Preparing plasterboard for limewash.
These walls were plasterboard, so they needed a prepared base before limewash could be applied. We taped and jointed the boards, sanded the joints and made the surface consistent across the room.
The walls were then primed with the product required for the selected limewash system. Once that base was ready, the limewash could be applied evenly while still giving the soft tonal variation the client wanted.
Prepared, primed and finished.
The four photographs show the job in sequence: active preparation, the prepared surface, priming and the finished limewash. Limewash service.
Preparation in progress before the walls are brought to a consistent surface.
Taped, jointed and sanded plasterboard ready for the compatible primer.
The prepared boarded walls after the compatible primer stage.
The limewash finish after application across the prepared surface.
Can limewash be used on plasterboard?
Yes. Limewash can be used on plasterboard when the surface is prepared and primed for the system being used. On plasterboard, the main reason for choosing it is usually the soft, varied appearance rather than the wall being a traditional lime construction.
If breathability is the reason for choosing limewash, the existing wall and the preparation products matter as much as the finish coat. On suitable lime plaster and other mineral backgrounds, a compatible limewash system can help retain vapour permeability. On plasterboard, we assess the surface and follow the preparation required for the chosen product.
Natural movement without a heavily textured finish.
The finished walls have the soft tonal variation people usually want from limewash. The appearance changes subtly with the light, so the surface has more depth than a standard flat emulsion without looking heavily textured.
For this office, the key was getting the boarded walls consistent first. Once the preparation was right, the limewash could read as one continuous finish across the space.
Yes. Plasterboard needs to be taped and jointed, sanded and primed with the product required for the chosen limewash system before the finish is applied. On plasterboard, the main benefit is the appearance and tonal movement. If breathability is important, the existing wall construction also needs to be considered.