Limewashed Brick Houses

Lime wash has become a popular way to brighten and update brick exterior finishes in the last several years. Many American neighborhoods have row after row of brick homes, all looking nearly the same. A busy real estate market means millions of homes are changing hands, and buyers are eager to put their own stamp on their new purchase. A whitewashed look or German Schmear effect goes hand in hand with today’s popular farmhouse and vintage decor styles.

Search online and you’ll find Romabio’s one-coat Classico Limewash recommended over and over by professional painters and DIY enthusiasts alike. Just a single coat of Classico Limewash is enough to completely transform any brick or stone surface:

Before and after image of a house with red brick, limewashed with white

This high-end whitewash brick finish actually preserves and protects the brick, unlike paint. Easy to apply, Romabio Classico Limewash is an authentic slaked lime finish. It’s a natural product made with Dolomite lime from northern Italy. It contains no chemicals, is non-toxic, highly breathable, and permeable. The dissolved limestone actually calcifies onto brick surfaces to create a durable finish that lasts for many years. You can order it pre-tinted in seven colors, or choose a custom tint.

Before and After Effects on Red Brick Homes

Limewashing Brightens and Modernizes

Red brick is a classic exterior finish, but the dark color can make an older home look dated and an entry porch feel uninviting. This classic foursquare home looks bright, modern and welcoming after a makeover in Bianco White limewash:

Before and after of a red brick home whitewashed

A traditional colonial home gains stately character after Romabio Limewash gives the brick more dimension and a sense of age:

Before and after image of a red brick colonial stye home that's been whitewashed with Romabio Limewash

Limewash Creates Cohesive Architecture

Homebuilders often design facades with mixed materials and finishes to add interest. The result may be an architectural mishmash that lacks a definitive style. Limewash is the perfect solution to creating a coherent facade, as part of an overall color scheme that ties the elements together.

On this home, Classico Limewash was used to minimize the contrast between brick and trim elements, and focus attention on the front door:

Before and after image of a red brick home that's been whitewashed with Romabio Limewash

On this home, a white window bay and a strip of white siding on the garage stands out sharply against the brick. A softly distressed limewash and brown trim paint help to blend those details in for a more upscale look:

Before and after image of an orange brick home that's been whitewashed with Romabio Limewash and had the doors and trim painted

Whitewash Highlights the Charm of an Older Home

A large garage can overwhelm the proportions of a home and take attention away from the entrance. On this home, Classico Limewash in Avorio White highlights the brick details around the arched windows and door, bringing the focus back to the front porch and entry.

Before and after image of a classic brick southern style home that's been whitewashed with Romabio Limewash

Whitewash Adds Character

For a home that lacks a distinct architectural style, limewashing the brick can add character and interest. This home’s sharply angled roof and curved portico become standout features when the brick is limewashed, bringing out hidden Tudor charm:

Before and after of a dark red brick tutor style house that's been limewashed

Limewashed Stone House

Classico Limewash is the perfect solution for stone surfaces as well. Use it to lighten a stone that is too dark, or even out the color tones for a more muted look.

Before and After Whitewashed Fireplace

If your home isn’t brick, but you have a brick fireplace or other accents, give them a quick weekend makeover with Classico Limewash. It’s an easy DIY project! You can choose as much distressing as you like:

Before and after of a limewashed fireplace

How to Whitewash a Brick Fireplace
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Are you ready to whitewash your brick house for a beautiful old-world look? You can use a limewash solution on porous surfaces like brick, stone and concrete, indoors or out. If you want a solid painted look for your brick home, use a breathable paint that’s especially for brick, like Romabio’s mineral-based Masonry Paint. Limewashing your home is an easy DIY project if you live in a one-story home. If you have two or more floors, we recommend contacting a pro.

Buy Classico Limewash in 7 pre-tinted colors right here at Rings End. We ship ROMABIO limewash and masonry paints anywhere in the U.S.! And don’t forget to share your Limewash projects with us on social media – we can’t wait to see what you do!

Whitewashing Brick FAQs

Which is better limewash or whitewash?

Is whitewashing brick a good idea?

Is white washed brick still in style?

How do I whitewash brick?