That 1 Painter is the fastest-growing painting company in the world. Giving your space a fresh look can feel overwhelming, but our experienced team makes it simple and worry-free for homeowners. With locations across the country, we’ve helped tens of thousands of families make confident, high-quality choices for their homes, and we’re here to help you do the same.
There’s something magical about a home that looks both timeless and fresh. That’s exactly what limewashing offers. This centuries-old technique has been making a massive comeback—and it’s not just for quaint cottages or historic landmarks anymore. Homeowners in Akron are rediscovering the beauty of limewashing as a way to bring warmth, charm, and eco-conscious style to their homes, both inside and out.
Here’s something you may not know: limewash has been around for more than 2,000 years! Ancient Romans used it to beautify their buildings and protect them from the elements. Fast forward to today, and limewash is being hailed as a game-changer by designers and homeowners alike. Why? Because it’s breathable, natural, low-maintenance, and develops a gorgeous patina over time.
Whether you’re working with red brick, weathered stone, or interior accent walls, limewashing could be the perfect way to upgrade your space, without sacrificing its soul. Let’s explore why this finish is turning heads in Akron and how it can elevate both modern builds and historic gems.
Limewashing isn’t just another paint trend. It’s a finishing technique with deep historical roots and remarkable modern-day appeal.
What is Limewash Made Of?
Limewash is created from crushed limestone that’s burned, slaked with water, and then thinned to create a creamy, mineral-based coating. It’s completely natural and works best on porous surfaces like brick, stone, and plaster.
How Does It Work?
Unlike paint, which forms a film over your surfaces, limewash penetrates them. It soaks in and becomes part of the wall, creating a breathable, velvety finish that doesn’t peel or trap moisture.
Why It’s Gaining Popularity in Akron
Homeowners in Akron are gravitating toward limewash because it’s eco-friendly, timeless, and allows the natural textures of their homes to shine. Whether you’re restoring a Victorian home in Highland Square or modernizing a brick bungalow in Firestone Park, limewashing adds character without covering up the history.
Limewash isn’t just beautiful—it’s functional, sustainable, and perfect for Ohio’s climate. Here’s why more Akron homeowners are ditching traditional paint for this natural alternative.
Limewash gives surfaces a soft, chalky finish that develops a beautiful patina with age. Unlike flat paint, which can look lifeless or harsh, limewash has depth and movement. It reflects light differently depending on the time of day, creating subtle shifts in color and texture.
Concerned about VOCs and synthetic chemicals? Limewash has none. It’s made from natural limestone and water—nothing more. That makes it safe for families, pets, and the environment. Plus, it absorbs CO₂ during the curing process, making it a carbon-friendly option.
Akron’s humid summers and wet winters can wreak havoc on your walls. Limewash’s breathable nature allows moisture to escape, helping to prevent mold, mildew, and deterioration. This makes it especially beneficial for older homes with plaster or masonry.
Forget chipping and peeling. Limewash ages naturally and beautifully. It fades over time in a way that adds charm rather than requiring frequent repainting. Touch-ups are easy, and because the finish is matte and variegated, imperfections blend right in.
If you’re debating between limewashing and conventional paint, here’s a side-by-side comparison to help you decide which one suits your needs.
| Feature | Limewash | Traditional Paint |
|---|---|---|
| Finish | Soft, matte, variegated | Solid, opaque, uniform |
| Surface Bond | Penetrates and bonds | Forms a top layer |
| Breathability | Yes | No |
| VOC Content | None | Varies (can be high) |
| Maintenance | Low (touch-up friendly) | Medium to high (can peel) |
| Best On | Brick, stone, plaster | Drywall, wood, sealed surfaces |
In a nutshell: limewash is perfect for homeowners who love natural textures, want a low-maintenance finish, and care about eco-conscious living. Traditional paint is best for drywall or when you’re aiming for a smooth, consistent finish.
Thinking of giving limewash a try? Here’s how professionals at That 1 Painter Akron achieve flawless, lasting results with every application.
The first step is crucial. We clean the surface thoroughly, removing dust, debris, and old paint or sealants. For limewash to bond properly, the surface needs to be porous and free of contaminants.
Limewash is available in powdered or premixed forms. We mix it with water to achieve the desired texture and transparency. The mixture is allowed to “slake” (rest) for the right amount of time to activate the lime and ensure even absorption.
Limewash can be applied using brushes, rollers, or sprayers, depending on the look you’re going for. For textured, layered results, we often apply multiple coats, letting each dry in between.
Some clients opt for a distressed finish, where parts of the limewash are rinsed off before drying to reveal more of the original material underneath.
As limewash dries and cures, it reacts with carbon dioxide in the air and undergoes a chemical process called carbonation. This gives it a natural, lived-in appearance that continues to evolve for months after application.
Limewash isn’t limited to exteriors—it’s an incredibly versatile finish that works in all kinds of spaces. Here are the best places to use it:
Akron’s mix of historic homes and modern builds makes it a prime location for limewash transformations.
Limewash colors are soft, earthy, and subtly complex—ideal for adding dimension without overwhelming a space. Here are some popular palettes:
Think whites, creams, and soft grays. These tones reflect light beautifully and give homes a clean yet character-rich feel.
Colors like sand, terracotta, and beige create a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. They pair well with wood, leather, and stone.
Muted blues, deep charcoals, and olive greens offer drama while maintaining limewash’s signature softness.
Because limewash absorbs and reflects light differently throughout the day, it’s best to test a sample before committing to a full wall or exterior.
While DIY limewashing might sound appealing, it’s not always as easy as dipping a brush and going to town. Here’s when to take it on yourself—and when to call the experts.
Plus, with professional limewashing, you won’t have to worry about mixing ratios, uneven coats, or early flaking. At That 1 Painter Akron, we ensure flawless results every time.
There’s no finish quite like limewash. It’s timeless yet trendy, natural yet sophisticated. Whether you’re updating a historic home in West Hill or giving your modern build in Ellet a unique twist, limewashing can take your space to the next level.
At That 1 Painter Akron, we bring years of experience and a passion for craftsmanship to every limewash project. Our team understands how to work with the unique surfaces and architectural styles found in homes across the Akron area. From choosing the perfect color to applying a finish that will last for years, we handle every step with care and precision.
Ready to breathe new life into your home with a natural, elegant limewash finish? Contact us at That 1 Painter Akron today and let’s create something beautiful together!