Yes, approach safety which makes sense!
TLDR
In Italian, CALCE refers to lime (calcium hydroxide), a crucial component in ancient Roman construction. The Romans’ innovative use of lime, particularly through ‘hot mixing’ techniques, endowed their concrete with self-healing properties. This approach allowed their structures to endure for over 2,000 years, as the lime would expand and seal micro-cracks upon exposure to water, effectively enabling the concrete to repair itself over time.
Here’s how, step by step
**Step 1: Prepare the lime-wash CALCE
lime-wash is breathable, natural, and ideal for your purpose since it whitens the walls and acts as a binder.
Materials Needed:
• Hydrated Lime (Calcium Hydroxide): Available at building or masonry supply stores.
• Water: For diluting the lime.
• Natural Pigments (Optional): If you want to tint the lime-wash.
• Bucket: For mixing.
• Paintbrush or Roller: For application.
Preparation:
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In a bucket, mix 1 part hydrated lime with 3 parts water (by volume).
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Stir thoroughly to ensure a smooth, creamy consistency.
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Let the mixture sit for at least 12 hours to “mature.” This improves adhesion and reduces dusting later.
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Optionally, add natural pigments to tint the mixture and stir again.
Step 2: Apply the lime-wash
lime-wash will create a natural white coating, ideal for an old house’s walls.
Application:
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Dampen the Walls: Lightly mist the wall with water using a spray bottle. This helps the lime-wash adhere and prevents it from drying too quickly.
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Apply the First Coat: Use a wide paintbrush or roller to apply a thin layer of lime-wash. Avoid thick coats as they can crack.
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Drying Time: Allow the first coat to dry fully (12-24 hours).
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Second Coat (Optional): Apply a second or third coat if needed, allowing each to dry in between.
Step 3: Seal with Duraseal Zero
Once the lime-wash has cured completely (several days to a week), you can seal it with Duraseal Zero to lock in the lime, preventing dust and ensuring a durable finish.
Sealing Process:
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Ensure the lime-washed walls are completely dry and stable.
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Stir the Duraseal Zero thoroughly before use.
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Using a paintbrush or roller, apply a thin, even layer of the sealer.
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Allow it to dry per the manufacturer’s instructions (usually a few hours).
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Apply a second coat if needed for added protection.
Benefits of This Method
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Natural and Breathable: Lime-wash and Duraseal Zero both allow the walls to breathe, preventing moisture buildup.
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Dust-Free Finish: Sealing the lime-wash prevents the common dusting issue of traditional lime coatings.
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Eco-Friendly: Both lime-wash and Duraseal Zero are non-toxic and sustainable.
This combination ensures your walls are white, stabilised, and safe, while maintaining the breathable and aesthetic qualities of lime.
