Part 1: Measuring Your Walls
- Measure Height and Width: Use a measuring tape to determine the height and width of each wall in feet
- Calculate Square Footage: Multiply the height by the width of each wall to find its square footage
- Account for Openings: If your wall has doors or windows, calculate their area (height x width) and subtract it from the total wall area
- Sum Total Square Footage: Repeat steps 1-3 for all walls you plan to limewash, then add up the individual square footage values to determine the total wall area
- Example: A room is being limewashed. There are four walls, each wall is 150 sq. ft. The total wall area that will be limewashed is 600 sq. ft. (150 + 150 +150 + 150 = 600)
Part 2: Calculating Material Quantities
1. Lime-Prep Primer
- Purpose: This essential primer ensures proper limewash adhesion to non-porous surfaces (painted walls, drywall)
- Application: Apply over a coat of standard water-based primer
- Coverage: Approximately 300 square feet per gallon
- Calculation: Divide your total wall area by 300 to determine the required gallons of Lime-Prep Primer
- Example: A 600 sq. ft. room that requires Lime-Prep. For this project we would recommend 2 gallons of Lime-Prep.
2. Limewash
- Purpose: The heart of the project! This mineral paint creates the signature limewashed look.
- Application: Apply 2-3 coats to drywall for optimal color and depth
- Coverage: Approximately 300 square feet per gallon for two coats (James Alexander Limewash)
- Calculation: Divide your total wall area by 300 to determine the required gallons of limewash (if you want to apply 2 coats)
- Example: A 600 sq. ft. room that is going to use 2 coats of limewash. For this project we would recommend 2 gallons of limewash.
3. Limewash Densifier (if used)
- Purpose: Reduces chalkiness and increases durability in high-touch areas
- Application: Add to limewash at a 1:4 ratio (1 part Densifier to 4 parts limewash)
- Coverage: Approximately 300 square feet per quart once mixed with the limewash
- Calculation: Typically, use 1 quart of Densifier for every gallon of limewash
- Example: A 600 sq. ft. room that requires Densifier in the final coat. We would recommend 2 quarts of Densifier.
4. Sealer (if used)
- Purpose: Provides extra protection in high-contact areas (optional)
- Application: Apply sparingly, as it alters the finish. Test in an inconspicuous area or on a sample board first
- Coverage: Approximately 300 square feet per gallon
- Calculation: Divide the area to be sealed by 300 to determine the required gallons of sealer
- Example: A 600 sq. ft. room that requires Densifier in the final coat. We would recommend 2 gallons of Sealer
Part 3: Final Tips
- Round Up: Always order slightly more material than your calculations suggest to account for variations and potential errors. All unopened/unused products can be returned according to the Return Policy (note: there is a restocking fee, so ensure that you don't order too many additional products!)
- Surface Preparation: Proper surface preparation is crucial. Ensure walls are clean, dry, and free from cracks or loose paint. If you have new drywall or patched areas be sure to read how about the recommendations about how to properly prep
- Application Techniques: Use a block brush for application
- Drying Times: Allow adequate drying time between coats. 24 hour is the best practice, but if your tight on time you can proceed once it is dry to the touch
- Safety Precautions: Wear appropriate safety gear (gloves, eye protection). Limewash does contain lime mineral, best practice is to wear gloves and eye protection when applying
- Professional Advice: Consult with a professional limewashing experts for complex projects
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information. The amount of coverage is largely dependent upon the substrate that limewash is being applied to, as well as the application technique used. Please contact our Customer Support Team if you have specific questions regarding your project.