There are many options for ceiling finishes, but whitewash is the most popular. It is inexpensive and looks very good if the paint has been applied correctly. It is usually recommended to thoroughly clean the ceiling of the old layer of lime or chalk before applying a new one. but you can put the next coat of paint and right on top of the old... The main thing is to know how to do it in order to guarantee a good result. There is nothing complicated here - with the necessary knowledge, anyone can cope with it on their own, without spending a lot of time on all the necessary work.
How to whitewash the ceiling?
- chalk;
- lime;
- water-based paint.
Each of these options has its own pros and cons.
Table. Materials for whitewashing the ceiling.
| Material | Advantages | disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Chalk gives the ceiling an exceptional, radiant whiteness, so the room will look very good. | This material gradually crumbles, thus additional dust appears in the room. In addition, it is not water resistant, so it is not suitable for painting the ceiling in the bathroom. |
| Lime whitewash kills the fungus, so it is worth using it in rooms where it is present. In addition, lime is resistant to moisture and is well suited for painting the ceiling in any room, including the bathroom (and this is where the fungus can be found most often). In addition, lime whitewash hides small surface defects, filling up cracks and cracks. | Lime often causes allergic reactions. It cannot be perfectly white, unlike a chalky solution. |
| This type of paint has an excellent appearance, while it is the water-based emulsion that fits very well on the old coating, it adheres perfectly to the existing whitewash and does not begin to peel off over time. | Water-based paint has only one drawback - it is necessary to carry out work with its use at a temperature of at least + 5 ° C, but when painting the ceiling in a room, this does not matter. |
If you do not want to wash off the old whitewash, you need to keep in mind that lime cannot be applied to the chalk and vice versa - otherwise the paint will fall badly, dirty stains will form on the ceiling.
On top of the chalk, you can put a new layer of chalk or water-based paint, and lime can be covered with the same emulsion or lime. At the same time, it should be borne in mind that enamel and oil paint are categorically not suitable for painting over an old layer of lime or chalk.
Instruments
There are three main methods of whitewashing you can use:
- roller;
- brush;
- spray.
If you do roller painting, the paint will lie in an even layer, there will be no streaks or stains. In order to get a good whitewash using this tool, the coloring composition will need to be applied in two layers. In addition to the roller itself, you will need a container for the solution, something for mixing and a paint tray. You also need a small brush to put paint on the sections of the ceiling at the joints with the walls - you won't be able to do this carefully with a roller without staining the walls.
Whitewash brush can be purchased at every building supplies store. It is inexpensive. While working with a brush, the paint splashes heavily, so you need to carefully protect the furniture in the apartment, as well as the eyes.
Using a spray bottle the whitewash can be easily applied in a very neat, even layer. In the event that the paint will be applied with a spray, care must be taken to ensure that it is free of lumps. Its consistency should be more liquid than that of the whitewash, which is to be applied with a brush or roller.
How to choose a water-based paint
If everything is more or less clear with chalk and lime, then the choice of a suitable water emulsion is a more difficult task. There are many varieties of these paints, which differ in composition and properties.
- Polyvinyl acetate water emulsion - the most affordable.
- Paints with acrylic additives- Most Popular. They are suitable for all surfaces and are resistant to abrasion (although this property is not so important in the case of ceiling paint).
- Silicone water-based paint fits well over the old whitewash, even without using a primer. It has a high vapor permeability and is perfect for painting the ceiling in the bathroom or kitchen. This type of coloring composition will reliably protect the surface from the appearance of fungus on it.
- Water-based paint with latex are very water resistant and can be washed with detergents. For the price, they are superior to all other aqueous emulsions.
In order to make the best choice, carefully study the label before purchasing. It should indicate the purpose of the paint, the degree of its hiding power, consumption per square meter and other parameters that need to be paid attention to. A correctly chosen water emulsion will make it possible to make a snow-white and durable coating, it will not turn yellow over time and is guaranteed to protect the ceiling from the appearance of fungus.
Painting with water-based paint
In order to get a good paint over lime, it is best to first coat the old coat with an acrylic primer. After that, you need to check the surface for strength by trying to scratch it. If it does not crumble, then paint can be applied.
But when painting over chalk, it is not necessary to do this - the water-based paint will bind it well and will hold even without soil.
Before starting work, you need to prepare the room. It is necessary to take out or carefully cover all objects with foil so that they do not get stained with paint.
If you apply paint with a brush, place the strokes first perpendicular to the windows, then parallel. If the last layer is laid parallel to the light source, no streaks will be visible after drying.
Painting with a roller is a simpler and more convenient process in which you need to perform the following steps:
- pour the paint into the paint tray;
- dip the roller into the bath, and then roll it along the slope, evenly distributing the paint over the surface and allowing the excess to drain;
- lay the first coat of paint perpendicular to the windows;
- wait until the composition is completely dry;
- then add a second layer, which should be parallel to the window opening;
- gently paint over the sections of the ceiling at the joints with the walls with a brush.
It is even easier to apply paint from a spray gun - just put three even layers, while you do not need to follow the direction. The main thing is not to miss a single square centimeter of the surface when applying each of them.
Chalk painting
It is not difficult to prepare a chalk solution for painting the ceiling; for this:
- for 10 liters of water, you need to take 5 kg of chalk and 50 g of wood glue;
- the consistency of the solution should be such that it does not drain from the knife, if the mixture is poured from the blade, you need to add more chalk;
- you can add blue to the composition, in this case the ceiling will be snow-white, without a yellow tint.
The technology of painting with chalk is fundamentally no different from the technology of applying water emulsion... First, choose one of the options - brush, roller or spray. Then, in the process of painting, do not rush and carefully monitor that the composition lays down in an even layer. In this case, the new look of your ceiling will surely delight you.
Painting with lime mortar
In order to make a lime solution for painting the ceiling, you need:
- take 2.5 kg of lime, add 100 g of salt soaked in water and a small amount of blue;
- after mixing all the components of the mixture, add water to them so that the total volume is about 10 liters.
The basic rules of application are the same as for chalk and water-based paint.
Important points
When whitewashing the ceiling, it is imperative to take into account the specifics of the room.... For example, in the bathroom, you need to use a special compound that will be resistant to moisture and protect the ceiling from the appearance of fungus. Otherwise, the paint will quickly lose its appearance and may even begin to peel off rather quickly.
It is also important to keep in mind safety while painting. In order to avoid contact of whitewash in the eyes, on the skin and in the respiratory tract, you need to use protective goggles, rubber gloves and a respirator. If this is not done, the coloring composition can cause allergies or even chemical burns.
How to wash off old whitewash from the ceiling
Despite the fact that the ceiling can be painted over the old whitewash, the best option for obtaining a high-quality painting is to pre-clean and level the surface. Old whitewash, which does not hold well and flakes, must be washed off. If this is not done, you will not have to count on a good result. If the layer of lime or chalk that is already on the ceiling is thin, even and holds well, painting directly on top of it would be quite a good option.
In order to wash off the chalky whitewash, you must:
- take a foam sponge and moisten it in water so that it is wet, but the drops do not run off;
- after that, it is necessary to run a damp sponge over the ceiling over and over again, washing off one layer after another, while it must be moistened as often as possible;
- then you need to thoroughly wipe the ceiling with a wet rag - you also need to dip it in water as often as possible.
Washing off the lime layer is a little more difficult because:
- the first step is to moisten the entire ceiling; for this you can use a spray bottle;
- using a spatula or scraper, it is necessary to remove the soaked layer of lime;
- and finally, you need to thoroughly wash the ceiling with a damp cloth or sponge in order to remove the remains of lime and dust from it.
Removing the old whitewash: a - we moisten the ceiling, b - we remove the soaked coating.
It is better to work in sections - while you remove the soaked lime from one of them, the other will be saturated with moisture. Thus, you can go through the entire ceiling rather quickly.
In order to wash off the old whitewash, you can also use special formulations.
- A special cleaner can be purchased at a hardware store. It must be applied to the ceiling using a spray bottle. When it dries, a crust will appear on the ceiling, which must be removed with a scraper. After that, the surface will just need to be washed with a rag.
- Another option is to add vinegar to the water (one large spoon for 5 liters will be enough) and 50 ml of bath foam, mix thoroughly and apply to the ceiling surface. After waiting 20 minutes, it can be cleaned with a scraper and then rinsed thoroughly with a wet cloth.
- Another way is to make a paste by mixing water and flour. It must be applied to the surface of the ceiling and allowed to dry, after which you can easily remove the whitewash.
Video - Removing old whitewash
Whitewashing the ceiling with the hands of professional craftsmen
Despite the fact that it is not difficult to whitewash the ceiling on your own, you should not discount such an option as contacting a professional master.
This solution is good because:
- it will help save time;
- by turning to a good master, you can be sure that you will get an excellent result;
- the master will need a minimum of paint in order to whitewash the ceiling.
At the same time, as mentioned above, whitewashing does not really take much time. Therefore, it makes sense to turn to a master to save time, first of all, if you are a busy person and are accustomed to always hiring professionals to perform certain works.
Due to the fact that the master will use up a minimum of paint, contacting him may not cost much more than painting the ceiling with his own hands. The main thing in this business is to find a really good specialist who, at the same time, will take a little for his work. The main thing is not to hire hack-workers who, working carelessly, can make the whitewashing even worse than you would have done - such masters also come across. They take little for their labor, but such savings will cost dearly in the end - you will either have to redo everything or stay with a poorly painted ceiling.
Whitewashing the ceiling with old paint is a simple and inexpensive way to improve the interior of a room. It can not always be used, but if the previous layer is thin, even and holds well, chalk, lime or water-based emulsion applied directly to the old paint will hold well. If you approach the matter correctly, your new ceiling will become really beautiful, and such a painting result will delight you for years.
Video - DIY ceiling whitewashing
Today there is a huge selection of finishing materials on the market. At the same time, the usual whitewash, used for many years, still does not lose its popularity. There are many good reasons for this. Our article will tell you about them, as well as how to properly whitewash the ceiling at home on your own.
Advantages
Whitewashing has a number of undeniable advantages.
- Low cost- one of the most important advantages of this type of work. With a limited budget, whitewashing is simply irreplaceable. That is why lime and chalk whitewash are still used to decorate walls and ceilings in budgetary organizations (schools, hospitals, etc.).
- Simplicity. Absolutely everyone can cope with the work of applying whitewash. This process does not require special knowledge, skills or special physical strength. It is only important to observe the proportions, stages and technology of work.
- Accuracy. When the whitewash is applied correctly, you will get a beautiful, even surface in a fresh and solid color. Yes, in terms of attractiveness, whitewash is inferior to expensive wallpaper or decorative plaster, but when brevity and tidiness are required, it has no equal.
- Environmental friendliness. Whitewashing safety is achieved by the ability to pass moisture and air. It contains no harmful substances that are found in other modern materials.
- Bactericidal properties, which whitewash possesses, perfectly protect against mold and mildew, which also distinguishes it from other materials. This is another reason why this particular design option is preferred in preschool, educational and other institutions.
As already mentioned, special knowledge and skills are not required for the proper whitewashing of the walls. Even doing work with this material for the first time, it is possible to learn right in the process. You should study the whitewashing technology in advance, learn about the types of materials and tools, take into account other known nuances. Then even do-it-yourself repairs will be done quickly and efficiently.
Surface preparation
If you do not have information on how to whitewash the walls before, you can check it quite easily. Just dampen a section of the wall with water. If it was a lime wash, the wet surface will darken. You can also rub the area with your finger. Lime will not stain your finger.
Proper preparation for whitewashing is an important step that affects the final result and the success of the work.
In preparing the walls, adhere to the already proven rules.
- First of all, empty the room of all furniture and equipment, if possible. If this is not possible, carefully cover everything with plastic wrap and secure with tape.
- To easily remove old whitewash, wet it beforehand. Moisten the walls in parts, then the moisture will not have time to dry. To wash off the whitewash itself, it is recommended to use a regular soap solution. It is also advised to add a little vinegar or a portion of citric acid to the water.
- When you wet the walls with a wet sponge or brush, it's time to move on to removing the old whitewash with a regular spatula. It is advisable that pieces of the old whitewash do not fall, for the safety and cleanliness of the floor and other surfaces. For this, the pieces are put in a separate container. After removing with a spatula, completely rinse off all residues with a damp sponge.
- In case there are visible spots, we bring the walls into the proper form:
- Rust spots are washed off and treated with the following solution: copper sulfate is diluted in an amount of 50-100 g in a liter of hot water.
- Grease stains are removed with soda ash. Moisten a rag in a 2% composition and apply it to the fat spot until it disappears completely. Then this place must be thoroughly rinsed with water.
- For soot stains, a 2-3% composition of hydrochloric acid is used.
- Then an antifungal compound is applied.
- If there are cracks and dents, you must first get rid of them. For cracks up to 1 cm, it is enough to take a putty. If the depth of irregularities reaches 3-5 cm, plaster should be used.
The putty is diluted according to the instructions, then applied and leveled with a spatula. In case of serious irregularities, use the building rule.
- When the putty is completely dry, it is rubbed with sandpaper. We now have a smooth and even wall surface ready to be primed.
- The composition of the primer is made independently or a ready-made mixture is taken. After application, you should also wait until it is completely dry.
- Now you can proceed directly to whitewashing.
Material options
Speaking about the types of wall whitewashing, they mean a lime or chalk composition, as well as water-based paint.
Lime
The most popular type of whitewash. Lime, which is calcium oxide, must be extinguished with water, thereby obtaining a ready-made material for finishing work.
The main advantages of a lime-type whitewash:
- bactericidal and antiseptic properties, thanks to them, lime is readily used in public institutions or when whitewashing cellars, for example, trees are also treated with it;
- lime whitewash lasts from 3 years;
- high resistance to humidity and significant temperature changes allows the use of whitewash for renovation in bathrooms;
- adhesion to most materials: concrete, wood or brick;
- the ability to fill in small irregularities and cracks;
- very low cost.
Among the disadvantages are:
- a chance to get burned, so all work must be done in special protective clothing, a respirator and gloves;
- Lime can leave streaks and stains, however, they are easy to remove;
- not recommended for allergies.
chalk
Besides the fact that chalk is also environmentally friendly and inexpensive, it has other advantages:
- safe application;
- more saturated white color, in contrast to lime;
- hypoallergenic (safe for people with allergies).
However, chalk also has certain disadvantages.
- Interacting with water, chalk accumulates it. This contributes to the formation of cracks and quick exfoliation. In this regard, in rooms with high humidity (kitchen, bathroom, etc.), you should not use chalk whitewash.
- If used incorrectly, both streaks and bubbles are possible.
- In addition, chalk whitewashing strongly stains everything it comes into contact with.
Water based paint
You can often hear the phrase "whitewashing with water-based paint". In reality, this technology cannot be related to whitewashing, but is painting. Perhaps it was mistakenly equated with the types of whitewashing because of the lime and cement in the composition.
Painting with water-based paints is called a good alternative to whitewashing.
Advantages of water-based paint:
- moisture resistance;
- wear resistance;
- high bactericidal properties;
- environmental friendliness, the ability of the paint to "breathe";
- easy application;
- high drying speed;
- security.
The main disadvantage is that the suspension has a high cost when compared with conventional whitewashing. Also, the durability of this coating is poor.
Whitewashing is considered one of the most inexpensive repairs. You can cheaply whitewash the walls not only with your own hands. Construction crews also ask for low fees. The cost of whitewashing in one layer for an area of 1 m2 can even start from 50 rubles.
Of course, the price varies greatly, depending on a number of factors: pollution and the need to clean the walls, the required number of layers of lime, etc. To correctly calculate the approximate cost of work, you need to know the quadrature and the necessary types of repair work to prepare the surface.
How to extinguish and dissolve lime?
The process of preparing lime whitewash requires careful attention and accuracy. It can be easily done with your own hands, following certain recommendations.
First, prepare the ingredients for the solution in the correct amount:
- slaked lime - 2-3 kg;
- water - 10 l;
- pre-soaked coarse salt - 50-100 g;
- 1 tsp blue (to obtain white) or from 400 to 500 g of dye;
- aluminum alum - 150-200 g.
Mix the ingredients and dissolve them in a liter of warm water. After that, the volume of the mixture must be brought to 10 liters and the resulting composition must be mixed properly.
A characteristic feature of slaked lime is its excellent compatibility with any dyes. That is, in the process of mixing raw materials and dye in the correct proportions, you can create any desired shade.
If you are creating a colored whitewash, it is better to immediately prepare the full amount of solution required for the entire surface of the walls. This is due to the fact that it is almost impossible to repeat the shade, even if all the ingredients used are used exactly.
Quicklime is easy to extinguish on your own right at home. Stir it with water one to one and stir for 15-25 minutes. Then you need to remove the lime for 15 days in a hermetically sealed container. Then the lime will lay on the applied surface smoothly and evenly, without any streaks or stains.
The consumption of lime whitewash largely depends on the tool that is used to apply it, as well as the characteristics of the material. On average, consumption is 0.5 liters per square meter of surface.
Improving the quality of the composition
Pros use simple yet effective ingredients to enhance the composition and create a high quality, durable blend. For example, laundry soap or various glue is added to the composition. To make the whitewash better protected from washing off and temperature extremes, use drying oil, which repels moisture well and helps to increase the durability of the whitewash. Also, additives can minimize the shedding of whitewash from the walls.
To prevent the whitewashed walls from staining everything that comes into contact with them, table salt is added. You can use all of the above additives at once.
To obtain the desired effect, it is important to correctly observe the necessary proportions:
- 10 liters of whitewash mixture add a kilogram of salt and lime (salt helps to make the walls snow-white);
- for 1 bucket use drying oil in the amount of 100 ml;
- grated laundry soap is diluted with warm water, and during the preparation process the water is replaced with soapy water;
- use wallpaper or PVA glue.
How to whiten correctly?
Whitewashing is applied with the following tools:
- rollers;
- brushes;
- air blowing vacuum cleaner;
- spray gun.
The first 2 options are more popular and versatile, namely rollers and brushes.
- It is easiest to work with a roller. It turns out to be quite simple to achieve a white, even wall covering. Before starting work, mix the mixture thoroughly, and then start whitewashing with a roller. It is necessary to apply at least two coats. First, let the first dry completely, and then you can apply the second.
- When whitewashing with a brush, you should take a special model with natural bristles (width from 15 to 20 cm). Upon completion of the repair work, the brushes are washed so that they can be reused. For brick walls, you should take a broom brush. For some time before applying whitewash, the brush is soaked in water. This will make the wood handle swell and hold the bristles better, preventing them from getting into the composition.
Lime for whitewashing a house has been used for a long time and is one of the cheapest materials for decorating the walls of buildings. And not only at home. Lime can whiten the surface of the walls of a cellar, shed, stove, chicken coop. In addition, everyone knows that slaked lime is used to whitewash garden trees in order to protect them from temperature conditions and insect infestations. But despite the simplicity and cheapness of the material (lime), it is necessary to know some of the nuances in its application.
Content
- Slaking lime.
- Whitewashing surfaces.
- Advantages and disadvantages.
Lime slaking
In shops and warehouses, you can buy three types of lime: slaked, not slaked and soda (a mixture of slaked and not slaked lime). But for whitewashing the walls, it is best to use slaked lime.
Why? Because the so-called "lime milk" is used for finishing works, which is obtained as a result of slaking unslaked lime. We will consider below how to correctly and safely carry out the extinguishing process itself:
- After purchasing lime (not slaked), you need to break up too large lumps, but not until the powder stage.
- Place it all in a metal container (galvanized bucket).
- Pour clean cold water into a container. After contact with water, lime will begin to boil and spray, so you need to close the bucket and move away.
- After 20 minutes, you will need to mix the composition. When doing this, protect all exposed parts of the body, wear goggles and rubber gloves. If, nevertheless, drops of solution get on the body, you need to quickly rinse this place with water.
- Complete dissolution of lime occurs after six hours.
- After that, the prepared solution is filtered through cheesecloth (it is possible through a nylon stocking).
- The result is a ready-to-use milk of lime.
Some whitewashing masters add salt and drying oil to the solution to increase the strength and so that the walls do not get dirty later. The proportion is as follows: 100 g of drying oil and the same amount of salt are mixed per 10 liters of solution. It happens that the solution turned out to be too thick and in order to fix this, you need to add water to the desired viscosity. In addition, you can add a little blue, which will give the lime for whitewashing at home a snow-white shade.
As you can see, it is not very difficult to extinguish lime. However, it is necessary not to neglect personal protective equipment in order not to burn your skin and eyes.
Whitewashing surfaces
Before proceeding directly to whitewashing, you need to decide on a tool for work. The application of milk to the surface is carried out in two ways: with a brush and with a spray bottle. In the old days, whitewashing was carried out exclusively with a brush, but with the advent of modern technologies, the process is increasingly taking place with the help of a spray gun.
Although, if the area of the whitewash is small, it will be more rational to use a brush, but it is better to process large areas by spraying the material. It turns out more beautifully, more uniformly and more economically.
The spray gun can be replaced with an ordinary spray gun: electric or mechanical. Since the spray gun is smaller than the spray gun, it will be easier to direct the whitewash jet to hard-to-reach places.
An equally important step will be to prepare the surface of the walls for whitewashing. The evenness of the whitewash layer, its strength and aesthetic component depend on this. Dirt, greasy stains, rust and old paint, with which lime does not contact well, are preliminarily removed from the surface of the walls.
All cracks are also repaired, tubercles are smoothed out. Before whitewashing, all windows, doors, interior elements are protected with waterproof materials in any way possible.
Three helpful tips:
- If you whiten with a brush, it’s boring to soak it in water for a couple of hours. This will prevent brush hairs from falling out, which can get caught on the wall, impairing the quality of the work.
- Lime milk will better contact the wall surface if the latter is moistened with water.
- When whitewashing the ceiling, the first layer is applied from the window perpendicular to the light. The second layer is laid parallel to the light (sun rays). Thus, coverage is ensured and the appearance of streaks is excluded.
The lime layer does not get dirty after drying. What can not be said after chalk whitewashing.
Advantages and disadvantages
pros
- Low material cost. Good value for money.
- Kills harmful bacteria.
- Excellent moisture resistance.
- Protects walls from mold and mildew formation.
- Does not crack at temperature extremes.
- Environmental friendliness.
- Can be applied over old whitewash.
Minuses
- Caution is required when extinguishing.
- A thin layer of lime is very durable when solidified. Therefore, when it gets on furniture, windows, doors, it is washed with difficulty.
It is recommended to whitewash or paint ceilings only after the old finish has been removed. However, this is a rather complicated matter. Removing old chalk or lime from the ceiling is long and tedious. In addition, a lot of dirt remains in the house after that. Previously, glue was added to the chalk solution before whitewashing. If the surface is finished with just such a tool, cleaning it completely turns into torment. Therefore, for sure, many owners of houses and apartments would like to know whether it is possible to whitewash the ceiling using the old whitewash, and how to correctly perform such an operation.
What you need to know
In principle, it is possible to paint or whitewash the ceilings without removing the old coating. But not in all cases. So, for example, on old whitewashing with chalk, it is extremely undesirable if it is covered with lime (and, accordingly, vice versa). Otherwise, sloppy stains will surely appear on the ceiling. If you don't want to clean off the old coating, you should whitewash the ceiling with the same tool that was used before. You should also not use lime or chalk if the surface was previously treated with water-based paint. The surface simply does not crack. The ceiling will remain yellow no matter how many layers have been applied.
Using paint - is it possible?
Many owners of houses and apartments are wondering, among other things, whether it is possible to whitewash the ceiling over the old whitewash with water emulsion. It is considered acceptable to use this tool. But only if the layer of the old finish is not too thick and holds on to the ceiling firmly enough. In no case should oil paint or enamel be applied to the whitewash. When using them, the old coating will still have to be removed.
Preparation for finishing
In the event that you decide to perform such an operation as whitewashing the ceiling on an old whitewash, before starting processing, you will have to carefully prepare the old surface. Chalk is usually flat on the plaster layer. Lime can come off in pieces. Therefore, in the latter case, before whitewashing, you need to check the entire ceiling for the presence of such delamination. Of course, all loose pieces should be removed with a spatula. After performing this operation, of course, irregularities will remain on the ceiling. They need to be sealed with a special chalk putty or thick lime mortar with the addition of a small amount of PVA glue (depending on the type of old finish). Of course, all cracks and chips on the surface must also be smeared.
Before proceeding with it, it is advisable to go through with a damp cloth in order to remove dust, cobwebs, etc. It often happens that the old chalk or lime coating has a yellow color. After applying a new finish, this yellowness will most likely still show through. Therefore, before starting work, such a discolored surface should be bleached. Such a need, for example, will certainly arise when decorating a kitchen. Yellow ceilings are also in the event that one of the owners smokes right in the apartment. It is not difficult to whiten such a surface. It is enough just to add a little inexpensive "Whiteness" to the water in which the rag is dipped during cleaning. If the ceilings are very yellow, they should be passed with a roller dipped in the prepared solution. Next, you should wait until the surface is dry.
Whitewashing the ceiling according to the old whitewash: technology
Chalk and lime usually do not adhere very well to concrete. Therefore, the ceiling, previously finished with such a tool, should be processed using not a roller, but a spray bottle. In this case, the surface will be smooth and neat. A roller is also allowed. But when using this tool during work, you will have to carefully monitor so that there are no stains on the surface. Of course, it is necessary to whitewash ceilings on old lime or chalk layers not in one, but at least in two or three layers.
Using a water emulsion
Asking the question about the old whitewash, one should, of course, decide, including the type of finish used. Chalk and lime are rarely used today in the design of poltolkov. In most cases, apartment and house owners use water-based paint. This product is applied to the surface of the ceiling much more evenly. In addition, the water-based emulsion does not flake off over time. But of course, such a finish will last a long time only if it is applied correctly.
Before painting, the bleached ceiling should be primed. In this case, you should use a special means of deep penetration. After the primer is dry, you need to test the old coating for strength. To do this, simply try to scratch the ceiling with a spatula. If the old coating is easily removed, it is better not to risk it and still remove it. If the chalk or lime impregnated with a primer hold on tightly, you can start painting.
Sometimes the owners of apartments and houses finish the whitewashed ceilings with water-based emulsion and without preliminary priming. This is also acceptable. But only if a very high quality paint from a good manufacturer is used.
Basic rules for whitewashing
Of course, before starting an operation such as whitewashing the ceiling on an old whitewash, the room must be prepared. Floors and furniture should be covered with technical plastic wrap. Wear rubber gloves on your hands. This is especially important if it is used for processing. As you know, it can strongly corrode the skin.
All doors and windows must be closed before whitewashing ceilings with water emulsion, lime or chalk. Otherwise, after drying, ugly stains and stripes will appear on the ceiling.
Application of special tools
The sprinkler gives a very thin finish. Therefore, whitewashing the ceiling according to the old whitewash with water-based paint when using this tool should be done in at least three layers. This results in a flat, completely white and clean surface. Before applying each subsequent layer, you must definitely wait until the previous one is completely dry. This rule, by the way, is observed both when using a spray gun and a roller.
Is it worth finishing the surface without preliminary cleaning?
So, we found out - is it possible to whitewash the ceiling to the old whitewash. In principle, this is allowed. If all the above recommendations are followed, the owner of an apartment or house can ultimately get a fairly even and beautiful coating. However, unfortunately, it will be necessary to correct such a finish in the future earlier than if the ceiling had been previously cleaned.
Therefore, before deciding on whitewashing without removing the old layer, you should think carefully. Lime adheres to the ceiling quite tightly. Therefore, if the surface is finished with it, it still makes some sense to apply a new layer without removing the old ones. But the chalk is removed from the ceiling very easily - just with a rag and water. Therefore, in this case, it is more advisable to clean the surface beforehand.
A huge variety of finishing materials are replacing old repair methods, and lime whitewashing is no longer as widely used as it was 50 years ago. But this method, proven by generations, fully corresponds to the expression "cheap and cheerful". If you plan to whitewash the walls, ceilings or curbs in the garden, study what properties slaked lime has, how to prepare it correctly, calculate the solution consumption and apply to various surfaces.
Lime is not the easiest material to use. However, it occupies its niche in the building materials market quite firmly and is very reluctant to give up its positions. Considering all the advantages and disadvantages, in certain cases the use of lime whitewash is advisable, and sometimes it is more appropriate to choose a different method.
Budget finishing material
Important properties of lime whitewash
Lime, known to everyone since school, is called calcium oxide in chemistry textbooks. For whitewashing, slaked lime is used, that is, it has reacted with water. In chemical terms, slaked lime is a strong base - an alkali. It has good disinfecting properties, because an aggressive alkaline environment adversely affects fungi, insect pests and other unwanted animals.
Lime whitewash is not afraid of humid air, does not crack or become bubbled. In addition to resistance to high humidity, walls treated with this substance are resistant to temperature extremes.
Fluff powder
Whitewashing does not need to rinse off existing coatings; it can be applied to older finishes. Moreover, if a network of small cracks has formed on the surface of the walls or ceiling, treatment with a slaked lime solution will strengthen the finish and extend its service life.
The cost of lime for whitewashing in stores does not compare with the price of other finishing materials. This is due to the fact that the production process is very simple - it is an elementary roasting of lime rocks in a kiln. Raw materials cost a penny, so the price of the product is low. A thirty-kilogram bag costs about $ 2.
Where and why is it advisable to use lime
The properties of an antiseptic and fungicide make slaked lime the leader among finishing materials for damp and cold rooms: cellar, shed, garage, basement and the like. It is used for walls and ceilings. The weather resistance of the substance allows it to be used for whitewashing facades.
Summer residents are the record holders in the use of lime for whitewashing and other tasks. Here it is being applied in full swing. It is customary to whitewash the walls both inside and outside, add quicklime to the soil to change its acid-base balance, treat tree trunks to protect against insects and animals, and curbs for beauty.
Trees whiten from pests
In those rooms where practicality comes to the fore, and not aesthetics, and the financial side of the issue is also important, a lime solution is also used to cover walls and ceilings. This can be observed in entrances, stairwells, common corridors, and foyers.
It is quite appropriate to whitewash the ceiling in any living space in this way. Schools, hospitals and other institutions still use lime mortar for wall decoration. After drying, calcium hydroxide becomes safe, does not emit any harmful substances into the air.
Entrance finishing
Buying lime - which one to take and how much
Before going to the store, you need to find out which lime to buy for whitewashing - slaked or quicklime, how much is required and what other components are needed. This will save you from going back to the building market if suddenly the solution is not enough or its properties do not meet your requirements.
How to make slaked lime with your own hands
As you already understood, slaked and quicklime are completely different substances, which are united only by the consonant name and the presence of calcium in the composition. Slaked lime is used for household repair work. It is sold by weight at any hardware store or agricultural department.
Boiler - lumpy lime
However, situations are not uncommon when the farm has a fairly large supply of quicklime and it is desirable to use it, and not buy slaked lime. In this case, you can extinguish it yourself, especially since this chemical process does not require the skills of conducting such experiments in the laboratory.
So, how to prepare lime for whitewashing from lumpy quicklime "boiling water". First you need to worry about personal protection. Since you will be dealing with a fairly aggressive alkali, take care of the protection of your eyes (goggles), respiratory system (respirator), exposed skin (closed clothing and gloves). This should be done in the air.
Video: How to prepare a whitewash solution
You will need a deep container such as a bucket and a mixing tool - traditionally a stick. The list of ingredients is short too:
- lumpy quicklime;
- water.
Quenching process
The water must be cold, this is the only condition. Even a first grader will remember the proportion - 1: 1.
Step-by-step instruction:
- For 1 kg of calcium oxide, take 1 liter of cold water.
- Combine all this in a container and mix. Almost instantly, you will be able to observe the beginning of a powerful chemical reaction with the release of a large amount of heat. When extinguished, the mixture sometimes heats up to 150 degrees, it is not for nothing that the substance is popularly called a boiling water - the solution literally boils.
- When the reaction stops, heat and gas will cease to be released, lime can be considered "fluff", that is, slaked. However, it is not yet suitable for whitewashing.
- The solution should mature within 2-3 weeks under a lid in a dark cool place.
Solution proportions and consumption per square
To start whitewashing with lime with your own hands, you need to prepare at least the following set of materials:
- fluff powder or lime paste;
- water.
Fur packing
In addition, all kinds of auxiliary substances are often added to the whitewash, which give it certain properties. The stock solution is prepared in a 1: 3 ratio. For every kilogram of fluff, they take 3 liters of water. As a result, 4 liters of solution can be prepared from 1 kg of the substance.
Lime consumption per 1 m 2 during whitewashing directly depends on the type of surface on which it is applied:
- The largest consumption - about 1 liter of ready-made solution per square, will go away when whitewashing untreated brickwork.
- A smooth, prepared surface assumes approximately 0.5 liters per square meter of area.
Room preparation
Another criterion that affects the expense is painting tools. Most often they use a regular flat brush or a round one - a brush. These tools are uneconomical, the mass is applied in a thick layer, drips and drops can form. The spray gun can significantly reduce material consumption and operating time. Often, instead of a spray gun, a back-blow vacuum cleaner and even hand-held tree sprayers are fitted.
How to calculate the amount of fluff and water
Before you dilute slaked lime for whitewashing, you need to perform some calculations. An approximate calculation of consumption is as follows.
First you need to calculate the area of the walls and ceiling that you plan to whitewash. For example: room 3 by 5 m, ceiling height 2.5 m. It was decided to process the ceiling and part of the walls from the middle of the height to the ceiling with lime whitewash.
Wall area: (3 * 2.5 + 5 * 2.5 + 3 * 2.5 + 5 * 2.5) / 2 = 20 m 2.
Ceiling area: 3 * 5 = 15 m 2.
Total area: 35 m 2.
Solution of the desired consistency
Based on the average consumption of 1 liter of solution per 2 m2 of surface, it is easy to calculate the required amount for whitewashing - 17.5 liters of lime solution. You can round up to 18, or better - up to 20, because the average consumption is a rather flexible concept.
That is, 20 liters of solution is required, and this is 5 kg of hydrated lime in powder. It is worth noting that the ready-made lime dough, which is sold in hardware stores, is diluted in the same proportion, which means that the calculation is correct for him.
Whitewashing leaves traces
Supplements to Improve Firmness and Fight Imperfections
Since lime has been used in construction for a very long time, there are many "folk recipes" and methods that improve the properties of this substance. Still, modern water-based paints appeared not so long ago, and craftsmen were forced to do chemistry right at their dacha or at home.
The first problem that is solved by adding a secret ingredient to the lime whitewash solution is shallowing. A dried surface tends to stain everything and everyone who touches it. What to add to lime so that it does not smear? This ingredient is found in every home - table salt. It has a good bonding effect. Add 100 g of salt per liter of solution.
Salt - so as not to smear
Another problem, especially when using whitewash for outdoor use, is the rapid rinsing off of the composition with water. It has long been known what to add to lime so that it does not wash off - a fatty component is introduced into it - drying oil. The drying oil repels water and allows the whitewash to last longer. Proportion 1:10, 100 ml per liter of solution.
They practice adding laundry soap, grated on a coarse grater, PVA glue, wallpaper glue, acrylic primer. All this is done in order to ensure maximum adhesion of the whitewash to the wall, to exclude its swelling and bubbling.
Drying oil - so as not to wash off
White is not the only possible color
To prevent the lime coating from becoming yellowish, an ordinary blue is added to it - methylene blue. You will need 10-20 g per liter. The whitewashed ceiling will become snow-white. But sometimes it becomes necessary to obtain a lime solution of other colors. This mass cannot be called whitewashing, and not every dye is suitable. Use only those pigments that are resistant to alkaline conditions - mineral, but in no case organic.
Pigments used for lime paints:
- ocher (yellow tint);
- umber (greenish brown);
- red lead (orange);
- mummy (red-brown);
- chromium oxide (green);
- titanium dioxide (white);
- lithopone (white);
- ultramarine (blue).
Pigments are used for cooking
To prepare good quality lime paints, it is not recommended to add pigment in its pure form - powder. It is preliminarily diluted with water to obtain a paste. Then the pigment paste is allowed to infuse for about 24 hours. And only after that, the dye can be added to the solution. This is because the pigment grains are often difficult to dissolve and can drag behind the brush, forming unsightly streaks of color.
How to apply the composition to the surface according to all the rules
The instructions on how to whitewash the walls with lime are quite varied. The thing is that each master has his own recipe for a lime mixture, his own instrument, which means his own method. But you can try to combine the fundamental points into one algorithm. You will get a universal method, which everyone has the right to supplement or slightly correct, depending on the situation.
A roller is suitable for the ceiling
Is surface preparation necessary
If the task is to quickly whitewash the walls and the decorative side of the issue does not really bother you, you can skip the preparation stage altogether. In fact, you can whitewash directly on top of other coatings without worrying that the result will not live up to expectations. But if the walls are covered with glue paint, then you must first remove it.
If speed is not your priority, then it is best to prepare the surface for the application of the lime mortar. This will make the result more accurate. The old whitewash is washed off, the swollen places on the plaster are removed, sanded, putty. The same applies to cracks, if any.
Preparing the ceiling for whitewashing
Plain water is used as a primer. The surface is slightly wetted for better contact. And if the mixture contains one or more of the additives listed above, then the adhesion will be even better.
It is important to protect all other surfaces from accidental exposure to lime. All furniture, if it cannot be taken out of the room, the floors and walls are covered with plastic wrap. The employee must wear a protective suit, gloves, goggles and a mask for personal protection.
A few secrets of even application
The application process is not particularly difficult. A brush or broomstick is dipped into a container with whitewash, the solution is applied to the walls or ceiling in a thin layer. For the ceiling, it is better to use a tool with a long handle. You can make it yourself. This will make it easier to work and eliminate the need to climb unstable structures from tables and chairs.
Direction of movement of the brush or roller
Whitewash is applied in several layers - 2-3. Each layer should be applied perpendicular to the previous one. So the coating will be more uniform, there will be no streaks and thickenings. In the corners, there are often unwhitewashed areas. In these places, it is better to go through the brush again.
It is necessary to maintain a time interval between the application of layers. The previous coat should dry completely. This will happen much faster if the layers are thinned. The thinnest and most uniform layer will be obtained using an electric spray gun. The lime mixture is poured into the tank and sprayed onto the surface in tiny droplets. This eliminates the appearance of streaks.
Spray gun - the solution to many problems
Despite the fact that the process of whitewashing walls and ceilings with lime is not a big deal, for someone who is faced with it for the first time, it may seem like an impossible task. Especially when it comes to high ceilings or extensive work over large areas. It is never too late to turn to a master - a professional in his field. He will easily do this work with high quality and much faster than a beginner.
Video: Quick repair of the cellar