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Limewash and whitewash are two techniques used to give brick a light, matte finish, but they differ in composition, application, and permanence. The best choice depends on your aesthetic goals and the specific surface.

Composition

• Limewash: A natural and environmentally friendly option made from limestone, water, and sometimes pigments. It is breathable and soaks into porous surfaces like brick.

• Whitewash: Traditionally made from lime, water, chalk, and binders, but a similar look can be achieved with watered-down white paint. It is paint-based and sits on top of the surface.

Appearance and Finish

• Limewash: Provides a natural, textured appearance that allows the brick's character to show through. It offers a more traditional finish.

• Whitewash: Creates a softer, more opaque finish, often used for a rustic or shabby-chic style.

Application and Permanence

• Limewash: Is semi-permanent and can be removed, making it a good choice if you might want to change the look in the future. It requires more skill to apply and cannot be used on previously painted brick.

• Whitewash: Is a more permanent solution. It is more forgiving to apply and can be used on painted brick. However, because it sits on the surface, it can trap moisture.

Ultimately, if you want a breathable, natural, and reversible finish for unpainted brick, limewash is a great option. If you need a more permanent, opaque coating that can be applied over painted surfaces, whitewash is the better choice. Whitewashing may also be more economical, costing approximately $1.40 to $4.20 per square foot.

No, it is not okay to paint over rotted wood. Painting over rotted wood will not address the underlying issue and can trap moisture, leading to further decay. Properly addressing the rotted wood by removing and replacing or repairing the damaged areas is necessary before you can even consider painting.

Always sand a deck before repainting so the wood is smooth and ready for paint. While you do not need to fully remove paint before repainting, sanding helps remove any areas with weather and sun damage. Sanding also helps remove chipped or flaking paint and opens the wood pores to improve paint adhesion.

Eggshell and satin finishes are best for porches because they sit in the sweet spot between scuffable matte and distracting high gloss. Your porch sees a fair amount of wear and tear, so you don’t want paint that’ll show every mark like matte, but you don’t want to be blinded by glossy paint in the sun either. Eggshell and satin have durability and a look that sits nicely in the middle.