Lime plasters and renders
See ‘making lime mortars‘ for how to make mortars, plasters and renders. Read more
What is building lime?
All types of building lime are made from limestone, which is a sedimentary rock composed of the dead bodies of sea creatures such as shellfish, corals and some planktons. Read more
Different types of lime
Non-hydraulic lime (quicklime), hydrated lime, hydraulic lime and lime sand. Read more
Environmental and health benefits of lime
Environmental and health benefits of lime. Read more
Benefits of lime for buildings
Lime is not much good for tower blocks or supermarkets, as it doesn’t have the strength or speed required; but it’s ideal for the domestic scale, Read more
Modern alternatives to lime
….. and why lime fell out of favour. Read more
Health & safety
Quicklime is dangerous. It is extremely caustic, and can burn skin especially when wet. Eyes must be protected at all times. Read more
Burning lime
For interest – you’re probably not going to do this, but… Read more
Slaking lime
You may be interested in following the process through from beginning to end – although you may not want to burn your own limestone, you may want to slake quicklime. Read more
Lime mortar
Making & using lime mortar, and pozzolanic additives. Read more
Rendering straw-bale buildings
This section contains specific information for straw-bale buildings. It’s best to let the building settle for as long as possible after building, before you render it. Read more
Lime slurry
Lime slurry can be applied to a wall to present a uniform surface to further coats of lime wash. Read more