Lime Plastering & Breathable Plaster Systems

Lime and breathable plaster systems are particularly well suited to older, stone-built and solid-wall properties. At KDH Plastering & Property Care, I use both lime-based materials and modern renovation plasters, choosing the system to suit the construction, condition and requirements of the wall.

From complete replastering to sympathetic repairs, the aim is to provide a durable finish while using materials that are compatible with the building beneath.

Choosing the Right Plaster for Your Property

Not every older property needs the same plastering system. The type of masonry, existing materials, moisture and salt levels, and the finish required all influence the choice.

Traditional lime plaster can be ideal for older masonry and existing lime work, while modern renovation plasters provide an alternative where moisture and salts need to be managed. Choosing the right system from the start can make a significant difference to how the finished wall performs.

Lime plastering

Lime plaster has been used on buildings for centuries and remains an excellent choice for many older stone, brick and solid-wall properties.

Unlike harder, less permeable modern finishes, lime allows moisture vapour to pass through the wall and is more accommodating of the small amounts of movement commonly found in traditionally constructed buildings. This makes it particularly useful when restoring older properties or replacing inappropriate modern plaster.

I use Cornish Lime products, with the materials and build-up selected to suit the existing masonry and required finish.

Lime plaster can be used for complete walls, exposed stone properties, fireplaces and chimney breasts, repairs to existing lime work, and traditional lath-and-plaster construction.

Lime Plaster or Renovation Plaster?

Traditional lime isn't the only option for an older or damp-affected wall.

I also use Safeguard Dryzone Hi-Lime Renovation Plaster, a modern breathable plaster containing natural hydraulic lime. Its porous structure allows moisture to evaporate while helping to prevent damaging salts from migrating to the finished surface.

This makes renovation plaster particularly useful on suitable damp or salt-affected masonry and when replastering following remedial damp treatment. It provides many of the benefits required from a breathable plaster system while offering a modern, practical solution for renovation work.

Lime Plaster Repairs

Not every lime plastering job requires the whole wall to be removed.

Where existing lime plaster is generally sound, localised repairs can often preserve more of the original material while dealing with cracked, loose or previously damaged areas. Lime can also be used to repair areas where unsuitable modern materials have previously been applied.

I undertake lime plaster repairs to stone and solid walls, fireplaces and chimney breasts, damaged or missing areas of existing lime plaster, and traditional lath-and-plaster work.

Where possible, the repair material and finish are selected to work sympathetically with the surrounding plaster rather than simply covering the problem with a modern gypsum finish.

Need Advice About the Right Plaster System?

If you have an older property and aren't sure whether you need lime plaster, renovation plaster or a repair to the existing finish, get in touch.

Photos of the wall and a little information about the property are often a useful starting point. I can then discuss the options with you and, where necessary, arrange a visit to inspect the existing plaster and masonry.

KDH Plastering & Property Care
Lime plastering and breathable plaster systems in Cornwall and the Plymouth area.