Get matched with top gas fireplace repair pros in Arenas Valley, NM

How long limewash will last depends on the quality of the application and the porosity of the surface. For example, a limewash on brick will last five to seven years. If it's a home exterior application, exposure to specific weather conditions is also a factor. Limewash tends to develop a patina over time, and its natural look masks damage and imperfections well.

You may have some limitations when looking for materials and a design to reface your gas fireplace versus what’s available for a traditional wood-burning fireplace. Some gas fireplace surround ideas include stone, concrete, brick, tile, wood, steel, and plaster. However, you should check with the manufacturer of your gas fireplace model to determine if you have any limitations on what you can use.

If you’re deciding between limewash versus whitewash, know that both have a chalky matte appearance. Limewash is made from lime, water, and sometimes pigment, while whitewash consists of lime, water, white chalk, and binders (though you can get a similar look with watered-down white paint). Whitewash has fewer options for color customization, and it sits on surfaces instead of being absorbed into them, which can trap moisture. Whitewashing costs less—about $1.40 to $4.20 per square foot.

Limewash and whitewash often appear together in a quick search when looking for ways to paint brick—so, what’s the difference? Limewash paint is one of the most natural and environmentally friendly ways to paint brick. It’s made from limestone and water, giving it an off-white appearance that looks similar to whitewash. However, limewash is semi-permanent, whereas whitewash is a more permanent, watered-down version of existing paint. 

Both brick paint options are economical and light in color, but if you want to change the appearance of your home’s brick in the future, then limewash might be a better option.