EWI Pro Heritage Lime Range is here!

Lime render has been a cornerstone in building practices for centuries, revered for its natural, breathable, and sustainable properties. EWI Pro is proud to introduce its Heritage Lime Range, featuring the flagship products NHL 3.5 Lime Render and NHL 5 Lime Basecoat, epitomising the fusion of traditional craftsmanship with modern building requirements.

History of lime

Lime render’s history is as rich and enduring as the material itself. Originating thousands of years ago, it was a vital component in the construction practices of ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. Lime is derived from limestone, a naturally occurring and abundant material. When heated, limestone produces quicklime, which, when mixed with water, becomes slaked lime; this process, known as slaking, transforms the material into a pliable form that can be applied to walls and surfaces. Once applied, lime render slowly carbonates, reacting with carbon dioxide in the air to form a hard, durable coating that protects buildings from weather and provides a breathable layer that regulates moisture.

Its resurgence in contemporary construction reflects a growing appreciation for sustainable building materials that offer environmental benefits, including reduced CO2 emissions and improved indoor air quality. Lime is preferred for restoration projects and new constructions that emulate traditional aesthetics with modern performance standards.

How does lime work?

Lime render operates through a process known as carbonation. When applied to walls, the lime (calcium hydroxide) reacts with carbon dioxide in the air to form calcium carbonate. This is a solid, durable material. This transformation allows lime render to harden and develop strength over time. Moreover, its porous nature enables the building to ‘breathe.’ Moisture within the structure can escape as vapour through the render, preventing damp and mould growth and maintaining the health of the building’s fabric by allowing moisture to evaporate rather than trapping it within the walls. This attribute is particularly beneficial for older buildings constructed with materials that must manage moisture effectively to maintain their integrity.

What are the benefits of lime render?

Breathability and moisture control

Breathability: Lime render is highly breathable, allowing moisture to evaporate from the surface. This quality is crucial for the walls of older buildings, which often absorb moisture from the ground or air. By permitting moisture to escape, lime render helps prevent the build-up of dampness within the walls, safeguarding the building’s structural integrity.
Moisture Regulation: It can absorb and release moisture effectively, helping regulate building humidity levels. This characteristic can contribute to a healthier living environment by reducing the likelihood of mould growth and improving indoor air quality.

Environmental benefits

Low Carbon Footprint: Lime has a lower embodied energy than cement-based renders, making it a more environmentally friendly choice. Its production process emits less carbon dioxide, and lime renders can absorb carbon dioxide from the air during the curing process, further reducing its environmental impact.
Sustainability: Lime is a natural and abundant material. Its use in render contributes to sustainable construction practices by minimising reliance on synthetic materials.

Durability and repair

Flexibility: Lime render is more flexible than cement-based alternatives. This flexibility allows it to accommodate slight movements within a building without cracking, ensuring the render remains intact and continues to protect the structure.
Self-Healing: Lime has a unique self-healing capability, where small cracks that may develop can be naturally closed over time as lime in the render reacts with water. This reduces the need for frequent repairs and maintenance.
Longevity: Lime render can last many years, protecting the building’s exterior from weathering and erosion.

Aesthetic appeal

Natural Appearance: Lime render offers a traditional, natural look that can enhance the aesthetic appeal of a building. It is particularly suited to heritage properties, where maintaining the original character and appearance is important.
Versatility: It can be coloured with natural pigments, offering various finishes to suit different architectural styles and preferences.