt, grease, mold and mildew and the surface should by dry. One coat of Mineral Bonding Primer is required for previously painted surfaces. See technical information for details.
Stir Limewash and desired amount of water until smooth and homogenous.
FOR FULL COVERAGE:
Use a paint brush to cut in around edges and corners then use a paint roller to apply paint to remaining area. Apply paint in an even coat with no runs, sags or holidays. Avoid drips, spills and painting adjacent areas. Allow to dry 12 hours, or overnight and repeat process.
FOR DISTRESSED TECHNIQUE:
Follow instructions above for 1 or 2 coats, as desired. Within 24 hours of final coat, Limewash can be removed with a garden hose fitted with a spray nozzle. It is recommended to use less pressure first, to determine your technique. Remember to remove a little Limewash first, then stand back and determine if the effect is what you want. You can continue removing as much more Limewash as you desire, exposing more of your brick or other masonry surface.
FOR WHITEWASH TECHNIQUE:
Use a wide masonry brush to apply the thinned, wash-like Limewash to your brick surface using random strokes in all directions. Apply as much Limewash as desired to achieve your desired whitewash effect. If you apply too much Limewash, use a wet brush to remove excess Limewash. Remember the Limewash will dry to a more opaque finish, so allow surface to dry before finalizing technique.
It is strongly recommended to install a mock-up sample in an inconspicuous area to test your technique. Remember, any samples you install can be washed away within 48 hours. Continue the mock-up process until you determine the perfect application technique and finish.
Consult technical data and product brochure for added application details.
Clean up spills immediately with a damp cloth as it will be difficult to remove once dried. Clean tools with soap and warm water. Airless spray equipment may also be used for application. Consult Technical Data for complete details.
Dry to touch: 2—4 hours at 70°F and 50% R.H.
Recoat: 12–24 hours
KEIM LIMITED PRODUCT WARRANTY
KEIM Mineral Coatings of America, Inc. (“KMC”) warrants interior and exterior coatings purchased at https://keim-usa.com/ (the “Product”) to be free from defects in workmanship. If the Product, when applied according to paint specifications and label instructions, peels, blisters, or substantially fades from exposure to sunlight within 20 years from the date of purchase, KMC shall, at its own discretion, replace the defective Product free of charge. Such replacement is subject to verification of the defect or malfunction and presentation of proof of purchase of the Product to KMC.
This Limited Warranty does not apply to any defect or damage that is caused by (1) negligence, accident, abuse, or misuse of the Product; (2) improper surface preparation or any defects or shortcoming of the substrate, to which the Product is applied; (3) poor or improper storage, transportation, application, use, care or maintenance of the Product; (4) normal wear and tear or unauthorized use of the Product; (5) unauthorized application of, or modification to, the Product; and (6) unsatisfactory color due to a personal preference. This Limited Warranty may not be transferred or assigned. This is your sole remedy under this Warranty.
KMC’S ENTIRE LIABILITY SHALL BE LIMITED EXCLUSIVELY TO PROVIDING REPLACEMENT PRODUCT. THIS WARRANTY EXCLUDES (1) LABOR AND COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH LABOR FOR THE APPLICATION OR REMOVAL OF ANY PRODUCT AND (2) ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.
KEIM RETURN POLICY
Place Orders
Orders can be placed with our office in Charlotte NC by emailing your order information to orders@keim.com.
NO RETURNS FOR MIXED PAINTS/ COATINGS or OTHER COLORED AND SPECIAL ORDER PRODUCTS
We want you to be completely satisfied with your KEIM Mineral Coatings of America, Inc. products. However, please note that all sales are final for tinted, custom-mixed products, or opened products; once your order is placed, no adjustments can be made to quantities or colors. Unopened packages of untinted white and clear products may be returned for a 25% restocking fee and shipped freight prepaid to Keim. To receive a return authorization, email us at orders@keim.com and include your original order number and the number of items you seek to return. While our employees can provide estimated consumption quantities, these are general guidelines and don’t account for specific project details like surface complexity or application methods. It’s your responsibility as the buyer to calculate precise product consumption, and we highly recommend performing a trial application or observing the first day’s use to ensure you order the correct amount. By placing an order, you agree to these terms.
RETURNS FOR OTHER PRODUCTS (not mixed or colored)
RETURNS WHEN IT IS A KEIM ERROR (See Claims Below)
Claims: (Contact your Keim product specialist for authorization)
Errors in packaging or orders must be reported upon receipt of product in order to correct the error properly. Errors reported after more than 10 days from the date of receipt will not be considered.
Warranty:
1 year unless otherwise stated
Need help?
Contact us at orders@keim.com for questions related to refunds and returns
European Limewash stands out for its stunning versatility and distinct aesthetic appeal. Unlike traditional paint that obscures surfaces under a blanket of color, Limewash allows the unique characteristics of brick masonry to shine through.
Opt for a delicate “white-wash” effect that enhances the natural beauty or mix it with Lime Slurry to achieve a textured, paste-like “schmear” finish. You can even apply it as a solid coat, selectively washing it off in certain areas to evoke the charm of weathered surfaces, perfectly capturing the essence of decades gone by. With Limewash, even the newest of homes can effortlessly embody the timeless allure and character of heritage properties, all through a simple, user-friendly application.
1. Apply a thinned limewash as a transparent wash by brushing it onto the surface, allowing the original brick color to show through as an undertone.
2. Mix limewash with equal parts lime slurry and brush it on horizontally to create a slightly textured lime finish.
3. Thin limewash with 50% water and apply it. While it is still damp, wash off some areas to achieve an antique or “aged” finish.
4. Apply two solid coats of limewash for a classic chalky lime finish.
5. Combine limewash with two parts lime slurry to create a heavily textured finish that minimizes the visual impact of mortar joints.
See our product technical data sheet or brochure for more complete application details.
At Keim, we’re redefining the paint industry with meticulously handcrafted products tailored specifically for you. Made with care in North Carolina, our paints are designed to reflect your unique vision, ensuring quality that stands out from the ordinary.
Our commitment to circular design and low impact solutions extends to our packaging too. Our plastic pails contain up to 100% recycled plastic and are fully recyclable, as is all of our packaging.
At Keim, we understand mineral and lime paints might be new to you. We’re here to help you choose the perfect finish! While we can’t always take calls, our team is available via email– we’re ready to assist you!
Buying from a source you can trust is vitally important, and our almost 150 year history can give you peace of mind. Born in Germany in 1878, Keim paints protect some of the world’s most iconic historic landmarks.
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Limewash colors, where each hue exudes a radiant charm that transforms your indoor spaces. With a beautifully matte, flat, and chalky finish, Limewash offers a unique interplay with light, creating a dynamic atmosphere that evolves throughout the day. Our Limewash color collection is designed to inspire, featuring everything from the purest whites to deep, moody shades, each selection showcasing its own character and allure.
Experience the subtle textures and exquisite beauty of these enchanting colors through our authentic Limewash samples, allowing you to feel their magic up close. To explore our palette further, click on the colors below to access detailed swatches and larger images.
Please remember that colors may appear differently on your monitor, so we encourage you to order a color swatch or fan deck for the most accurate representation.
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