Protective Top Coat Sealer
Aging gracefully (and naturally).
Limewash paint is made from natural materials, and we prefer to keep it that way. We generally do not recommend using a protective top coat sealer on limewash finished walls, as we aim to maintain the natural qualities of the paint. This approach is healthier for your home, better for the environment, and allows the paint to evolve naturally over time.
Read on to learn more about the impact of using protective top coat sealers and what to consider before applying them.
Protective Top Coat Sealer FAQs
Do I need a protective topcoat sealer after Limewashing my walls?
Generally, we do not recommend using a protective top coat sealer on finished walls–we try to keep it as natural as possible.
Why to avoid Protective Top Coat Sealers
Many protective top coat sealers rely on PFAs (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), known as “forever chemicals” for their seemingly magical properties This group of synthetic chemicals are used to prevent corrosion, reduce friction and make products waterproof and stain-resistant and often show up in conventional paint and sealants. However, despite their functional use, it comes at great damage to our environments as these chemicals do not biodegrade and are found in our water systems, air and animals, our blood and even human breast milk. They are also linked to metabolism changes, fertility issues and even increases in obesity and cancer. And once these super polluters are released, they are difficult, if not impossible, to remove.
In addition, if you were to seal your surface, it would require another undercoat if you want to re-decorate in a few years. Without the sealer, it is just another layer or two of Bauwerk Limewash Paint on top of your previous application, which is very quick and does not produce any fumes. They can be added on a need-to basis.
Best Choice for Protective Top Coat Sealers
There may be instances where
Generally, we do not recommend using a protective top coat sealer on finished walls–we try to keep it as natural as possible.
Why to avoid Protective Top Coat Sealers
Many protective top coat sealers rely on PFAs (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), known as “forever chemicals” for their seemingly magical properties This group of synthetic chemicals are used to prevent corrosion, reduce friction and make products waterproof and stain-resistant and often show up in conventional paint and sealants. However, despite their functional use, it comes at great damage to our environments as these chemicals do not biodegrade and are found in our water systems, air and animals, our blood and even human breast milk. They are also linked to metabolism changes, fertility issues and even increases in obesity and cancer. And once these super polluters are released, they are difficult, if not impossible, to remove.
In addition, if you were to seal your surface, it would require another undercoat if you want to re-decorate in a few years. Without the sealer, it is just another layer or two of Bauwerk Limewash Paint on top of your previous application, which is very quick and does not produce any fumes. They can be added on a need-to basis.
Best Choice for Protective Top Coat Sealers
There may be instances where a sealant is necessary or you prefer it that way. In this case, please choose a water-based sealer that dries completely flat/matte/invisible.
⚠ We would recommend testing a small area first as some sealers make the paint appear a touch darker or lighter.
Should I use a sealer over limewash paint in a kitchen and food preparation area?
Bauwerk Limewash is used in kitchens all over the world. You can Limewash all walls and ceilings, except where it may come in to contact with fat/oil/grease (for instance, behind the stove) as this may discolour the paint. Limewash paint is absorbent which means that it can absorb substances that leave a mark. We do not recommend the use of top-coat protective sealers over Limewash as these products introduce more chemicals into the home and make repainting more difficult. Instead, you can use a sheet of glass behind the stove as an unobtrusive way of protecting that area, while still allowing for redecoration when needed. Alternatively, you can use a stone or tile splashback in splash zones or embrace a casual, lived-in look with occasional touchups. From shoulder height upwards it should be fine to continue with limewash paint.
We recommend the same for restaurants, especially where tables are set right against the wall.
Learn more about using limewash paint in kitchens and bathrooms.
I have small children, should I use a protective coating/sealer over my Limewash walls?
Children’s rooms are great spaces to use our natural Limewash paint, for its environmentally friendly qualities and the beautiful range of colours and textures that can be achieved.
As mentioned above, we do not recommend the use of protective top-coat sealers over our limewash, especially as they introduce toxic fumes to the environment.
Especially around children we need to keep the environment free from harmful chemicals. Only very young children are unaware and may scribble or stain the walls.
We suggest to allow that for the one or two years and simply repaint after and keep it all natural. And / or provide them with a dedicated wall or surface in their room where they are allowed to be artistic.
If, however, maintaining a pristine wall surface is of the highest importance in your home, it may be best to consider using a standard paint in some of the more high-traffic areas.