Internal limewash walls cost

If you wondering how much limewash walls cost, you’ve landed on the right blog! We’re going to break down the price of materials and labour and look at other factors that affect the overall price.

Limewash is a traditional and eco-friendly paint made from slaked lime, water, and natural pigments. It offers a unique and charming finish that makes your walls beautiful and lets them breathe.

So, if you’re considering applying limewash to your walls, this comprehensive cost guide will help you navigate through the process and estimate potential expenses.

Factors to consider

Before diving into the costs, it’s worth noting these important factors before you immediately run out and hire a painter/decorator.

Surface preparation

The condition of your walls plays a significant role in the overall cost of a limewash paint job.

For example, cracks, holes, and uneven surfaces might require additional prep work.

Wall size

Although it sounds obvious, it’s still worth noting that the larger the surface area, the more materials will cost and the longer it will take to paint.

Number of coats

The number of coats you apply affects the final appearance and durability of the limewash.

Labour costs

Labour expenses will vary depending on where you live, the complexity of the project, and the expertise of the professionals you hire.

Material quality

The quality of the limewash you use and the pigments you add will affect the final cost. Higher quality materials inevitably lead to better results but come at a higher price.

Accessibility

If your walls are in hard-to-reach areas, you might need additional scaffolding or equipment, which will increase labour costs.

DIY vs. Professional

Doing it yourself will save you money, but it requires skill and time. Hiring a qualified professional means you’re more likely to enjoy a more even and consistent finish.

As a result of the above, we always recommend obtaining two to three quotes from limewash paining specialists. The makes sure you’re able to understand the average and pick the right person for the job.

Limewash walls cost breakdown

The costs involved in limewashing walls are broadly divided into labour and materials, each caveated by potential complications.

For an accurate cost and quote, please speak to at least three painter and decorators near you.

Labour costs

Labour costs vary significantly depending on where you live and the complexity of the project. On average, expect to pay around £250 to £400 per day for a professional painter.

We spoke to our Checkatrade member, Soloman Art, who broke down his costs for limewashing walls (using marble acrylic):

• £40 per square metre (no fewer than 50 square metres) with own materials and the wall in question is pre-prepped
• The price increases to £80 per square metre for a marble effect limewash finish
• The price also depends on the overall size, location, and current condition of the walls
• If the house needs protecting with dust sheets, this takes extra time to set up, which adds to the labour costs per hour
• Basements and stairs are more expensive, even if there fewer square metres to paint

Related content: Read our painter and decorator prices for more comprehensive information.

Material costs

• Limewash: The cost depends on the quality and brand. On average, expect to spend around £10 per litre.
• Natural pigments: If you’d like to add colour to your limewash, you’ll need to use natural pigments. These tend to cost between £5 to £40 per litre, depending on the colour and brand.
• Additional materials: If you’re doing it yourself, you’ll need tools like brushes, rollers, buckets, and dust sheets. Collectively, these cost around £50 to £100.

On Checkatrade, you'll only find trades who meet our high standards and pass up to 12 checks.

Potential complications

Surface prep

If your cracks, holes, or uneven surfaces need preparing before you limewash them, this adds to the cost of the project. If your walls require significant repairs, the cost will also increase.

Number of coats

The more coats of limewash you apply, the more you’ll need and the longer the labour will take. Additional coats = higher material costs.

Colour mixing

Achieving the desired colour might require experimenting with different pigment ratios, potentially increasing material costs.

Scaffolding

If your walls are difficult to access, you might need to rent scaffolding, which will add to your labour costs.

Professional vs. DIY

While DIY will save you money on labour costs, improper application leads to uneven results. Consequently, you’ll need professional intervention later down the line.

Estimated total cost of limewash walls

For a rough estimate, let’s consider a small room with a wall area of 28 square metres.

• Limewash (20 litres): £150
• Natural pigments: £35
• Additional materials: £75
• Labour (1-2 days): £350 – £500

Total (approx.) £600 – £800

NB: These are rough estimates. Actual costs will vary based on the factors mentioned earlier.

Want to explore limewash walls in your home?

First, you’ll need to get inspired on what style it is you want in your home.

Check out our limewash painted walls ideas to start getting ideas for your next project!

Final thoughts

Limewashing walls offer a beautiful, breathable finish that adds oodles of character to your home.

While it might require a significant investment, the unique qualities of limewash make it a compelling and durable choice for homeowners looking for a traditional and environmentally-friendly wall treatment.

Always seek quotes from professionals and thoroughly evaluate the condition of your walls before agreeing to a paint job.